The hits never stop coming on Max — that’s the whole point of that name, after all. But, seriously, it’s not just rhetoric. Max has an outrageous amount of content, and every new month also brings with it some outstanding new movies, even in the midst of the summer streaming doldrums. This month has delivered some of our favorite movies of 2024, like the wonderfully unhinged Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, and the heavy drama of A24’s Love Lies Bleeding from writer/director Rose Glass.
Love Lies Bleeding is the latest of a number of excellent A24 flicks that have graced Max in the past month or two — there’s also The Iron Claw, which stars Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, and Harris Dickinson; Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla Presley biopic Priscilla; and Julio Torres’ uniquely bittersweet comedy Problemista. And then just to top things off we’ve got the mega-blockbuster version of an A24 flick in Dune Part Two. That’s a quality lineup right there, showcasing a diverse range of genres and storytelling styles that cater to various tastes.
Love Lies Bleeding
Kristen Stewart in a romance-crime thriller about a lesbian bodybuilder? Say less. OK, fine, we can say a little more: Stewart stars as Lou, a depressed gym manager with a complicated family history who falls in love with Jackie, an ambitious bodybuilder (Katy O’Brian). Their relationship begins with a spark of hope and passion, but when Jackie gets sucked into the criminal world, things get dark for them really fast. The film explores themes of love, ambition, and the struggles that come with trying to escape a troubled past. It’s a gripping tale that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering how far Lou will go to protect Jackie and their love.
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
Hollywood keeps making these things, and I can’t get enough. Writer/director Adam Wingard, who also handled 2021’s Godzilla vs. Kong, has a great feel for this type of movie, injecting just enough plot to keep it coherent while still keeping the story from becoming overly complicated despite all the sci-fi elements (Marvel could use some filmmakers like that, to be honest). Thanks to Wingard’s deft hand, Godzilla x Kong isn’t the sort of movie where you have to slog through the talky bits to get to the spectacle — it’s fun the whole way through, and that makes the out-of-control action sequences all the better. The film brings back the epic battles and stunning visuals that fans have come to expect, while also introducing new characters and plot twists that keep the excitement alive.
Problemista
Julio Torres’ Problemista is another standout film that adds to the impressive lineup on Max. This uniquely bittersweet comedy tells the story of a young immigrant trying to navigate the challenges of life in America while pursuing his dreams in the film industry. Torres, who also stars in the film, brings his signature humor and charm to the role, making it a relatable and heartfelt experience. The film tackles serious themes like identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience, all while maintaining a lighthearted tone that keeps audiences engaged.
Max continues to impress with its ever-growing library of films that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From the intense drama of Love Lies Bleeding to the thrilling action of Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, and the heartfelt comedy of Problemista, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As we move further into 2024, it’s clear that Max is committed to delivering quality content that keeps viewers coming back for more. So, grab your popcorn and settle in for a movie night — you won’t be disappointed!
Problemista
Written by, directed by, and starring the talented Julio Torres, Problemista is a whimsical and bittersweet comedy that captures the struggles of an aspiring toy designer named Julio. He is on a quest to bring his unique and imaginative ideas into the world of toys, but he faces significant challenges along the way. With his work visa about to expire, Julio finds himself in a precarious situation. In a stroke of luck, he secures a job assisting a lonely and eccentric art world outcast, played brilliantly by Tilda Swinton. This character is deeply invested in honoring the artistic legacy of her late husband, a painter whose work has not received the recognition it deserves. As Julio navigates this unusual job, he learns valuable lessons about creativity, resilience, and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams, even in the face of adversity. The film beautifully blends humor with poignant moments, making it a relatable and heartfelt experience for viewers. -Allison Picurro
Am I OK?
In the dramedy film Am I OK?, Dakota Johnson takes center stage, showcasing her talent in a story co-directed by the real-life married couple Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne. This film is loosely inspired by Allynne’s own life experiences, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative. Johnson portrays Lucy, a woman in her 30s who is navigating the complexities of coming out. With the unwavering support of her best friend, Jane, played by Sonoya Mizuno, Lucy embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and the challenges of embracing one’s true identity in a world that can often be unkind. It’s a heartfelt exploration of what it means to be true to oneself, making it a must-watch for anyone who has ever felt out of place. -Allison Picurro
Priscilla
Priscilla is a film that can be likened to the “Taylor’s Version” of movies, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known story. Directed by the acclaimed Sofia Coppola and adapted from Priscilla Presley’s memoir, Elvis and Me, this film stands in stark contrast to Baz Luhrmann’s bombastic biopic featuring Austin Butler as The King. Coppola’s film delves into the life of a young Priscilla Beaulieu, portrayed by Cailee Spaeny, as she navigates the complexities of her marriage to the legendary Elvis Presley, played by Jacob Elordi. The film provides a nuanced look at their relationship, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of being married to a cultural icon. It’s a captivating exploration of love, fame, and the sacrifices made in the name of passion. -Allison Picurro
The Iron Claw
The Iron Claw brings to life the uniquely tragic true story of the Von Erich family, a name synonymous with professional wrestling. Directed by Sean Durkin, the film chronicles the family’s efforts to make a name for themselves in the cutthroat world of wrestling during the 1980s. The three brothers, portrayed by a trio of rising stars — Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, and Harris Dickinson — face numerous challenges as they strive for success. Their parents, played by Holt McCallany and Maura Tierney, provide a backdrop of support and struggle, showcasing the complexities of family dynamics in the face of fame and tragedy. This film is a gripping portrayal of ambition, loss, and the pursuit of greatness in a demanding industry. -Allison Picurro
Dune: Part 2
Respectfully, Dune: Part One served as an extended, visually stunning trailer for Dune: Part Two, which makes the sequel all the more thrilling. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this film finds Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet, joining forces with the Fremen people. This group includes his love interest, Chani, portrayed by Zendaya, and his ally, Stilgar, played by Javier Bardem. Together, they wage war against the ruthless House Harkonnen, which features Stellan Skarsgård’s menacing Baron and Austin Butler’s cunning Feyd-Rautha. The film promises to deliver breathtaking visuals and intense action, making it a highly anticipated continuation of the epic saga. -Allison Picurro
Civil War
Before he presented us with his vision of a new American civil war in the film Civil War, writer and director Alex Garland’s most peculiar and polarizing movie was undoubtedly 2022’s Men. This surrealist film delves into the life of a traumatized woman, portrayed by the talented Jessie Buckley. The story begins with a harrowing event where she witnesses her estranged husband take his own life. Following this tragic incident, she embarks on a journey to a small English village, where she encounters a series of unsettling characters, all played by the versatile Rory Kinnear. This casting choice adds a layer of discomfort and intrigue, making the film quite disturbing. The final moments of Men are particularly striking, offering some of the wildest and most visually arresting imagery we’ve ever seen in cinema. While some critics might argue that Garland took on more than he could handle with this ambitious project, it is precisely this boldness that makes the film so captivating and thought-provoking.
The Zone of Interest
The film The Zone of Interest, which won the award for Best International Feature and was also nominated for Best Picture at the 2024 Oscars, was noticeably absent from streaming platforms prior to the ceremony in early March. However, it has now become available for everyone to experience and appreciate from the comfort of their homes. Although the term “enjoy” might not be the most fitting word to describe this film, it certainly offers a unique perspective on one of humanity’s darkest chapters — the Holocaust. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz, and his family, who live in close proximity to the horrors they orchestrate. They go about their daily lives with a striking sense of normalcy, which is both chilling and thought-provoking. Director Jonathan Glazer’s film powerfully highlights the ways in which we often turn a blind eye to tragedy, and it does so with stunning effectiveness. The juxtaposition of mundane family life against the backdrop of unimaginable suffering serves as a haunting reminder of the human capacity for denial.
Dream Scenario
Have you ever dreamt of Nicolas Cage? In the A24 film Dream Scenario, it seems that everyone has. Cage stars as a professor who unexpectedly becomes the star of everyone’s nighttime subconscious adventures, transforming him into an overnight sensation in pop culture. However, as the dreams take a darker turn and morph into nightmares, the public’s perception of him shifts dramatically. The premise sounds bizarre, and it certainly is, but that’s what makes it all the more intriguing. The film explores themes of fame, identity, and the often unpredictable nature of public opinion, all while maintaining a surreal and comedic tone that keeps viewers engaged.
Wonka
Wonka takes us back to the very beginning of the chocolatier’s career, presenting a much different vibe compared to the more cynical tone of the original film. This new adaptation embraces the whimsical spirit reminiscent of director Paul King’s Paddington movies. This shift in tone makes perfect sense when considering human nature; young people often possess a sense of idealism that gradually gives way to cynicism as they grow older and become more aware of the world’s harsh realities. Witnessing this more innocent version of Willy Wonka is a refreshing experience, allowing audiences to reconnect with the joy and wonder that comes with childhood dreams and aspirations. The film invites viewers to explore the origins of one of literature’s most beloved characters, providing a delightful and heartwarming narrative.
The Color Purple
Directed by Blitz Bazawule, The Color Purple is a powerful adaptation of the stage musical of the same name, which itself is based on Alice Walker’s acclaimed novel. This film follows the poignant journey of a woman who strives to reunite with her sister and her children after being forcibly separated from them many years ago. The narrative is brought to life through a trio of powerhouse performances from Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, and Taraji P. Henson, who each deliver emotionally charged portrayals that resonate deeply with audiences. The film captures the essence of resilience, love, and the enduring bonds of family, making it a compelling and moving experience. As viewers witness the struggles and triumphs of the characters, they are reminded of the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, these films showcase a diverse range of storytelling, each offering unique perspectives on complex themes. From the surreal and disturbing to the heartwarming and uplifting, they invite audiences to reflect on the human experience in all its forms. Whether exploring the depths of trauma, the absurdity of fame, or the innocence of childhood dreams, these films resonate with viewers on multiple levels, making them essential viewing in today’s cinematic landscape.
