6 Must-See Streaming Picks for the First Weekend of 2026

Ring in the new year with a fresh lineup of movies and series lighting up your favorite streaming platforms. Whether you’re still winding down from the holiday rush or just looking for something new to watch, this weekend’s releases offer a little bit of everything—comedy, suspense, drama, and adventure. Here’s a rundown of six top picks now available on Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Apple TV Plus, and Hulu. New Movie Releases to Start the YearThe Naked Gun (Prime Video) Prime Video kicks off 2026 with a bang, bringing back the slapstick charm of The Naked Gun. This new installment, straddling the line between remake and reboot, revives the franchise ’s signature absurd humor—expect plenty of over-the-top gags and irreverent jokes. Liam Neeson steps into the shoes of Frank Drebin Jr., joined by Pamela Anderson and Paul Walter Hauser, as he stumbles through a murder investigation tied to a tech billionaire. The fate of his police squad hangs in the balance, and chaos is never far behind. The Naked Gun is streaming now on Prime Video, having dropped December 29. One Battle After Another (HBO Max) With awards season heating up, HBO Max offers a front-row seat to one of the year’s most buzzed-about films. Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another, featuring a powerhouse cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Teyana Taylor, Benicio del Toro, Regina Hall, and Chase Infiniti, follows Bob, a former revolutionary living off the grid with his daughter Willa. When she vanishes, Bob is forced to confront his radical past to find her. The film, which has been available since December 19, is a must-watch for anyone following the Oscar race. Together (Hulu)If you’re in the mood for a scare, Hulu’s Together delivers a blend of body horror and dark comedy. Alison Brie and Dave Franco, a real-life couple, star as Millie and Tim, who move to the countryside hoping for a fresh start. Their relationship takes a bizarre turn after they drink from a mysterious spring in the woods, triggering a wild transformation that tests the limits of their love—and their bodies. Directed by Michael Shanks, this horror gem arrived on Hulu December 31.Fresh Episodes and Series FinalesStranger Things Season 5 Finale ( Netflix) After a decade of supernatural thrills, Stranger Things wraps up with a feature-length final episode. The last chapter, released on New Year’s Eve, answers the series’ biggest mysteries: who makes it out alive, and whether Vecna is finally defeated. Fans can relive the journey with Eleven, Steve, and the rest of the gang one last time. If you need a refresher, check out the season 5 part 1 ending explained guide before diving in. The final episode is now streaming on Netflix. Palm Royale Season 2, Episode 8 (Apple TV Plus) Apple TV Plus brings the drama with the penultimate episode of Palm Royale’s second season. Kristen Wiig stars as Maxine Dellacorte, an outsider navigating the treacherous waters of Palm Beach’s elite. After a public meltdown leaves her reputation in tatters, Maxine must use her wit to reclaim her place in high society. The ensemble cast includes Laura Dern, Allison Janney, Ricky Martin, and Carol Burnett. Episode 8 is available now, setting the stage for the season finale. Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 2, Episode 5 (Disney Plus) Disney Plus continues the adventure with the latest episode of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. This family- friendly fantasy series, based on Rick Riordan’s The Sea of Monsters, follows Percy as he embarks on a quest to rescue his friend Grover and recover the legendary Golden Fleece. With help from Annabeth, Clarisse, and his cyclops half-brother Tyson, Percy faces new dangers to protect Camp Half-Blood and Olympus itself. Season 2, episode 5 is streaming now, with a third season already confirmed.

6 Must-See Streaming Picks for the First Weekend of 2026

Read also