Melissa Roth
Charlie Wilson’s War
A suddenly timely look back at how the U.S. first escalated involvement with Afghanistan in the 1980s, told through an eye-opening story that feels like it had to be made up by its Oscar-winning screenwriter, Aaron Sorkin.
The Last Letter from Your Lover
A date night movie that transports you to a lush 1960s French Riviera, the adaptation of the JoJo Moyes novel entwines two eras and two sharply contrasted romances, delivering a wistful summer escape watch.
Sex and Lucía
A cinephile’s choice for a Netflix and Chill night, Sex and Lucia is a steamy and intoxicating portrait of two lovers … and their other lovers … that explores the blurry lines between reality and imagination, love and lust, tragedy and obsession.
My Neighbor Totoro
A joyful, enchanting classic, My Neighbor Tortoro is the rare film that can captivate all ages, from young kids to their parents and grandparents.
Origin Story: How Friends Became the Ultimate Watercooler Hit
After a year-long delay due to the pandemic, the much-anticipated Friends Reunion Special finally has a “stream date”: Thursday, May 27th, a tribute to its original “Must-See TV” night. The big event has already driven legions of fans sign up for HBOMax, turning the service into “Must Stream TV.” David Janollari was a young development
I May Destroy You
An addictive, provocative, Emmy-nominated limited series that challenges how we think and feel about our own relationships – romantic, platonic, and professional. Creator and star Michaela Coel captivates.
Dolores
A gripping history lesson that also sheds light on the methods, risks, and compromises required to organize and sustain a movement.
I Am Greta
Surprising and inspiring, I Am Greta is a testament to the power of one voice — no matter the age. Watch it with the disenchanted young student in your life.
What to Discover on Discovery+
If you don’t know where to start when it comes to streaming services, The Watercooler is here to help. To kick off the new year, we’re running down our must-watch shows and films by platform so you can dive into the world of streaming and head straight for the good stuff. Be sure to read
Melissa Roth
The Righteous Gemstones
A brilliant and sardonic look at the gaudy world of televangelism filled with quick one-liners and surprisingly heartfelt moments.
The Lost Daughter
The Lost Daughter proves that Gyllenhaal has a gift for directing and screenwriting. She’s made a film about real, complex people that sticks with you.
Archive 81
Archive 81 is a binge-worthy, well-paced horror/sci-fi series that will keep viewers intrigued and filled with anticipation during each of its eight gripping episodes. It’s edge-of-your seat good!
The Shows and Movies We’re Looking forward to in 2022
We asked some of our contributors about their most anticipated shows of 2022. Read on for their picks, and feel free to add your own.
Yellowjackets
Yellowjackets is a dark and potent cocktail, mixing genres in a way that makes it fresh and different from anything you’ve seen before. It digs deep into the human psyche, testing the boundaries of what its characters (and audience) can endure, but also keeps you wanting more.
The Power of the Dog
The Power of the Dog delivers amazing vistas and performances, some of which may still be seared in the mind after viewing. There is a uniqueness in the story and in the acting, thanks to the joint efforts of Campion and Cumberbatch.
Get Started on your New Year’s Resolution with these Streaming Workouts
If your new year’s resolution is to get in shape these streaming workouts will get you off the couch without having to leave your home.
The Best New Movies and Shows to Stream in December 2021
This month’s picks include big stars, highly anticipated returns, sci-fi epics, and an international Oscar contender—all for your streaming pleasure!
Belfast
Belfast benefits from a stellar cast and skilled direction in its depiction of a personal story with a fresh perspective on a complicated moment in history.
Procession
Experimental, controversial, and heartbreaking. Procession hammers home the necessity of reclaiming one’s own story from the grips of time and those who don’t wish to hear it.
Encanto
Encanto is a charming and heartfelt musical with beautiful visuals that ought to delight families of all ages.
Last Chance for Cyber Monday Streaming Deals
So many streaming services, so many Cyber Monday deals. But which of these streamers have enough of the shows and movies you will actually watch? And how much will you really save?
Meet The Real Beatles: Get Back and the Human Side of the Mythical Band
Veteran music journalist Steve Baltin analyzes the Beatles doc ‘Get Back’ and sees their human side, their joy — and the truth behind their split.
Black Friday Streaming Deals: Roku’s 20 Networks for $.99 Each
The best Black Friday deals for cord-cutters and TV and movie buffs may be Roku’s special for 20 premium channels for $.99 each.
Cowboy Bebop
A strange, poignant and funny adventure with amazing music, a talented cast, and beautifully detailed costumes and sets, the live action Cowboy Bebop adaptation makes you nostalgic for the original—hey, guess what’s also streaming on Netflix? All 26 original episodes!
Last Night in Soho
Last Night in Soho takes horror and coming-of-age tropes and subverts them in a stylish thriller that has more depth than meets the eye.