This last week of December brings a powerhouse lineup of new films, series, and specials to streaming platforms. From Hollywood A-listers in intense dramas to the conclusion of a beloved sci-fi saga and a record-breaking Chinese animation, there's something for every mood as the year winds down.
Blockbuster Films and Intense Dramas Head to Streaming
Academy Award-winner Jennifer Lawrence delivers a raw performance in the highly anticipated psychodrama "Die My Love." The film, directed by Lynne Ramsay, starts streaming on Mubi from December 23. Lawrence plays a new mother descending into erratic behaviour, with Robert Pattinson as her husband. Adapted from Ariana Harwicz's novel, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle praised it as a "jagged, go-for-broke psychodrama" with a "primal punk spirit," highlighting Lawrence's "bracingly raw" performance.
Meanwhile, the Chinese animated phenomenon "Ne Zha II" arrives on HBO Max this Wednesday. This sequel is the highest-grossing animated film ever, with over $2.2 billion in global ticket sales. It follows the rebellious demon-child Ne Zha on his quest to defy destiny. The English dub features the voice of Michelle Yeoh, who says the film "immerses you into our culture." Viewers can jump into the sequel directly, though the first film is on Netflix.
For holiday-themed viewing, Prime Video adds two major 2025 theatrical releases: "A Minecraft Movie" on Monday and "Sinners" on Friday, December 26.
Final Episodes and New Thrillers to Binge
The fifth and final season of Netflix's global hit "Stranger Things" continues with its next block of episodes. Episodes 5 through 7 will be released this week, bringing fans closer to the epic conclusion in Hawkins, where Vecna's plan unfolds and Will Byers embraces his powers. The series finale is set to drop on New Year's Eve.
Peacock launches a new espionage thriller, "The Copenhagen Test," on December 27. Simu Liu stars as an intelligence analyst whose brain gets hacked. The series also features Melissa Barrera, Sinclair Daniel, and Brian d'Arcy James. All episodes will be available at once for a complete binge.
Netflix also offers a peek into ultra-wealthy lifestyles with the reality show "Members Only: Palm Beach," premiering December 29. The series follows five women in Florida's affluent enclave, promising drama where "nobody goes lower than high society," according to star Taja Abitbol.
Holiday Specials and Critically Acclaimed Indies
For festive family entertainment, the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade airs on ABC at 10 a.m. ET and streams from 11 a.m. ET on Disney+, Hulu, and Disney's YouTube channel on Christmas Day. The special boasts performances by Gwen Stefani, Nicole Scherzinger, Coco Jones, Bebe Rexha, and Mariah the Scientist.
On the gaming front, if you received a new console or device for Christmas, look beyond the big studio titles. The Associated Press recommends exploring standout independent games from 2025. Must-play titles include:
- Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
- The Séance of Blake Manor
- The Alters
- Sequels like Hades II and Hollow Knight: Silksong
- Mystery games Blue Prince and The Roottrees are Dead
- The heartfelt soccer story Despelote
This diverse week of releases ensures your holiday break will be filled with top-tier entertainment, from edge-of-your-seat thrillers to heartwarming holiday specials.
