Streaming Highlights for April 13-19: New Releases Across Platforms
This week brings a fresh wave of entertainment to streaming devices, featuring standout performances, new music albums, and exciting video game launches. From Netflix comedies to Prime Video films and Apple TV series, there's something for every viewer and listener.
New Movies to Stream
Sadie Sandler stars in the Netflix comedy "Roommates," which premieres on Friday, April 17. The film follows a college freshman navigating life with a boundaryless dormmate, played by Chloe East. Supporting roles include Nick Kroll and Natasha Lyonne as parents, with Francesca Scorsese, Carol Kane, and Storm Reid rounding out the cast.
Edgar Wright's adaptation of Stephen King's "The Running Man" arrives on Prime Video on Friday, April 17. Starring Glen Powell, the film faced box office challenges, earning under $69 million against a $110 million budget. Reviews were mixed, with AP critic Jake Coyle noting its satirical take on media but lack of bite compared to the original.
"Dust Bunny," directed by Bryan Fuller, debuts on HBO Max on Friday, April 17. This R-rated feature stars Mads Mikkelsen as a hitman hired by a young girl, played by Sophie Sloan, to confront monsters. The New York Times praised it as "visually sumptuous nonsense," offering a unique blend of horror and fantasy.
New Music Releases
Zayn Malik marks a decade since his solo debut with "Konnakol," his fifth album, out on Friday, April 17. Since leaving One Direction, Malik has focused on R&B and falsetto-driven tracks, continuing to showcase his vocal strengths.
Yaya Bey releases "Fidelity" on Friday, April 17, a cathartic album exploring grief and love after her father's death. Known for experimental R&B and soul, Bey builds on last year's "do it afraid" with emotional depth and genre-blending sounds.
John Summit drops "Ctrl Escape" on Friday, April 17, catering to electronic dance music fans. The album, released via Experts Only and Darkroom Records, offers tracks for both ravers and home listeners, blending house beats with accessible melodies.
Jessie Ware's "Superbloom" also arrives on Friday, April 17, featuring disco-pop anthems like "Ride," which incorporates themes from "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly." Ware's music is designed for dance floors, with synthy, sequined production.
New Series to Stream
Apple TV's "Margo's Got Money Troubles" premieres on Wednesday, starring Elle Fanning as a single mom who starts an OnlyFans account. Based on a bestselling novel, the series includes Michelle Pfeiffer and Nick Offerman as parents, adding star power to the dramedy.
"Love Island: Beyond the Villa" returns for a second season on Peacock on Wednesday, following contestants from last summer's "Love Island USA." The show explores post-villa drama, with episodes focusing on winners Amaya Espinal and Bryan Arenales.
Netflix's "Beef" returns for a second season on Thursday, April 16, now as an anthology series. The new cast features Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, and Cailee Spaeny, continuing the critically acclaimed format with fresh storylines.
Tubi's "Big Mood" Season 2 debuts on Thursday, April 16, starring Nicola Coughlan and Lydia West as best friends in East London. The dark comedy delves into themes of mental health and co-dependency, picking up a year after the first season.
New Video Games to Play
Capcom's "Pragmata" launches on Friday, April 17, available on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2, and PC. Set on a lunar base after a moonquake, players control Hugh and Diana to fight rogue robots and restore order, blending action with sci-fi mystery.
Nintendo's "Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream" releases on Thursday, allowing players to create Mii avatars and build communities on an island. The game focuses on social simulation, with activities like gift-giving and relationship-building, plus cross-platform visits.
These selections, curated by The Associated Press entertainment journalists, offer a diverse range of streaming options for the week of April 13-19, ensuring viewers and gamers have plenty to enjoy.
