7 Must-Stream Movies This Weekend: The Ultimate December 2025 Watchlist

The streaming landscape has never been richer, and for the weekend of December 19-21, 2025, a fresh wave of highly anticipated films has landed, guaranteeing a perfect binge-watching session. This curated list cuts through the clutter to bring you the newest, most talked-about movies and limited series available right now across all major platforms, from star-studded Netflix originals to a new Wes Anderson masterpiece on Prime Video. Whether you are craving a twisty mystery, a heartfelt comedy-drama, or a dose of holiday nostalgia, your weekend viewing schedule starts here.

This weekend’s selection is dominated by major releases from cinematic heavyweights, including new works from directors Noah Baumbach and Rian Johnson, alongside the latest from auteur Wes Anderson. The depth and variety on offer mean there is a premium, must-see title for every mood and genre preference as the year winds down.

The A-List Arrivals: New Blockbusters on Netflix & Prime Video

The competition between streaming giants is fierce, and this December has delivered some of the biggest names in Hollywood directly to your living room. These titles are not just filler; they are the kind of event cinema that demands to be watched immediately.

1. Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (Netflix)

Director Rian Johnson returns with the third installment in his critically acclaimed murder-mystery franchise, and it’s arguably the most anticipated film of the season. Detective Benoit Blanc, played once again by the incomparable Daniel Craig, faces his most dangerous and baffling case yet.

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The film shifts the focus from the lavish settings of the previous entries to a more somber, yet equally intriguing, locale: a quiet church where a shocking death has occurred. The ensemble cast is stacked with talent, ensuring a delightful parade of suspects for Blanc to interrogate. Key cast members include Josh O'Connor (as the priest Jud Duplenticy), Glenn Close, and Kerry Washington, each bringing their own layer of intrigue to the complex narrative.

• Genre: Mystery, Whodunit, Crime
• Starring: Daniel Craig (as Benoit Blanc), Josh O'Connor, Glenn Close, Kerry Washington
• Why You Must Stream: Johnson’s signature blend of sharp wit, intricate plotting, and luxurious cinematography makes this a perfect weekend watch for fans of classic murder mysteries and modern cinema alike.

2. Jay Kelly (Netflix)

For those seeking a more character-driven, introspective film, look no further than *Jay Kelly*. This comedy-drama is the latest project from Academy Award nominee Noah Baumbach, known for his work on films like *Marriage Story* and *The Squid and the Whale*.

The film stars George Clooney as the titular Jay Kelly, a famous movie actor who suddenly decides to embark on a spontaneous journey of self-discovery through Europe. The plot delves into his complicated past and present, particularly his relationship with his devoted manager, Ron. Clooney’s performance is being hailed as one of his best, balancing the comedic absurdity of celebrity life with genuine emotional depth. The story is co-written by Baumbach and Emily Mortimer, guaranteeing a script full of razor-sharp dialogue and profound moments.

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• Genre: Comedy-Drama, Road Film, Character Study
• Starring: George Clooney (as Jay Kelly), Emily Mortimer, Ron (character name)
• Why You Must Stream: It’s a compelling look at fame, identity, and the search for authenticity, all packaged in Noah Baumbach’s distinct, humanist style.

3. The Phoenician Scheme (Prime Video)

Wes Anderson aficionados rejoice: the master of meticulous composition and quirky dialogue has a new film streaming on Prime Video. *The Phoenician Scheme* is an espionage black comedy thriller that features the director's trademark visual style and ensemble cast.

The film centers on Zsa-zsa Korda (played by Benicio del Toro), one of the wealthiest men in Europe, and his complex family business. The narrative is a labyrinth of international intrigue, family secrets, and Anderson’s unique brand of deadpan humor. The supporting cast is a who’s who of Anderson regulars and new collaborators, including Michael Cera, Bill Murray, and Mia Threapleton. The film was conceived by Anderson and Roman Coppola, promising a story that is both visually stunning and narratively surprising.

• Genre: Espionage, Black Comedy, Thriller
• Starring: Benicio del Toro (as Zsa-zsa Korda), Michael Cera, Bill Murray, Mia Threapleton
• Why You Must Stream: It’s a colorful, witty, and perfectly symmetrical cinematic experience that only Wes Anderson can deliver.

Genre Deep Dive: Horror, Sports, and Holiday Classics

Beyond the major studio dramas and mysteries, this weekend offers fantastic options for niche genre fans. From a chilling horror sequel to a high-octane sports documentary and the essential holiday re-watches, there’s something for every taste.

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4. Influencers (Shudder)

For horror and thriller enthusiasts, *Influencers* is the must-watch title this weekend, streaming exclusively on Shudder. This film is a direct sequel to the highly-praised 2022 film *Influencer* and brings back the unforgettable psychopath CW, played by Cassandra Naud.

The 2025 sequel continues to explore the dark side of social media and online personas. It’s a chilling look at broken people who project vastly different lives online than they live in reality, escalating the psychological warfare and deadly games from the first film. The movie has been lauded for avoiding common horror sequel traps and is being called one of the best Shudder Originals of the decade. Directed by Kurtis David Harder, it’s a smart, tense, and highly relevant horror thriller.

• Genre: Horror, Psychological Thriller, Slasher
• Starring: Cassandra Naud (as CW)
• Why You Must Stream: If you enjoy modern horror that is both scary and socially insightful, this sequel offers a great game of cat-and-mouse that will keep you guessing.

5. F1 (Apple TV+)

While technically a docu-series, the *F1* project on Apple TV+ is being treated as a cinematic event, offering a deep dive into the high-stakes world of Formula 1 racing. Released on December 12, it's the perfect high-octane binge for the weekend.

This documentary follows the drivers, team principals, and engineers through a tumultuous season, offering unprecedented access to the drama both on and off the track. The focus is on the human element of the sport—the intense rivalries, the incredible pressure, and the sheer physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level of motorsport. It’s a must-watch for sports fans and anyone who appreciates compelling, real-life drama.

• Genre: Documentary, Sports, Biographical
• Why You Must Stream: It delivers the adrenaline rush of a blockbuster action movie with the emotional resonance of a compelling drama.

The Festive Favorites: Essential Holiday Streaming

It wouldn't be a December weekend without a nod to the classics. As the holiday season peaks, several essential Christmas films are streaming, offering a perfect counterpoint to the new releases.

6. The Unconventional Christmas Duo (Hulu)

Hulu has stocked its library with some of the most beloved and debated holiday films. For a dose of pure, family-friendly holiday cheer, the perennial favorite *Elf* is available to stream. Starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, this movie is a modern classic that delivers laughs and heart in equal measure.

However, for those who prefer their holiday viewing with a side of action, *Die Hard* is also streaming on Hulu. The debate over whether the Bruce Willis-led action film is a "Christmas movie" rages on, but its December setting and themes of family make it an essential, if unconventional, holiday watch. Pair it with the timeless classic *A Christmas Story* for a full spectrum of holiday cinema.

• Genre: Holiday Comedy (*Elf*), Action Thriller (*Die Hard*), Holiday Classic (*A Christmas Story*)
• Starring: Will Ferrell, Bruce Willis, Peter Billingsley
• Why You Must Stream: A perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, whether you prefer snowball fights or explosions.

Final Thoughts: Your Weekend Watchlist Strategy

With so many high-quality, fresh releases, deciding what to watch can be a challenge. The best strategy for this weekend is to prioritize the new, event-level films. Start your Friday night with the star-studded mystery of Wake Up Dead Man, then transition to the intellectual comedy of Jay Kelly on Saturday. Save The Phoenician Scheme for Sunday afternoon, and cap off the weekend with the sharp, scary thrills of Influencers.

This December 2025 streaming lineup is one of the strongest in recent memory, providing a wealth of topical authority and diverse cinematic experiences. Grab your snacks, settle in, and prepare for an unforgettable weekend of binge-watching.