Apple TV+ Launched in 2019, and although it has not been around as other streaming services, it has been steadily building a solid repertoire of feature films and great Apple TV original shows. The streaming platform is available on its own, as well as with the Apple One bundle. The service includes a handful of 4K, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos compatible programming, which makes it popular for individuals who want to maximize their home theater experience.
Apple TV series have been released at a breakneck pace as the streaming service tries to increase its own original content, as well as capture the attention of viewers who are already loyal to the Apple brand. With a price point of $4.99 per month, it is also a more economic streaming option when compared to some of its competitors. Now, with the Best Picture Oscar win for CODA, Apple TV+ is in the limelight more than ever, so if you are a subscriber, or just looking to see what the service has to offer, here are the very best movies available to stream right now.
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6 The Tragedy of Macbeth
Apple TV+A24
The Tragedy of Macbeth is a 2021 film directed by Joel Coen, is a modern-day Shakespeare adaptation of one of the bard’s greatest plays. The movie stars Denzel Washington, Frances McDormand, and Alex Hassel, and is really quite the unique spectacle. It was shot entirely on sound stages, giving it an ethereal and abstract tonality. Additionally, the film is presented in black and white with an aspect ratio of 1.19:1.
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
All of this, combined with startling performances from Kathryn Hunter, puts the audience in the tortured headspace of the titular Macbeth. The film was received incredibly well and was nominated for awards for its direction, cinematography, and on acting performances. Whether you are familiar with the original work of William Shakespeare or not, this film does a fantastic job of retelling the story and is a haunting must-watch.
5 WolfWalkers
Apple TV+
WolfWalkers is a 2020 animated Apple original film. It is directed by Tomm Moore and is the third installment of his Irish folklore trilogy, preceded by The Secret of Kells and the 2014 Song of the Sea, both Oscar-nominated. Watching the previous two installments are not necessary prerequisites for WolfWalkers, but they may help you appreciate this new story.
The film follows Robyn Goodfellowe, a young apprentice hunter who travels to Ireland with her father in order to wipe out the remaining wolf pack that roams the lands. The film contains plenty of magic, mythical creatures, and action. Through the medium of animation, the film boast fantastical mystical imagery and captivating dialogue. If you enjoy unique animation or the best high fantasy, then this film may spark your interest.
4 The Banker
This Apple original is directed by George Nolfi and stars Samual L. Jackson, Anthony Mackie, and Nicholas Hoult. The Banker is a period piece taking place in the 1950s and tells the story of some of the first two African-American Bankers in the United States. The film overall is incredibly good, but what really sets The Banker apart from other period pieces addressing racial prejudice is the phenomenal acting; Apple sure knows how to pack a screen with great talent. The actors bring an already very interesting story to life, and show why it deserves to be told. The film was declared the Outstanding Independent Motion Picture of 2021 by the NAACP Image Awards.
3 CODA
CODA is a great film that tells a truly heartwarming and touching story. Breaking all kinds of historical records, it is the first film to be distributed by a streaming service to win an Oscar for Best Picture. The film also won awards for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor, with Troy Kotsur becoming the first deaf man to win an acting Oscar. CODA was adapted from a French-Belgian Film called La Famille Bélier and stars Emilia Jones, Marlee Matlin, and Troy Kotsur. CODA is an acronym for “Children OF Deaf Adults,” and the film aptly tells the story of Ruby, who is the only hearing person of her family. This smile-inducing feature will leave you wanting more.
2 Greyhound
Greyhound again shows off the incredible talent Apple original films are able to procure with this film starring Tom Hanks. The movie is directed by Aaron Schneider, with Tom Hanks actually co-writing the screenplay with C.S. Forester, from his book The Good Shepherd. The World War Two movie follows Tom Hanks as the captain of USS Keeling DD-548, which is leading an escort of allied ships to Liverpool. Despite the captain’s decoration and naval experience, this is the first time Hanks’ character has seen wartime. During the escort, the fleet learns they are being stalked by a pack of German submarines and must figure out how to evade or destroy them. This action packed wartime drama is perfect for history buffs and action junkies alike.
1 The Year the Earth Changed
This Planet Earth-like movie features the beautifully written and calming narration of David Attenborough. Unlike the broader coverage of the best nature documentaries, The Year the Earth Changed takes a particularly interesting concentrated focus. Directed by Tom Beard, this film looks at the ways in which wildlife has changed following the global lockdown precipitated by the Covid-19 pandemic. This contemporary study makes for a unique documentation of the wonder of beautiful wildlife that the world holds, and a fascinating meditation on nature which allows viewers to look outside themselves for a change.
