Netflix has become an unbelievable source of entertainment for millions of Canadians. For the relatively cheap monthly subscription, users have access to countless films and television shows from various years, various genres and various cinematic tastes.
The only real problem with Netflix is deciding what to watch.
Luckily we’ve got a new feature to let you know what new programs will be debuting this month and which ones are worth checking out.
Let’s take a look at what’s new on Netflix January 2017!
American Sniper (2015)
Genre: Drama, War
Starring Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller, Keir O’Donnell
Directed by Clint Eastwood
Written by Jason Hall
Chris Kyle was a Navy S.E.A.L. and born solider who is said to have tallied the most kills of any solider. But while he makes a name for himself on the other side of the world, his home-life begins to deteriorate. Kyle has become a controversial character in recent years due to several statements he’s made and some questions about his claims as a solider, but this film is a complex exploration of what it means to be a solider in these days; what you leave behind and what you become because of it. It’s an extraordinary story no matter your politics.
The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
Genre: Thriller
Starring Denzel Washington, Liev Shreiber, Meryl Streep
Directed by Jonathan Demme
Written by Daniel Pyne, Dean Georgaris
The classic political thriller from ’62 gets an updated reimagining. Washington steps into the Frank Sinatra role as a solider with PTSD who tries to uncover a mystery surrounding one of his fellow soldiers who is running for Vice President. These sort of paranoid thrillers are always pretty intriguing and this one boasts an impressive cast. It also may feel eerily timely as it deals with a powerful political leader being controlled by a foreign party. Sound familiar?
The Karate Kid (1984)
Genre: Sports
Starring Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue
Directed by John G. Avildsen
Written by Robert Mark Kamen
The classic inspirational tale follows a young kid who is bullied in school but finds strength and confidence when a martial arts master takes him under his wing. An bit dated, but it still holds up surprisingly well. It’s a great underdog story with a lot of heart and fun for the whole family. Who can forget, “Wax on. Wax off”?
A Bigger Splash (2015)
Genre: Drama
Starring Tilda Swinton, Matthias Schoenaerts, Ralph Fiennes
Directed by Luca Guadagnino
Written by David Kajganich
This one is a bit more geared for the adult crowd. The story concerns a famous rock star and her boyfriend who take a secluded vacation to Italy, only to be unexpectedly interrupted by an old friend. It’s a bit tense, a bit funny and loaded with tons of intrigue. The kind of relationship movie that doesn’t come around too often.
Big Hero 6 (2014)
Genre: Comedy, Animation
Starring Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Daniel Henney
Directed by Don Hall, Chris Williams
Written by Jordan Roberts, Robert L. Baird
Another crowd-pleaser that the whole family can enjoy together. This Marvel-Disney team-up involves a boy genius with develops a strong bond with his gentle robot while teaming with a group of friends to take down a high-tech villain. It’s a funny, action-packed ride with amazing visuals and some touching moments.