Hulu might not be the first streaming service you think of when you think about original content, but they’ve released some great films over the past few years, from Palm Springs to Fresh. For a service that only started producing and hosting original films in late 2019, it’s already starting to make a name for itself.
Hulu has released six new films thus far in 2023, reminding us that they’re one of the more prolific streaming services when it comes to original movies. Not all of them have been well-received, but they already have something for everyone. For a broader list, check out our Best Movies on Hulu of All Time.
Best and Highest Rated Movies On Hulu in 2023
4. Boston Strangler (2023)
Serial killer films are pretty common, but Boston Strangler does an excellent job of focusing not on the killer himself but on the brave female journalists who tried to track him down when the police were not doing much. It’s a riveting story, and even if the film isn’t as fast-paced as you might expect, Keira Knightley and Carrie Coon deliver great performances.
Official Premise: “A true-crime thriller about the reporters Loretta Mclaughlin and Jean Cole, who broke the story of the Boston Strangler murders. As the killer claims more victims, the two pursue the investigation, putting their own lives at risk to uncover the truth.”
Cast: Keira Knightley, Carrie Coon, Chris Cooper
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 68%
Review Excerpt: “Though Boston Strangler isn’t as gripping as other real-life stories based on serial killers, it’s worth the watch if you’re an avid true crime fan. The film gives viewers a detailed account of the heinous crimes and tells the story of the incredible reporters who helped put pieces of the case together and broke the story. There were many surprising details depicted in the film that I never knew about, and once the movie concludes, you will find yourself going down a rabbit hole.”
3. Clock (2023)
This sci-fi horror film marks Alexis Jacknow’s feature directorial debut, and it’s an impressive one. Dianna Agron gives a strong performance in the film, and the horror really works, playing off of real-life fears about infertility and reproduction.
Official Premise: “On the eve of her 39th birthday, a woman desperately attempts to fix her broken biological clock.”
Cast: Dianna Agron, Melora Hardin, Jay Ali
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 79%
Review Excerpt: “Hulu’s Clock is a good psychological thriller. The overall tone and imagery create enough visceral anxiety-ridden horror to cover up a few minor storytelling cliches. While the film lacks some true jump scares, it gains momentum as Ella unravels. However, be forewarned this movie could be triggering for anyone dealing with fertility issues or involuntary childlessness.”
2. Rye Lane (2023)
If you’re looking for a fantastic modern romantic comedy, look no further than Raine Allen-Miller’s Rye Lane. This beautiful directorial debut follows two young people in South London, a part of the well-known city that is not seen in films nearly as often as other parts. Its sweet script and performances are sure to win you over.
Official Premise: “Yas and Dom, two 20-somethings both reeling from bad break-ups, connect over the course of an eventful day in South London-helping each other deal with their nightmare exes and potentially restoring their faith in romance.”
Cast: David Jonsson, Vivian Oparah
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%
Review Excerpt: Rye Lane “is a wonderful rom-com with so much heart and depth to the relationships that people can form effortlessly. The more you don’t try, things can just come together without an explanation. If it’s easy to talk to someone and naturally evolve the relationship day by day, then you have something special right there. Whether platonic or romantic, you should fight for that and hold onto it.”
1. Bruiser (2023)
The best Hulu film of the year thus far is a no-brainer. It’s the examination of fatherhood called Bruiser that debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2022. Getting unanimous praise from critics is no easy task, but Bruiser is just one of those films.
Official Premise: “During summer break, 14-year-old Darious explores the boundaries of his manhood through tumultuous interactions with Malcolm, his strict father, and a burgeoning mentorship with mysterious drifter Porter.”
Cast: Trevante Rhodes, Shamier Anderson, Jalyn Hall
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 100%
Review Excerpt: “There’s nothing new about the story, but Warren’s artistry is evident in how he presents the narrative, making Bruiser a film worth watching at least once. It doesn’t take sides between the two role models, nor does he fully resolve the questions raised. And the ending remains ambiguous yet riveting.”
And that completes our list of the Best and Highest Rated Movies On Hulu in 2023. What’s your favorite in this list? Comment below.
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