While August might be a slow month for new releases on Disney+, there’s one hidden gem from July that’s worth revisiting: Young Woman and the Sea. This inspiring true story, based on Gertrude Ederle’s historic swim across the English Channel, showcases Daisy Ridley’s stellar performance and offers a compelling glimpse into the challenges women faced in the 1920s.
‘Baby Reindeer,’ a critically acclaimed Netflix series, explores the intersection of comedy and trauma through the experiences of a young comedian who becomes the target of a stalker. Based on real-life events, the show delves into the complexities of harassment and abuse, shedding light on the struggles faced by survivors. With breakout performances by Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, and Nava Mau, ‘Baby Reindeer’ has generated significant buzz and sparked discussions on the nature of truth, consent, and the impact of trauma.
Richard Gadd, creator and star of Netflix’s hit series ‘Baby Reindeer,’ has pleaded with viewers to cease attempts to identify the real-life individuals behind the show’s characters. Despite the show’s basis in Gadd’s personal experiences with stalking, he has altered names and details to protect the identities of those involved. However, social media sleuths have been determined to uncover their true identities, leading Gadd to speak out against the speculations.
Pulang is a captivating 2018 Malaysian adventure drama film directed by Kabir Bhatia and written by Mira Mustaffa and Ahmad Izham Omar. Based on the true story of Izham Omar’s father, the film follows Othman, a fisherman from Malacca, who embarks on a perilous journey to sail the world in search of fortune. However, his dreams are shattered when he discovers the harsh realities of the sea. Sixty-one years after Othman’s departure, his grandson sets out on a quest to find him. Featuring a talented cast led by Remy Ishak, Puteri Aishah, Erwin Dawson, and Alvin Wong, Pulang is now available to stream on Netflix, the world’s most popular streaming platform.
Al Pacino and Dan Stevens are teaming up for the upcoming exorcism horror film ‘The Ritual,’ directed by David Midell. The film, acquired by XYZ Films for worldwide distribution, is set to hit theaters in 2025 and will receive international distribution arrangements at the upcoming Cannes market. Inspired by a true story, ‘The Ritual’ follows two priests, one questioning his faith (Stevens) and the other facing a troubled past (Pacino), as they confront their differences to perform a series of exorcisms on a possessed young woman. The real-life case of Emma Schmidt, whose demonic possession resulted in harrowing exorcisms, serves as the basis for the film. Pacino and Stevens join a cast that includes Ashley Greene and Abigail Cowen. The film will showcase the collaboration between Midell and his creative partner Enrico Natale, who previously worked together on the critically acclaimed ‘The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain.’
Based on a true story, ‘Of Money and Blood’ delves into a complex financial crime scheme that defrauded the French government of billions. The series follows customs officer Simon Weynachter as he investigates the perpetrators and exposes their motivations. With a focus on greed, resentment, and social divisions, the show highlights the real-world consequences of financial crimes.
The gripping miniseries ‘Baby Reindeer’ is based on the true story of comedian Richard Gadd’s experience with a stalker named Martha. While the character’s real name remains unknown, fans speculate that she is based on Fiona Harvey, a woman who reportedly stalked an MP and his wife in the early 2000s. Despite similarities in their behavior and circumstances, Gadd has chosen to protect Martha’s true identity and has fictionalized aspects of her character.
Based on a true incident, Faraaz is a harrowing action thriller that depicts the harrowing events of the Dhaka terrorist attack. The film showcases the resilience, bravery, and ultimate sacrifice of Faraaz, a hostage who stands firm in his principles, ultimately leading to his tragic demise. Now, you can watch Faraaz online via streaming services like Netflix.
