As 2026 begins, the perennial challenge of choosing weekend movies persists. To assist viewers in their search, Watch With Us presents a curated selection of three standout films currently streaming on Hulu. From a gripping 2025 sci-fi thriller featuring a beloved Breaking Bad star to a touching Oscar-nominated animated film, these choices promise to elevate your weekend viewing.
**‘Ash’ (2025)**
In “Ash,” astronaut Riya (played by Eiza González) faces a dire predicament—she finds herself stranded in space with no memory of the events that led her there, nor the fate of her fellow crew members. The situation escalates when she receives help from Brion (Aaron Paul) in response to her distress signal, but doubts arise regarding his honesty. Compounding her troubles, Riya experiences disturbing flashbacks that suggest she may be responsible for the demise of her companions.
Director Flying Lotus intricately weaves a narrative that is both captivating and layered, reminiscent of “Alien” and “Fight Club.” The film, deftly utilizing its 95-minute runtime, explores themes of survival and truth, offering a fresh take on the sci-fi mystery genre. “Ash” is a thought-provoking experience that successfully marries original storytelling with genre references, making it a must-watch on Hulu.
**‘The Illusionist’ (2010)**
Sylvain Chomet’s animated feature “The Illusionist” transports audiences to the late 1950s, where magic seems to have lost its allure. The story follows an unnamed illusionist struggling to find work in Paris, eventually moving to London where he performs at modest venues. His fortunes change when he meets Alice (Eilidh Rankin), a young girl who believes in his magic and eventually becomes his companion. However, as their father-daughter-like bond deepens, the reality of the illusionist’s financial struggles and the challenge of maintaining Alice’s idealistic view of him create tension within their relationship.
Nominated for the Best Animated Feature at the 2011 Academy Awards, “The Illusionist” is a poignant exploration of belief, love, and the often bittersweet nature of life’s endings. With minimal dialogue, the film speaks volumes, making it resonate more with adult audiences who can reflect on its deeper themes.
**‘The Abyss’ (1989)**
James Cameron’s “The Abyss” remains a classic in the sci-fi genre. It chronicles a mission to investigate a UFO discovered beneath the ocean’s surface, with a team of Navy SEALs and oil rig workers caught in a tense standoff between professional duty and personal relationships. Rig captain Budd (Ed Harris) and his estranged wife Lindsey (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) grapple with both their past and the consequences of uncovering extraterrestrial life.
Even though it wasn’t as commercially dominant as Cameron’s later blockbusters, “The Abyss” earned critical acclaim for its stunning visuals and innovative storytelling. The film showcases Cameron’s talent for blending sci-fi spectacle with human emotion, portraying a couple on the brink and the tension that arises amidst an extraordinary circumstance.
With such diverse options, Hulu is an excellent choice for those seeking quality entertainment this weekend. Whether you’re in the mood for suspense, nostalgia, or profound storytelling, these films offer something for everyone and are sure to kick-start the new year on an engaging note.