What to Watch This Weekend

The Many Saints of Newark

Watch on HBO Max and In Theaters

If you weren’t satisfied by the ending of “The Sopranos” perhaps you’ll be more pleased with the series’ origin story. Your favorite New Jersey mobsters are back- this time with a prequel movie about a young Anthony Soprano growing up on the tumultuous streets of Newark. In the film, we witness Anthony idolize his uncle, Dickie Moltisanti, whose nefarious ways ultimately influence him into becoming the notorious mob boss we all know from the HBO series. Whether you were a massive Sopranos fan or simply a casual viewer, this tale of mobsters and morality should keep you on the edge of your seat.

My Name is Pauli Murray

Watch on Prime Video

This documentary sheds light on the story of the largely unsung hero of the civil rights movement, Pauli Murray. 15 years before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus, Murray was deep in the trenches fighting for social justice. Growing up Black in the segregated South, Murray also wrestled with gender identity and had a deep understanding of what it meant to exist beyond accepted cultural norms. Told mostly through Murray’s own journal entries and letters, this is a must-see documentary that highlights an icon who spent their entire lives fighting for human rights.

BMF: Black Mafia Family

Watch on Starz

Executive produced by 50 Cent, this new Starz series tells the story of the Flenory brothers, both of whom were powerful figures in the Detroit drug underground scene during the 1990s. Keep in mind (as the show’s opening title card reminds us) this is a series that is “loosely based on truth.” Between the brother’s charismatic leadership and business skills, the pair grew beyond the drug trade and into the world of hip hop, ostensibly becoming global icons. Ultimately, the series tells a story of American capitalism, love, and family.

Further Viewing:

VENOM: LET THERE BE CARNAGE (Watch in Theaters)

The sequel to the 2018 superhero movie/ human parasite rom-com, “Venom,” finally hits theaters this weekend. The film finds Eddie Brock, a reporter turned host for black super-power granting goo, is adjusting to life in San Francisco when serial killer Cletus Kasady becomes the host of the symbiote Carnage. Naturally- mayhem ensues. If this description just reads like a bunch of mumbo jumbo- you’re not alone and this film probably isn’t for you. However, if superhero movies are your thing, buckle in for an adventure!

TITANE (Watch in Theaters)

The winner of the Palme d’Or this year at Cannes, Titane is an outrageous horror film about a female serial killer who becomes pregnant after having sex with a car. Yup, we weren’t kidding when we said outrageous! However, if you’re in for a visceral arthouse adventure, this critics-darling should more than satisfy.

MAID (Watch on Netflix)

Based on the NY Times bestseller, “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay and A Mother’s Will” this miniseries stars Margaret Qualley and her real-life mother Andie MacDowell. It tells the story of a single mother who turns to housecleaning to provide for herself and her daughter as she escapes an abusive relationship.

DIANA (Watch on Netflix)

This brand new Broadway musical about the life of Princess Diana was shut down because of Covid before it even reached opening night. Thankfully for us, the cast quarantined together during the pandemic and filmed the show for Netflix! Watch the show for yourself before Diana returns to the stage in NYC next month!

THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2 (Watch in Theaters)

Snap, snap! We haven’t been this excited for a road trip since Oprah and Gayle! In this movie, the Addams Family embarks on a road trip in an effort to get closer as a family. Naturally, hilarity and chaos ensue!

THE PROBLEM WITH JON STEWART (Watch on Apple TV+)

The former host of “The Daily Show” makes his return to television with this biweekly talk show diving deep into important topics in the United States.

SNL (Watch on NBC)

Live from New York, it’s Season 47 of Saturday Night Live! Plan your sleep schedule now- the legendary sketch comedy show returns this Saturday night with host Owen Wilson and musical guest Kacey Musgraves.

Happy Viewing! Download PopViewers and be sure to let us know what you thought!