Streaming Highlights: ‘The Electric State,’ John Mulaney Live, and ‘Moana 2’ Arrive This Week (March 13, 2025)

As the calendar turns to mid-March, streaming platforms are set to unveil a fresh wave of content, offering viewers a diverse array of films and series. This week’s releases, spanning major services like Netflix and Disney+, include a highly anticipated science fiction adaptation, a live comedy event, and the streaming debut of a popular animated sequel.

Featured Film: “The Electric State”

Leading the slate of new arrivals is the ambitious science fiction film “The Electric State.” Scheduled to begin streaming globally on Netflix on March 14, this movie is a major production based on the acclaimed graphic novel by Swedish artist and author Simon Stålenhag. The narrative is set in a retrofuturistic 1997, following a teenage girl and her robot as they journey across a United States devastated by advanced technology.

The film boasts a star-studded cast, featuring Millie Bobby Brown in a leading role alongside Chris Pratt. Their involvement has significantly heightened anticipation for the adaptation, which aims to translate Stålenhag’s distinctive visual style and poignant storytelling to the screen. The project has been in development for some time, drawing attention for its unique premise and the creative team involved. Its release on Netflix underscores the platform’s continued investment in large-scale, genre-bending original features.

Live Entertainment from Netflix

Netflix also continues its foray into live programming with “Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney.” This special event, featuring Emmy Award-winning comedian John Mulaney, premiered live on the platform on Wednesday, March 12, at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The live format represents Netflix’s effort to replicate the ephemeral and interactive nature of traditional broadcast events, offering a unique experience distinct from its on-demand catalog.

Mulaney is known for his sharp wit and observational humor, and the live setting provides an opportunity for spontaneity. The decision to broadcast the show live across North America simultaneously required careful technical coordination and highlights the increasing ways platforms are experimenting with delivery methods to engage audiences in real-time. The success of such live specials could pave the way for more unscripted or time-sensitive content on streaming services.

Disney+ Expands Animated Catalog

Meanwhile, Disney+ is adding a significant title to its extensive animation library with the availability of “Moana 2.” The sequel to the beloved 2016 animated musical, “Moana 2” arrives on the streaming service, following its theatrical run (or premiering directly on the platform, depending on specific release strategy not fully detailed in the source material but confirmed as available on Disney+). The original Moana was a critical and commercial success, celebrated for its vibrant animation, memorable songs, and strong cultural themes.

The sequel continues the adventures of Moana and Maui, further exploring the rich mythology established in the first film. Its addition to Disney+ is expected to draw considerable viewership, particularly among families and fans of Disney animation. Streaming platforms have become key destinations for major studio film releases, either immediately after theatrical runs or sometimes as direct-to-streaming exclusives, a trend exemplified by the arrival of this Disney sequel.

Broader Streaming Landscape

Beyond these prominent titles, viewers can expect a variety of other new additions across Netflix, Disney+, and more platforms this week. The competitive streaming market ensures a constant flow of new content, from original series and films to licensed titles and documentaries.

Services are continually vying for subscriber attention by offering diverse programming slates that cater to a wide range of tastes and demographics. The releases this week, from a major sci-fi film adaptation and a live comedy special on Netflix to a highly anticipated animated sequel on Disney+, illustrate the varied strategies platforms employ to attract and retain their global audiences.

As viewers navigate the ever-expanding digital entertainment landscape, staying abreast of weekly releases is essential for discovering compelling new stories and experiences available at their fingertips. This week’s offerings provide ample opportunity for just that, promising entertainment ranging from futuristic adventures to musical journeys and live comedic performances.