Streaming Week of July 4, 2025: ‘Sinners,’ ‘Sandman’ Return, ‘Old Guard 2’ Arrive

The week of July 4th, 2025, presents a compelling array of new content arriving on major streaming platforms, offering subscribers a diverse selection of films and series ranging from highly anticipated blockbusters and acclaimed independent cinema to returning fantasy epics and unique animated features.

Acclaimed Period Drama “Sinners” Leads Film Releases

Among the headline-grabbing premieres this week is the much-anticipated film titled “Sinners,” which has already generated significant buzz within critical circles, with some outlets touting it as the best movie of 2025 so far. This period drama plunges audiences into the gritty reality of 1932 Clarksdale, Mississippi, offering a stark portrayal of the era. The film features a powerful and complex central performance by acclaimed actor Michael B. Jordan. Jordan takes on the challenging task of portraying not one, but two central characters – identical gangster twins who operate under the infamous moniker, The Smokestack Twins. This intricate dual role allows Jordan to showcase a significant range of his acting prowess. Furthermore, “Sinners” marks a highly anticipated reunion between Jordan and acclaimed writer/director Ryan Coogler, continuing a successful collaborative partnership that has yielded critically and commercially impactful works in the past. Their latest joint effort is expected to delve deep into themes relevant to the historical setting, exploring crime, identity, and the socio-economic landscape of the time.

A24’s “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” Offers Unique Perspective

Another notable film making its streaming debut this week is A24’s critically acclaimed black comedy, “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl.” Directed by the talented Zambian-Welsh filmmaker Rungano Nyoni, the movie has drawn praise for its distinct voice and unconventional narrative. The story centers on the character Shula, portrayed by actress Susan Chardy. Shula’s compelling and sometimes unsettling journey begins when she is prompted to discover buried family secrets following the finding of her Uncle Fred’s body in Zambia. The film is expected to blend humor with darker themes, characteristic of A24’s reputation for supporting distinctive, filmmaker-driven projects, and offers a look into cultural dynamics and personal discovery.

“The Sandman” Returns with Second Season Volume

Fans of epic fantasy and adaptations of celebrated graphic novels can rejoice as “The Sandman, Season 2: Vol. 1” has premiered on streaming platforms. The series, based on the Vertigo comics by Neil Gaiman, continues the complex and sprawling story of Dream, the King of Dreams, compellingly portrayed by actor Tom Sturridge. This new installment sees Dream continue his arduous task of rebuilding his fractured kingdom and restoring order to the Dreaming. The second volume is set to introduce several key and highly anticipated characters from the source material, including the mythological figures Orpheus, Loki, Odin, and Thor, expanding the universe significantly. Allan Heinberg continues to serve as the showrunner for the series, guiding the intricate adaptation of Gaiman’s seminal work.

Action Sequel “The Old Guard 2” Brings Back Elite Team

The action genre receives a major boost with the streaming arrival of the highly anticipated sequel, “The Old Guard 2.” Directed by Victoria Mahoney, this film picks up the story of a team of immortal mercenaries navigating the modern world. The movie sees the return of its core and popular cast members, including Academy Award-winner Charlize Theron as the ancient leader Andy (Andromache of Scythia), alongside KiKi Layne and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Their seemingly unending mission takes a turn as they face a formidable new threat in the form of the antagonist Quynh, played by Veronica Ngô. Acclaimed actress Uma Thurman also joins the ensemble cast in what has been described in early previews as an ominous and intriguing role. Trailers released prior to the film’s debut have specifically highlighted its intense and expertly choreographed action sequences, promising a high-octane and thrilling follow-up for fans of the original film.

Anime Fans Get “Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League”

For enthusiasts of animation and unique cross-cultural takes on iconic characters, the week brings the streaming debut of “Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League.” This animated feature is co-directed by Junpei Mizusaki and Shinji Takagi, with a screenplay penned by Kazuki Nakashima. The film presents an intriguing premise that pits the iconic Caped Crusader, Batman, against powerful figures from the yakuza, the Japanese organized crime syndicate. Set within the familiar confines of Gotham City, the movie offers a visually distinct and action-packed narrative that blends the world of DC Comics with elements of Japanese martial arts and gangster films.

This week’s streaming slate for July 4th, 2025, offers a broad spectrum of genres and styles, ensuring there is likely something of interest for nearly every type of viewer, from period drama aficionados and fantasy readers to action fans and anime enthusiasts.