Although it's certainly among the most popular and notable streaming services around, not a lot of people seem to associate Hulu with movies. They are more known for having a large catalog of TV shows, whether they're currently airing on other networks or are Hulu's own original projects.
Though they may specialize in television, Hulu has been behind some great films as well. That includes Nomadland. They have a big slate set for 2022, which has already seen the release of Sex Appeal. The schedule includes some intriguing original films.
No Exit (February 25)
The movie set to arrive sooner than the rest is No Exit. It might not feature many household names or blockbuster stars but it's the premise of this film that will likely pull in viewers. For starters, it's based on a 2017 novel of the same name, so there is a built-in fanbase of sorts.
No Exit centers on a student on her way home from college who gets snowed-in at a rest stop with a group of strangers. She discovers a kidnapped child in a car belonging to someone there, putting the entire group in peril. This is sure to be a tense ride for all viewers.
Fresh (March 4)
The MCU is so massive that a lot of fans have just grown accustomed to seeing the stars as their characters from the franchise. That's why it was so different to see Fresh.
The trailer had social media buzzing as it doesn't give away a lot but certainly grabs you. Stan plays Steve, a mysterious man who the protagonist Noa (Daisy Edgar-Jones) meets online and starts dating. Their time together turns dark on one date and it changes everything for both of them.
Deep Water (March 25)
It seems like people have been talking about Deep Water for a long time, likely due to the two lead actors starting a romantic relationship while filming. That would typically lead to some electric on-screen chemistry between leads but this is not that kind of thriller.
Instead, the talented Ana de Armas and Ben Affleck play a couple who is no longer in love but choose to play mind games with one another that ultimately become deadly for those around them. Also of note, Adrian Lyne (Indecent Proposal, Flashdance) returns to directing after two decades away.
The Valet (Mid-2022)
There are people out there who tend to tune out romantic comedies completely. Many of them are indeed similar and follow expected tropes but there are always a few each year that stand out. It looks like The Valet could pull off that feat in 2022.
It has a strong cast going for it, led by Eugenio Derbez, Samara Weaving, Max Greenfield, Marisol Nichols, and more. The film is set to focus on a movie star who gets a parking valet to agree to pose as her lover in an attempt to cover up her own scandalous relationship.
Look At Me (Mid-2022)
There are far too many artists who lose their lives way too soon. In recent years, Juice WRLD died at 21 years of age, while XXXTentacion ed away at 20. The former was the subject of a recent HBO Max music documentary and the latter will be at the forefront of one on Hulu.
Named after his breakout single, Look at Me is indeed a peek into the life of rapper XXXTentaction leading up to his tragic death. His family and other rappers (including Juice WRLD) all make appearances in a documentary that is sure to be insightful and highly emotional.
Fire Island (TBD)
Not to be confused with Frye Fest, Fire Island is a completely different thing. Co-distributed by Hulu like Nomadland was, this romantic comedy could be a sleeper hit for the streaming service. For one thing, the mostly Asian cast features some tremendous talents.
Margaret Cho, Joel Kim Booster, Bowen Yang, and Conrad Ricamora are at the top of the cast list in this film about a group of friends who head off to vacation as a famous gay island getaway. Not much else is known yet but the premise and cast should lead to some fun moments.
Prey (TBD)
You won't know it by simply looking at the title but Predator franchise, which dates back to the '80s. It's interesting to change things up given that the last entry was met with mixed reviews.
Things are totally unique this time around as the film will act as a prequel and show a Predator's first journey to planet Earth. The impressive Amber Midthunder is set to have a role as Naru, a Comanche warrior who defends her people against the Predator.
The Princess (TBD)
It seems like Joey King is kind of popping up everywhere these days. On Netflix, she has a The Act.
Hulu gets more of King as she plays the lead in The Princess, an action-comedy set in medieval times. She proves that she is tough as she picks up a sword to help defend her kingdom from a group of mercenaries. This rising young star is sure to shine in this role.
Rosaline (TBD)
Returning to the world of romantic comedies, Rosaline is yet another that could be one that everyone re when the year wraps up. This is one of many screenplays to be adapted from William Shakespeare's classic work and those tend to be a joy to watch.
This will reimagine Romeo and Juliet (based on the novel When You Were Mine) through the eyes of Juliet's cousin Rosaline (Kaitlyn Dever), who also happens to be Romeo's ex. With a fun premise and a leading lady who has starred in many great roles so far, this is exciting.
Hellraiser (TBD)
One of the most exciting reboots announced is Hellraiser. The legendary horror franchise based on the work of Clive Barker is ripe for a retelling and Hulu is getting one that has fans everywhere buzzing.
Pinhead is going to be played by Jamie Clayton, a trans woman with some fantastic roles under her filmography. There are also impressive writers and directors behind the project that gives plenty of reason for excitement.