James L. Brooks’ return to filmmaking, Ella McCay, is now available to stream on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+, bringing the political drama to audiences who missed its initial theatrical release last December. The film, starring Emma Mackey, had an underwhelming box office debut and received mixed reviews, but has now found a wider audience through streaming.
A Return for Brooks and a Showcase for Mackey
After a 15-year hiatus from directing, Brooks, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind Terms of Endearment (1983) and As Good as It Gets (1997), returned with Ella McCay. The film centers on Ella McCay, a fictional U.S. Governor unexpectedly thrust into the position after her predecessor accepts a role in the presidential administration. Emma Mackey, known for her role in Sex Education, leads the cast as the ambitious and idealistic governor.
The film also features a strong supporting cast including Jamie Lee Curtis as Ella’s aunt, Woody Harrelson as her father, and Jack Lowden, Kumail Nanjiani, Ayo Edebiri, Julie Kavner, Spike Fearn, Rebecca Hall, and Albert Brooks. Despite the impressive ensemble, Ella McCay didn’t resonate with audiences in theaters, opening on .
From Theaters to Streaming: A Shift in Distribution
Initially, Ella McCay was exclusively available in movie theaters. Viewers who preferred to watch the film from home were left waiting for a streaming or digital release. The film’s journey to streaming reflects a common trend in the industry, where theatrical releases are increasingly followed by availability on demand. The digital release preceded the streaming launch, occurring on .
As a 20th Century Studios release, owned by Disney, it was anticipated that Ella McCay would eventually land on one of Disney’s streaming platforms. The film was not available on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video as of December 11, 2025. Now, it has found a home on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.
A Story of Ambition and Family
The narrative of Ella McCay explores the challenges faced by a young governor navigating the complexities of political life while balancing her personal relationships. A deleted scene from the film, recently released by CBR, offers a glimpse into Ella’s past, specifically a college-era proposal from her boyfriend, Ryan. This scene highlights the conflict between her ambition and her personal life, forcing her to make a difficult decision about her future.
The scene reveals Ella’s dedication to her studies and career aspirations, contrasting with Ryan’s desire for a more traditional path. His statement, “You win, we lose,” underscores the sacrifices often required to pursue ambitious goals. This moment encapsulates the central theme of the film: the tension between personal fulfillment and professional success.
Underappreciated but Available
Despite being described as one of 2025’s most underappreciated films, Ella McCay now has a second chance to connect with audiences through streaming. The film’s availability on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ provides a convenient way for viewers to experience James L. Brooks’ return to directing and Emma Mackey’s performance as the determined Governor McCay. Whether it finds a larger audience on streaming remains to be seen, but the film is now accessible to a wider range of viewers than during its limited theatrical run.
The film’s release comes at a time when dramas and comedy-dramas are evolving, and Disney’s attempt to recapture the feel of films from the early 2000s may resonate with viewers seeking a more classic cinematic experience. For those interested in a light political drama with a strong cast and a compelling story, Ella McCay is now readily available for streaming.
