New Movies to Rent &amp. Stream: Hamnet, The Housemaid, & More – February 2026 Releases

The first weekend of February 2026 is shaping up to be a strong one for film fans, with a diverse slate of new releases hitting theaters, on-demand platforms and streaming services. Among the highlights are Oscar-nominated dramas and a new thriller from a director known for comedic fare, offering something for a wide range of tastes.

Leading the charge is Hamnet, Chloe Zhao’s critically acclaimed exploration of grief and inspiration behind Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The film, starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal as Agnes and William Shakespeare, arrived on digital platforms on February 3rd, giving audiences the opportunity to experience what one reviewer called “an Oscar slam dunk” before the Academy Awards in March. Hamnet has already garnered eight Oscar nominations this year.

Alongside the poignant drama, Paul Feig, best known for comedies like Bridesmaids and The Heat, ventures into darker territory with The Housemaid. This psychological thriller stars Sydney Sweeney as Millie, a woman with a past who takes a job as a maid for a wealthy couple, played by Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar. The film quickly unravels a web of manipulation and secrets, promising a twisty and suspenseful viewing experience. Feig’s recent work, including A Simple Favor, suggests a deliberate shift towards more complex and unsettling narratives.

Rounding out the major releases is The Secret Agent, a Brazilian film that has already earned significant accolades at festivals like Cannes and the Golden Globes. The film, nominated for four Oscars including Best Picture and Best Actor for Wagner Moura’s performance, tells the story of a political dissident resisting Brazil’s authoritarian dictatorship in the 1970s. Notably, The Secret Agent features the final on-screen appearance of the celebrated German actor Udo Kier.

Beyond these high-profile releases, a number of other films are available to rent or buy on demand, including We Bury The Dead, The Plague, The Dutchman, and Good Grief. The breadth of options caters to diverse preferences, from horror and suspense to independent dramas.

Streaming services are also adding to the mix. Splitsville is available on Hulu, while The Knife offers a tense viewing experience for subscribers. Looking ahead, streaming windows for these new releases are beginning to solidify. Hamnet is projected to arrive on Peacock in March 2026, while The Secret Agent is expected on Hulu in April 2026. The Housemaid is slated for Starz in May 2026.

For those seeking a wider selection, Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and YouTube are also offering a range of new releases for purchase or rental. The availability of reduced-price rentals for titles like Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 and Sisu: Road to Revenge provides additional options for budget-conscious viewers.

The release schedule demonstrates a continued trend of shorter theatrical windows and a faster transition to on-demand and streaming platforms. This shift provides consumers with greater flexibility and convenience, allowing them to access new films shortly after their initial release. The projected streaming dates, while estimates, offer a glimpse into the evolving distribution landscape and the increasing importance of subscription services in the film industry.

The arrival of these films marks a significant moment for both established filmmakers and emerging talents. Feig’s foray into the thriller genre, for example, signals a willingness to experiment and challenge audience expectations. Similarly, the international recognition of The Secret Agent underscores the growing global reach of independent cinema. As the awards season progresses and new releases continue to arrive, the entertainment landscape promises to remain dynamic and engaging.