USA TODAY’s Watch Party: Your Guide to Streaming & TV Delights

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Heigh-ho, heigh-ho, it’s off to watch we go! A new "Snow White" adaptation has arrived, and while I’m not exactly whistling while I work, I’m certainly captivated by Rachel Zegler’s rendition of "Waiting on a Wish" from this reimagining of Disney’s timeless classic, "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."

But maybe fairy tales aren’t your cup of tea? Perhaps you’d prefer the raw, country-tinged sounds of the rock opera "ODessa," featuring Sadie Sink as a guitar-slinging heroine. This is just one of the many exciting new movies hitting your favorite streaming platforms this month – including a certain witchy blockbuster with an undeniably catchy soundtrack that you don’t want to miss.

And don’t forget to start preparing for a spring season brimming with must-see television. (Personally, I’m counting down the days until those fungal zombies of "The Last of Us" make their highly anticipated return.)

Now, let’s get to the main course:

Snow White: A Modern Fairytale with a Few Quirks

Disney’s live-action remake of "Snow White" has definitely stirred up some online debate and real-world controversy, even before its release. It’s a valid question to ask whether we even needed a new version of the iconic 1937 animated film in the first place. Yet, against all odds, this latest "Snow White" manages to be surprisingly enjoyable.

Rachel Zegler shines as the kind and compassionate scullery maid who finds companionship with critters, bandits, and a diverse group of miners (ranging from the ever-popular Dopey to the perpetually grumpy Grumpy). Gal Gadot delivers a deliciously over-the-top performance as the wickedly evil Queen, fully embracing the campy nature of the role.

The new songs and narrative adjustments are surprisingly well-done, adding fresh layers to the classic tale. However, the seven short CGI "dudes" feel a bit underwhelming and are unfortunately, instantly forgettable. (I give it a respectable ★★★ rating.)

Because a multitude of children will undoubtedly be eager to see this movie, I’ve put together a helpful guide outlining what parents should be aware of for their little ones. And for the devoted fans of the original, Patrick Ryan provides a detailed breakdown of the significant changes made from the beloved classic to this contemporary reimagining.

ODessa: A Post-Apocalyptic Rock Opera That Defies Expectations

Now streaming on Hulu, "ODessa" is a post-apocalyptic rock opera that takes a trippy and inventive approach to the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Sadie Sink takes on the role of ODessa, a guitar-slinging farm girl who may just be the musical messiah the world has been waiting for.

My colleague, Ralphie Aversa, had the opportunity to chat with stars Regina Hall and Kelvin Harrison Jr. in our New York City studio about the film. "ODessa" is, at its core, a love story between Sink’s ODessa and Harrison’s character, Euri, a complex sex worker. "I haven’t seen something like this before," Harrison confessed. "It’s definitely fantastical, but there was a genuine sincerity about it, too."

"ODessa" is just one of the many new movies making their way to your favorite streaming services this month. I’ve compiled a guide to help you navigate the options, including theatrical releases like "Anora" and "Wicked," as well as original films such as "Tyler Perry’s Duplicity" and "The Parenting." There’s something for every taste.

The Residence: A Murder Mystery With a Stellar Cast, But a Flimsy Plot

If you’re a fan of eccentric detectives like Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, or Benoit Blanc, you might find yourself drawn to Uzo Aduba’s quirky, bird-watching crime-solver, Cordelia Cupp, in the Netflix limited series "The Residence." When the chief White House usher (Giancarlo Esposito) is found dead during a lavish state dinner, Cordelia is called in to unravel the mystery.

However, our TV critic, Kelly Lawler, offers a mixed review of this Shonda Rhimes murder mystery, awarding it ★★. While she praises the impressive ensemble cast – including Randall Park, Jane Curtin, Susan Kelechi Watson, and Bronson Pinchot – she feels that their talents are stifled by "a disappointingly flimsy and flaccid story."

Spring TV Preview: What to Watch

On a brighter note, Kelly is far more enthusiastic about some of the other shows highlighted in her spring TV preview. These include the highly anticipated second seasons of HBO’s "The Last of Us" and the Disney+ "Star Wars" series "Andor," as well as exciting new debuts like "The Bondsman" and "Sirens." Spring is set to be a fantastic season for television!

Your Thoughts Matter

Got thoughts, questions, ideas, concerns, compliments, or perhaps even some recommendations for me? I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to email me at [email protected]. And don’t forget to connect with me on social media: I’m @briantruitt on Bluesky, Instagram, and Threads. Let’s talk movies and TV!