Renée Zellweger Returns as Bridget Jones in "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy"
Renée Zellweger is back as the iconic Bridget Jones in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, the fourth installment of the beloved franchise. Set to stream on Peacock starting Thursday, this latest chapter follows Bridget, now a widow in her 50s, as she navigates life and love. Based on Helen Fielding’s 2013 novel, the film introduces two new romantic interests: one played by Chiwetel Ejiofor and another by Leo Woodall. After the success of Bridget Jones’ Baby in 2016, fans have eagerly awaited this new chapter, which promises to deliver the same witty charm and emotional depth that defined the series. Bridget Jones remains one of Zellweger’s most defining roles, and her return is a treat for long-time fans of the character.
Questlove Delivers a Definitive Documentary on Sly Stone in "Sly Lives!"
Questlove, the legendary drummer of The Roots and an increasingly influential documentarian, is back with Sly Lives! (aka the Burden of Black Genius), a film that dives into the life and legacy of Sly Stone, the enigmatic leader of Sly and the Family Stone. Following his Oscar-winning Summer of Soul and the recent Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music, Questlove’s latest project is a must-watch for music lovers. Streaming on Hulu starting Thursday, the documentary is packed with archival footage and contemporary interviews, tracing Stone’s meteoric rise to fame and his subsequent struggles. Questlove’s meticulous attention to detail and deep reverence for his subject make this film the definitive exploration of Sly Stone’s genius and complexity.
New Releases in Music: Alessia Cara, The War and Treaty, and Shygirl
Music fans have plenty to look forward to this month, with several exciting releases across genres. Alessia Cara, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for her heartfelt pop anthems, is back with her fourth studio album, Love & Hyperbole, just in time for Valentine’s Day. The album reflects her growth as an artist and individual, with tracks like Dead Man and (Isn’t It) Obvious, featuring a guitar solo by John Mayer. Meanwhile, husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty return with Plus One, a soulful and uplifting album that celebrates love, family, and faith. Released on Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect listen for anyone seeking inspiration and connection. On the experimental side, English DJ and musician Shygirl is making waves with her upcoming EP, Club Shy Room 2, which features collaborations with big names like Jorja Smith and Saweetie. Her innovative blend of pop, grime, and club music is set to energize dancefloors everywhere.
Documentaries and Reality TV: Matchmaking, Ice Skating, and Summer House
Streaming platforms are delivering a diverse slate of compelling documentaries and reality series. Muslim Matchmaker, a new Hulu docuseries created by the mind behind Indian Matchmaking, follows two matchmakers as they help Muslim American singles find love while navigating modern dating challenges and cultural expectations. Premiering on Tuesday, it offers a heartfelt and insightful look at love and identity. Meanwhile, Harlem Ice, executive produced by Robin Roberts, Ron Howard, and Brian Grazer, shines a light on ice skaters of color and their coaches as they overcome barriers in a traditionally white sport. All five episodes drop on Disney+ on Wednesday. For reality TV enthusiasts, Bravo’s Summer House returns for Season 9, following a group of Manhattanites sharing a Hamptons home. The new season, which premieres on Bravo and streams on Peacock, picks up after the breakup of cast members Lindsay Hubbard and Carl Radke, promising more drama and personal growth.
Films and Games: Thrills, Horror, and Civilization VII
Film and gaming enthusiasts are in for a treat as well. Scott Derrickson’s The Gorge, starring Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy as operatives guarding a mysterious gorge with sinister forces lurking within, debuts on Apple TV+ on Friday, February 14. Sigourney Weaver also joins the cast in this gripping thriller. Meanwhile, Paramount+ subscribers can revisit Eric Clapton’s iconic Unplugged performance with an extended, remastered edition titled Eric Clapton Unplugged… Over 30 Years Later, featuring new interviews and footage. For gamers, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII arrives on Tuesday, offering fresh twists on the classic strategy game. Players can explore three distinct eras—Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern—each ending with a world-altering crisis. With new leaders like Confucius, Machiavelli, and Harriet Tubman, the game promises endless possibilities for diplomacy, conquest, and creativity.
Horror and Drama: "Yellowjackets" Returns for Season 3
Horror fans are eagerly anticipating the return of Showtime’s critically acclaimed series Yellowjackets, which drops its first two episodes of Season 3 on Paramount+ on Friday, February 14. Inspired by Lord of the Flies, the show follows a high school soccer team stranded in the wilderness and their descent into survivalist chaos. The series unfolds in two timelines: one immediately after the crash and another two decades later, as the survivors grapple with the aftermath of their ordeal. With stars like Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci, and Lauren Ambrose, and the addition of Oscar winner Hilary Swank in a recurring role, Yellowjackets continues to deliver a gripping blend of psychological horror and emotional drama. Season 3 promises more suspense and intensity as the story unfolds.
