3 overlooked films you can enjoy for free this weekend (April 17-19)

      Your weekend viewing list is ready, and the best part is that it won't cost you a cent.

      This week, I sought out some truly quality underrated films so you wouldn’t have to. I uncovered a strong trio that caters to three distinct moods—one that will have you sweating through a dinner party, another that will leave you feeling paranoid about your neighbors, and the last one that will make you want to adopt a ginger cat right away. The greatest aspect? All of these films are available for free on Tubi. Here are my top picks for the weekend.

      We also have recommendations for the best new movies to stream, the best films on Netflix, the best offerings on Hulu, the best free movies, and the top films on Amazon Prime Video.

      **The Invitation (2015)**

      The official synopsis of The Invitation may sound like a typical film—a man attends a dinner party at his ex-wife’s home, and something feels off. That’s the entire premise. However, director Karyn Kusama transforms this concept into a gripping and tension-filled movie.

      The brilliance lies in the uncertainty of whether the anxiety you experience comes from genuine threats or simply grief masked in darkness. Logan Marshall-Green keeps the audience on edge throughout, and the expertly paced buildup ensures that by the time you reach the climax, your palms will be clammy. This underrated gem has sadly gone unnoticed by many. You might want to watch it alone and perhaps turn down any dinner invites for a week afterward.

      You can view The Invitation on Tubi.

      **The Ones Below (2015)**

      This British thriller is one that deserves far more recognition than it has received. It starts off slowly with a young couple expecting their first child, who develops a friendship with the new couple living below them, who are also awaiting a baby. However, an unsettling event occurs, prompting the film to take a chilling turn.

      What makes The Ones Below so effective is how ordinary everything seems. The polished, serene suburban setting contrasts sharply with the creeping horror that arises from subtle gestures and heavy silences, rather than jump scares or overt manipulation. If you appreciate films that compel you to analyze people’s motives from the very beginning, this one is for you.

      You can watch The Ones Below on Tubi.

      **A Street Cat Named Bob (2016)**

      After two thrillers, here’s something that might just restore your faith in humanity. A Street Cat Named Bob tells the true story of James Bowen, a homeless busker and recovering addict living on the streets of London. His life takes a turn when he finds an injured ginger cat and nurses him back to health. The cat, named Bob, decides to stay with him, leading to one of the most unexpected and heartfelt friendships you’ll find in film.

      It would be easy to label this as overly sentimental, and it does embrace sentimentality. However, it truly earns each emotional moment. Luke Treadaway delivers a fantastic performance as James, and the real Bob the Cat plays himself—arguably one of the best casting decisions of the decade. This is a film that asks little of you except to watch attentively, rewarding you quietly and fully.

      You can view A Street Cat Named Bob on Tubi.

      

      Manisha enjoys exploring technology integral to daily life, from smartphones and apps to gaming and streaming.

      **3 underrated Apple TV shows to enjoy this weekend (April 17-19)**

      Apple TV+ has hidden treasures, and these three series are definitely worth your time.

      Apple TV+ has quietly curated one of the more intriguing libraries among popular streaming services. Nestled between acclaimed dramas and trending shows, there are a few remarkable series that are just sitting there, waiting to be discovered. Let’s address that this weekend. Whether you’re in the mood for a thriller that plays with your perception of reality or something that chills you using only sound, there’s something here for everyone. Here are three underrated shows on Apple TV+ that merit your attention.

      **The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum – all you need to know**

      Middle-earth is calling once more, with Gollum at the forefront. Warner Bros. has officially announced a theatrical release for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum in December 2027.

      The film features a returning cast of beloved characters, some exciting new additions, and a narrative derived from Tolkien's footnotes and appendices that has never been fully adapted—making it a story well worth telling. Here’s everything we currently know about this new LOTR spinoff.

      **Netflix is about to feel more like social media with a new vertical feed launching soon**

      Netflix’s mobile app is getting a TikTok-like upgrade this month.

      Your Netflix app is set to transform into a more socially engaging platform. The streaming service confirmed in its Q1 2026 earnings letter to shareholders that a revamped mobile app featuring a vertical video discovery feed will be available by