Stoker

Stoker is currently streaming in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on HBO Max Amazon Channel and YouTube TV, and its case-by-case structure never gets in the way of the bigger story. It says what it needs to say in one sitting, no filler. Its 7/10 TMDB score, built from 2,433 ratings, reflects a title that consistently delivers. Mia Wasikowska leads a cast that carries the story without ever feeling mechanical. Put it on tonight on Disney Plus and see for yourself.

Stoker arrived without much fanfare and built its audience the hard way — through word of mouth. At its heart, Stoker understands what makes crime drama work — character first, plot second. After India’s father dies suddenly, her uncle Charlie, whom she never knew existed, comes to live with her and her emotionally unstable mother. Soon after his arrival, she begins to suspect that this mysterious, charming man has ulterior motives. But instead of feeling outrage or horror, the friendless girl becomes increasingly infatuated with him. Mia Wasikowska and Nicole Kidman lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2013. Stoker is at its best in the quiet scenes between the plot beats, where the character work actually happens. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

Crime and mystery fans will find exactly what they are after in Stoker. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. It is a manageable watch, easy to fit into a single evening. Mia Wasikowska anchors it, but the writing does the real work. If you are going to commit to one crime drama this month, make it this one.