January brings a fresh wave of must-see television and film to streaming platforms across the UK. From a star-studded Agatha Christie mystery and a gritty new Ryan Murphy horror to the latest Oscar frontrunner, there's plenty to keep viewers entertained during the winter nights.
Major Platform Highlights: Netflix, Disney+ and HBO Max
Leading the charge on Netflix is the crime thriller The Rip, landing on 16 January 2026. The film reunites Matt Damon and Ben Affleck as Miami cops who discover $24 million in a safe house, leading to intense moral dilemmas and paranoia. Directed by Joe Carnahan, it promises high-stakes tension.
Over on Disney+, prepare for the gory new series FX's The Beauty, arriving 22 January 2026. From prolific creator Ryan Murphy, this show explores a revolutionary drug that promises physical perfection, with a dark twist. Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall star as FBI agents investigating a series of gruesome supermodel deaths linked to a shady corporation.
HBO Max delivers one of the month's most anticipated films, One Battle After Another, available now. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, this action-drama stars Leonardo DiCaprio as a former revolutionary living off-grid with his daughter in a dystopian, post-Trump America. It's being hailed as a major Oscars contender for its intense energy and sharp dark humour.
Prestige Drama and Returning Favourites
Fans of classic whodunits are in for a treat with Agatha Christie's Seven Dials on Netflix from 15 January 2026. This three-part series shifts focus from Poirot and Marple to the quick-witted Lady Eileen "Bundle" Brent, played by Mia McKenna-Bruce. With a supporting cast including Helena Bonham Carter and Martin Freeman, and scripts by Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall, it's a lavish new take on Christie.
The Game of Thrones universe expands on HBO Max with A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, premiering 19 January 2026. Set 90 years before the original series, this six-episode prequel follows the adventures of knight Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey) and his young squire, Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell). Co-created by George R.R. Martin, it promises a lighter, more adventure-focused tone.
Medical drama fans can return to The Pitt for its second season on HBO Max from 9 January 2026. Starring Noah Wyle, the series uses a unique near real-time format, with each episode covering a single hour in a Pittsburgh emergency room, delivering relentless tension and complex ethical decisions.
Critically Acclaimed Films and Hidden Gems
Several award-winning and critically praised films are also joining catalogues this month. On SBS On Demand, don't miss the beautiful, dialogue-free animation Robot Dreams from 25 January. This story of friendship between a dog and a robot in 1980s Manhattan was a favourite of critics in 2024.
Stan adds the powerful Australian drama Dear Life, available now. Brooke Satchwell delivers a standout performance as a grieving widow who connects with the recipient of her late husband's donated organ in this emotionally charged six-part series.
For something completely different, seek out Pig on SBS On Demand. Nicolas Cage gives a career-best performance as a reclusive truffle forager searching for his stolen beloved pig in Michael Sarnoski's poignant and atmospheric film.
Other Notable January Releases
Apple TV+ continues its Emmy-winning series Drops of God with its second season on 21 January 2026, following a high-stakes wine tasting competition across continents.
Prime Video offers Caught Stealing from 26 January 2025, a Darren Aronofsky-directed crime film starring Austin Butler as a bartender dragged into a criminal mess after agreeing to cat-sit.
ABC iview hosts the contemplative biodrama Goolagong, exploring the life of Australian tennis legend Evonne Goolagong Cawley, featuring a breakout performance by Lila McGuire.
With this diverse lineup spanning thrilling action, intricate mysteries, and profound drama, UK streaming services are ensuring the new year starts with a wealth of top-tier viewing options.
