About My Father + American Born Chinese: Top 5 new movies and TV series to watch in the UAE this week

Up for some scary thrills? The movie adaptation of Stephen King’s chilling novel The Boogeyman arrives in cinemas this week. Robert De Niro’s new comedy About My Father also comes to cinemas this week. The new HBO drama The Idol is streaming on OSN+, while the highly anticipated show American Born Chinese streams on Disney+. If documentaries are your thing, you shouldn’t miss Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets on Prime Video.

• New Movies Now Showing at Cinemas in the UAE
• 25 New Netflix TV series and movies in UAE for May 2023
• 20 New Disney Plus shows and movies for May 2023
• 20 New Apple TV Plus shows and movies in UAE for May 2023

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The Boogeyman

Platform: Cinema | Release date: 01/06/2023 | Genre: Horror | Language: English | Rating: PG13

In the wake of their mother’s untimely demise, high school student Sadie Harper and her younger sister Sawyer grapple with overwhelming grief. Their father, Will, a therapist consumed by his own personal anguish, struggles to provide the emotional support and warmth his daughters desperately seek. 

Trapped in a world of sorrow, the Harper family’s fragile existence turns sinister when a desperate patient seeks refuge in their home, unknowingly unleashing an evil force. This nightmarish entity feeds upon the suffering of families, targeting their deepest vulnerabilities and darkest secrets. 

Now, the Harpers must confront their own inner demons and face the terrifying reality that has invaded their lives in a desperate race against time to find a way to conquer this maleficent presence before it consumes them all.

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About My Father

Platform: Cinemas | Release date: 01/06/2023 | Genre: Comedy | Language: English | Rating: PG13

Loosely based on writer Sebastian Maniscalco’s own life and his relationship with his father, the movie features Maniscalco himself alongside the legendary Robert De Niro, who portrays his father.

The story follows Sebastian, who excitedly informs his traditional Italian immigrant father, Salvo, about his plan to propose to his American girlfriend. However, Salvo surprises Sebastian by insisting on joining them for a weekend with her parents. As the two families come together, a clash of cultures and initial perceptions of having nothing in common create a humorous and sometimes awkward atmosphere.

Throughout the summer holiday weekend, Sebastian and Salvo navigate the comical challenges of their differences. Their contrasting backgrounds and upbringings lead to amusing misunderstandings, cultural clashes, and comedic situations. But as they spend more time together, they discover shared experiences and common ground, gradually breaking down the barriers that separate them.

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The Idol

Platform: OSN+ | Release date: 05/06/2023 | Genre: Drama | Language: English | Rating: 18+

This captivating film delves into the life of Jocelyn, an ambitious and talented aspiring pop idol portrayed by Lily-Rose Depp. Jocelyn’s world is turned upside down when a nervous breakdown forces the cancellation of her last tour. Determined to reclaim her position as the sexiest pop star in America, she embarks on a compelling journey of self-discovery and reinvention.

In her quest to regain her title, Jocelyn encounters Tedros, a charismatic self-help guru and the enigmatic leader of a contemporary cult. As their paths intertwine, a complex and intense relationship unfolds, blurring the lines between mentorship, seduction, and personal transformation.

As Jocelyn becomes entangled in the world of Tedros’ cult, the film delves into themes of power, manipulation, and the desire for redemption. It navigates the intricacies of their relationship, examining the blurred boundaries between adulation and control and the personal toll it takes on Jocelyn’s mental and emotional well-being.

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American Born Chinese

Platform: Disney+ | Release date: Now streaming | Genre: Action comedy | Language: English | Rating: PG

This show follows the journey of Jin Wang, a high school student grappling with the challenges of his dual identity. As Jin navigates the complexities of his school and home life, he encounters Wei-Chen, a new Taiwanese exchange student who becomes a pivotal figure. Little does Jin know that their meeting will propel him into a thrilling battle between the gods of Chinese mythology.

Struggling to fit in and reconcile his American upbringing with his Chinese heritage, Jin finds solace and friendship in Wei-Chen, who shares similar experiences as an immigrant student. Together, they embark on a transformative journey that transcends cultural barriers and unearths ancient legends hidden within their midst.

As the series unfolds, a sequence of extraordinary events reveals a world where ancient gods and mythical creatures from Chinese mythology coexist with modern-day struggles. Jin is entangled in a battle that tests his courage, resilience, and understanding of his cultural roots. With each challenge he faces, Jin discovers the power within himself to embrace his heritage, confront his fears, and find his place in both the American and Chinese worlds.

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Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets

Platform: Prime Video | Release date: 02/06/2023 | Genre: Docuseries | Language: English | Rating: 15+

This thought-provoking and eye-opening limited docuseries peels back the layers of the seemingly idyllic facade surrounding reality TV’s beloved mega-family, The Duggars, and the controversial organisation that shaped their lives: The Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP).

A group of ex-IBLP survivors step forward, shedding light on the abusive practices concealed behind the wholesome Americana image presented to the world. Their firsthand accounts paint a chilling picture of the dark underbelly of the organisation and the harrowing experiences they endured. Joining them in their quest for truth is Jill Duggar Dillard, breaking her silence and sharing her personal journey. 

Alongside her, family members and close family friends provide corroborating testimony, revealing the unsettling reality behind the scenes. Through a compelling narrative, viewers understand that the problematic practices within the Duggar family and the IBLP are symptomatic of a greater danger, jeopardising the very fabric of democracy itself.

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