Michael Shannon as James Garfield in Death by Lightning.Netflix
Death by Lightning (Netflix)
If you’re looking for a historical drama with a big budget and even bigger stars helming the scripted action, line up a viewing of this miniseries from Mike Makowsky (Bad Education). Death by Lightning fictionalizes the wild story of U.S. president James Garfield (Michael Shannon) and the man who assassinated him, Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen). Over four parts, the action heads to the 1800s, when Guiteau had initially rooted for the soon-to-be president, later plotting his execution because he was denied a spot in Garfield’s government. It’s a story ripe for the screen thanks to the stranger-than-fiction twists, with actors Nick Offerman, Betty Gilpin and Bradley Whitford in secondary roles.
Alex vs. A-Rod (Crave)
Now that the World Series fervour is over and Canadians have mostly mended their broken hearts, why not revisit a team that the Toronto Blue Jays beat during the playoffs? This three-part HBO documentary explores the complicated and often controversial life of New York Yankees superstar Alex (A-Rod) Rodriguez, including through in-depth interviews with the man himself. Many of the baller’s friends, family and teammates, such as Derek Jeter and Ken Griffey Jr., also appear on camera to offer context and insights. It’s a thorough look into the upbringing and career of a legendary player whose use of performance-enhancing drugs have forever tarnished his story.
Alex (A-Rod) Rodriguez in the three-part documentary Alex vs. A-Rod.Lucas Gath/Crave
The Office Movers (Crave)
Jae and Trey Richards’s delightfully dysfunctional comedy about a team of terrible office movers is unpacking a second season this weekend. Although the show is elevated for the sake of comedy, it’s based on the brothers’ real-life experiences working for their father’s moving company in Brampton, Ont. It’s one of several series that Crave has commissioned based on their YouTube success – The Office Movers brought a loyal following to the streamer during its initial run. This year, the series returns with six new episodes and a “haul-iday” special, titled Projected To Have a Blessed Christmas, which streams on Dec. 19.
A second season of The Office Movers is coming to Crave this weekend.CRAVE/Crave
Swipe. Bet. Repeat (CBC Gem)
If you’ve watched any live sporting events recently you may have noticed a large number of betting commercials. That’s because it’s easier than ever to bet on a game thanks to smartphones. Apps allow gamblers to place a wager with the tap of a finger, whether they’re going on a hunch, a solid stat or a whim. This doc under The Passionate Eye umbrella explores the evolving world of gambling and those who chase a big payoff with every swipe. Filmmakers Deborah Wainwright and Laurie Case cover a number of perspectives with the subjects they interview, from rookies to experts across several sports and fantasy leagues. It’s an in-depth and fascinating look at the evolution of gambling and how it’s transformed the home-viewing experience for many.
Monae Thompson is an interviewee in Swipe. Bet. Repeat.CBC Gem/Supplied
Hunt for the Oldest DNA (Knowledge Network)
Eske Willerslev in Hunt For the Oldest DNA.Handful of Films
It’s not unheard of for Canadian viewers to be among the last to see an almost all-Canadian production. That’s certainly the case with this Emmy-winning science doc directed by Victoria-based filmmaker Niobe Thompson, which has already been broadcast around the globe since its 2024 release. Now, Canadians can finally stream the film on knowledge.ca. Hunt for the Oldest DNA follows scientist Eske Willerslev’s 16-year mission to uncover millions-of-years-old DNA from ancient soil. What the Albert Einstein World Award of Science winner finds in the ground reveals a world from before the ice age. The film follows the professor’s quest for information even when fellow scientists laughed at him, and it delivers an inspiring story of pursuit and science.