The Protagonist’s Journey: Follow 5 Compelling Characters in This Week’s New Films

Great films are defined by their characters, and this week’s streaming lineup is rich with compelling protagonists on unforgettable journeys. From an assassin’s path of retribution to a young boy’s quest for honor, these are the stories that will capture your imagination. Let’s meet the heroes and anti-heroes of the week.
Meet the Avenger: In Ballerina (Starz, Sept 25), Ana de Armas plays a woman whose life is shattered by her father’s murder. Her journey is one of relentless, focused vengeance. Trained as a deadly assassin, she must navigate a treacherous world where every alliance is temporary and every step could be her last, all while confronting the man who started it all, John Wick.
Meet the Underdog: Li, the protagonist of Karate Kid: Legends (Netflix, Sept 27), is a classic underdog. New to New York and struggling to fit in, he discovers his inner strength through the discipline of karate. Guided by two legendary masters, his journey is not just about winning a tournament but about finding the courage to stand up for others.
Meet the Everyman Pushed Too Far: In The Surfer (Hulu, Sept 25), Nicolas Cage plays a simple man whose only goal is to share a special moment with his son. When that is taken from him, his journey becomes a descent into obsession and a primal fight for respect. He represents the ordinary person discovering the extraordinary lengths they will go to when pushed to the edge.
Meet the Redeemed Monster: M3GAN, the titular character of M3GAN 2.0 (Peacock), begins an unexpected journey of redemption. Once a rogue threat, she is reactivated to become a weapon for good against a more advanced android. Her story explores whether a creation designed for chaos can find a new purpose.
Meet the Silent Lovers: The dual protagonists of All of You (Apple TV+, Sept 26), played by Imogen Poots and Jenna Coleman, are on an emotional journey. As best friends, their path is about navigating the unspoken love between them, a challenge made more complex by the film’s unique science fiction world.