The Paul Anka: His Way documentary which premiered at TIFF, features first-hand testimony from the singer.Crave
Paul Anka: His Way, Crave
Most people associate the classic song My Way with crooner Frank Sinatra. There’s a lot more to that ditty than meets the eye, though, and it all starts with Canadian Paul Anka. This documentary, which debuted at TIFF, follows his career from a teen idol to a legendary musician. Now 84, he’s had an explosive career and worked with some of the most prolific and recognizable musicians in the world, from Michael Jackson and Celine Dion to Dolly Parton and Patti LaBelle. Anka himself stars and reflects back on his life, with plenty of anecdotes and a few secrets to longevity and success along the way.
Canadian Chris Hahn and his cousin Jason Cohen take on the 12th season of Vanderpump Rules on Hayu.Hayu/Supplied
Vanderpump Rules, Hayu
There’s been a shift change at SUR and Lisa Vanderpump is ready to unleash her latest hires on the world. After 11 seasons of Scandovals, drinking and growing up, the previous cast members have moved on to new things. So there’s room for new fan favourites with these rowdy twentysomethings, who are fresh-faced and serving mac-and-cheese balls and Pumptinis until they get their own big breaks. That includes The Perfect Match star Chris Hahn, a Canadian who appears alongside his Dated & Related co-star and cousin Jason Cohen. Whether their dynamics and tendencies to date among friends end up being as good as gold remains to be seen, but as the title song hints, these will be the best days of their lives.
Gillian Anderson and Michael Greyeyes star in Netflix’s The Abandons.CHRIS LARGE/NETFLIX © 2024/Netflix
The Abandons, Netflix
Kurt Sutter has a reputation in Hollywood as one of the most blunt show creators and writers, but past projects such as Sons of Anarchy are proof that his unique style is beloved by certain audiences. This week marks the debut of The Abandons, an 1850s-set Western starring Lena Headey and Gillian Anderson. It’s Sutter’s first Netflix series and may be his last now that he has departed over creative differences with the streamer. However, if you’re looking for a watch with high-production values and two stellar actors at the helm, this one is a bloody fine alternative to the Christmas fodder filling up streaming libraries.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw focuses on the importance of bonding with family members.20th Century Studios/Supplied
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw, Disney+
There are tons of holiday classics for families to watch this month, but sometimes you just want to add something new that doesn’t feel too inappropriate for the younger viewers in your house. Enter this second holiday Diary of a Wimpy Kid offering, which sees the Heffleys on a whole new wintery adventure. The Last Straw focuses on the relationship between Greg and his dad, bringing home messages of family, embracing your differences and the importance of bonding – even when things don’t exactly go your way.
Documentary, Prince William: A Life in Pictures, follows the royal throughout his life in the spotlight.CBC GEM
Prince William: A Life in Pictures, CBC Gem
This exclusive Canadian premiere is for those royal watchers who can’t get enough of Prince William and his unique upbringing in the spotlight. Over a quick 45 minutes, the documentary explores key photographs from the future king’s life. This comprehensive collection includes professional and amateur photos and spans everything from birth, funerals, weddings and careers. It’s the ultimate coming-of-age story that puts the 43-year-old’s life in context, reminding viewers that a picture is indeed worth a thousand words.