Magnolia Pictures’ post-apocalyptic thriller 40 Acres is officially set to make its digital streaming debut later this month. According to confirmed sources, the film will be available on VOD and digital platforms in the last week of July, following its limited theatrical release on July 2. After a celebrated world premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival—where it earned a coveted spot on Canada’s Top Ten list—40 Acres is poised to make a powerful impression on home audiences.
What is 40 Acres About?
Marking the directorial debut of R. T. Thorne, 40 Acres is a tense, emotionally charged thriller set in a grim future where civilization has been decimated by plagues and war. The story follows the Freeman family, who live off-grid on a remote farm, thriving in the aftermath of collapse—so long as they can fend off frequent raiding parties.
Danielle Deadwyler stars as Hailey, a former soldier who, along with her partner Galen (played by Michael Greyeyes), has trained their children in survival and combat. But when her eldest son, Emanuel (Kataem O’Connor), crosses paths with a mysterious young woman (Milcania Diaz-Rojas) in the woods, his yearning for connection threatens the fragile sanctuary they’ve built.
Where to Watch 40 Acres Online?
40 Acres will be available to rent or purchase on major digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu starting July 22, 2025. The film is expected to retail at $19.99 upon release, with pre-orders likely to go live soon.
When and Where Will 40 Acres Stream?
As of now, Magnolia Pictures has not announced when 40 Acres will land on subscription-based streaming platforms. However, based on the studio’s distribution history, the film may arrive on services like Hulu or Paramount+ in the months following its digital debut.
Festival Buzz & Critical Reception
Premiering at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, 40 Acres immediately drew praise for its grounded world-building, tense pacing, and emotionally layered storytelling. Critics commended the film’s intimate scale and complex family dynamics, with standout performances from Danielle Deadwyler and newcomer Kataem O’Connor. Its selection for TIFF’s prestigious Canada’s Top Ten list further cemented its critical acclaim.
Why Watch 40 Acres?
For fans of character-driven sci-fi and survival thrillers, 40 Acres offers a gripping narrative set against a hauntingly plausible future. It’s a story about family, sacrifice, and the human need for connection—even when connection may mean danger. With strong direction from R. T. Thorne and a powerhouse lead performance from Deadwyler, 40 Acres is more than just another post-apocalyptic drama—it’s a story with heart, grit, and timely resonance.
