Ethan Hawke has long been one of Hollywood's most respected actors, earning five Oscar nominations without a win. His latest nod came for Blue Moon, where he transformed into lyricist Lorenz Hart. But many fans and critics argue his finest work remains the 2017 A24 psychological thriller First Reformed, which finally gets a free streaming home on Plex starting June 1, 2026.
Directed by Paul Schrader, First Reformed stars Hawke as Reverend Ernst Toller, a troubled priest grappling with faith, despair, and a radical environmental activist. The film earned rave reviews for its haunting atmosphere, Schrader's taut script, and Hawke's deeply committed performance. Yet despite near-universal acclaim, it barely broke even at the box office, grossing $3.9 million against a $3.5 million budget.
Now, nine years later, this modern masterpiece gets a second chance to find its audience. Plex will offer First Reformed for free starting June 1, 2026, giving viewers a chance to experience one of the most powerful films of the decade without a subscription fee.
Why 'First Reformed' Deserves Your Time
Schrader, known for Taxi Driver and Raging Bull, crafts a slow-burn thriller that explores existential dread and moral compromise. Hawke's portrayal of a man unraveling under the weight of his own beliefs is both subtle and devastating. The film holds a 93% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and is often cited as one of A24's best releases.
If you're a fan of character-driven dramas or Hitchcockian tension, First Reformed is essential viewing. It's a film that rewards patience and lingers long after the credits roll.
What's Next for Ethan Hawke?
Hawke isn't slowing down. His upcoming historical drama The Weight, directed by Padraic McKinley, premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival to a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score. Critics call it "Mr. Hawke's show the whole way through." The film also stars Russell Crowe, Julia Jones, and Austin Amelio, and hits theaters September 18, 2026. For fans of Crowe's work, you might also enjoy 3:10 to Yuma, which arrives on free streaming the same month.
With First Reformed now accessible to everyone, there's no excuse to miss Hawke's career-best performance. Mark your calendars for June 1, 2026, and prepare for a film that will leave you shaken and moved.
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