Despite performing poorly in theaters, a critically panned fantasy movie based on a short story by A Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin has recently found a new life on streaming. This film comes from director Paul W. S. Anderson, who is known for other critical flops such as Event Horizon and Resident Evil.

This tale, following a witch when she is sent into a dangerous wasteland of a post-apocalyptic Earth to retrieve a magical artifact starring Dave Bautista and Milla Jovovich, has flown under the radar up until now. Now, Anderson’s latest film could achieve a cult following, as has been the case with some of his other films.

In The Lost Lands Is Now A Streaming Hit On Hulu

Paul W. S. Anderson Could Find More Success Making Films For Streaming

Though critics didn’t like In the Lost Lands, which received a measly 24% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie’s performance on Hulu shows that regular audiences are enjoying it more. This could be evidence that Paul W. S. Anderson’s films are best suited for streaming, as that is where most people seem to be watching them.

Since dropping onto Hulu, In the Lost Lands reportedly reached the Top 10 on the streaming platform and was in the Top 3 for a few days (via FlixPatrol). Nevertheless, Anderson’s movies haven’t achieved much theatrical success since he finished his Resident Evil film franchise.

The streaming victory of In the Lost Lands could be a sign that Anderson would prosper more directing Hulu originals, making it easier for his movies to reach a wider audience. This approach could also still benefit Anderson’s upcoming film adaptation of The House of the ᴅᴇᴀᴅ, the horror-action video game.

Our Take On In The Lost Lands’ Streaming Success

In The Lost Lands Seemed Like A Guaranteed Hit On Streaming

It’s not uncommon for a movie to reach the top of the streaming charts after underperforming in theaters, especially if it features stars like Bautista and Jovovich. This has been the case for Anderson’s past projects, as his 2020 film Monster Hunter reached Hulu’s Top 3 in March 2025, despite also bombing at the box office and receiving mixed reviews from critics.

Since In the Lost Lands presents itself as a gritty, post-apocalyptic action movie with gunslinging warriors and killer monsters, it is designed to cater to broad audiences. It is especially suited for a popular streaming platform like Hulu, where subscribers can immerse themselves in an easy popcorn flick with the push of a ʙuттon.

It also helps that George R. R. Martin is the author of the source material, which could have attracted fans of HBO’s Game of Thrones. This made In the Lost Lands seem even more like a unique film that lovers of action and fantasy had to watch on Hulu.

Source: FlixPatrol