"Reacher" season 4 just kicked off with a three-episode premiere on Prime Video. If you were worried the show has lost a step, don't be. It's the same "Reacher" as before, and that's a good thing.

Like a lot of great shows, and more than a few crime/spy thriller shows, "Reacher" suffers from a Catch-22. You get drawn into the show by a specific character, or group of characters, or the way it's paced, etc. It's like your favorite food: you don't want to deviate from the recipe. But if you don't put a new spin on the recipe, or branch out a bit, you might find that your once favorite food has suddenly turned stale.

"Reacher" certainly runs that risk, in no small part because the books the show is based on also follow a specific recipe. Given the popularity of both those books and the Prime Video adaptation, showrunner Nick Santora would be forgiven if he decided to simply stick to the script.

Unsurprisingly, that's what season 4 does. At least through three episodes. Yes, tonally, this show is a bit darker. Those who are sensitive to scenes portraying suicide might want to sit it out. But it ultimately holds to the recipe that made this show the ultimate "dadcore" thriller series. Get a big, strong, silent type. Make him clever and a bit funny when he talks. Let him get the girl without much trouble. Let him beat up bad guys along the way.

Luckily for Santora, Paramount (who co-produces) and Prime Video, the formula is still fresh. At least, it is for now. And that's almost entirely down to the performance of Alan Ritchson, who plays the titular former military police major with a thirst for justice.

Alan Ritchson is perfectly cast and it pays off big in season 4

Watching these three episodes, I couldn't get over how perfect Ritchson is for this role. It immediately made me think of the perfect pairing of Gary Oldman and Jackson Lamb in "Slow Horses," and I think it's time to declare Ritchson as Reacher an equally brilliant piece of casting.

For what it's worth, this season does have a plot. And it is a genuinely interesting one at that. The show starts with Reacher witnessing a woman, Anna (Karen Kwong-Chip), kill herself on a Philadelphia subway car. From then on, he's hounded by police, federal agents and the CIA, amongst others, as they all think he was given something by the woman before she died.

Aiding Reaher in the quest to discover what's really going on are the Philadelphia cop who arrived at the scene (Tamara Green), the woman's brother, Jacob (Christopher Rodriguez Marquette) and Russell (Kevin Weisman), a journalist who's been building an exposé on CIA black sites in the U.S. There's also Lila (Agnez Mo), a journalist from Indonesia trying to uncover some shady American activities of her own ... when she's not in a sudden fling with Reacher.

While that plot has kept me engaged and often on the edge of my seat, there's no denying that "Reacher" is all about ... well, Reacher. I can pretend I'm excited to see Kevin Corrigan show up as a jaded Philly cop. I can convince myself I'm curious about the show's B-plot about Anna's missing son (Denis Wong). But ultimately, I'm just waiting for Jack Reacher to do Jack Reacher things.

And that's okay, because Alan Ritchson is great at being Jack Reacher. Strong and silent? The man is built like a house. Clever and funny? At least once a scene. Gets the girl? By the end of the third episode, and with ease. And of course, he's constantly beating people up in well-executed action set pieces.

While that seems like an easy recipe to follow, Ritchson might be the only one who can put it all together. The more I watch, the more I'm convinced that only he is the right combination of smart, clever, self-confident but not cocky, and built like an NFL linebacker but doesn't look like a strongman competitor. Even action stars like Jason Statham and Keanu Reeves would be hard-pressed to tick all the boxes Ritchson does, even if I'd certainly argue they're the better stuntmen and martial artists on-screen.

Verdict: I already can't wait for episode 4

If you're someone who already watches "Reacher," you probably didn't need much convincing to stream season 4. Certainly, after reading all that praise, you've probably already queued it up on your television.

If you're not a "Reacher" fan yet, though, I definitely recommend checking it out. Unless you're truly allergic to action, this show has something for everyone. It also does a good job of featuring female protagonists alongside our titular hero ... even if some of them typically end up in bed with him at some point.

But, really, Ritchson's performance alone should be enough to keep you drawn in. I'm certainly already hooked and ready for episode 4 to come next week. Don't be afraid to start your "Reacher" fandom with this season, either. There's minor connective tissue between seasons, but they easily stand on their own as engaging television.

Stream the three-episode premiere of "Reacher" season 4 on Prime Video now

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• I review TV shows for a living and these are the 10 shows from 2026 I’d actually recommend streaming right now
• What would it take for you to cancel Netflix? We asked our staff and the answers might surprise you
• Missed it in theaters? Here's every movie finally arriving on streaming in August 2026

August is the last month of summer. Of course, it doesn’t really end until the middle of September, but these are the final few weeks I can embrace the sunshine before I go into full fall mode. Paramount+ is clearly getting into that mood with its lineup for the month, which includes plenty of movies perfect for watching on a colder evening with a warm drink. To me, there’s just no better feeling than that.

With plenty of new movies arriving on Paramount+ this month, finding something worth watching can be easier said than done. So, I’ve worked my way through the August 2026 lineup and selected seven movies that stand out from the crowd, each boasting a Rotten Tomatoes score of at least 90%. While a high score isn’t necessarily a guarantee that you’ll love a movie, it’s a good indication that critics were largely impressed.

Here are five of the best movies currently streaming on Paramount+ this August, with every pick earning a Rotten Tomatoes score of 90% or above.

The best movies to stream on Paramount Plus in August 2026

‘Dead Man Walking’ (1995)

“Dead Man Walking” is an Oscar-winning crime drama directed, written, and co-produced by Tim Robbins. Based on Sister Helen Prejean’s non-fiction book of the same name, the film stands as one of the most celebrated and balanced cinematic examinations of capital punishment and human redemption. Robbins avoids preachy melodrama, instead telling a restrained story that asks audiences to confront both the horror of violent crime and the complicated reality of the death penalty.

Sister Helen Prejean (Susan Sarandon) is a nun who agrees to visit Matthew Poncelet (Sean Penn), a convicted murderer awaiting execution on death row. Poncelet has been sentenced to death for killing a young couple and asks Sister Helen to help him appeal his sentence. As his execution date approaches, she becomes his spiritual adviser and begins visiting him in prison, while also meeting with his family and the relatives of his victims.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%
Watch "Dead Man Walking" on Paramount+ now

‘Escape From Alcatraz’ (1979)

Most people have probably heard of the classic “Escape From Alcatraz.” This neo-noir prison thriller is based on the true story of the famous 1962 escape from the supposedly inescapable federal penitentiary, and the film is widely regarded as one of the definitive movies in the prison escape genre. Adapted by Richard Tuggle from J. Campbell Bruce’s 1963 account, the screenplay maintains a near-documentary commitment to the real-life timeline and details of the escape.

Frank Morris (Clint Eastwood) is a convicted bank robber with a history of escaping prisons, and is transferred to Alcatraz, the notorious maximum-security prison on an isolated island in San Francisco Bay. After arriving, Morris begins studying the prison’s layout and security measures, eventually discovering a possible route out of his cell. He secretly recruits fellow inmates Clarence (Jack Thibeau) and John Anglin (Fred Ward) and Charley Butts (Larry Hankin) to help him put together an escape plan.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%
Watch "Escape From Alcatraz" on Paramount+ now

‘Gravity’ (2013)

If you were to ask me to name some of the best space movies ever made, “Gravity” would definitely be on my list. This sci-fi thriller was a huge critical and commercial success when it was released in 2013, earning ten Academy Award nominations and taking home seven wins, including Best Director. The movie was widely celebrated for its groundbreaking visual effects and sound design, with legendary director James Cameron even praising its technical achievements and describing it as the movie he had been waiting to see for years.

Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) is a medical engineer on her first space mission, working alongside veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) during a routine spacewalk. Their mission goes catastrophically wrong when a cloud of high-speed debris destroys their shuttle, killing the rest of the crew and leaving Stone and Kowalski stranded in orbit. With their spacecraft destroyed and communications with Earth lost, the pair must find a way to reach a nearby space station before their oxygen runs out.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%
Watch "Gravity" on Paramount+ now

‘10 Cloverfield Lane’ (2016)

“10 Cloverfield Lane” is a critically acclaimed psychological thriller and sci-fi mystery directed by Dan Trachtenberg in his feature directorial debut. Produced by J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, the film operates as a “spiritual successor” and blood relative to the 2008 hit “Cloverfield,” pivoting from found-footage chaos to locked-room psychological tension. Kept entirely under wraps during production, the film surprised the industry when its first trailer dropped just two months before its theatrical release.

After surviving a car crash, Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) wakes up inside an underground bunker with two men, Howard (John Goodman) and Emmett (John Gallagher Jr.). Howard claims that a catastrophic attack has made the outside world uninhabitable and insists that staying underground is their only chance of survival. As Michelle learns more about the bunker and the events outside, she begins to question Howard’s story and his increasingly disturbing behavior.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 91%
Watch "10 Cloverfield Lane" on Paramount+ now

‘Million Dollar Baby’ (2004)

We have another Clint Eastwood film to round off this list, and that’s “Million Dollar Baby.” This critically acclaimed sports drama was adapted by Paul Haggis and is widely regarded as one of the defining cinematic masterpieces of the 2000s. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. “Million Dollar Baby” probably isn’t the first movie that springs to mind when you’re deciding what to watch this weekend. It’s an undeniably heavy watch, and while that won’t be for everyone, there’s no denying that it’s a film that leaves a lasting impression.

Frankie Dunn (Clint Eastwood) is a veteran boxing trainer who reluctantly agrees to coach Maggie Fitzgerald (Hilary Swank), a determined waitress who dreams of becoming a professional boxer. Despite initially refusing to train her, Frankie is soon impressed by Maggie’s natural ability and dedication. With help from his longtime friend and gym assistant Eddie “Scrap-Iron” Dupris (Morgan Freeman), Frankie guides Maggie through a rapid rise in the boxing world, where she begins taking on increasingly difficult opponents.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%
Watch "Million Dollar Baby" on Paramount+ now

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• Everything new on Paramount+ in August 2026
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"Reacher" season 4 will see Alan Ritchson return as the big man himself, and he's ready to take down more bad guys than ever before.

Here's how to watch "Reacher" season 4 from anywhere with a VPN.

"Reacher" season 4 — based on the 13th Lee Child novel titled 'Gone Tomorrow' — will really double down into the spy thriller vibes, as Jack finds himself in the middle of a high-stakes political conspiracy after witnessing a woman commit suicide on the subway.

Set photos for "Reacher" season 4 also teased a new love interest for the main man, but just how much of a romantic life he will be able to lead remains to be seen, given there's a terror plot to stop. Across eight episodes, we'll see the titular hero handed his sternest test to date.

If you're ready to see the big man kick butt once more, read on and find out how to watch "Reacher" season 4 online from anywhere in the world.

Watch 'Reacher' season 4 from anywhere with a VPN

Traveling and blocked from your usual streaming services? A VPN, or virtual private network, lets your device appear to be back in your home country so you can securely use your existing subscriptions while abroad.

Tom’s Guide recommends NordVPN for streaming because it offers fast speeds, works across loads of devices and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're outside the U.S. but want to watch the show as usual, you'd select a U.S. server from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy. Head over to your streaming platform of choice (Prime Video in this case) and watch "Reacher" season 4.

How to watch 'Reacher' season 4 on Prime Video globally

"Reacher" season 4 is rolling out globally on Amazon Prime Video and that'll be the only place to watch the show.

Whether you're in the U.S, U.K., Australia, or even Canada, the first three episodes of the new season will drop on Prime from Wednesday, August 12.

'Reacher' season 4 trailer

'Reacher' season 4 — episode schedule

• S4 Ep 1 (City of Brotherly Love) - August 12
• S4 Ep 2 (Cage Fight) - August 12
• S4 Ep 3 (One Small Step) - August 12
• S4 Ep 4 (Karambits and Pieces) - August 19
• S4 Ep 5 (Bridge) - August 26
• S4 Ep 6 (Plum Out of Luck) - September 2
• S4 Ep 7 (Vote for Sampson) - September 9
• S4 Ep 8 (Cut) - September 16

'Reacher' season 4 cast

• Alan Ritchson as Jack Reacher
• Christopher Rodriguez-Marquette as Jacob Merrick (replacing Jay Baruchel)
• Sydelle Noel as Tamara Green
• Agnez Mo as Lila Hoth
• Anggun as Amisha Hoth
• Kevin Corrigan as Detective Shaun Docherty
• Marc Blucas as John Samson
• Kathleen Robertson as Elsbeth Samson
• Kevin Weisman as Russell Plum
• Dean Armstrong as Foster
• Joel Labelle as Timur

More from Tom's Guide

• How to watch 'Fightland' online — stream the boxing drama series from anywhere
• New on Prime Video in August 2026: Top picks and all the new movies and shows to watch
• Your Fire TV Stick has an expiration date — here's when support ends

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing

When it comes to deciding what to watch, it can get overwhelming. Fast. There are so many streaming services out there. Even if you keep it to just the best streaming services, there are dozens of new shows and movies added every day.

Lucky for you, it's my job to know exactly what's out there. So I've compiled essentially a TV guide on what to watch tonight.

I've gone through everything from Netflix, Prime Video, Paramount+, etc. I've scoured the best free streaming services like Tubi. I've even added some movies you might have missed in theaters that are finally available to buy or rent to stream at home.

So let's dive into it. Here are all the new movies and shows (and live events) you can stream tonight (August 11), and where to watch them.

Top shows and movies to stream tonight

'The Invite' (2026) (PVOD)

Genre: Comedy-drama movie

What's it about? Olivia Wilde and Seth Rogen star as husband and wife, Angela and Joe. They've invited their neighbors, Pina (Penelope Cruz) and Hawk (Edward Norton), over for dinner and drinks. But the night suddenly takes a turn, and now much, much more than just a cocktail is on offer for this foursome.

Why you need to watch it: "The Invite" is a textbook comedy-drama. In my review, I praised it for its ability to make you laugh, cry and cry from laughing. The casting is impeccable. Plus, Wilde gets to show off as a director while still putting in an incredible performance as one of the movie's leads. This is my second-best movie of 2026 so far and you need to watch it if you haven't yet.

Buy or rent "The Invite" from Amazon [PVOD] now

'Mourinho' (Netflix)

Genre: Sports docuseries

What it's about: José Mourinho wasn't always known as "The Special One." He started as a journeyman footballer. But everything changed in 2002 when he took over at Porto. In two years, he took them from a struggling side to champions of Europe. Since then, he's won at Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Roma. He may be egomaniacal, but there's no denying he's special.

Why you should watch it: Pretty much every football fan knows who Mourinho is. He's never been shy, and given the high-profile clubs he's won at, he's earned his time in the spotlight. That said, I'm very curious to see what Zlatan Ibrahimović has to say about his former manager in this docuseries.

Watch "Mourinho" on Netflix starting August 11

'Minions and Monsters' (2026) (PVOD)

Genre: Animated comedy movie

What's it about? Set before the events of "Minions," this third installment in the "Despicable Me" spin-off franchise takes us back to 1920s Hollywood. After millennia of searching for big bad bosses to work for, the Minions (Pierre Coffin) discover they're perfect for the world of silent film. However, everything turns to chaos when one of the Minions, James, unleashes a group of monsters on Los Angeles, possibly bringing about the apocalypse.

Why you need to watch it: In our review of "Minions and Monsters," I knocked it slightly for lacking the depth of its Pixar counterparts like "Toy Story 5." But you probably won't care. This animated adventure is undeniably funny, and you'll spend most of the 90 minutes laughing at the hijinks these yellow creatures get into.

Buy or rent "Minions and Monsters" from Amazon [PVOD] now

Your streaming guide: Tuesday, Aug 11

Here's everything coming to streaming today, broken down by streaming service:

NETFLIX

• "Mourinho"
• "Rory Scovel: Show Must Go On"
• "What's Eating Dan?" season 1

PARAMOUNT+

• "Dana White's Contender Series" season 10

HBO MAX

• "The Salisbury Poisonings: A Spy Next Door" (CNN Films)
• Seattle Mariners vs NY Yankees, 7 p.m. ET
• Dunkman Qualifiers, 8 p.m. ET

HULU

• "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro"
• 2026 LoL KeSPA Cup

DISNEY+

• "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro"
• 2026 LoL KeSPA Cup

PEACOCK

• "Marry Me" (2022)

STREAMING MOVIES TO BUY OR RENT (PVOD)

• "The Boy from Below" (2026)
• "Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass (2026)
• "The Invite" (2026)
• "Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend" (2026)
• "Jackass: Best and Last" (2026)
• "Minions and Monsters" (2026)
• "Night Nurse" (2026)
• "Our Hero, Balthazar (2026)
• "Peter" (2026)
• "Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan: Ghost War" (2026)
• "Young Washington" (2026)

More from Tom's Guide

• 5 best new Netflix movies and shows to stream this week (Aug. 10-16)
• I review TV shows for a living and these are the 10 shows from 2026 I’d actually recommend streaming right now
• 'The Odyssey’ is the best movie of 2026 so far — and maybe topples my favorite Christopher Nolan film

The world is set to witness a total solar eclipse on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. However, the extent of the eclipse you’ll be able to see depends on where you are. While Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain will get to view a total solar eclipse, if you’re in the U.S., Canada, or the U.K., you will only be treated to a partial eclipse.

The U.K. will see the deepest partial eclipse of the three, with up to 93% of the Sun covered in places like Cardiff and Belfast. The U.S. and Canada, meanwhile, will only see a smaller bite taken out of the Sun, with the best views from northeastern areas such as Atlantic Canada.

And what about those outside of these regions? Or, even if you’re in any of these locations and are unsure about stepping out? Well, good news, you can view this upcoming solar eclipse online, too, and completely free from wherever you are!

Where to watch the solar eclipse in the U.S., Canada, and U.K.

Around 26 U.S. states, particularly those in the Northeast, will be able to view the solar eclipse at different times. The deepest coverage is expected in Fairbanks, Alaska, with the maximum eclipse reaching 37% at around 8:27 a.m. AKDT.

Other northeastern states, such as Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, will experience between 10% and 28% maximum eclipse in the afternoon, between 1:48 p.m. and 1:56 p.m. EDT.

Canadians are more fortunate, as every province will see at least some part of the partial eclipse. However, Eastern Canada, especially Atlantic Canada and Newfoundland, will see the deepest coverage - between 53% and 61%.

The U.K. will experience a noticeably deeper partial eclipse than North America, which begins shortly after 6 p.m. BST.

Southwestern England and Wales will see the deepest coverage, with Cardiff and the Isles of Scilly being the best U.K. locations to view the eclipse.

Now, since the eclipse will happen close to sunset, the Sun is expected to be only 19 to 16 degrees above the horizon, depending on your location. Make sure you have an unobstructed view at this time to view the phenomenon.

Here are the places in the U.K. where you can see the eclipse.

How to watch the solar eclipse online from anywhere

If you don't live in the path of the total or partial solar eclipse happening on August 12, you can still watch the event online on YouTube.

• NASA will stream the solar eclipse on NASA+ and its official YouTube channel from Spain through an aircraft from 1:15 p.m. ET.
• The European Space Agency will also host a live YouTube broadcast from the Observatorio Astrofísico de Javalambre in Spain. There will also be a dedicated telescope feed starting at 19:30 CEST, or 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. ET.
• The Royal Museums Greenwich YouTube channel will also host a live broadcast from the Royal Observatory Greenwich in the U.K., which will experience about 90% of the maximum eclipse. It will start at 1:10 p.m. ET.

If you’re planning to see the eclipse offline, make sure that you use adequate protective gear while doing so. Ideally, look for ISO 12312-2-certified eclipse glasses, which can block 99.999% of visible light, including nearly all UV and infrared radiation. Regular sunglasses, even if they are dark, do not come close to this level of protection.

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Whenever Prime Video confirms its slate for a new month, the first thing I look for is the latest thriller movies. The genre is persistently popular on the platform, and I’m personally a huge fan of thrillers. Fortunately, Prime Video’s August 2026 slate isn’t letting us down in this regard.

I’ve combed through the latest additions to the streaming service, and found a trio of thrillers worthy of your watchlist. There’s a ‘90s flavor to my picks this week, with two of the best genre efforts of the decade, including a crime epic often cited as Quentin Tarantino’s greatest ever film. But if you’re craving something new, Prime Video offers a thriller from 2026, too.

These are the 3 new-to-Prime Video thrillers you need to watch this week if you need streaming picks that will have you gripping your sofa and shocked by unexpected twists.

3 best new to Prime Video thriller movies this week

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

“Pulp Fiction” is a movie that needs no introduction. Quentin Tarantino’s second feature made him a Hollywood rockstar, and any self-respecting list of the best movies of the 1990s is going to include it somewhere near the top (if not ranked No. 1). Widely considered Tarantino’s magnum opus, the near bulletproof reputation of this 1994 crime epic remains intact to this very day. Just calling it iconic feels like underselling this classic.

If you somehow don’t know the general gist of this masterpiece, Pulp Fiction” collects multiple interconnected chapters that eventually crossover to form a full picture. Each vignette is intriguing enough to anchor an entire movie, but is just part of the glorious puzzle that is “Pulp Fiction”. The film tells the tales of a hitman duo, Vincent Vega (John Travolta) and Jules Winnfield (Samuel L. Jackson), crime boss Marsellus Wallace (Ving Rhames), his actress wife, Mia (Uma Thurman), and drowning-in-debt boxer Butch Coolidge (Bruce Willis).

Watch "Pulp Fiction" on Prime Video now

‘The Gates’ (2026)

In February, “Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek tragically passed away, making “The Gates” his final movie appearance. Released posthumously, it’s a tense little thriller that also stars Mason Gooding (known for his work in the new “Scream” trilogy), Algee Smith and Keith Powers. The reviews were middling, but Van Der Beek’s performance was much praised, and the central premise of this thriller is intriguing enough to warrant a watch.

“The Gate” sees a trio of college friends (Gooding, Smith and Powers) enjoying a carefree road trip when they make what proves to be a potentially fatal mistake by taking a shortcut through a remote gated community. Here they witness a murder, and become trapped within the community's walls. Over the course of a very long night, they are hunted by the residents who plan to blame them for the crime. Leading the hunting party is Jacob (Van Der Beek), a sinister man of faith.

Watch "The Gates" on Prime Video now

‘The Usual Suspects’ (1995)

In a recent Tom’s Guide poll to find the best twist in movie history, “The Usual Suspects” ranked second with an impressive 20% of the vote (“The Sixth Sense” won the gold). It’s a testament to the enduring popularity of this twisting crime thriller’s shocking final reveal. Naturally, I’m not going to spoil anything here, but if you’ve managed to avoid having the twist ruined, go watch “The Usual Suspects” on Prime Video right now.

This thriller hangs on a single question: Who is Keyser Söze? After a job gone wrong at the San Pedro Harbor, a timid small-time crook, Roger “Verbal” Kint (Kevin Spacey), is taken into police custody for interrogation. Through a series of flashbacks, he explains how the ill-fated heist came to be and, more importantly, how he made contact with the enigmatic crimelord, Keyser Söze. The police hope to identify Söze using Verbal’s testimony, but the elusive criminal mastermind has a plan up his sleeve to escape the police’s enclosing net.

Watch "The Usual Suspects" on Prime Video now

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• New on Prime Video in August 2026
• Prime Video top 10 movies — 3 worth watching this week
• How to get Prime Video for free

It’s a new week, which means Netflix’s top 10 refreshes based on what everyone was gravitating towards over the weekend, and that usually means newer releases. This is what makes the trending list so useful, because if you missed something new dropping on the service, it’s most likely to show up in the popular section. So, if you’re looking for something to watch this week, the trending list is a great place to start.

But just because there’s a top 10 doesn’t always make it easy to decide what to watch, especially since these rankings can often include a few duds. That’s why I’ve picked out three shows currently in Netflix’s top 10 that are actually worth watching. This week, that includes the new season of a hit romantic drama, an intriguing comedy-drama that originally aired on Fox, and a British series based on a shocking true story. If you want to see what else is trending, you’ll find the full Netflix top 10 below.

Note: This list is based on the Netflix U.S. top 10 shows as of Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

Best shows in the Netflix top 10

‘My Life with the Walter Boys’

We’re in the era of seriously messy love triangles. That’s not to say they’ve never been prominent in TV before, because you could argue “The Vampire Diaries” really kicked things off, but the past couple of years have been packed with messy romantic drama. “My Life with the Walter Boys” is certainly one of them, with the ending of season 2 only fueling its central love triangle. Now that season 3 is streaming, things have somehow gotten even messier (and more frustrating). But hey, if you’re looking for a series where you can pick a side, “My Life with the Walter Boys” is perfect.

Season 3 picks up after Jackie (Nikki Rodriguez) and Cole (Noah LaLonde) confess their feelings for each other, only for Alex (Ashby Gentry) to overhear them before George is rushed to hospital. As the Walter family deals with the aftermath, Jackie focuses on developing a community space in Silver Falls while trying to work out where she belongs. Alex joins a new rodeo team, while Cole discovers a new opportunity behind the wheel after a race car driver spots his potential. Jackie’s childhood friend also arrives from New York, bringing a connection to the life she left behind.

Stream "My Life with the Walter Boys" season 3 on Netflix

‘Best Medicine’

Sometimes, the best medicine for sadness is a comedy, and what better show to watch than… “Best Medicine.” This medical comedy-drama originally premiered on Fox and serves as the official American adaptation of the long-running British hit “Doc Martin.” It takes the beloved ITV format created by Dominic Minghella and updates its iconic Cornish fishing village setting to a quirky coastal town on America’s East Coast. With its eccentric characters and plenty of laughs, it’s the perfect show for anyone looking for something uplifting to watch this week.

Dr. Martin Best (Josh Charles) is a brilliant surgeon who leaves his career in Boston and moves to the coastal town of Port Wenn, Maine, where he spent summers as a child. Taking over as the town’s general practitioner, Martin quickly finds himself treating an unusual collection of local patients. His blunt manner and dislike of unnecessary conversation frequently put him at odds with the people around him. Meanwhile, Martin’s assistant Elaine Denton (Cree Cicchino) helps him navigate his new practice as he deals with a growing fear of blood.

Stream "Best Medicine" on Netflix

‘The Bombing of Pan Am 103’

Those who prefer to watch a series based on a true story will want to check out “The Bombing of Pan Am 103,” a British drama focusing on the aftermath of Britain’s deadliest terrorist attack at the time in 1988. The series follows the joint Scottish-American criminal investigation as detectives and FBI agents work to identify those responsible, while the case develops into an international legal battle. Written by Jonathan Lee and Scottish screenwriter Gillian Roger Park, the series follows the investigation and its impact on those connected to the case across multiple decades.

On December 21, 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing all 259 people aboard and 11 people on the ground. In the aftermath, Scottish detective Ed McCusker (Connor Swindells) and his colleagues begin a huge investigation to determine how the bombing happened and identify those responsible. They soon join forces with FBI agents Dick Marquise (Patrick J. Adams), Tom Thurman (Eddie Marsan) and Kathryn Turman (Merritt Wever), taking the investigation across Scotland, America and Malta as they follow new evidence and potential suspects.

Stream "The Bombing of Pan Am 103" on Netflix

Netflix top 10 shows right now

1. "My Life with the Walter Boys" (2023)
2. "The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare" (2026)
3. "Best Medicine" (2026)
4. "The Bombing of Pan Am 103" (2025)
5. "Let's Marry Harry" (2026)
6. "Ransom Canyon" (2025)
7. "I Will Find You" (2026)
8. "The Hawk" (2026)
9. "Alone Australia" (2023)
10. "Our Sticky Love" (2026)

More from Tom's Guide

• Everything new on Netflix in August 2026
• 5 best new Netflix movies and shows to stream this week
• What would it take for you to cancel Netflix?

BritBox offers a rich selection of sweeping period romance and emotional drama series, featuring classic literary adaptations, forbidden love stories, and cozy countryside settings

'The Other Bennet Sister'

Given the proliferation of Jane Austen screen adaptations over the past few decades—of which there are many on BritBox, including the Colin Firth-led "Pride and Prejudice" miniseries, the Sally Hawkins-starring "Persuasion" and several "Sense and Sensibility" versions—it's challenging to find anything new to say about the English author's beloved stories. But this year's "The Other Bennet Sister" manages to do just that by focusing on, well, the other Bennet sister: overlooked middle sister Mary Bennet, played with great warmth and emotional depth by Ella Bruccoleri.

Over 10 spirited episodes, the "Pride and Prejudice" spinoff series sees Bruccoleri's Mary set out from beyond her sisters' shadow and journey to Regency London to get her own love story—love stories, actually, as the bookish Bennet girl has not one but two eligible bachelors eager to win her heart: Thomas Hayward (Dónal Finn) and William Ryder (Laurie Davidson).

Stream "The Other Bennet Sister" on BritBox now

'Last Tango in Halifax'

Though there are a plethora of immersive historical romances on BritBox, it's also home to contemporary love stories as well, including this BAFTA-winning charmer starring Derek Jacobi and Anne Reid as Alan and Celia, two widowed septuagenarians who reconnect and rekindle a passionate relationship after 60 years apart, thanks to the social-media meddling of their respective grandsons.

Proving that age is just a number where love is concerned, the five-season dramedy received widespread adoration from critics: It has an overall approval rating of 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, where the critical consensus praises, "Charming and sweet, Last Tango in Halifax is a moving comedy-drama that delights as it touches hearts of all ages, boasting marvellous performances by its leading actors."

Stream "The Last Tango in Halifax" on BritBox now

'North and South'

Based on the 1855 Victorian novel of the same name by Elizabeth Gaskell, this 2004 BBC drama follows the story of Margaret Hale (Daniela Denby-Ashe), a young woman from England's rural south who's forced to relocate to the gritty North with her family.

There, she butts up against the new town's industrial nature and local mill workers, most specifically cotton-mill owner John Thornton (Richard Armitage)—that is, until their antagonistic relationship slow-burns into a mutual attraction.

Along with that feisty and passionate affair, the four-part adaptation also serves up class dynamics and social divides set against a sumptuous backdrop of 19th-century Victorian society. Lesley Manville, Tim Pigott-Smith, Sinéad Cusack, Jo Joyner and Brendan Coyle also star.

Stream "North and South" on BritBox now

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This week’s top new movies offer a little something for everybody across plenty of the best streaming services. There are new arrivals on Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu and Peacock, alongside a solid trio of movies swapping the big screen for at-home digital streaming.

My favorite pick of the week is an easy choice, “The Invite.” This bitingly funny comedy ranks in my top five favorite movies of the year (and I’ve seen almost 65 new releases in cinemas in 2026 so far). But if you want something to watch without paying a rental fee, Netflix has a new teen musical, HBO Max has an action-thriller, and Hulu has a political satire.

To save you having to scroll through each platform to find the latest additions, I’ve rounded up the most noteworthy new movies across services down below. We also have a guide to the top new TV shows this week, so you’re in the mood for some binge-watching instead. For more, check out the 3 new to Prime Video thriller movies to watch this week.

‘The Invite’ (PVOD)

“The Invite” is a chaotic comedy from director Olivia Wilde. It boasts one of the year’s best screenplays courtesy of writers Will McCormack and Rashida Jones, and a quartet of fantastic performances from Wilde, Penélope Cruz, Edward Norton and Seth Rogen. A remake of a 2020 Spanish movie, “The Invite” is a sharp comedy that explores the messy dynamics of long-term relationships in ways that are consistently hilarious but also tragic.

Presented almost like a play, with a single apartment setting, the movie opens with a married couple, Joe (Rogen) and Angela (Wilde), inviting their upstairs neighbors, Piña (Cruz) and Hawk (Norton), over for a dinner party. The evening rapidly descends into chaos as Joe and Angela’s marital problems surface, and Piña and Hawk’s somewhat unconventional relationship is revealed. It’s a fast-paced comedy with sharp dialogue.

Watch on Prime Video (buy/rent) starting August 10

‘Jackass Best and Last’ (PVOD)

There are only so many times you can be kicked in the crotch before calling it quits, and for Johnny Knoxville and his band of scrappy underdogs, “Jackass: Best and Last” brings the curtain down on a couple of decades of causing bodily harm to each other. The entire cast has been adamant this will be the final “Jackass” movie, and this latest stunt comedy is more of a trip down memory lane than a full-fat fifth entry in the MTV franchise.

The new clips filmed for this movie include a quiz show with a painful punishment for getting a question wrong, an escape room from hell, and the most gross game of Twister ever. Interspersed with the new stunts are highlights from the previous “Jackass” movies and some never-before-seen footage. It leaves “Best and Last” feeling more like a DVD extra than a true “Jackass” finale, but any longtime fan will get a kick out of all the carnage.

Watch on Prime Video (buy/rent) starting August 10

‘Minions & Monsters’ (PVOD)

Those annoying yellow terrors return in “Minions & Monsters.” Parents everywhere were probably bracing themselves for another brainless slapstick animation that they’d be forced to watch on a loop. But surprisingly, “Minions & Monsters” is the best movie in the franchise since the minions were introduced in “Despicable Me.” It loses some steam in the second half, but its first act is a remarkably fond tribute to classic cinema.

Following a new army of yellow minions, “Minions & Monsters” sees a group of nonsense-speaking pests become unexpected stars of the silent film era, quickly becoming the most in-demand talent in Hollywood. Their rise is followed by a swift fall as the introduction of sound films ruins their acting career. However, when real monsters are unleashed upon Los Angeles, it’s up to the minions to save the day from the problem they created.

Watch on Prime Video (buy/rent) starting August 10

‘Don’t Say Good Luck’ (Netflix)

Netflix is in the Sandler family business. The streamer has partnered with Adam Sandler on numerous projects, and has now brought his two daughters into the fold. First up was Sadie Sandler’s “Roommates,” which debuted in April, and now it's the turn of Sunny Sandler, who stars in this musical teen drama. Alongside the youngest Sandler sister, this film stars Melanie Lynskey, Max Greenfield, Stephanie Beatriz, and Steve Buscemi.

Sophie (Sunny Sandler) is a theater kid who has just landed the lead role in her high school’s upcoming production of the hit Broadway musical “Waitress.” But the real drama is happening off stage as Sophie’s home life becomes increasingly chaotic. While it would be easy to dismiss this Netflix original as a nepobaby project, the trailer shows promise. Plus, director Julia Hart has form in the teen drama genre, having also helmed “Hollywood Stargirl” for Disney+, which debuted to a 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Watch on Netflix starting August 14

‘Girls Like Girls’ (Peacock)

If one coming-of-age teen drama wasn’t enough for you this week, Peacock is set to add “Girls Like Girls” to its library following the movie’s limited theatrical run back in June. The indie movie was well received when it arrived in cinemas, with Rotten Tomatoes’ Critics Consensus reading, “Bracingly personal and finely acted, Hayley Kiyoko's ‘Girls Like Girls’ is a gently moving tale of queer love that's elevated by striking visual flair.”

As is often the case in coming-of-age teen dramas, “Girls Like Girls” opens with 17-year-old Coley (Maya da Costa) moving to a small Oregon town to live with her estranged father. Once in this new environment, she quickly falls in with a group of locals, including the charismatic Sonya (Myra Molloy). These two become fast friends, and as Coley is pulled further into Sonya’s world, romantic sparks fly, but the path of first love is often a bumpy one.

Watch on Peacock starting August 14

‘Normal’ (HBO Max)

Bob Odenkirk seems to be taking a leaf out of Liam Neeson’s book and entering his action star era, and I’m here for it. Having headlined the two “Nobody” movies (which are both great action-thrillers), his next action flick, laced with plenty of comedy, is “Normal,” which my colleague Malcolm McMillain described as “fine, for the most part, but it's also forgettable, despite a series of bloody kills.” So maybe keep expectations in check.

Sheriff Ulysses (Odenkirk) is enjoying the quiet life after being posted in the small Midwestern town of Normal, Minnesota for a temporary period. The town offers him an escape from his marital woes and a place to lick his wounds after being injured on the job. However, the town definitely doesn’t live up to its name, and after a bank robbery goes wrong, Ulysses learns that the Yakuza control Normal, and he resolves to fight back.

Watch on HBO Max starting August 14

‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’ (Hulu)

Director Olivier Assayas helms this political satire based on the 2022 novel by Giuliano da Empoli. It was nominated for the Golden Lion after its Venice International Film Festival premiere, but that awards success didn’t translate to much interest at the box office. Perhaps it’s the Russia-set story that put off general audiences. After all, a movie about the Russian corridors of power is a tough sell given the current political climate. The reviews weren’t so hot either, which no doubt didn’t help matters.

Set in the early 1990s, it follows Vadim Baranov (Paul Dano), a fictional Russian TV producer, who becomes the spin doctor for a rising figure, Vladimir Putin (Jude Law). As a new Russia takes shape, Baranov is tasked with setting the narrative and is willing to blur the boundaries between truth and lies. Also starring Alicia Vikander, Will Keen, Tom Sturridge and Jeffrey Wright, “The Wizard of the Kremlin" is streaming from Friday.

Watch on Hulu starting August 14

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After earning over $1 billion at the box office, Antoine Fuqua's controversial Michael Jackson biopic finally landed on streaming today. On Monday (August 10), Starz became the exclusive streaming home for "Michael," the highest-grossing music biopic of all time and one of this year's biggest movies so far.

From the producer of "Bohemian Rhapsody" (Graham King) and the director of "Training Day" (Antoine Fuqua), the film stars Michael's nephew Jaafar Jackson as the American pop star and traces his run from being a member of the Jackson 5 through to the Bad tour. It's currently sitting at a 97% approval rating from moviegoers on Rotten Tomatoes (which stands in stark contrast to the 38% rating from critics).

If you've been chomping at the bit to stream "Michael" from home, here's everything you need to know to watch it now. Just be careful busting a move to the King of Pop's greatest hits; we're not as young as we used to be.

When is 'Michael' coming to streaming?

"Michael" first hit the big screen on Friday, April 24, before making the leap to premium video-on-demand (PVOD) storefronts like Prime Video or Apple TV on June 9. As of August 10, "Michael" is streaming exclusively on Starz.

That's actually a little earlier than our release date prediction. New movies from major studios typically release digitally 45-65 days after they first hit theaters. Lionsgate tends to drag its feet on bringing its biggest movies to the best streaming platforms, but this release is a few weeks ahead of its usual four- to five-month timeline.

If you're not already subscribed, Starz offers ad-free programming for $7.99 per month or $74.99 per year. You can stream the movie on the Starz app or web portal. "Michael" will premiere on Starz's cable channel on Aug. 10 at 7 p.m. ET/PT.

Given how well "Michael" performed in theaters, I'm surprised to see it hit Starz so soon. For Lionsgate films, we can typically expect to wait between four and five months for a streaming release. For example, "The Long Walk" only came to Starz in January 2026, despite its release in theaters back in September 2025. Similarly, "The Housemaid" hit the big screen in mid-December last year, but only landed on Starz on April 1 this year. So for "Michael" to land on streaming just three months after its theatrical run is a welcome surprise.

Don't have Starz? In a February Forbes report, we learned that Lionsgate secured a new pay deal with Prime Video that included the full 2026-2028 slate. That deal will bring Lionsgate movies to Prime Video after their initial run on Starz. So, if you want to stream "Michael" on one of the more prominent streamers, odds are it'll come to Prime Video at some point in the future.

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Prime Video’s movie library can be pretty overwhelming, which makes the platform’s top 10 most-watched list a useful tool for getting a quick rundown of the films proving the most popular on the platform right now. But just because a movie ranks high doesn’t guarantee it’s worth your time; quite the opposite. I’ve seen many subpar flicks get into the top 10.

That’s why I’ve combed through the current Prime Video top 10 (as of Monday, August 10) and picked out a trio of movies that I believe deserve your attention. This week my picks range from a slick spy thriller to a dazzling sci-fi blockbuster to a chilling horror about a family pet turned feral. These are the best movies in today’s Prime Video top 10 ranking.

Best movies in the Prime Video top 10

‘The Amateur’ (2025)

I’m happy to see “The Amateur” sticking around the Prime Video top 10. This spy thriller starring Oscar winner Rami Malek is based on the 1981 novel by Robert Littell and was one of last year’s slightly underappreciated gems in theaters. It’s great to see it getting a second wind via Amazon’s streaming service. If you like the “Bourne” movies, you need to watch it.

Malek plays a CIA analyst whose world is shattered when his wife is killed in a terrorist attack. Using his skills, he identifies those responsible for his wife's murder and blackmails his superiors into giving him a license to hunt them down and get revenge. A novice in the field, Charlie (Malek) is shown the ropes by a gruff mentor, Hendo (Laurence Fishburne). However, even with some training, he’s still a fish out of water. Quickly realizing he can’t outshoot his enemies, he outthinks them using his superior intellect.

Watch "The Amateur" on Prime Video now

‘Project Hail Mary’ (2026)

“Project Hail Mary” is one of the year’s most entertaining blockbusters, and even if it was clearly made to be enjoyed on the big screen, it’s still a worthwhile watch at home. Adapted from Andy Weir’s novel of the same name, it stars Ryan Gosling, and while the “La La Land” star is excellent as the protagonist, Ryland Grace, he’s totally upstaged by an extraterrestrial nicknamed Rocky, who is brought to life using some incredible puppetry.

Smartly using a non-linear structure that leaps between the present day and flashbacks, “Project Hail Mary” is the story of Ryland Grace (Gosling), an astronaut on a mission that is vital to humanity’s survival. There’s just the slight problem that he awakens on an interstellar craft without any memories of his mission or even his own name. Piecing together his past, Grace must find a way to prevent the sun from dying, with a little help.

Watch "Project Hail Mary" on Prime Video now

‘Primate’ (2026)

“Primate” is a chilling horror-thriller about a family pet that goes from furry family member to a feral beast. It’s not the first movie of its ilk to use this core concept; Stephen King’s “Cujo” was unleashed on the screen back in 1983, but, running a tight 90 minutes, this chiller is effectively paced and concludes before the story's limitations are exposed. It’s a bloody creature feature that is a worthwhile watch for horror fans now it’s on Prime Video.

Lucy Pinborough (Johnny Sequoyah) returns to her family home in Hawai’i after several years away. Reunited with her father (Oscar-winning Troy Kotsur) and younger sister Erin (Gia Hunter), the homecoming quickly turns to a nightmare when the family’s pet chimpanzee, Ben, becomes violent after being infected with rabies. Now it’s a battle for survival against an aggressive animal that Lucy and Erin once considered part of the family.

Watch "Primate" on Prime Video now

Prime Video top 10 movies right now

1. "Masters of the Universe" (2026)
2. "The Amateur" (2025)
3. "Project Hail Mary" (2026)
4. "The Devil's Mouth" (2026)
5. "Moonfall" (2022)
6. "Primate" (2026)
7. "Uncharted" (2022)
8. "Agent Zero" (2026)
9. "Do Not Enter" (2026)
10. "The Sheep Detectives" (2026)

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Think you know your classic movies? Whether you consider yourself a serious film buff or simply someone who has spent far too many evenings rewatching the same favorites, this quiz is your chance to put that knowledge to the test.

I’ve put together eight multiple-choice questions covering some of the biggest and most memorable movies from before the turn of the millennium. From iconic performances and legendary characters to Oscars history and behind-the-scenes trivia, there’s a little bit of everything here. Some questions should be easy if you know your classics, while others might have you second-guessing yourself before you lock in an answer. And no, you can’t Google it!

So, how well do you really know the movies that helped shape cinema before 2000? Take the quiz below and see if you can make it through all eight questions with a perfect score. Good luck!

How did you do? Whether you managed a perfect score or found a few questions surprisingly tricky, hopefully this quiz brought back some memories of the classic movies that have helped shape cinema. Think you can do even better? Keep an eye out for our next movie quiz, where we'll put your knowledge to the test all over again.

If you enjoyed this quiz, then please bookmark our Quiz section and visit our Polls page to have your say on all manner of topics, from the best Hollywood movies to the latest Apple releases.

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Whether it’s a paper company or a parks department or a fashion magazine, workplaces are rife for good comedy, and one of this writer’s favorite on-the-job flicks is officially coming of age this year. Starring a pre-fame Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris and Justin Long, among others, the 2005 restaurant-staff comedy “Waiting” turns the big 2-1 this year, a fitting anniversary given how raunchy and rambunctious the cult-favorite movie is.

Riotously funny and relatable in its depiction of the messy dynamics between front-of-house staff and kitchen workers, the low-budget indie comedy has culled a devoted clientele of fans over the decades thanks to its strong cast, sharp timing and slacker charm.

And you can celebrate 21 years of “Waiting” by streaming the mid-aughts comedy now on Prime Video for free. Here’s why you should add it to your watchlist.

What is 'Waiting' about?

Based on writer-director Rob McKittrick’s own time working as a waiter, “Waiting” follows the young and underpaid waitstaff and kitchen crew at the fictional chain restaurant Shenaniganz, the kind of casual franchise spot with its own signature happy birthday song and plenty of knickknacks and tchotchkes lining the dining-room walls.

Taking place over a single chaotic day, the funny flick acquaints us with a slew of colorful characters, including Justin Long’s Dean (who is distraught that a former schoolmate has recently secured a plush engineering job while he’s been stuck at the less-than-glamorous serving gig for four years).

There's also Ryan Reynolds’ Shenaniganz long-timer Monty (who’s busy flirting with the underage hostess Natasha) and staff newcomer Mitch (John Francis Daley), who undergoes a horrific, nudity-filled first day of training.

Why I recommend you stream 'Waiting'

A critical darling it was certainly not. “Waiting” has a pretty abysmal 29% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics panning the gross-out comedy for being “more gross than comic.”

And though the movie’s signature crude humor and brazen slapstick are certainly a relic of mid-2000s bro-comedy humor, the underrated movie does serve up some service-industry realness in between all of those low-brow laughs, accurately capturing the rude customers, shift chaos and staff dynamics that restaurant workers know all too well.

Like a chain-restaurant dinner, watching “Waiting” may not be the best meal of your life, but as long as you’re surrounded by lovably colorful characters, you’ll certainly have a good time.

Stream “Waiting” on Prime Video now

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Whether it’s a paper company or a parks department or a fashion magazine, workplaces are rife for good comedy and one of this writers’ favorite on-the-job flicks is officially coming of age this year. Starring a pre-fame Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris and Justin Long, among others, the 2005 restaurant-staff comedy “Waiting” turns the big 2-1 this year, a fitting anniversary given how raunchy and rambunctious the cult-favorite movie is.

This week’s TV lineup is all over the map, and honestly, that’s part of the fun. New shows on Netflix, HBO Max and more of the best streaming services bring everything from superhero mystery and workplace hijinks to literary drama and international crime-solving, with a little Jack Reacher mayhem thrown in for good measure.

First up, "Reacher" season 4 puts its famously unstoppable hero back on the case, while "Lanterns" takes a darker trip into the DC universe. Meanwhile, "My Brilliant Career" brings a literary classic to the screen, "Tires" season 3 returns to the world’s most dysfunctional tire shop, and "Women in Blue" season 2 is back for another round of female police drama.

Whether you’re in the mood for fists, feelings or funny antics, there’s something to fill your watchlist. Here’s my guide to what’s new on TV this week.

‘Women in Blue’ season 2 (Apple TV)

The vibes: A little “Chinatown,” a little “Zodiac” with a feminist slant.
The plot: María (Bárbara Mori) is a lieutenant now, but the promotion doesn’t make policing any easier. When a student activist turns up dead, she and the Azules — Valentina (Natalia Téllez), Gabina (Amorita Rasgado), and Ángeles (Ximena Sariñana) — uncover a trail leading back to Mexico’s 1968 student massacre. Someone is delivering their own brand of justice, and the cops are next.
Premiere date: Episode 1 premieres Wed., Aug. 12 at 12 a.m. ET
Where to watch: Apple TV

‘Reacher’ season 4 (Prime Video)

The vibes: Big Apple + big Reacher = big trouble.
The plot: Jack Reacher (Alan Ritchson) is back in New York, where a disturbing subway encounter pulls him into a conspiracy reaching the highest levels of power. Season 4 adapts Lee Child’s “Gone Tomorrow,” with Reacher chasing answers involving politicians, extremists and old wars, all while wrestling with guilt over the woman whose death set the whole thing in motion.
Premiere date: Episodes 1-3 premiere Wed., Aug. 12 at 3 a.m. ET
Where to watch: Prime Video

‘My Brilliant Career’ (Netflix)

The vibes: ‘Little Women’ meets Jane Austen in 1900 Australia.
The plot: Sybylla (Philippa Northeast) wants to become a writer, not somebody’s wife, which is inconvenient when her struggling family needs her to marry well. Sent away from home, she catches the eye of wealthy landowner Harry Beecham (Christopher Chung), but handsome Frank Hawdon (Jake Dunn) offers an appealing alternative.
Premiere date: All 6 episodes on Thu., Aug. 13 at 3 a.m. ET
Where to watch: Netflix

‘Tires’ season 3 (Netflix)

The vibes: Family mixing with business and no HR department? Utter chaos
The plot: Shane (Shane Gillis) and Will (Steve Gerben) are now co-owners of Valley Forge Automotive, which sounds less like a promotion than a punishment. As the struggling shop — and their already-fragile friendship — starts to falter, the cousins must deal with their history. Meanwhile, new faces bring fresh shenanigans to the garage.
Premiere date: All 12 episodes on Thu., Aug. 13 at 3 a.m. ET
Where to watch: Netflix

‘Lanterns’ (HBO)

The vibes: “True Detective” with superheroes.
The plot: Veteran Green Lantern Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) and rookie John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) investigate a murder in rural Nebraska, only to stumble into a conspiracy that reaches far beyond Earth. Their prickly mentor-protégé relationship adds some buddy-cop friction as they contend with Sinestro, Guy Gardner, alien worlds and the shape-shifting threat of the Manhunters.
Premiere date: Episode 1 on Sun., Aug. 16 at 9 p.m. ET
Where to watch: HBO Max

If you're looking to find what new movies and shows Netflix is adding this week, I've got you covered. The streaming service is adding 21 new movies and shows this week. But there are quite a few titles still worth adding to your watchlist.

Top of the list is "Tires" season 3. Shane Gillis may not be batting a thousand with his other Netflix appearances, but this show is a certified hit. If you prefer some drama with your comedy, though, you may want to watch "Don't Say Good Luck." This teen musical is the latest Netflix movie to star Sunny Sandler, but I'll be watching it for Steve Buscemi. Then again, I might stick to MLB Field of Dreams: Phillies vs. Twins, which pits my adopted Philadelphia baseball team against the former Washington Senators in a cornfield in Iowa.

If for some reason those aren't your speed, you could check out "Mourinho." This three-part docuseries puts the spotlight on a football manager who's never shied away from it in his storied career. Or, check out "Rory Scovel: Show Must Go On," which is the latest comedy special from the "Eric Andre Show" veteran.

Those aren't the only movies, shows and live events to add to your watchlist this week, though. Here's the full schedule of everything new on Netflix over the next seven days, along with my top picks for what you need to stream. Don't forget to check out everything new on Netflix in August 2026 for even more movies and shows to check out.

New on Netflix this week: Top picks

'Tires' season 3

Genre: Workplace comedy series

What it's about: "Tires" stars Steve Gerben as Will. He manages his family's West Chester auto-repair chain, and he's barely keeping it alive. Not helping things is his cousin, Shane (Shane Gillis), who is not just family but also a questionable employee.

Why you should watch it: Season 3 looks to be more of the same for the Gillis-led sitcom. While his comedy is sometimes questionable (to say the least), this show acknowledges that ... to a degree. It's still often sophomoric humor, but you'll almost certainly laugh.

Watch "Tires" season 3 on Netflix starting August 13

'Don't Say Good Luck'

Genre: Musical teen drama movie

What's it about? "Don't Say Good Luck" stars Sunny Sandler as Sophie. She's a high schooler aspiring to be an actress. But as she scores the lead in the high school musical, her home life starts to unravel.

Why you need to watch it: Based on the trailer, it sure seems like Melanie Lynskey dies at the end of the movie, which is a bummer. Honestly, this "dramedy" seems to be heavy on the drama. But it also has Steve Buscemi as Sophie's grandfather, so I'm at least a little intrigued.

Watch "Don't Say Good Luck" on Netflix starting August 14

MLB Field of Dreams: Phillies vs. Twins

Genre: Live sporting event

What it's about: For the first time in four years, baseball is returning to Dyersville, Iowa. Home of the Field of Dreams, built on the site of the stadium from the iconic Kevin Costner movie of the same name, this patch of former cornfield will host the Philadelphia Phillies as they take on (and hopefully pummel) the Minnesota Twins.

Why you should watch it: If you build it, they will stream. Or, at least, that's what Netflix is hoping. It's their first time hosting the live Major League Baseball event. But Netflix is now fairly experienced at broadcasting live sports, so hopefully it'll be all Schwarbombs and no buffering.

Watch MLB Field of Dreams: Phillies vs. Twins on Netflix live starting at 7:30 p.m. ET on August 13

'Mourinho'

Genre: Docuseries

What it's about: José Mourinho wasn't always known as "The Special One." He started as a journeyman footballer. But everything changed in 2002 when he took over at Porto. In two years, he took them from a struggling side to champions of Europe. Since then, he's won at Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Roma. He may be egomaniacal, but there's no denying he's special.

Why you should watch it: Pretty much every football fan knows who Mourinho is. He's never been shy, and given the high-profile clubs he's won at, he's earned his time in the spotlight. That said, I'm very curious to see what Zlatan Ibrahimović has to say about his former manager in this docuseries.

Watch "Mourinho" on Netflix starting August 11

'Rory Scovel: Show Must Go On'

Genre: Stand-up comedy special

What it's about: Rory Scovel isn't the biggest name in comedy. But between appearances on "The Eric Andre Show," "Comedy Bang Bang" and a series of comedy specials, fans of stand-up likely know who he is. Now, he's bringing a new hour-long special to Netflix: "Show Must Go On."

Why you should watch it: We don't really know anything about Scovel's upcoming special. So I've included a clip above from his previous standup work. If you like it, you'll almost certainly like "Show Must Go On."

Watch "Rory Scovel: Show Must Go On" on Netflix starting August 11

Everything new on Netflix: August 10-16

AUGUST 10

"Dr. Seuss’s Red Fish, Blue Fish" season 3 (Netflix family)

Fun-loving pals Red and Blue swim together through life's ups and downs while visiting the zoo, camping out in nature, going to the doctor and more.

• "Midwinter Break"

AUGUST 11

"Mourinho" (GB) (Netflix documentary)

This trophy-packed, insider-fuelled documentary charts José Mourinho's iconic rise as one of the world's top footballing managers of the most elite clubs.

"Rory Scovel: Show Must Go On" (Netflix comedy special)

With a hypothetical home invasion, a biblical reenactment and his late dad's final wish, Rory Scovel delivers unrelenting laughs in this raucous special.

• "What's Eating Dan?" season 1

AUGUST 12

"Nando Between Two Worlds - A Sintonia Film" (BR) (Netflix film)

Caught between family life and his obligations to the criminal underworld, Nando faces an impossible choice about where his true loyalties lie.

AUGUST 13

"A Child of My Own" (MX) (Netflix film)

Desperate for a baby and burdened by family and societal expectations, a woman fakes a pregnancy and gets tangled in a crime in this shocking documentary.

MLB Field of Dreams: Phillies vs. Twins (Netflix live event)

The Phillies face the Twins as Major League Baseball returns to the Iowa cornfields for a nostalgic night of America's favorite pastime.

"My Brilliant Career" (AU) (Netflix series)

Modern, rebellious Sybylla dreams only of writing. Choosing an exciting career over a safe marriage is easy — until she falls in love unexpectedly.

"This, That and Everything in Between" (PH) (Netflix film)

A TV writer's carefully rebuilt life unravels when her estranged mother resurfaces after 27 years — with a secret that changes everything.

"Tires" season 3 (Netflix series)

While settling in as part owners of a struggling Valley Forge, Will confronts the road not taken and Shane finds himself on a detour toward adulthood.

• "Immaculate"

AUGUST 14

"Don't Say Good Luck" (Netflix film)

In this coming-of-age dramedy, Sophie Birenbaum (Sunny Sandler) is ready for the spotlight as the lead in her high school musical — until suddenly she’s living with even more drama at home than on the stage.

"Moria" (AR) (Netflix series)

In this highly stylized fictionalization, Moria Casán transforms her life story into a symbolic spectacle of fame, controversy and ceaseless reinvention.

"My Best Friend, His Girlfriend and Me" (DE) (Netflix film)

Olli and Matze are best friends living, working and planning to travel the world together — until Matze's romance with Rebecca turns it all upside down.

"To the Max" (ES) (Netflix film)

A group of friends bonded by their love for extreme sports discovers BASE jumping in wingsuits — but feeling like flying carries the highest risks.

"Umthetho" (ZA) (Netflix series)

To keep their youngest brother alive, an idealistic state prosecutor is forced to become a double agent in her imprisoned older brother's gang.

AUGUST 15

• "Firehouse Dog"
• "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"
• "The Shallows"
• "Smurfs: The Lost Village"

Leaving Netflix This Week

Leaving 8/10/26

"Copshop"
"Marry Me"

Leaving 8/15/26

"The Game" seasons 1-33

More from Tom's Guide

• I review TV shows for a living and these are the 10 shows from 2026 I’d actually recommend streaming right now
• 'The Odyssey’ is the best movie of 2026 so far — and maybe topples my favorite Christopher Nolan film
• Netflix just added 39 new movies — here are the 5 you need to stream right now

"Somebody Knows Something" features survivor advocate Kara Chamberlain diving into eight different missing persons cases to attempt to bring families closer to the truth.

Below is our guide on how to watch "Somebody Knows Something" from anywhere — live or on demand — including how to tune in with a VPN.

Chamberlain, a surivor of an 18-hour captivity by serial killer Richard Evonitz when she was just 15, has become a prominent true-crime influencer, and she's putting her personal experiences and professional connections to good use in new docuseries "Somebody Knows Something".

Exploring cold cases and unsolved disappearances across the United States, Chamberlain collaborates with law enforcement, the families affected, and uses the power of the internet to try and crack the cases and bring the victims home.

If you're ready to join the investigation, check out the following information regarding how to watch "Somebody Knows Something" with live viewing and streaming options available.

How to watch 'Somebody Knows Something' for FREE

"Somebody Knows Something" is available to watch live and free even if you don't have cable.

You can watch the series via YouTube TV or Fubo which both have free trials and carry the Freeform channel.

Remember, you'll need a VPN to watch if you're not in the U.S. right now. We recommend NordVPN.

Watch 'Somebody Knows Something' from anywhere

Traveling when "Somebody Knows Something" airs? A VPN, or virtual private network, can make your device appear to be back in your home country so you can log in to the streaming services you already pay for while you’re away.

We’ve tested all the major options, and NordVPN remains one of the best VPN services right now. It’s fast, easy to use, and works across phones, laptops, tablets, streaming sticks, and smart TVs. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it with very little risk.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favourite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're outside the U.S. but want to watch the show as usual, you'd select a U.S. server from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head over to Hulu and stream "Somebody Knows Something" as normal.

Watch 'Somebody Knows Something' in the U.S.

In the U.S., "Somebody Knows Something" airs on TV channel Freeform. The first two episodes premiere on Monday, August 10 at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

You can stream Freeform live through services such as Fubo, Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV, with Sling Orange carrying the channel in select markets.

But, what if you miss the live broadcast? The series lands on Hulu and will be available for on-demand streaming one day immediately after the Freeform broadcast.

If you're outside the U.S. when the show airs, you can use a VPN such as NordVPN to access your usual services while traveling.

Can you watch 'Somebody Knows Something' in Canada?

There is no release date for "Somebody Knows Something" in Canada right now, but the show is expected to arrive on Hulu/Disney+ there eventually.

Travelers from the U.S. visiting Canada can use a VPN to access their home subscriptions and bypass geo-locked services.

Can you watch 'Somebody Knows Something' in the U.K.?

Similarly, there is no international rollout for "Somebody Knows Something" in the U.K. at the moment, but it should land on Disney+ eventually.

NordVPN can help you sign in to Hulu if you're visiting Blighty at the moment.

Can you watch 'Somebody Knows Something' in Australia?

It is the same process in Australia, with "Somebody Knows Something" not having a release plan right now, though it is very likely to stream on-demand on Disney+ in the future.

If you're traveling and already subscribe to a service carrying the show in your home region, a VPN like NordVPN is the easiest way to keep watching without disruption.

'Somebody Knows Something' - episode guide

Here are the true crime cases that will be investigated throughout the series:

• The disappearance of five-month-old Sabrina Aisenberg, who went missing in 1997
• Colorado teenager Lashaya Stine who disappeared in 2016
• Steven Koecher, victim of an abandoned vehicle case in Nevada back in 2009
• Kevin McGrath, who disappeared from a Carnival cruise in 2023
• Kyron Horman, who disappeared from a science fair in 2010
• The murder of Liz Barraza, who was killed in 2019
• Amy Wroe Bechtel, who disappeared while jogging in 1997
• Brandy Hall, who vanished from Malabar Fire Station in 2006

'Somebody Knows Something' - trailer

More from Tom's Guide

• How to watch 'Monsters of God' online from anywhere
• The best streaming services to subscribe to right now
• How to watch 'How to Catch a Dirtbag' online — stream the Tizzy Ent investigative series from anywhere

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing

Out of any decade in film history, arguably none produced quite as many crowd-pleasing flicks as the 1980s, whether you want treasure-hunting action-adventures (“Indiana Jones”), heart-warming alien encounters (“E.T.”) or a Christmastime crime thriller (“Die Hard”).

And if you’re in the mood to televisually travel back that neon-drenched decade, Hulu — one of the best streaming services around — has plenty of throwback ‘80s flicks among its sprawling streaming selection. Tom’s Guide is helping you sort through all of that retro choice by narrowing things down to three top-notch titles that are worth a rewatch, from a David Bowie-led fantasy favorite to one of the late Rob Reiner’s most enduring love stories.

Here are three ‘80s movies available to stream now on Hulu that are worth a rewatch.

'The Princess Bride'

We lost filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife Michelle Singer Reiner earlier this year, but that doesn’t mean that the director’s legacy doesn’t live on via his beloved films, including his 1987 fantasy-romance “The Princess Bride.” An adaptation of William Goldman’s novel of the same name, the spirited tale centers on Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright), who’s stolen from her true love Westley (Cary Elwes) by the dastardly Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon).

After years apart, Westley — who has transformed from being a humble farm boy to the heroic Dread Pirate Roberts — sets off to rescue his beloved with the help of kindhearted giant Fezzik (Andre the Giant) and skilled swordsman Inigo Montoya (Mandy Patinkin). Combining action-comedy with swoon-worthy romance, “The Princess Bride” is a lasting testament to Reiner’s varied gifts and there’s no better way to honor his memory than with a rewatch.

Stream "The Princess Bride" on Hulu now

'Labyrinth'

If there was any rock star with enough swagger to pull off playing someone called the Goblin King, it’s the one and only David Bowie. The Starman himself leads this musical-fantasy film from Jim Henson, which turns the big 4-0 this year, making it high time to revisit the wonderfully weird cult classic. After Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) jokingly wishes away her baby brother, the teen is given just 13 hours to navigate a magical maze to rescue her sibling from the Goblin King Jareth.

Packed with elaborately practical puppetry, a dreamily surreal otherworld and a memorable synth-pop soundtrack, “Labyrinth” is one of the decade’s most distinctive creations, and with that big anniversary hitting this year, it’s worth another journey into the maze.

Stream "Labyrinth" on Hulu now

'Dirty Dancing'

Few movies capture that summer feeling quite like the 1987 Emile Ardolino-directed “Dirty Dancing.” While bright, law-bound high schooler Baby (Jennifer Grey) is vacationing at a Catskills resort with her family in the summer of 1963, she gets unexpectedly entangled in the work drama —and sensual dancing—of the resort’s resident dance tutor Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). While her parents (Jerry Orbach and Kelly Bishop) and sister (Cynthia Rhodes) keep busy with afternoons by the lake, Baby secretly takes dance lessons with Johnny that turns into a passionate affair between the unlikely pair.

“Dirty Dancing” was a pop-culture phenomenon when it premiered nearly four decades ago, and remains an enduring favorite thanks to the palpable onscreen chemistry between Grey and Swayze (allegedly fueled by offscreen animosity) and the instantly iconic dance number that serves as the film’s rousing finale.

Stream “Dirty Dancing” on Hulu now

More from Tom's Guide

• Beyond the DeLorean: how many iconic 80s movie gadgets and cars do you remember?
• From Biff to Johnny: Can you name the '80s movie from its biggest jerk?
• I've seen every 1980s Denzel Washington movie and here's my ranking

We love a big razzle-dazzle movie musical — your "Chicago," your "Wicked," your "Greatest Showman" and whatnot. But sometimes we're in the mood for a quieter, more intimate number, the kind of nontraditional big-screen musical where characters write, play and sing songs that are organically woven into the drama of the film, rather than spontaneously burst out in polished vocals and choreographed dances.

Director John Carney is a master of that kind of musical-dramedy. The Irish filmmaker is behind such genre favorites as 2007's "Once" (the Oscar-winning two-hander between Markéta Irglová and the late Glen Hansard) and 2013's "Begin Again" (a New York-set musical romance between Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo).

Carney's 2023 follow-up "Flora and Son," which he wrote, directed, produced and composed, is far less well-known than those two titles but equally engrossing, with a winning lead performance by Irish actress Eve Hewson (who basically has music in her blood; she's Bono's daughter, after all). An Apple Original, the musical film is streaming now on Apple TV; here's why you should add it to your watchlist.

What is 'Flora and Son' about?

The 2023 indie centers on the titular Flora (Eve Hewson), a single, working-class mother living in Dublin with her 14-year-old son Max (Orén Kinlan), who has developed a frustrating penchant for acting up.

Desperate for a way to connect with the teen and keep him out of trouble, Flora rescues a beat-up acoustic guitar from the trash and offers it up to her son as a creative outlet. (The premise was reportedly plucked directly from John Carney's own upbringing.)

Max is less than inspired by the idea, but Flora decides to learn how to play the instrument herself and bring some much-needed harmony to her own life with the help of a washed-up Los Angeles musician named Jeff, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Jack Reynor, Orén Kinlan, Don Wycherley and Kelly Thornton round out the small ensemble.

Why I recommend you stream 'Flora and Son'

Given that "Flora and Son" only saw a limited theatrical release in the U.S. back in 2023, you might have missed the heartwarming little flick when it first premiered, but that's the beauty of a streaming service like Apple TV. Like discovering an old song you've never heard before, you can unearth hidden-gem movies long after they've departed theaters.

And this music-fueled crowd-pleaser is certainly a hidden gem, with its relatable take on the messiness of motherhood; the realistic, lived-in chemistry between its characters; and the rousing way it presents music as a transformative tool for both personal growth and emotional connection. And beyond all that, the songs — including original works co-written and co-composed by John Carney and Gary Clark — are as fun to bop along to as they are crucial to the story.

"Known for 'Sing Street,' 'Once,' and 'Begin Again,' Carney is a master of telling the stories of artists in all their angst and failure and resilience," writes Jillian Manning for The Northern Express, adding: "Carney’s dramas also have quite stunning soundtracks, and watching Flora, Jeff, and Max inch closer together through their various musical passions is the true highlight of Flora and Son."

Stream "Flora and Son" on Apple TV now

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• 31 best Apple TV shows to watch now
• Everything new on Apple TV in August 2026: 'Ted Lasso' season 4 and much more
• My heart broke when this musical comedy show was canceled — but at least it’s streaming on Hulu

"The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" will see seven iconic cast members join forces for a nine-episode journey across the States.

Here's how to watch "The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" from anywhere with a VPN - and potentially for a dollar with a neat streaming hack.

Few reality TV shows can boast the scope and popular appeal of "The Real Housewives", with 12 versions of the show in the U.S. alone. Now, past and present cast members will come together for the ultimate celebration in a journey across the States to touch down in various franchise cities for a milestone anniversary.

We will see Gizelle Bryant, Luann de Lesseps, Teresa Giudice, Vicki Gunvalson, Kyle Richards, Lisa Barlow and Porsha Williams visit other members of the casts in Orange County, Beverly Hills, Atlanta, Miami, and New York City across this nine-episode event.

Ready for the big party? Here's how to watch "The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" online from anywhere.

How to watch 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girl Trip: Roaring 20th' for FREE

You can access "The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" is available to watch live and free via a YouTube TV 21-day free trial.

Remember, you'll need a VPN to watch if you're not in the U.S. right now. We recommend NordVPN.

Watch 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' from anywhere

Traveling and blocked from your usual apps? A VPN, or virtual private network, lets your device appear to be back in your home country, so you can securely use your existing subscriptions while you’re abroad.

We’ve tested many services, and the best VPN currently available is NordVPN. It offers fast, reliable connections, works on most devices, and you can try it risk-free for 30 days thanks to its money-back guarantee.

Using a VPN is simple:

1. Install the VPN of your choice (NordVPN is our favourite).

2. Choose the location you want in the VPN app. For example, pick a U.S. server to use Peacock as normal while overseas.

3. Open your streaming service and start watching.

Watch 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' in the U.S.

"The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" will air on Bravo first, with episodes starting on Sunday, August 9 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

Bravo is available via cord-cutters like YouTube TV, Sling TV and DirecTV Stream.

If you miss the show on linear TV, you can catch the episodes on Peacock a day later. Peacock packages start at $10.99/month.

U.S. subscriber abroad? If you’re traveling and find your usual apps blocked, you can securely access your subscription with a VPN.

How to watch 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' in Canada

"The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" will be available on demand through Hayu in Canada.

No announcement has been made on a release date.

Not at home? Sign up to a service like NordVPN and access your usual U.S. streaming platforms no matter where you are.

How to watch 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' in the U.K.

"The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" will play on Hayu in the U.K..

If you’re traveling to the UK and want to watch, a VPN like NordVPN can help you securely access your apps as normal.

How to watch 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' in Australia

"The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th" will be available to watch in Australia on Hayu.

A U.S. citizen in Australia on vacation right now? Use a VPN, such as NordVPN, to sign in to your Peacock account and watch as you would at home.

'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' - need to know

'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' - trailer

'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th' - cast

The key cast members involved in this special series are as follows:

• Teresa Giudice
• Luann de Lesseps
• Kyle Richards
• Vicki Gunvalson
• Gizelle Bryant
• Porsha Williams
• Lisa Barlow

There will also be brief cameos from over 80 former cast members and current cast.

More from Tom's Guide

• New on Peacock in August 2026: All the new shows and movies to watch
• How to watch 'Naked and Afraid: Shipwrecked' online
• How to watch 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire' online

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Netflix’s new sci-fi thriller movie is proving popular just a couple of days after its release. "The Last House" has already climbed to the top of the platform’s top 10 most-watched list, securing the No. 1 spot. I’m not surprised; Netflix subscribers love thrillers, and this one has an intriguing premise focused on a family trapped in their home by mysterious forces.

If you’ve already watched “The Last House” and are craving more claustrophobic thrills, then I can help. I’ve found five movies that also center on characters trapped and seeking a way to escape. The locations range from an underground bunker, a windowless exam room, and even a coffin. These thriller flicks are intense and perfect to watch after “The Last House.”

‘Brick’ (2025)

If you want the closest movie possible to “The Last House,” the obvious choice is “Brick.” This Netflix original is about a couple who find themselves trapped in their home by an unexplainable force and desperately search for a way out. The similarities are stark. To be clear, on a quality level, “Brick” isn’t great; its dialogue is hammy, performances are weak, and the emotional trauma subtext is unsubtle, but like “The Last House,” you’ll want to finish watching just to figure out exactly what is keeping them trapped.

Tim (Matthias Schweighöfer) and Olivia (Ruby O. Fee) are an unhappy couple whose relationship is in crisis. The last thing they need is to be locked up in their apartment, but when a mysterious brick wall appears over their apartment building, they're trapped. Uniting with their neighbors, some friendly, some hostile, they resolve to figure out how the wall appeared, but more importantly, how they can find their freedom.

Watch "Brick" on Netflix now

‘Buried’ (2010)

Being trapped in a house or apartment is bad enough, but for Paul Conroy, his confinement is even more severe as he’s sealed within a coffin, buried six feet underground. “Buried” is a remarkably tense survival thriller. It makes the bold decision to set the entire movie within a single wooden box. There’s no introduction to set the scene, flashbacks or cut-aways; it’s just 90 minutes of claustrophobic camera lens and ratcheting suspense.

Ryan Reynolds plays Conroy, bringing his likability to the role, but shaving off some of his humor. After all, there’s nothing funny about Conroy's situation. Fortunately, he’s not totally alone in the box; he does have access to a cellphone, letting him call the outside world for help, but with a dwindling supply of oxygen, time is running out. It all builds to a heart-in-mouth ending that will have you in stunned silence as the credits roll.

Watch "Buried" (for FREE) on Tubi now

‘127 Hours’ (2010)

“The Last House” is a sci-fi thriller that centers on narrative elements that don’t exist in our reality. “127 Hours,” on the other hand, is a very real story of human survival against bleak odds. Directed by Danny Boyle, this Oscar-nominated movie is based on the true story of Aron Ralston, a hiker who got trapped miles from civilization in Bluejohn Canyon, Utah.

Aron (played by James Franco) is hiking the dusty trails when a climbing mishap results in an 800-pound boulder pinning his right arm against a rock wall. Unable to free himself, and with only a limited supply of water and food, he has to consider the unthinkable to free himself: cutting off his arm with a cheap multi-tool blade.

The movie enjoyed a resurgence in popularity earlier this year when a superfan revealed she had watched the movie more than 1,000 times. I like this film, but with its stomach-turning finale, once was enough for me!

Watch "127 Hours" on Prime Video now

‘10 Cloverfield Lane’ (2016)

My colleague Alix Blackburn is convinced the upcoming sci-fi thriller “The End of Oak Street” is a secret Cloverfield movie. Maybe this fan theory will prove to be accurate, but I wouldn’t bet on it surpassing the current best film in the franchise, “10 Cloverfield Lane.” This horror-thriller uses its claustrophobic setting to great effect, and unlike in “The Last House,” where it’s a loving family locked up together, here it's a trio of strangers.

Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) gets into a car accident after a fight with her fiancé. Rather than waking up in a hospital, she finds herself in an underground bunker with Howard (John Goodman). He explains that poisonous air has made the outside world uninhabitable and his bunker remains safe. Also down there is another man, Emmett (John Gallagher Jr.). With cabin fever setting in, Michelle wonders if Howard can be trusted.

Watch "10 Cloverfield Lane" on Fubo now

‘Exam’ (2009)

“Exam” is a little different from the rest of the movies on this list (and “The Last House”) because it sees a group of people willingly trap themselves in a single location, in this case a seemingly ordinary windowless room. It’s a psychological thriller packed full of twists and turns, so if you want a flick that will keep you guessing, then here’s the answer. A limp finale might leave you disappointed at the very end, but the journey to get there is fun.

This British film opens with eight nameless candidates for a competitive corporate job entering a room, each assigned to a small desk. An overseer (Colin Salmon) explains they will have 80 minutes to answer a single question, and must follow a strict set of rules. It sounds simple enough, but as the exam gets underway, it becomes clear that this test is not so straightforward. As their confusion rises, so does the tension.

Watch "Exam" on AMC+ now

More from Tom's Guide

• New on Netflix in August 2026
• I’m convinced ‘The End of Oak Street’ is a ‘Cloverfield’ movie
• Netflix's "The Last House" review: A movie of two halves

We have the CW to thank for some of TV's biggest cult classics, from "Gossip Girl" and "The Vampire Diaries" to "90210" and "Riverdale." But one I don't see getting its flowers nearly enough is Rachel Bloom's "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend," a show I have not shut up about in the 10 years since it premiered. If musical numbers, women-led comedies, and dark humor are your jam, it needs to be on your watchlist — especially now that all four seasons are streaming for free on Pluto TV.

"Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" joined Pluto TV’s U.S. catalog on August 1 after spending nearly two years in streaming purgatory since Netflix gave it the boot in 2024. You could still find most of the musical numbers on YouTube (and there are a lot, at least a couple each episode), but the show itself became a much harder sell without a platform to watch it on.

Now that it's streaming on one of the best free streaming platforms, I'm once again shouting from the rooftops about how great "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" is. Other fan-favorite shows like "Jane the Virgin" and "iZombie" also made the jump to Pluto TV this month.

Blending comedy, drama, satire and elaborate musical numbers, "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" was unlike just about anything else on network television at the time, and there really hasn't been a show like it since. All my grown-up theater majors, mentally ill girlies, and Tumblr users out there should definitely add it to their watchlist. Still unconvinced? Here's everything you need to know about "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend."

What is 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' about?

Created, written, and directed by Rachel Bloom, "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" follows a type A lawyer named Rebecca (Bloom) who abandons her promising career in the big city for the small town of West Covina, California, to reinvent herself...and hopefully capture the heart of her high school ex: Josh Chan (Vincent Rodriquez). The fact that he has a smoking hot girlfriend (Gabrielle Ruiz) who's really good at yoga is no match for true love. Or at least that's what she tells herself as she pines and daydreams about a boy band made up of four Joshes.

As part of her fresh start, she lands a job at a local firm, makes some new friends like her coworker Paula (Donna Lynne Champlin) and April Ludgate-esque neighbor Heather (Vella Lovell), gets dragged into workplace drama, and begins an on-again, off-again romance with one of Josh’s friends (Santino Fontana of "Frozen" fame) — all while trying desperately to make Josh fall for her.

Rebecca is deeply delusional, bouncing from love interest to the next — then back to her first love, her second love interest’s dad, and, well, you get the idea. Each season builds out the colorful cast of characters and offers a deeper look into Rebecca's inner world, often through hilarious and endlessly quotable musical numbers. (Sexy French Depression, Love Kernels, and Let's Generalize About Men are some of my favs.)

Stream 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' on Pluto TV now

Despite rave reviews, two Emmys and enough fans to pack the cast's live shows across the U.S. in the show's heyday, "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend's" ratings were so persistently low that by season four it became a joke in the show itself. You'd never know from the review, though, with critics giving each season near perfect scores on Rotten Tomatoes.

Beyond the deeply relatable earworms in each episode, what impressed me the most was how Bloom turns the "crazy ex-girlfriend" trope on its head. Rebecca's schemes to win Josh over are played for laughs in the early seasons but eventually catch up to her as her mental health spirals out of control. It becomes clear to everyone except Rebecca that no relationship can give her what she needs until she learns to accept and understand herself. In many ways, she's an amped-up version of something most of us can relate to: going to ridiculous lengths to score attention from someone we desperately want to impress.

Watch all four seasons of "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" on Pluto TV now

More from Tom's Guide

• I watched hours of Tubi and Pluto TV to see which free streaming service has more ads — and one has twice as many
• 8 new movies and shows to watch this weekend on Netflix, HBO Max and more (Aug. 7-9)
• Netflix’s new sci-fi thriller could have been the streamer’s best movie of the year — but the watered-down finale sinks it

Everyone has Netflix. Well, almost everyone. At least that's the conclusion we reached when hundreds of you responded to our Tom's Guide Streaming Survey last month. Of the 682 readers who responded, 76.4% said they had Netflix. That was just behind Prime Video, which most people have simply because they have Amazon Prime.

Just as interestingly, when asked what streaming service you would never cancel, 38.9% responded with Netflix. That was more than any other service, including Prime Video. When we ran a similar poll in other articles, the results were nearly the same: Out of 5,897 respondents, 42% of them said Netflix was the one service they'd never cancel.

So we decided to turn to the one sample we hadn't surveyed yet: our own staff. So I canvassed the Tom's Guide staff and asked them why they would — or already have — cancel Netflix. Some of the answers weren't necessarily a surprise, but a few trends raised my eyebrow.

Turns out, people hate price hikes

Of the 10 Tom's Guide staffers who responded to my call to action, half mentioned price hikes as a reason to quit. Of those five, three specifically called out the ad-tier being too expensive as a reason to leave.

"The only thing keeping me with Netflix is the low-ish price of the Ads plan," responded our Senior Editor for Reviews & Cameras, Peter Wolinski.

"I would cancel Netflix if the standard with ads went over $10," responded our News Editor, Alyse Stanley. She wasn't the only one to specifically cite $10 as an uncrossable red line, either.

To be fair, price hikes being a problem isn't a huge surprise. When we polled readers during the last Netflix price hike, 1,506 responded, and nearly half said they were "Definitely thinking about canceling." But it was interesting to see that it was the ad-supported plan getting more expensive that has people concerned, rather than the more premium tiers. It suggests that ad-supported plans do work, but only if you make them cheap enough to be desirable compromises.

Just when I thought I was out, Netflix pulls me back in

Aside from price hikes, the biggest reason our staff seemed ready to ditch Netflix (or already had) was that they simply didn't care about what the streaming giant was offering in a given month.

In the industry, this is known as "churn," and it's long been a thorn in the side of streaming services. Combating churn is one of the top priorities for streaming services. But sometimes, you just can't convince people to stick around for something they don't want.

"I’ve cancelled Netflix for now until 'Owning Manhattan' is back," our AI Editor, Amanda Caswell, responded. Both our Managing Streaming Editor, Kelly Woo, and our Senior Streaming Writer, Alix Blackburn, recommended people churn when streamers don't have the new shows and movies they want in their responses. Our UK Phones Editor, Tom, said he ditched Netflix back in 2019 after it canceled "Santa Clarita Diet," and he hasn't missed it since.

Netflix is spending on live events, but do people actually care?

Aside from price hikes and churn, some respondents mentioned canceling beloved shows as a reason to leave. One cited Paramount's gutting of CBS News as a reason they left Paramount+, and said they'd leave Netflix if similar politically motivated decisions were made by the streaming service.

But one thing that didn't get a mention? Not even once? Live sports and live events.

Now, that could be down to sample size. After all, 10 respondents at a tech lifestyle publication do not make a representative population. But nobody mentioned live programming as a reason they liked Netflix, or felt they needed to keep it around.

Given that this live programming is contributing to the price hikes for Netflix and other streaming services, maybe it's worth reevaluating how much the live programming actually helps. It's worth mentioning, though, that live programming can often be aimed at juicing new subscriber growth as much as anything else. If 10 million (just a random number) sign up for an NFL game, and 8 million leave the next month, that's still a net positive for Netflix.

Are price hikes likely what causes you to quit Netflix for good? Let us know

Ultimately, James Carville might have been right: It's the economy, stupid. At least, when it comes to canceling Netflix. While people were concerned about their favorite shows and movies disappearing, half cited price as the main cause for alarm.

That said, it seemed like price was the main reason people would cancel Netflix, but content was the main reason people actually did cancel their subscription.

So we want to hear from you, our readers. Sound off in the comments section at the end of this article to let us know why you have left Netflix, or what your breaking point would be.

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• 3 new Hulu shows you need to binge-watch this weekend (August 7-9)
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"Professor T" season 5's murder cases include such unlikely backdrops as a relaxing retreat, a charity fundraiser and a comic convention, but they aren't the only puzzles wrinkling Professor Jasper Tempest's (Ben Miller) brain.

Here's how to watch “Professor T" season 5 online from anywhere with a VPN — and potentially for free.

The brilliant but myopic criminologist could have a good thing going with Dr. Helena Goldberg (Juliet Stevenson), if only he had a tighter grasp on his instincts. It's during a getaway at a secluded spa that trouble rears its head, and to Helena's exasperation Jasper can't leave the investigation to others.

Their relationship issues pale in comparison to DS Dan Winters' (Barney White), however, while DCI Maiya Goswami (Sunetra Sarker) manages to coax out the best from DC Chloe Highsmith (Rhian Blundell).

Director Dries Vos is promising "darker, twisting cases" from "Professor T", which has struck out on its own after becoming the longest-running adaptation in the franchise. At least one more season has already been confirmed, too.

Read on as we explain how to watch "Professor T" season 5 online from anywhere, starting with free options.

How to watch 'Professor T' season 5 for FREE

You can watch "Professor T" S5 on PBS Passport in the U.S. and Canada. All six episodes premiere early online on Sunday, August 9.

In the U.S., Prime offers new subscribers a 7-day FREE trial of Masterpiece on PBS, after which a subscription costs $6.99/month. Customers in Canada get a 14-day FREE trial.

Abroad when it's on? Use a VPN to get around the geo-restrictions that will prevent your favorite streamer from working. Scroll down for all the details.

How to watch 'Professor T' season 5 from anywhere

Away from home at the moment and blocked from watching "Professor T" S5 on your preferred service?

You can still tune in as normal thanks to the wonders of a VPN (Virtual Private Network). The software allows your devices to appear as if they're back in your home country regardless of where in the world you are. Ideal for viewers away on vacation or on business. Our favorite is NordVPN. It's the best on the market:

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you want to watch the show free-of-charge via PBS Masterpiece, choose 'United States' from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the show. Head to Prime Video, activate the free trial, and watch "Professor T" for free.

How to watch 'Professor T' season 5 in the U.S.

In the U.S., all six episodes of "Professor T" season 5 will be available to stream as a boxset on PBS Passport from Sunday, August 9.

PBS Passport requires a donation of $5/month or $60/year, but it's available through the Masterpiece on PBS addon for Prime Video, which costs $6.99/month after a 7-day FREE trial.

The TV premiere, meanwhile, is set for Sunday, October 18.

Abroad when it comes out? Use a VPN to get around the geo-restrictions that will prevent your favorite streamer from working. Read on for all the details.

How to watch 'Professor T' season 5 in Canada

The entirety of "Professor T" will be available to stream on PBS Passport in Canada from Sunday, August 9.

PBS Passport requires a donation of US$5/month or US$60/year, but it's available through the Masterpiece on PBS addon for Prime Video, which costs CA$7.99/month after a 14-day FREE trial.

"Professor T" S5 won't air on TV until much later this year, from Sunday, October 18.

Outside Canada when it's on? Use a VPN to get around the geo-restrictions that will prevent Masterpiece on PBS from working.

How to watch 'Professor T' season 5 in the U.K.

Viewers are one season behind in the U.K., where "Professor T" season 4 is set to premiere at 9 p.m. BST on Wednesday, August 19.

The good news is that it will be free-to-air on ITV and ITVX.

Based on previous timetables, season 5 should arrive in Blighty in around a year's time.

If you're in the U.K. on vacation or for work from the U.S. or Canada or Australia, you can still catch "Professor T" S5 by using a VPN, such as NordVPN.

How to watch ‘Professor T’ season 5 in Australia

Britbox is home to "Professor T" in Australia, but at the time of writing it isn't clear when season 5 will come out.

The promising news is that S4 hit the streamer on August 28 last year, days after its North American premiere.

A subscription costs AU$13.99/month or AU$139.99/year after a 7-day FREE trial.

If you're currently in Australia for work or on vacation from the U.S. or Canada, NordVPN will help you watch "Professor T" S5.

'Professor T' season 5 — Need to Know

'Professor T' S5 episode guide

• Episode 1 — "Natural Causes": Jasper Tempest (Ben Miller) and Helena (Juliet Stevenson) go on a minisemester at a luxury spa hotel, where a death occurs that Jasper suspects is not due to natural causes.
• Episode 2 — "The Ring": Tension explodes after a charity boxing match between the university and the city. Undefeated champion Rhys Gibson is defeated by local hero Joe Steele, but soon after he is found in an alley, beaten to death.
• Episode 3 — "Retreat": Jasper and the police investigate a mysterious death at a rural spiritual retreat managed by the enigmatic Lady Cynthia.
• Episode 4 — "Ghostwriter": The murder of the famous crime writer Hamish Maclean, Jasper's former mentor, shakes the professor deeply. After winning a prestigious literary prize, Hamish is found brutally murdered in front of his house.
• Episode 5 — "Cipher": A young woman, in the company of a man on a golf course, dies after being shot. The man is later found, also shot, dead in a bunker. Finally, his companion is found dead in his office. Goswami receives letters in code.
• Episode 6 — "The Things We Do for Love": Jasper and Helena plan to move to the US. Dan tells his boss, Goswami, about CCTV photos of his girlfriend's father. A man is found murdered at a comic con in Cambridge.

'Professor T' S5 cast

• Ben Miller as Jasper Tempest
• Frances de la Tour as Adelaide Tempest
• Zoe Wanamaker as Zelda Radclyffe,
• Juliet Stevenson as Helena Goldberg
• Barney White as Dan Winters
• Sunetra Sarker as Maiya Goswami
• Rhian Blundell as Chloe Highsmith

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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

You can watch Argentina vs South Africa live and free on RugbyPass TV (U.S.) from anywhere with a VPN. RugbyPass TV will broadcast the whole of Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour, including this warm-up match for the Springboks.

The match kicks off at 3pm ET / 8pm BST / 9pm SAST.

The Pumas head into this game after a frustrating first half of the 2026 Nations Championship, in which they failed to make home advantage count. Defeats by Scotland and England in the Southern Series sandwiched a win over Wales, while fly-half Tomas Albornoz was banned for four matches for intimidating the referee at the end of the defeat to Steve Borthwick's side. The half-back will miss this game as well as the upcoming two Tests against Australia, with coach Felipe Contepomi naming an inexperienced squad that includes 10 uncapped players.

Rassie Erasmus has no such problems, as his side arrive in Buenos Aires on a 12-match winning run. The Springboks coach has rested several players for the clash at Estadio José Amalfitani but can still call on plenty of star names, with captain Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Morne van den Berg all returning to face Argentina. Of course, Erasmus will have one eye on the opening Test against New Zealand at Ellis Park in a fortnight's time, the first of four matches against the All Blacks, but he will know not to underestimate a Pumas side that beat South Africa 29-28 when the teams last met in Argentina in 2024.

Read on as we show you how to watch Argentina vs South Africa for free from anywhere in the world.

How to watch Argentina vs South Africa for free

In the U.S., you will be able to stream Argentina vs South Africa for free on RugbyPass TV.

How to watch Argentina vs South Africa free from anywhere

RugbyPass TV are only broadcasting Argentina vs South Africa for free in a select number of countries across the globe, including the U.S..

Rugby lovers that are traveling or working abroad for this weekend's game will need to use a VPN to access their local free stream.

There are lots of VPNs but NordVPN is our favorite — plus you can save 75%.

It's really simple to use a VPN to watch Argentina vs South Africa on RugbyPass TV.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose a location to connect to in the VPN app. For example, if you want to watch the free stream in the U.S., choose 'United States' from the listed countries.

3. Sit back and enjoy the game. Open RugbyPass TV on your chosen device, sign in, and watch Argentina vs South Africa for free.

Which devices can I watch Argentina vs South Africa with?

You can watch RugbyPass TV on the following devices and platforms:

Amazon Fire TV (Fire TV Stick, Fire TV Cube and Fire TV Edition TVs)
Android (Mobile & Tablet)
Android TV
Apple TV
Chromecast
Google TV
Hisense Smart TVs
iPhone & iPad (iOS)
LG Smart TVs
Samsung Smart TVs
Web browsers (PC and Mac)

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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Happy Saturday, everyone. Alyse can’t be here this week to provide her usual expert eye on what to watch, so I’m (figuratively) stepping into her shoes to give my opinion on the top ten trending Netflix movies to help you sift the cinematic magic from the disappointing duds.

Despite the critically panned “72 Hours” finally losing the number-one slot after two weeks, it’s somewhat slim pickings in the top ten. Still, I’ve picked out the best of the bunch: a gripping true crime documentary, an animated family comedy, and what one of our writers dubbed “one of the most underrated movies of 2024."

(I would have highlighted “Spider-Man: Homecoming”, but Alyse flagged it last week when it first re-entered the charts, and I don’t want to look too unoriginal…).

Of course, your tastes may differ, so you can see Netflix’s full top ten list for the weekend below. And if you’re new to Netflix, you should check in on our favorite five of the year so far, too.

This article is based on Netflix's top 10 movies list in the U.S. as of Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Best movies in the Netflix top 10

‘In the Land of Saints & Sinners’ (2024)

This week’s new number one isn’t super recent, but you may have missed it when it was first released two years ago. If you did, now is the perfect time to see what you missed, as our own Senior Entertainment Writer, Rory Mellon, called it “one of the most underrated movies of 2024” when he wrote about it last year.

Set in Troubles-era Ireland, “In the Land of Saints & Sinners” is the kind of action-thriller movie that Liam Neeson excels in. As World War II veteran Finbar Murphy, Neeson is called upon to use his combat experience as a contract killer, with Jack Gleeson (King Joffrey from Game of Thrones) as his eager apprentice. Murphy’s desire to leave the criminal life behind is complicated when a group of IRA members arrives, causing trouble in the local community.

It pulled in a solid 83% fresh critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it a deserved number one this week. And running at under two hours, you won’t have to devote a whole evening to it, either.

Watch “In the Land of Saints & Sinners” on Netflix now

‘A Toxic Love Story’ (2026)

“A Toxic Love Story” has been in Netflix’s top ten for three weeks now, but after a fortnight in second spot, it finally looks like it’s retreating. Sitting in ninth spot this week, there’s a good chance the true-crime documentary won’t be here this time next week.

If you haven’t caught it yet, you really should. This is regarded as a return to form for Netflix’s true-crime documentaries: a story that starts off as simple yet intriguing (a couple starts receiving anonymous threats after getting married) but ends up spiraling in plenty of unexpected directions before the full 88-minute run time elapses.

Reviewers loved it, with a 100% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and while the viewer score is considerably more mixed at 64% positive, it’s well worth watching if you miss the kind of jaw-dropping true-crime stories that Netflix used to put out.

Watch “A Toxic Love Story” on Netflix now

‘Smallfoot’ (2018)

Coming in at number ten, a complete change of pace. “Smallfoot” is a family animation from Warner Brothers which entertainingly turns the Bigfoot myth on its head. What if Yeti don’t believe humans exist?

That’s the conceit, until teenage Yeti Migo (Channing Tatum) accidentally finds a real-life smallfoot (or human to, uh, humans) in the wild. Said human turns out to be a struggling TV wildlife documentarian (James Corden) who himself has been trying to fake Yeti footage to recover his tumbling ratings.

You can probably guess where the story is going, with the formation of an odd-couple friendship, but while “Smallfoot” isn’t up to Pixar standards, it charmed reviewers enough upon its release in 2018. It boasts a 76% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and at just 96 minutes long, it doesn’t outstay its welcome.

Watch “Smallfoot” on Netflix now

Netflix top 10 movies right now

1. "In the Land of Saints & Sinners" (2024)
2. "72 Hours" (2026)
3. "Minions" (2015)
4. "Terry McMillan Presents: His, Hers & Ours" (2025)
5. "Black Adam" (2022)
6. "Chief of Station" (2024)
7. "Spider-Man: Homecoming" (2017)
8. "Five Nights at Freddy’s 2" (2025)
9. "A Toxic Love Story" (2026)
10. "Smallfoot" (2018)

Subscribe to Tom's Guide on YouTube and follow Tom's Guide Entertainment on TikTok and Instagram. Finally, you can visit our dedicated Tom's Guide Savings Squad hub for expert help on getting the best products for less.

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Man Utd will test themselves against European champions PSG in their fourth pre-season friendly, in Gothenburg, Sweden. The Red Devils have won their two most recent summer matches and will target another positive afternoon, with the new Premier League campaign just two weeks away.

This is the fourth and final pre-season fixture in the Nordic countries for Michael Carrick's men, who lost to Wrexham in Finland before beating Rosenborg and Atletico Madrid in Norway and Sweden respectively. Cameroon striker Bryan Mbeumo scored twice to beat Spanish giants Atleti in Stockholm and the Red Devils have now swapped the Swedish capital for Gothenburg ahead of this friendly in the 40,000-capacity Ullevi Stadium.

With some United players still on their post-World Cup break and others working their way up to full fitness at home, Carrick has handed minutes to several of the club's rising stars in pre-season. Forward JJ Gabriel, at just 15, made his first senior appearance against Atletico, while 19-year-old Shea Lacey has also impressed.

PSG have had a shorter pre-season schedule than most teams, due to so many players taking time out after the World Cup. The back-to-back Champions League winners have scheduled just two summer fixtures and suffered a surprise 3-0 defeat by Spanish outfit Real Mallorca in their opening friendly in midweek, which means this is their last game before the UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa on Wednesday.

Want to watch Man Utd vs PSG? Here’s our full guide to watching this pre-season friendly live and free online from anywhere.

How to watch Man Utd vs PSG for free

Man Utd vs PSG isn't technically being shown anywhere for free, but we've found a sneaky way for fans in Australia to watch the pre-season friendly live without paying a penny. The trick? beIN Sports comes with a 7-day free trial, so new subscribers can catch the match at no cost!

How to watch Man Utd vs PSG from anywhere

Fans outside of Australia will need to use a VPN to access beIN Sports if they watch to watch Man Utd vs PSG via the 7-day free trial.

There are lots of VPNs but NordVPN will allow you to safely unblock beIN Sports' stream of Man Utd vs PSG — plus you can save 75%.

It's really simple to use a VPN to watch Man Utd vs PSG on beIN Sports.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose a location to connect to in the VPN app. For example, if you want to watch Man Utd vs PSG on beIN Sports, choose 'Australia' from the listed countries.

3. Sit back and enjoy the game. Open beIN Sports on your chosen device, sign in, and watch the match.

How to watch Man Utd vs PSG in the U.K., U.S. and Canada

Man Utd vs PSG will be shown live on MUTV worldwide, including in the U.K., U.S. and Canada.

MUTV is United's in-house television channel and costs £7.99/month or £29.99/year.

It is available to stream on MUTV Digital and the official Man Utd app, as well as on Sky (Channel 418) and Virgin Media (Channel 526) in the U.K. — but you must pay an extra £7/month to watch it on linear TV.

MUTV is also accessible via beIN Sports in countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines.

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• The best VPN service

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

The rest of 2026 is shaping up to be absolutely stacked with huge releases, and as a total movie lover, my fall films watchlist is already overflowing. Of course, calendar-wise, we are technically still in summer until the middle of September, but from that mid-month mark all the way through December, theaters are gearing up for an incredible stretch of films to get excited about.

Before we dive in, a quick disclaimer: you won’t see massive blockbusters like “Dune 3,” “Avengers: Doomsday,” or the next “Hunger Games” chapter on this list. I’m naturally super excited to see those films just like everyone else, so I wanted to take a slightly different approach. Instead, I want to highlight seven fall releases you might not have heard of or thought about yet, but absolutely deserve a spot on your radar.

So, if you’re also a movie lover looking to expand your watchlist, here are the seven films I can’t wait to watch in fall 2026.

‘Resident Evil’ (September 18)

One of my most anticipated films of the year is “Resident Evil,” as the game franchise means a lot to me, so naturally my excitement for this new take was high. Not to mention, it’s in good hands with Zach Cregger, who delivered the incredible “Weapons” and “Barbarian.” Some fans may not be on board with the film telling a completely original story within the universe, but considering previous adaptations have struggled to capture what made the games special, I’m glad someone is taking a different approach this time around.

“Resident Evil” follows Bryan (Austin Abrams), an ordinary medical courier tasked with making a routine delivery. His night takes a catastrophic turn when a deadly viral outbreak erupts across Raccoon City, transforming the population into horrifying, mutated creatures. Trapped as the city devolves into total chaos, Bryan is forced into a non-stop battle for survival, with no choice but to evade infected hordes as he fights to escape the nightmare alive.

"Resident Evil" hits theaters on September 18

‘Verity’ (October 2)

I love a good psychological thriller, even more so when there’s a strong ensemble cast. Adapted from Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, “Verity” is an upcoming thriller I’ve been curious about, mainly because the trailer looked especially creepy. Plus, the 2018 novel became a runaway viral hit on TikTok, selling millions of copies and maintaining a massive fan debate over its infamous ending, making it one of the most anticipated book-to-film adaptations of the year.

Lowen Ashleigh (Dakota Johnson) is a struggling writer hired by Jeremy Crawford (Josh Hartnett) to finish the popular book series created by his wife, Verity Crawford (Anne Hathaway). Verity, a renowned author, was left incapacitated following a devastating car crash. Lowen moves into the Crawfords’ family home to sort through Verity’s office notes and research material. While searching through the workspace, Lowen uncovers an unpublished, hidden manuscript that contains chilling admissions about Verity’s past, her marriage, and her family.

"Verity hits theaters on October 2

‘Other Mommy’ (October 9)

As you can tell, I’m a huge horror fan, and “Other Mommy” looks like an incredibly creepy film judging by the trailer. Oscar winner Jessica Chastain leads the film in a demanding double role, playing both the human mother and the terrifying, shapeshifting entity that mimics her. It’s adapted from the 2024 horror novel Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman, who previously wrote the smash-hit source material for “Bird Box.” Spooky season is already looking good.

Eight-year-old Bela (Arabella Olivia Clark) is a young girl growing up in a household already strained by her parents’ troubled marriage. Bela’s life takes a terrifying turn when a sinister, malevolent entity emerges from her bedroom closet. The supernatural force takes on the uncanny appearance of Bela’s mother (Jessica Chastain) and persistently asks the girl a disturbing question: “Can I go inside your heart?” When Bela continually refuses, the entity’s manifestations grow increasingly hostile and aggressive.

"Other Mommy" hits theaters on October 9

‘Whalefall’ (October 16)

Austin Abrams seems to be stuck in some pretty terrible situations this year, because not only does he have to avoid infected hordes in “Resident Evil,” but he also has to escape the stomach of a sperm whale in “Whalefall.” This survival thriller will likely trigger anyone’s claustrophobia, with the idea of being trapped inside one of the largest creatures in the ocean being especially terrifying. Survival thrillers can be incredibly intense when done right, so I have high hopes for this one.

Driven by guilt over his father’s death, 17-year-old Jay Gardiner (Abrams) embarks on a dangerous ocean dive off Monastery Beach to search for his father’s remains. The underwater mission quickly turns disastrous when a surprise encounter with a giant squid triggers a chaotic ocean attack, resulting in Jay getting swallowed whole by an 80-foot, 60-ton sperm whale. Trapped in the creature’s digestive system, Jay finds himself racing against time with only one hour of oxygen left.

"Whalefall" hits theaters on October 16

‘Clayface’ (October 23)

It seems as though DC is going down a darker path with “Clayface,” its upcoming body horror movie that draws heavy creative inspiration from the fan-favorite “Batman: The Animated Series” two-part tragic episode, “Feat of Clay.” The story was conceived and written by acclaimed horror auteur Mike Flanagan, with a script polish by Oscar-nominated writer Hossein Amini, so it’s safe to say this film is in good hands. Director James Watkins was also inspired by David Cronenberg’s “The Fly.”

Matt Hagen’s (Tom Rhys Harries) meteoric rise from Gotham street kid to Hollywood leading man is tragically cut short when a mob attack leaves him horribly disfigured. Abandoned by his team and desperate to salvage his career, Hagen undergoes a radical, cutting-edge biotech procedure to rebuild his face. The treatment initially restores his looks, but soon triggers horrific bodily mutations that transform him into a shapeshifting, clay-like metahuman monster.

"Clayface" hits theaters on October 23

‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ (November 6)

“Godzilla Minus Zero” is the highly anticipated follow-up to the Academy Award–winning “Godzilla Minus One.” Helmed once again by Takashi Yamazaki for Toho, the film continues Toho’s critically acclaimed Reiwa-era approach to the franchise. This time it shifts the lens further into the late 1940s recovery era, examining how a traumatized society attempts to rebuild amid persistent existential dread. I can’t wait to see this on the big screen.

Set four years after the devastating events of “Godzilla Minus One,” Japan is slowly rebuilding from the ashes of World War II and the creature’s initial rampage. Just as a fragile sense of peace begins to take root, the nuclear-mutated giant monster re-emerges from the Pacific depths, more volatile and destructive than before. Traumatized veterans Koichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki) and Noriko Oishi (Minami Hamabe) are drawn back into the struggle for survival.

"Godzilla Minus Zero" hits theaters on November 6

‘Violent Night 2’ (December 4)

“Violent Night 2” is the upcoming holiday action-comedy sequel from director Tommy Wirkola, and the film seems to double down on the original’s chaotic mix of festive holiday cheer and high-octane R-rated action. Even though I’m not in the Christmas mindset yet (because Halloween comes first, always), I can’t deny I’m excited. The first film was a lot of fun, and if you need a good pick-me-up this year, “Violent Night 2” looks like the perfect festive fix.

When a ruthless mob syndicate led by a dangerous crime boss takes over the Silver Bell Mall, a sapped-of-his-magic Santa Claus (David Harbour) is forced to trade holiday cheer for brutal combat. Realizing he is hopelessly outnumbered, Santa calls in last-minute heavy reinforcements: his equally lethal wife, Mrs. Claus (Kristen Bell). Together, the formidable couple unleashes a trail of gory holiday retribution to dismantle the syndicate and clear out the mall.

"Violent Night 2" hits theaters on December 4

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Walking out of “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” I was basking in a feeling I’ve not experienced for several years: Excitement for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Hello, old friend, it’s been far too long.

Clearly I wasn’t the only one who rushed out to see Tom Holland’s fourth solo outing as the world’s most popular superhero. In North America, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” brought in an amazing $360 million in its opening weekend, which marks the biggest domestic debut in box office history. Analysts predict that by the end of its run, the comic book flick could gross more than $2 billion worldwide, with more records to tumble.

The film represents the strength of the Spider-Man brand, the popularity of this incarnation of the character, and a much-needed win for the MCU after several years of struggle in the wake of 2020's “Avengers: Endgame.” With the return of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes due on December 18, when “Avengers: Doomsday” arrives, it would be easy to declare the “MCU is back!”

Perhaps it is. There’s every possibility the one-two punch of Spider-Man and the Avengers is just the start of a second golden era of box-office-breaking Marvel movies, but there’s also reason for caution. The MCU looks to be on the right track, but the magic isn’t fully restored. The MCU’s toughest tests are still to come, and they’ll be fought without Spidey.

(This article includes spoilers for “Spider-Man Brand New Day.” You’ve been warned!)

‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ might have cured my Marvel fatigue

I should clarify at this point: while I’ve been suffering from a wicked case of Marvel fatigue since around 2022 (I blame "Moon Knight"), it never extended to Spider-Man. It’s the obvious pick, but he’s my favourite comic book hero, and I’ll consume almost any media featuring the character.

So, I went into “Brand New Day” with plenty of hype. I didn’t need to be convinced to care about Peter Parker (Tom Holland), MJ (Zendaya) or Ned (Jacob Batalon). But what “Brand New Day” did that I didn’t necessarily expect was have me looking to the future of the interconnected superhero franchise with a degree of anticipation I’ve not felt for a long time.

Consider this your final spoiler warning, but the inclusion of Sadie Sink as Jean Grey was my favorite part of the entire movie. It takes some doing to upstage Spider-Man, but Sink’s portrayal of the uber-powerful X-Men was phenomenal. In this incarnation of the character, Jean hasn’t yet joined up with Xavier and his School for Mutants, and instead is initially a villain. Only once we learn her tragic backstory are we given context for her actions.

With a full X-Men movie set within the MCU in the pipeline, I can’t wait to see how this version of Jean fits into the team dynamic. And if the casting rumours are any indication, the MCU’s X-Men could be quite the eccentric group of outsiders, underdogs and eventually heroes. This small taster in “Brand New Day” has me eager for the full meal later down the line.

I felt last year’s MCU efforts “Thunderbolts” and “Fantastic Four: First Steps” were enjoyable enough blockbusters in their own right. However, I didn’t leave my local cinema desperate to see their respective cast return as soon as possible. I could wait. After “Brand New Day,” I’m already scouring the internet for news of “X-Men’s” release date (it’s rumored for 2028).

‘Avengers: Doomsday” is a Hail Mary, but a necessary one

But before we can see the “X-Men” rebooted within the MCU, there’s the small matter of “Doomsday” on the horizon. There’s no escaping that there’s a stink of desperation about the much-anticipated return of the Avengers. It perhaps doesn’t help that audience members who haven’t kept up with Marvel homework might not even know who’s in the team.

Marvel Studios has spent Phases 4 and 5 throwing as many new heroes and ideas at the wall as possible, and precious few of them have actually stuck. Heck, even the big bad the Avengers were supposed to be facing, Kang the Conqueror, totally flopped. A rushed retooling saw Kang booted, and Doctor Doom (played by the returning Robert Downey Jr.) drafted in. “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty” was out; in steps “Avengers: Doomsday.”

This speaks to the increasingly messy nature of the MCU over the last five years. A franchise that once felt mapped out to the letter was suddenly unmoored, making major alterations on the fly, and banking on nostalgia when all else fails. The recasting of Downey Jr., beloved for his portrayal of MCU anchor Tony “Iron Man” Stark, and the unexpected return of Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers certainly do not scream “this was always the plan.” They appear to be Hail Mary pivots made out of desperation rather than narrative inspiration.

However, nostalgia sells. Last month, a limited selection of “Avengers: Doomsday” tickets went on sale and generated $16.5 million in a day. These tickets were just for the movie in premium formats (but no IMAX; “Dune Part 3” has those screens on lockdown), so represent only a fraction of an opening weekend haul expected to top out at “Brand New Day” level.

Maybe an “Avengers” movie that mixes the old guard with the young blood is needed. Yes, “Doomsday’s” marketing is aggressively pushing stalwarts Downey Jr., Evans and Chris Hemsworth’s Thor. However, there is space for new(er) faces like the Thunderbolts, Fantastic Four, Shang-Chi, Shuri and Sam Wilson, who has been in the MCU for ages, but only in Phase Four swapped his role as sidekick Falcon for Captain America.

“Avengers: Doomsday,” which will lead into next year’s “Avengers: Secret Wars,” widely expected to function as a soft reboot of the MCU, was clearly not the endpoint mapped out after the Infinity Saga drew to a satisfying close in 2020, but I understand why Marvel has radically reworked its roadmap. After all, desperate times often call for desperate measures.

But don’t call it a Marvel comeback just yet

It would be easy to look at the obscene “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” box office figures, coupled with the hype already building for “Avengers: Doomsday,” and conclude the MCU has successfully course-corrected. However, I’m not willing to echo that sentiment. At least not yet. Because Spider-Man and Avengers were always the MCU’s strongest weapons.

I don’t think even at its most battered and bruised the MCU could fall far enough for a Spider-Man or Avengers movie to flop. These are powerful sub-brands within the overarching franchise. The “break glass in case of emergency” bankers that have the enduring appeal to thrive even when the Marvel universe is floundering. And flounder the MCU has in recent years. Gone are the days when the MCU brand was enough to sell cinema tickets even for a movie starring characters unknown to a mass audience.

Phases 4 and 5 are littered with box office disappointments (“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” “Captain America: Brave New World”) and some outright financial bombs (“Eternals” and “The Marvels”). The MCU’s move into Disney+ original series has also been a mixed bag, with even acclaimed projects, like “Wonder Man,” failing to attract enough viewers.

Kevin Feige recently admitted that last year’s “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” disappointed at the box office, showing that MCU skepticism remains in the air. Spider-Man and the Avengers can flip the narrative, to a degree, but until Marvel is again ruling the box office, turning outsiders like “Guardians of the Galaxy” into household heroes, it’s not truly back.

Of course, perhaps the big question is whether that level of success can be recaptured. Post-pandemic, the theatrical landscape has never been more cutthroat. Blockbusters with budgets ballooning north of $150m bomb on an alarmingly regular basis. Marvel’s big rival, DC, recently got its feet burned when its nascent DCU suffered its first audience rejection in the form of “Supergirl,” which grossed $125 million on a budget of around $180 million. Alarmingly, it's only the second feature of this new DC universe.

Expecting the MCU to recapture its glory days between 2012 and 2020 is a tall order. The approach going forward might be to rely heavily on a few juggernauts like Spider-Man and perhaps the X-Men, and save the “lesser” heroes for Avengers team-ups or opt to include them as supporting characters alongside a more dependable lead, like the web-slinger.

There are still a great many unknowns in the MCU’s future, not least of which is what the universe will even look like post “Secret Wars.” Audience interest is clearly still there for the right projects like “Spider-Man” and the “Avengers.” Nevertheless, the MCU still looks fragile to me, but at least for the first time in forever, I’m looking to the future with some excitement.

More from Tom's Guide

• How to watch the Marvel movies in order
• 5 hidden details in the ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ trailer
• Who's the best Spider-Man ever? Here is my definitive answer

Netflix adds dozens of movies every month to ensure its library never gets stale. I’m not talking about new originals here either. The streaming service regularly adds familiar favorites to its catalog. These range from cinema classics to acclaimed modern movies.

In August 2026, Netflix is adding 56 movies to its library. A total of 39 arrived on Aug. 1, and the rest will be dished out throughout the month. That’s a lot of content to consider. So, I’ve turned to review site Rotten Tomatoes to put together a list of the movies added to Netflix this month with the highest critics' score. A high RT score doesn’t guarantee a film will appeal to your taste, but it’s a useful metric for judging a movie’s overall reception.

Before diving into the list, I should note two things. Upcoming Netflix originals like “The Last House,” “The Whisper Man” and more are not eligible, as these don’t currently have a score on RT (Naturally, they’ve not been released yet!). Also, in the event of a tie, where two movies have the same critics score, I’ve used RT’s viewer ratings as the tiebreaker. Now that the housekeeping is out of the way, here are the 5 movies added to Netflix in August 2026 with the highest scores on Rotten Tomatoes.

New to Netflix movies in August 2026, ranked by RT score

5. 'Zero Dark Thirty' (2012)

A modern action-thriller masterpiece, “Zero Dark Thirty,” is gripping because of its dramatic narrative and its visceral depiction of modern conflict. It’s also notable for Jessica Chastain’s leading performance as Maya, a CIA intelligence analyst with an obsession with tracking down terrorist leader Osama bin Laden. Masterfully directed by Kathryn Bigelow — who has serious chops in this area having also helmed 2008’s “The Hurt Locker” — “Zero Dark Thirty” is one of the best wars of the modern era.

Set in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Maya (Chastain) is driven to locate those responsible, and in particular the orchestrator of the tragic event, Osama bin Laden. A worldwide manhunt is launched, and the mission to locate bin Laden becomes all-consuming for Maya. Also starring Jason Clarke, Joel Edgerton, Mark Strong, James Gandolfini and Chris Pratt, “Zero Dark Thirty” is a well-made and compelling war epic.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 91%
Stream "Zero Dark Thirty" on Netflix now

4. 'Speed' (1994)

“Speed” is a relentlessly entertaining high-concept thriller that never drops momentum. Pairing together Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, it’s fueled by extreme tension as its cast of characters literally can’t slow down, or they’ll meet an explosive fate. In the years since, “Speed” has been imitated (and parodied across) media, speaking to its influence. Though the less said about the ill-conceived sequel, the better, just stick with the original.

Reeves plays Jack Traven, an LAPD officer who manages to prevent an elevator bombing to much plaudits. But the mastermind (Dennis Hopper) behind the plot isn’t done. He switches gears and plants a bomb on a city bus. Once activated, the bomb will explode if the vehicle drops below 50 mph. With the help of a passenger (Bullock), Jack must defuse the situation.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 95%
Stream "Speed" on Netflix now

3. 'Nightcrawler' (2014)

“Nightcrawler” boasts Jake Gyllenhaal’s very best performances. That’s a bold claim considering the strength of his filmography, but Gyllenhaal completely commits to the role of a freelance photojournalist with seriously questionable morals. Fair warning: this dark thriller is an intense character study of somebody you’d never want to meet in real life, but if you can handle two hours spent with an amoral “protagonist,” it’ll keep you in a vice-like grip.

Lou Bloom (Gyllenhaal) is a petty thief who discovers a (controversial) way to make money. Buying a camcorder and police radio scanner with the proceeds from pawning a stolen bicycle, he arrives at the scene of recent violent crimes and accidents, records footage of the grisly aftermath, and then sells it to the local news station. Business is soon booming, so he hires an assistant (Riz Ahmed). But with “graphic” footage fetching the highest price, Lou crosses moral lines in his pursuit of capturing disturbing videos that will make him rich.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 95%
Stream "Nightcrawler" on Netflix now

2. 'Eighth Grade' (2018)

“Eighth Grade” is one of the most relatable movies I’ve ever seen. That might sound a little strange; I’m a 31-year-old male, and this is a comedy-drama about a 13-year-old middle school girl, but its core themes of struggling with self-worth and social acceptance are universal. Writer/director Bo Burnham uses the trials and tribulations of growing up as a vehicle to explore anxiety, depression and isolation. It’s a powerful watch for viewers of any age.

Kayla Day (Elsie Fisher) is a 13-year-old girl in the final weeks of eighth grade at Miles Grove Middle School in suburban New York. As she navigates her adolescence, contending with popular cliques, teenage hormones, and social media overload, she attempts to fit in with her peers while dealing with plenty of growing pains. She also records social media videos in her room, offering insight into her perspective and attempts to fit in with her peers.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 99%
Stream "Eighth Grade" on Netflix now

1. 'Selma' (2014)

If we’re talking about powerful movies, there are few as capable of stirring real emotion in its viewers as “Selma.” This historical drama from director Ava DuVernay was nominated for Best Picture at the 87th Oscars. While it didn’t win Hollywood's biggest prize, it did take home Best Original Song for its spine-tingling anthem “Glory” performed by John Legend and Common. Based on real events that took place in 1965, “Selma” stars David Oyelowo as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a powerhouse performance.

During this period, the civil rights leader was championing equal voting rights, which led to a march from Selma, Alabama, to the state capital, Montgomery. The goal was to compel President Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) to sign the Voting Rights Act, but along the way, King and his companions faced intimidation and violence. The movie uses history to look at how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go in the battle for equality for all Americans.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 99%
Stream "Selma" on Netflix now

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I'll freely admit, I've always liked "Man on Fire." I've always liked Denzel Washington. I've always liked director Tony Scott. I've always liked when they've teamed up together. And while "Crimson Tide" remains their best team-up, this 2004 action thriller set in Mexico City has been a movie in the Denzel Watchathon I've been eagerly anticipating.

What I didn't realize, though, is that while I always loved this movie, critics hated it. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a rating of just 39% fresh. One review on the review aggregator (Nathan Rabin of AV Club) called it "Scott's latest exercise in assaultive excess nevertheless lingers for two and a half hours, like a drunken houseguest who won't leave." On Metacritic, it's a relatively abysmal 47 out of 100 average critic score. That's actually worse than the 5.4 out of 10 average score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Yet, while critics disliked "Man on Fire," audiences loved it. It's rated 89% fresh by audiences on Rotten Tomatoes with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5. On Metacritic, things are more tempered, with it scoring just 7.4 out of 10 on average. It notched an A- Cinemascore and is rated 3.8 out of 5 on Letterboxd.

In short, someone is wrong here. Either the critics got it right, and this movie is an excessive montage of violence and not much else. Or, audiences got it right, and this is a darn good movie. Going in, I already was siding with the audience. But I haven't seen the nearly two-and-a-half-hour-long movie in years, so I was willing to be proved wrong.

If you want to watch this movie before you read on, I have some good news and some bad news. "Man on Fire" isn't currently streaming on any of the best streaming services, but it is on many of the best live TV streaming services. You can stream "Man on Fire" as part of your YouTube TV subscription or buy or rent "Man on Fire" from Amazon right now.

'Man on Fire' knows how to build its characters and then unleash them

For those who've never seen this movie, it stars Denzel as John Creasy. He's a former Marine and CIA operative, and he's got a major drinking problem. So when he visits his friend Rayburn (Christopher Walken) in Mexico City and is told of a job opportunity as a bodyguard, he takes it. Frankly, he needs it.

But his charge is a precocious young girl named "Pita" (Dakota Fanning), and she quickly gets on his nerves. After a failed drunken suicide attempt, though, he comes to the realization he was meant to live and protect her. After time, he becomes a friend to Pita, and even a father figure.

This beautiful budding relationship is brought to a screeching halt, though, when Pita is kidnapped, and Creasy is left for dead at the scene. Once he wakes up, he learns she died after the ransom attempt went poorly. In response, he gets out of his sick bed and goes on a quest for vengeance that won't end until everyone is dead.

It takes a surprisingly long time to get to this point. It's around an hour into the movie that things really kick into gear. But that's okay.

For starters, as much as I love Denzel in this movie, Dakota Fanning is also excellent. So I have no problem watching them spend time bonding and trading barbs on screen for a while before the action starts.

We also know the kidnapping is coming. It takes a while to get there, but the entire time we know to expect it. The movie starts with a different kidnapping. It references that kidnappings are happening before Pita's abduction. Sure, you could argue that it undercuts a shocking moment to already know this. But the movie isn't about the kidnapping. It's about Creasy's response to the kidnapping.

And his response is brutal. It drew the ire of film critics. But there were no complaints from me as Creasy finds new creative ways to eliminate the criminal network that led to Pita's kidnapping and subsequent botched ransom. The highlight, for me, is when a guy who helped botch the ransoming is caught by Creasy and then given the world's worst suppository: a bomb that can be set off with a simple pager watch.

Verdict: The critics got this one wrong

Is this movie perfect? No. The direction and aesthetics are overly stylized at times. Especially in the first act of the movie. It makes the film appear extremely dated.

But for the most part, this is an excellent, or at the very least, supremely enjoyable movie to watch. The first act's focus on Denzel and Fanning is a highlight, rather than a slog to get through. Then once the action starts, it's a high-octane thrill ride with some brutal moments worth of a John Wick movie.

So if you've never seen "Man on Fire" before, don't worry. The critics got this one wrong. This action thriller flick remains a must-watch Denzel performance, and Dakota Fanning's breakout is a bonus. If you have cable or a cable alternative, make sure to check if you can watch it on demand, and if you can, make sure you take advantage.

Stream "Man on Fire" as part of your YouTube TV subscription or buy or rent "Man on Fire" from Amazon now

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Summer is winding down, but that heat sure isn't, and you can still find me hiding out in the AC on the couch catching up on my watchlist. This week brought a slew of new movies on Netflix, Prime Video, and the rest of the best streaming services, but with so much on offer, narrowing down what to watch next can be a serious drag on your weekend.

That's why I've done the heavy lifting for you and rounded up the best of this week's new releases on streaming. Horror fans are eating good this week between "Evil Dead Burn" arriving on PVOD platforms and Ti West's "Pearl" (along with the rest of his phenomenal "X" trilogy) landing on Hulu. Meanwhile, Netflix just got a claustrophobic new thriller, "The Last House," along with the slept-on romantic drama "Spoiler Alert" starring Jim Parsons. If you're in the mood for something breezier, check out Pharrell Williams' Lego-fied biopic "Piece by Piece" on Prime Video for some good tunes and funky visuals.

So without further ado, let's dive into the best new movies on streaming this weekend.

'Spoiler Alert' (Netflix)

2022 was the year of high-profile gay rom-coms, but while I saw headlines about "Bros" and "Fire Island" all over the place, Jim Parsons' bittersweet "Spoiler Alert" didn't get the same flowers. And I think that's a shame because it's really heartwarming, though you'll definitely need a box of tissues handy.

Based on the memoir by TV journalist Michael Ausiello, it tells the story of how he (played by Parsons) falls in love and with an aspiring photographer named Kit (Ben Aldridge) who later gets diagnosed with a rare form of neuroendocrine cancer. Parsons' signature brand of charm and awkwardness is on full display as a dweeby TV nerd who collects Smurfs paraphernalia, and I enjoyed how his flashbacks to childhood, which saw his mother locked in her own battle with cancer, are shot and styled like a '90s family sitcom.

Watch "Spoiler Alert" on Netflix now

'Evil Dead Burn' (PVOD)

I'm not a fan of the "Evil Dead" franchise (too much blood and guts for this wimp), but horror lovers with stronger stomachs than me should know the sixth installment landed on PVOD platforms this week. While its predecessor took the carnage to the big city, "Evil Dead Burn" heads back to the more secluded environment that defined the original films, this time a remote lakeside home where a dysfunctional family gathering turns into a bloody nightmare.

Souheila Yacoub stars as a widow named Alice who reunites with her late husband's family. Things are a little awkward but going well — that is, until the Necronomicon joins the party, turning one family member after another into bloodthirsty Deadites, the undead soul-eating demons the series is known for.

Buy or rent "Evil Dead Burn" on Apple or Amazon now

'Pearl' (Hulu)

Ti West's entire horror trilogy ("X," "Pearl," and "MaXXXine") landed on Hulu this week, but if you only have time for one, I can't recommend "Pearl" enough. Mia Goth gives a career-defining performance as Pearl, a starry-eyed woman with her sights set on Hollywood if she can get out from under the thumb of her overbearing mother (Tandi Wright).

When her wealthy sister-in-law (Emma Jenkins-Purro) tells her there's a troupe in town looking for new dancers to take on the road, Pearl's convinced it's finally her big break. But as things start to go wrong and she watches her chances at stardom crumble, let's just say that she doesn't handle rejection well. This unsettling psychological horror film owes much of its success to Goth and Wright's outstanding lead performances, with both getting monologues that give me chills to this day.

Watch "Pearl" on Hulu now

'Piece by Piece' (Prime Video)

Usually I'm not much for biopics, but since Pharrell Williams is from my neck of the woods (shout out to the 757!) and made the bold decision to Lego-fy his story, I make an exception for "Piece by Piece." With the same eye-catching visuals as "The Lego Movie," it follows his rise to fame in Virginia Beach alongside Chad Hugo with their iconic Neptunes sound, featured in aughts bops from Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, and more big names.

Colorful, imaginative and unlike any other music biopic you've seen, "Piece by Piece" uses its Lego style to capture Pharrell Williams' creative process, bringing his synesthesia to life by transforming notes and melodies into bursts of color. With five original songs written specifically for the film, it's an easy recommendation for fans of the Grammy-winning artist. While its meandering structure is less conventional than a typical biopic, its infectious energy and inventive visuals make for a fun, breezy weekend watch.

Watch "Piece by Piece" on Prime Video now

'The Last House' (Netflix)

Netflix hired a man to live inside a billboard to promote its latest sci-fi thriller "The Last House," and that's honestly more interesting than the movie itself. But it's slim pickings for new movies on Netflix this week, so I'm including it here begrudgingly. Set in rainy Seattle, “The Last House” follows a family of four — husband and wife, Jason (Wagner Moura) and Ann (Greta Lee), and their two young children — who discover a storm has creating watery barrier around their home, trapping everyone inside.

As days turn to months and months turn to years, it becomes clear that help isn't coming. Things go from bad to worse when the youngest swears she sees creatures lurking out there in the rain, and the house eventually fills with water. "The Last House" reminds me of Netflix's last claustrophobic thriller, "Brick," which similarly struggled to maintain its early momentum.

Watch "The Last House" on Netflix now

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You can watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham live and FREE on ITVX from anywhere with a VPN. The free-to-air streaming service will show every moment of the EFL Cup Round One tie as the two Championship sides go head-to-head at the Riverside Stadium.

Boro will be nursing wounds from last year's playoffs, where they lost twice – in the semi-finals and then again in the final after earning a second chance due to the Spygate scandal.

Unfortunately, they haven't been at their best in pre-season, with three draws and one defeat, including a 3-3 draw against Espanyol in their most recent outing. However, with the additions of strikers Will Lancaster and Kyle Joseph, they'll be looking for a better start this time around after being knocked out in the first round in three of the past five seasons.

Phil Parkinson's Wrexham, meanwhile, have had a better pre-season, with wins over Manchester United and Leeds United, alongside narrow 1-0 defeats to Liverpool and Sunderland. They've also strengthened their squad with the additions of midfielder Ben Wightman and Danny Imray, and will be eyeing promotion as well as a strong cup run in the Carabao Cup.

Want to catch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham free on ITVX (U.K.)? How can you stream this region-specific platform from anywhere? Can you watch the match while in the U.S., Canada, Australia, or elsewhere too? Here’s our full guide to watching this Carabao Cup clash live and free online from anywhere.

How to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham for free

Football fans in the U.K. are in luck! ITVX will broadcast the Middlesbrough vs Wrexham game for free today, Friday, August 7 at 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET.

Additionally, we've found a sneaky way for Aussie football fans to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham live and free. The trick? beIN Sports comes with a 7-day free trial, so new subscribers can catch the match at no cost!

How to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham free from anywhere

ITVX is only available to residents of the U.K. who have signed up for the free service and hold a valid TV Licence.

Soccer lovers that are traveling or working abroad for this weekend's game will need to use a VPN to access their local free stream.

There are lots of VPNs but NordVPN will allow you safely unblock ITVX's stream of Middlesbrough vs Wrexham — plus you can save 75%.

It's really simple to use a VPN to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham on ITVX.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose a location to connect to in the VPN app. For example, if you want to watch the free Middlesbrough vs Wrexham stream on ITVX, choose 'United Kingdom' from the listed countries.

3. Sit back and enjoy the game. Open ITVX on your chosen device, sign in, and watch ITVX for free.

Which devices can I watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham with?

You can use ITVX on all of the following devices and platforms:

Amazon Fire (Tablets, Cube, Stick, TVs)
Android TV (please note: some models aren’t supported)
Android (Mobile & Tablet) - Android 7.0 and above
Apple TV (tvOS 14 or later)
Google TV (Chromecast with Google TV and NVIDIA Shield)
Freely
Freesat (please note: some models aren’t supported)
Freeview Play (TVs and set-top boxes) (please note: some models aren’t supported)
iOS (iPhone & iPad) - iOS 14 and above
LG Smart TVs (2016-2024)
NOW Smart Sticks and Boxes (minimum firmware v11.5.0)
PlayStation (PS4 and PS5)
Roku (Stick & Roku-OS powered TVs, minimum firmware v11.5.0)
Samsung Smart TVs (2017 and above - 2016 models only offer on demand TV)
Sky Q, Sky Glass and Sky Stream puck
Virgin Media (360, Stream, TiVo)
YouView (BT, Humax, Sony, TalkTalk)
Xbox (One, Series X, Series S)

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• The best VPN service

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Another weekend is here, and with summer in full swing, our air-conditioned living rooms are looking more and more enticing these days. On August 1, Prime Video added a whopping 51 new movies, with several new releases landing over the course of the week. It's enough to make our good ol' friend decision paralysis rear its ugly head, but don't worry — I'm in the trenches sifting through all the new releases to help you decide what to watch.

Times are tough, so this week I'm shining a light on two great new comedies that just landed on Prime Video: the quirky "Licorice Pizza" with an impeccable '70s soundtrack and the hilarious girls' trip comedy "Joy Ride." Pharrell Williams' Lego-themed biopic "Piece by Piece" also just got added, which is a much-watch for any music fans out there.

For even more streaming recommendations, check out everything new on Prime Video in August. So without further ado, let's dive into the best new movies on Prime Video to add to your watchlist.

'Joy Ride' (2023)

The vibe: A raunchy Asian girls' trip

I have a group chat of my hometown besties that I call "The Council" where I am very discerning about my streaming recommendations, but "Joy Ride" made the cut. This raunchy R-rated comedy from "Crazy Rich Asians" producer and writer Adele Lim revolves around Audrey Sullivan (Ashley Park), a lawyer on a business trip to China where she plans to reconnect with her childhood best friends Lolo (Sherry Cola), Kat (Stephanie Hsu), and Lolo's eccentric cousin, Deadeye (Sabrina Wu).

Audrey's promised a promotion in exchange for closing a deal with a prominent Chinese businessman, but their trip veers wildly off-course in spectacular (not to mention hilarious) fashion, including side quests to find Audrey's birth mother and being forced to do copious amounts of cocaine. Much in the same vein as "Superbad," "Bridesmaids," and "One of Them Days," it fits the mold of out-there comedies centered on friends in desperate situations.

Watch "Joy Ride" on Prime Video now

'Piece by Piece' (2024)

The vibe: An earworm-filled biopic that doesn't take itself too seriously

Pharrell Williams is from my neck of the woods (shout out to the 757!) so I never miss an opportunity to shout out his stunning biopic "Piece by Piece." It's a bold turn, using Lego to tell the story of his rise to fame in Virginia Beach alongside P-town native Chad Hugo with their iconic Neptunes sound to his international smash success as a recording artist and producer with the likes of Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Daft Punk and more.

Colorful and endlessly inventive, "Piece by Piece" uses its Lego visuals in creative ways to depict Williams' process for creating music, specifically his synesthesia (where individual notes and melodies appear to him as colors). With five new original songs written by Pharrell just for this flick, “Piece by Piece” is naturally a must-watch for fans of the chart-topping musician. It's definitely more winding than traditional biopics, but fun to throw on in the background.

Watch "Piece by Piece" on Prime Video now

'Licorice Pizza' (2021)

The vibe: A madcap joyride with '70s flair and larger-than-life characters

Last up, we have a nostalgia-filled coming-of-age-tale that's a great pick for music lovers, with classic tracks from artists like David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Nina Simone, The Doors, and Gordon Lightfoot. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, "Licorice Pizza" stars Cooper Hoffman as Gary Valentine, a teenager who, on school picture day, shoots his shot with a 25-year-old photographer's assistant Alana Kane (Alana Haim) with all the confidence of two kids in a trench coat trying to sneak into an R-rated movie.

If it ended there, it wouldn't be much of a movie now would it? Over the years, he ping pongs through jobs, from a child actor to a waterbed salesman, and manages to rope Alan into his schemes against her better judgement. Their magnetic chemistry buoys a somewhat meandering plot peppered with nostalgic callbacks and some truly insane cameos.

Rotten Tomatoes: 90%
Watch "Licorice Pizza" on Prime Video now

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• New on Prime Video in August 2026: Top picks and all the new movies and shows to watch
• Prime Video's AI makeover could change how you stream
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Hulu is a great streaming service if you're looking for new shows to binge this weekend. It features a deep library of series from a range of Disney-owned networks, including FX, ABC and 20th Television. It also has tons of original hit shows that you don't want to miss. As per usual, this week, I've put together a list of three newly added shows perfect for adding to your weekend watchlist.

First up is "Betrayal: Dirty Secrets" season 4, which tells a scintillating story about an egregious abuse of power. If you prefer your drama fictionalized, "The Shards" is a brand-new series from Ryan Murphy that is based on the life of show co-creator Bret Easton Ellis. If that name sounds familiar, it's because he also wrote "American Psycho." No big deal.

Finally, "Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi" is a new animated Star Wars series. The complete first season just dropped on Hulu (and Disney+) and it's a must-watch for any Star Wars fan. It's a spin-off of one of the best Star Wars series ever.

Here are three new to Hulu shows you need to binge-watch this weekend, and why you need to watch them. For more recommendations, check out the full list of everything new to Hulu and Disney+ in August 2026.

'Betrayal: Dirty Secrets' season 4

Genre: True crime docuseries

What's it about? This season of "Betrayal" covers the story of Karoline Borega. She thought she was getting a happily-ever-after when she married Colorado Springs PD officer Joel Kern. But her dream turned into a nightmare when she learned he was abusing his power for sexual conquests.

Why you should watch it: This Hulu series dives deep into the scandal. Not only are there interviews with Borega and her daughter, but there's even an appearance by one of Kern’s ex-lovers. If you are a true crime fanatic, you won't want to skip this salacious season of "Betrayal."

Stream all 3 episodes of "Betrayal: Dirty Secrets" season 4 on Hulu now

'The Shards' season 1

Genre: Teen thriller series

What's it about? "The Shards" is based on show co-creator Bret Easton Ellis' fictionalized memoir of the same name. It stars Igby Rigney as a young Ellis at Buckley Prep. His world gets turned upside down when a new student, Robert (Homer Gere) arrives at the same time a serial killer known as the Trawler becomes active.

Why you should watch it: Ryan Murphy is a prolific showrunner, and his FX shows all tend to have a combination of polish, style and darkness. "The Shards" seems to be cut from that same cloth, especially with "American Psycho" author Ellis on hand to turn up the dark, twisted drama.

Stream the two-episode premiere of "The Shards" season 1 on Hulu now

'Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi' season 1

Genre: Anime anthology series

What's it about? "The Ninth Jedi" was an episode from the anthology series "Star Wars: Visions." Now, it's been spun off into its own season of television. Tune in to see the Jedi Lah Kara (Chinatsu Akasaki [Japanese]/Kimiko Glenn [English]) and her crew take on a powerful Imperial warlord.

Why you should watch it: "Star Wars: Visions" is one of the best Star Wars shows ever. I'd put it just behind "Andor." It's an anthology series that isn't tied to the canon, meaning creators can use the Star Wars sandbox to create whatever stories they want. "The Ninth Jedi" is one of the best "Visions" episodes, and the trailer for its spin-off series gave me goosebumps. This is a must-watch, and I'll definitely be watching it this weekend.

Stream all eight episodes of "Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi" season 1 on Hulu now

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• 3 new to Hulu movies you need to stream this weekend (Aug. 7-9)
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• 3 new to Paramount+ movies you need to stream this weekend (Aug. 7-9)

"Anna Pigeon" brings crimefighting storylines to the picturesque backdrops of national parks across North America.

Below is our guide to how to watch "Anna Pigeon" from anywhere — live or on demand — including how to tune in with a VPN.

If you're a fan of the charming rural vibes and splash of drama that comes with shows like "Virgin River" and "Yellowstone" then you're probably going to find that "Anna Pigeon" is your latest obsession on the small screen.

The scenery is spectacular, the characters diverse and the mysteries tricksy and intriguing.

Starring Tracy Spiridakos in the titular role, this 10-part crime drama series sees the character put personal tragedy behind her and devote her life to tackling crime. Adapted from the bestselling novels by Nevada Barr, there's murder and nefarious characters aplenty here.

If you're ready to take on the case, check out the following information regarding how to watch "Anna Pigeon" with live viewing and streaming options available.

How to watch 'Anna Pigeon' for FREE without cable

"Anna Pigeon" is available to watch live and free thanks to services like YouTube TV or Fubo, which give you access to linear TV and cable channels like USA Network, thanks to free-trial periods. You will then decide whether to continue with a paid-for subscription when the free trial ends.

Remember, you'll need a VPN to watch if you're not in the U.S. right now. We recommend NordVPN.

Watch 'Anna Pigeon' from anywhere

Traveling when "Anna Pigeon" airs? A VPN, or virtual private network, can make your device appear to be back in your home country so you can log in to the streaming services you already pay for while you’re away.

We’ve tested all the major options, and NordVPN remains one of the best VPN services right now. It’s fast, easy to use, and works across phones, laptops, tablets, streaming sticks, and smart TVs. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it with very little risk.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favourite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're outside the U.S. but want to watch the show as usual, you'd select a U.S. server from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head over to your streaming apps and watch "Anna Pigeon" as normal.

Watch 'Anna Pigeon' in the U.S.

In the U.S., "Anna Pigeon" is playing on USA Network on Friday, August 7 — from 10 p.m. ET. New episodes air weekly.

You can also stream USA Network live through services such as Fubo, Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV, with Sling Blue carrying USA Network in select markets.

If you miss the episodes on linear TV you can catch them on USA Network's own streaming platform or on Fandango.

If you're outside the U.S. when the show airs, you can use a VPN such as NordVPN to access your usual services while traveling.

Watch 'Anna Pigeon' in Canada

In Canada, you can watch "Anna Pigeon" on Crave. The show will follow the same release schedule as the U.S. in the Great White North.

Travelers from the U.S. can also use a VPN to access their home subscriptions.

Can you watch 'Anna Pigeon' in the U.K.?

There is no plan in place for the broadcast of "Anna Pigeon" in the U.K. as things stand.

If you're a U.S. subscriber traveling in the U.K., a VPN such as NordVPN can help you sign in to your streaming services to find the show.

Can you watch 'Anna Pigeon' in Australia?

It's fairly similar in Australia, with no release plan in place for "Anna Pigeon" Down Under.

If you're traveling and already subscribe to a service carrying the show in your home region, a VPN like NordVPN is the easiest way to keep watching without changing accounts or waiting for a local release.

'Anna Pigeon' - episode guide

While we don't have details of every episode of "Anna Pigeon" we do know a bit about the first two:

• Episode 1 - Track of the Cat: Anna questions the official explanation when the death of a fellow ranger unsettles the park.
• Episode 2 - Hide and Seek: As Anna Pigeon settles into a more complicated personal life in the park, she discovers a game of hide and seek has taken a dangerous turn; intent on helping a family in crisis, Anna and the other rangers must make a decision that will affect the family's future.

'Anna Pigeon' - trailer

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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing

Paramount+ is regularly adding new shows to binge-watch. This weekend is no exception. The streaming service releases new episodes of hit shows every week. Sometimes, even entire seasons at once. It added over 80 new movies and shows on August 1 alone. It even has some live sporting events, including all major events from the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

This weekend, I've got a new season from Taylor Sheridan, a 20-episode bingable docuseries and a returning competition that's a must-watch. "Lioness" season 3 is first up on the list. Fans of Sheridan will probably have already seen the premiere by now, but the rest of you should use the weekend to catch up. Once you're done, check out "Special Ops: True," a docuseries that examines secretive U.S. military operations from Somalia to Afghanistan. Finally, you'll want to check out "The Challenge: Cutthroat" season 42 this weekend. This competition series has 24 people competing for $500,000, and someone could steal it all at the last second.

Here are the three new to Paramount+ shows you need to binge-watch this weekend. If you need more recommendations, check out everything new on Paramount+ in August 2026 for more options.

'Lioness' season 3

Genre: Spy thriller series

What's it about? Joe McNamara (Zoe Saldaña) is a CIA operative who runs the Lioness program. This initiative inserts female operatives undercover in the war on terror. Once in, they take down enemy targets by getting close to the women around them.

Why you should watch it: "Lioness" season 3 has Joe dealing with deadly operations and enemy combatants abroad, and betrayals close to home. If you're a fan of Saldaña or showrunner Taylor Sheridan, you should definitely catch up with "Lioness" this weekend if you haven't already.

Stream the "Lioness" season 3 premiere on Paramount+ now

'Special Ops: True' seasons 1-2

Genre: Docuseries

What's it about? "Special Ops: True" takes a deeper look into the untold stories from the U.S. military's most dangerous and secretive missions.

Why you should watch it: This show examines operations from Somalia to Afghanistan. Some of which have been immortalized already in dramatic shows and movies. If you're a military history fanatic, this docuseries is definitely worth binging.

Stream all 20 episodes of "Special Ops: True" on Paramount+ now

'The Challenge: Cutthroat' season 42 (Paramount+)

Genre: Reality competition series

What's it about? "The Challenge: Cutthroat" brings back a classic format to the reality series, which is moving from MTV to Paramount+. 24 veterans and rookies are dropping into Thailand and are split into three teams. To win $500,000, the whole team has to cross the finish line. But each team's captain is the one who decides how the money gets divided, and nothing is stopping them from keeping it all.

Why you should watch it: "The Challenge" is a reality show mainstay. It's arguably closer to a live sporting event than a reality show at this point, and as the competitors get more athletic, the line between this show and "Survivor" begins to blur. However, CBS's flagship competition show cannot match "The Challenge" in terms of hookups and messy drama. I'll be watching this season like I do every other: eagerly.

Stream the two-episode premiere of "The Challenge: Cutthroat" season 42 on Paramount+ now

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August might still be another month of summer for some people, but for me, it’s the beginning of getting excited for the colder months ahead. That means the countdown to spooky season, crisp weather, and those cozy nights spent indoors with a good show. Thankfully, Prime Video is never short on new series to stream, especially for anyone who prefers bingeable shows rather than waiting week after week for new episodes.

But streaming services are often packed with new content, making it difficult to find something you’re actually in the mood to watch. That’s why I’ve picked three standout shows recently added to Prime Video, including an original drama with a compelling mystery, an action-thriller that recently returned for its third season, and an adventure documentary packed with physical challenges. So, here are three new Prime Video additions worth watching this weekend.

‘Sterling Point’

Prime Video has a new No. 1 on its hands, and that’s “Sterling Point,” the streamer’s latest original drama that mixes romance with a compelling mystery. The series debuted with a strong 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes and is already gaining attention online thanks to clips highlighting some of its more heated moments. It feels like Prime Video is leaning into the same audience that made recent hits like “Off Campus” and “Every Year After” such successes. If you enjoy a bingeable drama with a mysterious twist, “Sterling Point” should be on your watchlist.

Annie Jacobson’s (Ella Rubin) life changes when she discovers that her estranged grandfather has left her a remote island in Canada. Alongside her twin brother Connor (Keen Ruffalo), Annie travels to the mysterious property, hoping to uncover why it was left to them and what secrets surround their family’s past. As she begins exploring the island, Annie forms unexpected connections, meets new people, and faces revelations that challenge everything she thought she knew about her upbringing.

Watch "Sterling Point" on Prime Video

‘Lioness’

Prime Video is a surprisingly good place to discover shows from other streaming services, as it often strikes deals to bring select streaming originals to its library. For example, you can stream the first season of Paramount’s “Lioness” on Prime Video right now, which is perfect timing for anyone looking to catch up. Those wanting to try out new shows without committing to another subscription can use Prime Video to explore different offerings, and “Lioness” is definitely a great place to start.

Joe (Zoe Saldaña) is a CIA operative who leads a covert program designed to recruit and train agents for dangerous missions. After selecting Marine Raider Cruz Manuelos (Laysla De Oliveira), Joe guides her through an undercover operation targeting a powerful figure connected to a terrorist network. As the mission progresses, the team faces unexpected challenges and difficult decisions that test their commitment. Alongside Joe’s work in the field, the series also follows the impact her responsibilities have on her life away from operations.

Watch "Lioness" season 1 on Prime Video and seasons 2-3 on Paramount+

‘The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls’

World-renowned survivalist Bear Grylls takes on an unscripted adventure docuseries with key cast members and the creator of the historical drama “The Chosen.” Bear Grylls leads participants away from filming sets and into extreme environments to push them out of their comfort zones. Settings include Utah's Castle Valley and Canyonlands, the Great Basin Desert, the Adirondack Forest, the Ausable River, and the Colorado River. If physical challenges are your thing, this sounds like a must-watch.

“The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls” follows the cast of “The Chosen” as they step away from the set and join adventurer Bear Grylls for a series of demanding outdoor journeys. Jonathan Roumie, Paras Patel, Elizabeth Tabish, Noah James, Luke Dimyan, and creator Dallas Jenkins travel through forests, deserts, rivers, and canyons while taking on a range of challenges led by Grylls. Across six episodes, the group navigates unfamiliar environments, tackles physical obstacles, and shares personal stories while viewers get a closer look at the people behind the popular series.

Watch "The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls" on Prime Video from Aug. 9

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Netflix’s “The Last House” hits uncomfortably close to home. This new sci-fi thriller movie sees a family of four trapped in their home, communicating with next-door neighbors through handwritten signs, staving off boredom by watching whatever DVDs they have lying around and musing on exactly when they might be permitted to see the outside world once again.

This on-screen nuclear family is in lockdown due to a mysterious natural force. However, the parallels to the coronavirus pandemic, and the resulting quarantines many experienced, could not be more obvious. Holding a mirror up to the testing reality society battled barely half a decade ago gives “The Last House” an early sense of momentum and purpose.

But, much like its protagonist, Netflix viewers will eventually feel cabin fever set in. As the movie chugs towards a finale that jumps the shark in more ways than one, all that initial potential evaporates quicker than rainwater in the hot summer sun. Even the best efforts of its stars, Oscar-nominated Wager Moura and the equally talented Greta Lee, can’t stop the slide.

It leaves “The Last House” as a movie of two halves, one good, one decidedly less so. When stitched together as a whole — and due to the rapid change of tone, this sci-thriller does feel somewhat Frankenstein-ed together — the final result is a Netflix original that plays its best hand too early.

What is ‘The Last House’ about?

Set in rainy Seattle, “The Last House” follows a family of four: husband and wife, Jason (Wagner Moura) and Ann (Greta Lee), and their two young children, a boy and a girl.

The family’s bond, resourcefulness and survival instincts are tested when a mysterious rainfall traps them in their suburban house. All their doors are sealed and a watery barrier forms around the home, preventing them from breaking a window to escape. They can’t get in or out. All that’s left to do is bunker down, ration their food, and hope for a quick rescue.

But as days turn to months, and months into years, and the youngest child swears there are creatures lurking in the rain, the family has to contend with threats both inside and outside of their home turned prison.

‘The Last House’ is a lockdown thriller that goes on too long

For around an hour, “The Last House” is an effective (and affecting) sci-fi thriller. The family’s initial response to being locked down in their home echoes how many of us responded to our own quarantine experience. Put a brave face, make a few jokes, watch copious amounts of classic movies, try to learn a new hobby or two, and wait for further instructions to follow.

But as it becomes clear to the movie’s core foursome that swift help isn’t coming, desperation takes hold. One impactful scene sees Wagner’s Jason communicating via written sign with an also-trapped senior neighbor, asking if they have enough food, and the “no” he receives in reply is chilling. In another, the daughter (Riley Chung) begs Lee’s Ann for more food, only for her mom to snap and reveal to her kids the fridge is entirely bare.

It’s all compelling stuff, and the darker aspects of being house-bound are smartly mixed with moments of levity, like the neighborhood holding a quarantine street party, each resident dancing in their own home. Not together in person, but connected by shared experience.

The movie isn’t afraid to lean into the bleakness of it all. A mid-movie multi-year timeskip is a gut-punch moment. “The Last House” is not the first movie about being trapped in a house or building (see Netflix’s own “Brick,” released last year, as just one of many previous examples), but these usually take place over a few days or a couple of weeks. In “The Last House,” the central family is stuck in this nightmare situation for the long haul.

Viewers might start to feel creeping cabin fever, too. Running close to two hours, “The Last House” stretches its initial premise as far as it can go, and then turns to a wild genre switch-up to keep viewers engaged. But not before an oddly stilted debate about whether to eat the family’s pet dog (the family needs food…) which is closer to padding than a shocking scene.

New life is eventually breathed into “The Last House” when the second half disregards the close-quarters thriller tension for a more ambitious sci-fi monster movie approach. Frustratingly, the tonal shift is jarring, and the resolution is so cliché that it’s all a bit of a damp squib (should that be damp squid based on the tentacle-mouthed design of the monsters?).

As it crawls towards its finale, the pandemic analogy is largely disregarded in favor of a preachy environmental message that is anything but subtle. And that’s before a character directly spells it out for you. Maybe that’s for the Netflix viewers only half-watching while scrolling their phones.

Despite the best efforts of Moura and Lee (criminally wasted in a role that gives her few moments to shine), who are both talented performers, “The Last House” eventually collapses in on itself. The eye-rolling finale, coupled with a superficially deep voiceover, washes away the early promise, and by the end, you’ll be glad to be freed from having to watch this Netflix movie.

Watch "The Last House" on Netflix now

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We’re already approaching the second weekend of August, and for me, that means we’re only getting closer to the colder weather. I’m very much in the mindset of staying indoors with a hot drink and watching a bunch of movies rather than basking in the sun, and if you’re the same, Netflix has dropped a bunch of new films this week that are worth adding to your weekend watchlist.

But understandably, deciding what to stream next can be frustrating, so I’ve gone through Netflix’s lineup and picked out three movies that are well worth watching this weekend.

That includes Greta Lee’s new sci-fi thriller about a family trapped inside their home with a mysterious force outside, a brilliantly made comedy-drama, and a spooky sequel to one of the biggest video game adaptations. So, here are the movies you should stream this weekend on Netflix.

‘The Last House’ (2026)

Netflix’s biggest movie release this week is “The Last House,” a sci-fi thriller starring Greta Lee and Wagner Moura as a couple who find themselves mysteriously trapped inside their own home. I love a good single-location thriller, especially when it has a strong central cast and a premise that promises plenty of claustrophobic tension. This has all the ingredients to be one of Netflix’s best originals of 2026 so far, though it could just as easily end up being one of its biggest disappointments. I'm really hoping it’s the former, for my own sanity.

Jason (Wagner Moura) and Riley (Greta Lee) are living an ordinary life with their two children when they wake to discover they are inexplicably trapped inside their home. Every exit is sealed, the outside world has become unreachable, and an unknown force prevents anyone from escaping. As minutes turn into days and weeks, the family must ration dwindling supplies, adapt their home for survival, and uncover clues about the mysterious presence surrounding them.

Watch "The Last House" on Netflix

‘Eighth Grade’ (2018)

I’m sure we’ve all had our awkward phases growing up, and I know I certainly had a lack of confidence when I was a bit younger! “Eighth Grade” is one of the few films that takes such a universal experience and does something genuinely meaningful with it. This comedy-drama follows a young teen experiencing the relatable uncertainty of being stuck between who you were and who you’re becoming. Plus, it clearly resonated with many, earning a staggering 99% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Kayla Day (Elsie Fisher) is a shy 13-year-old navigating the final week of eighth grade before starting high school. Although she posts upbeat motivational videos online, she struggles to connect with classmates in person and often feels invisible at school. Hoping to reinvent herself, Kayla accepts invitations to social events, forms an unexpected friendship, and faces a series of awkward, uncomfortable situations that push her beyond her comfort zone. At home, her supportive single father does his best to help as she prepares for the next chapter of her life.

Watch "Eighth Grade" on Netflix

‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’ (2025)

It’s quite ironic that I’m putting “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” on this list considering how much I disliked it, but given that it’s adapted from one of the biggest game franchises and earned over $200 million at the box office, I’m sure there are plenty of viewers who are interested. Being a huge fan of the games and the incredible lore that brings them to life, it’s a shame I didn’t connect with either movie adaptation (they shouldn’t be PG-13), but I can appreciate that fans simply want to step inside this world on the big screen.

“Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” takes place one year after the events of the first film. Mike Schmidt (Josh Hutcherson) and police officer Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail) have kept the truth about Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza hidden from Mike’s younger sister, Abby (Piper Rubio), who still feels connected to the animatronic characters she encountered before. When Abby secretly returns to find Freddy, Bonnie, Chica, and Foxy, she sets off a chain of events that brings forgotten secrets back to the surface.

Watch "Five Nights at Freddy's 2" on Netflix

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Summer is starting to slip away into a moment in time, which means there are only so many weekends left to ignore your responsibilities in favor of a very reasonable amount of time on the couch. The second weekend of August brings a fresh batch of movies and shows to stream, from buzzy new releases to returning favorites across Netflix, HBO Max and the rest of the major streaming services.

As Tom’s Guide’s streaming editor, I’ve ranked the biggest releases to watch this weekend, from most to least worth your time, weighing the hype, star power and, most importantly, whether they’re actually worth your time. There’s plenty to choose from, whether you want epic spectacle, teen romance, chilling thrills or something easy to throw on while you pretend summer isn't winding down.

Here are my ranked picks for the best new movies and shows to stream this weekend.

1. 'Ted Lasso' season 4 (Apple TV)

Genre: Sports comedy
Available now: 1 episode (42 min)
What it’s about: Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) is back in Richmond, but he’s trading the men’s squad for the Lady Greyhounds, a scrappy second-division women’s team. Alongside familiar faces Rebecca, Keeley and Beard, Ted takes on a new challenge while the team confronts the very real inequities facing women’s soccer.
Why it’s worth your time: "Ted Lasso" didn’t exactly need another season, but this is a surprisingly smart way to bring it back. The women’s team gives the show fresh territory to explore, while Ted’s relentlessly optimistic worldview remains as comforting as ever. We believe again!
Where to stream: Apple TV

2. ‘House of the Dragon’ season 3 finale (HBO)

Genre: Fantasy drama
Premiere date: Episode 8 on Sunday, Aug. 9 at 9 p.m. ET (70 min)
What it’s about: After two episodes of setting the board, "House of the Dragon" finally starts knocking the pieces over (and some off the table). Rhaenyra, Alicent, Daemon, and the rest of Westeros’ most dysfunctional royal family hurtle toward a fiery reckoning.
Why it’s worth your time: The season has taken its sweet time getting here, but the finale looks to deliver the big showdown between Team Black and Team Green. Expect betrayals, losses and epic dragon battles.
Where to stream: HBO Max

3 'The Last House' (Netflix)

Genre: Sci-fi thriller
Runtime: 1 hour 50 min
What it's about: A family of four wakes up to discover they’ve been mysteriously sealed inside their home, with no way out and their supplies steadily running down. Worse, something unknown is keeping them trapped.
Why it's worth your time: Greta Lee and Wagner Moura lead this claustrophobic thriller, which turns the ultimate safe space — your own home — into a survival nightmare.
Where to stream: Netflix

4. ‘The Shards’ (FX/Hulu)

Genre: Teen thriller, psychological drama
Available now: Episodes 1-2 (about 60 min each)
What it's about: In 1981 Los Angeles, 17-year-old Bret (Igby Rigney) is a privileged prep-school student whose life starts coming apart when a mysterious new classmate, Robert Mallory (Homer Gere), arrives. Meanwhile, a serial killer known as the Trawler is terrorizing teenagers across the city.
Why it's worth your time: Think "Scream" meets "Riverdale," with Ryan Murphy's signature style. You get decadent ’80s LA, beautiful teenagers, sexual tension, paranoia and a murder mystery with enough twists to keep you guessing.
Where to stream: FX and Hulu

5. 'Sterling Point' (Prime Video)

Genre: Coming-of-age drama
Available now: All 8 episodes (about 45–55 minutes each)
What it’s about: New York teen Annie Jacobson (Ella Rubin) inherits a mysterious island in Ontario from the estranged grandfather she never knew. With a cryptic note hinting at long-buried family secrets, Annie heads to Canada, where she finds a gorgeous lake, a new circle of friends and a couple of complicated crushes.
Why it’s worth your time: On paper, "Sterling Point" sounds like it was assembled in a lab from the DNA of every summer YA drama you’ve ever seen. Yet, it goes deeper than that to explore grief, identity and the messy process of discovering your parents' past.
Where to stream: Prime Video

6. ‘My Life With the Walter Boys’ season 3 (Netflix)

Genre: Teen romantic drama
Available now: 10 episodes (about 45 minutes each)
What it’s about: Jackie’s love life gets even messier after Cole overhears her confession, while the Walter family deals with the fallout from George’s health scare. As Alex takes up rodeo and Cole gets into drag racing, Jackie tries to build a future of her own — only for a childhood friend from New York to complicate things.
Why it’s worth your time: The love triangle is still the main event, but add in a past romantic interest, risky new hobbies and more Walter family drama, and there’s plenty to keep things interesting.
Where to stream: Netflix

7. ‘Futurama’ season 14 (Hulu)

Genre: Animated sci-fi comedy
Available now: Episodes 1-2 (about 25 min each)
What it’s about: Fry, Leela, Bender and the rest of the Planet Express crew are back to face space pirates, lab-grown meat, romantic scams and a potentially civilization-ending threat. Plus, Dr. Zoidberg’s long-lost love Marianne is back in the picture.
Why it’s worth your time: "Futurama" has survived more cancellations than most daytime soap characters survive explosions, and its Hulu revival has only gotten stronger with age.
Where to watch: Hulu

8. 'Evil Dead Burn' (digital)

Genre: Supernatural horror
Runtime: 1 hour 50 min
What it’s about: After her abusive husband dies, Alice (Souheila Yacoub) seeks refuge with her in-laws, only for the family reunion to become a blood-soaked nightmare when demonic forces turn the relatives into Deadites.
Why it’s worth your time: If you're into bloody gore, the latest entry in the "Evil Dead" franchise offers some spectacularly twisted set pieces and inventive kills.

Where to stream: Prime Video (with purchase)

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I’m pretty much the opposite of what one would call a foodie, so my knowledge of Anthony Bourdain comes entirely from the renowned chef’s pop-culture reputation, rather than any regular viewing of his multiple culinary and travel documentary series or reading any of his books. That turns out to be a perfectly solid perspective for viewing “Tony,” director and co-writer Matt Johnson’s biopic that follows the young Bourdain during a summer he spent working at a restaurant in Provincetown, Massachusetts.

Aside from its closing title cards that give a brief summary of some of Bourdain’s major career achievements, “Tony” has essentially nothing to do with the Bourdain who was a famous face on TV for nearly two decades. Instead, it’s a small-scale coming-of-age drama set in 1975, which just happens to have a future celebrity as its main character.

In some ways, that makes it less distinctive, since it wouldn’t take much to change this into an entirely fictional story. But it also avoids many of the pitfalls of a typical biopic, honing in on a specific period rather than trying to encompass Bourdain’s entire life.

‘Tony’ tells an entertaining slice-of-life story

A student at Vassar College in upstate New York, Tony (Dominic Sessa) is insistent that no one call him Anthony, and in general he lives up to the quote on the movie’s opening title card, from Bourdain’s 2000 memoir “Kitchen Confidential”: “I was — to be frank — a spoiled, miserable, narcissistic, self-destructive and thoughtless young lout, and badly in need of a good ass-kicking.” That makes him a bit tough to root for, even as he gradually fumbles toward some simple but important life lessons, courtesy of a handful of key figures.

First, he acts like a complete jerk to many of those same people. After being rejected for a Vassar writing fellowship that he was arrogantly certain he would receive, he skulks off in the middle of the night, stealing money from his parents and not telling them where he’s headed. Determined to connect with his high school crush and fellow Vassar student Nancy (Emilia Jones), he travels to Provincetown, where she’s told him she’s going to be spending the summer. He promptly gets drunk, harasses a waitress, and is thrown out of oyster bar The Flagship.

With no money left, he begs The Flagship’s unnamed owner and chef (Antonio Banderas) to let him stay on the hammock where he slept off his drunken bender, and Chef (as everyone calls him) agrees to hire Tony as a dishwasher in exchange for a place to spend the summer. Tony is not exactly a stellar employee, and it doesn’t help that he immediately befriends fellow kitchen worker Sal (Leo Woodall), a violent, womanizing drug addict who is the worst possible role model for Tony.

‘Tony’ has simple, low-key charm

Tony spends the summer screwing up both personally and professionally, as he pursues Nancy with various lies about his supposed writing career and barely avoids burning down The Flagship. But he also finds a patient mentor in Chef, who sees something in Tony that he doesn’t see in himself. Their relationship is sweeter and more fully developed than the romance between Tony and Nancy, even though the real-life Nancy ended up as Tony’s wife for 20 years. Jones does what she can with a thinly written character, but the focus remains on the boys’ club in the kitchen.

Johnson also captures the freewheeling vibe of 1970s Provincetown, a counterculture haven where screw-ups like Tony and his co-workers can find steady work even if they’re snorting cocaine and puking from hangovers while attempting to prepare food for customers. Tony himself is often a frustrating person to spend time with, especially when he lets his self-regard get in the way of genuine human connections, but Sessa also makes him into a charmer who can always convince people to give him another chance.

He’s far from the thoughtful, engaging explorer of Bourdain’s TV work from decades later. But there’s enough of a common thread for Bourdain devotees to see the beginnings of the more mature person who would eventually emerge. While Johnson took a snarky, comedic approach to his 2023 corporate biopic “BlackBerry,” “Tony” is earnest and sensitive, in keeping with Bourdain’s own projects.

Verdict: ‘Tony’ is a slight but effective biopic

Bourdain’s real life was even messier than the chaotic summer depicted in “Tony,” and Johnson and his co-writers can’t resist the Hollywood temptation for a rousing finale, as Tony rallies his Flagship co-workers for a benefit to honor his patron. Even in its cheesiest moments, though, “Tony” remains grounded, thanks to its earthy performances and warm, sun-dappled visual style.

I’m not sure I know much more about Anthony Bourdain — or about food — after watching “Tony,” but I still enjoyed hanging out for one eventful summer in Provincetown.

“Tony” opens Aug. 7 in select theaters and Aug. 21 in theaters nationwide

Netflix is offering binge-watchers plenty of options this weekend. If you want to spend the next couple of days glued to your couch, streaming some compelling shows, there are plenty of options on the world’s biggest streaming service.

The latest arrivals include the new season of addictive teen drama, “My Life with the Walter Boys.” Sure, it’s glossy and highly melodramatic, but the show’s fanbase wouldn’t have it any other way. There’s also a new comedy series from the mind of Rick Gervais, and you shouldn’t overlook a true crime docuseries that has taken the platform by storm.

To save you from spending half your weekend trying to find something to watch, I’ve rounded up three new Netflix shows worthy of consideration.

‘My Life with the Walter Boys’ season 3

I’ll confess. I’m not an active watcher of “My Life with the Walter Boys,” but still, I’m probably going to be spending much of my weekend in Silver Falls. My partner is an avid viewer, and clearly isn’t alone, as this Netflix teen drama has picked up quite the passionate fanbase over the years. It returned for its third season of messy melodrama earlier this week.

The series centers on Jackie Howard (Nikki Rodriguez), who moves to the aforementioned Silver Falls after her family dies in a car accident. Once there, she gets involved with the Walter family and, predictably, various love triangles and family crises follow. It’s a comfort-watch show for many, and the type of series you can lazily watch all weekend.

Watch "My Life with the Walter Boys" on Netflix now

‘Ricky Gervais Alley Cats’

Netflix really wants you to know that its new adult animated series comes from the mind of Ricky Gervais. His name has been splashed across all the marketing materials, and even it’s listed as “Rickey Gervais Alley Cats” on the platform’s August slate. Whether Gervais is a selling point or a sign to steer clear will be a matter of personal taste for each subscriber.

Gervais’s latest Netflix original comedy series sees him write, direct and voice the lead character Gus in an animated show all about…well, the clue is in the name: alley cats. The series follows a pack of stray cats running wild across a city and getting into all sorts of misadventures. It might look like a cartoon, but as Gervais fans will know, it’s not for kids.

Watch "Ricky Gervais Alley Cats" on Netflix now

‘The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare’

The true crime genre has a tight grip on Netflix subscribers, with “The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare” merely the latest docuseries about a chilling real-life crime to hold the platform’s No. 1 position for several days. If you like your true crime, then this three-part series is an essential watch, and with its smaller episode count, you might just polish it off in a single sitting. Not convinced by the genre? Then this isn’t the show to change your mind.

You probably know the score if you’ve seen any true crime doc before; “The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare” explores the murder of four college students in November 2022. Using archive footage and interviews from people close to the case, it sets out a timeline from the night of the killings to the suspect’s eventual arrest and imprisonment. It’s grisly stuff, but for true crime fans, the more harrowing the tale, the more interesting the doc.

Watch "The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare" on Netflix now

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Your first chance to catch your team in action and hastily decide if you'll have better things to do come February, the NFL Preseason is the strangest period of the campaign, one that produces endless questions and precious few answers. But six months on from the Seahawks lifting the Vince Lombardi Trophy, we'll take it with both hands.

You can watch NFL preseason 2026 from anywhere with a VPN and potentially for FREE.

10 teams — that's nearly a third of the league — replaced their head coaches in the offseason, with the new crop comprising Super Bowl winners John Harbaugh (Giants) and Mike McCarthy (Steelers), familiar faces Robert Saleh (Titans) and Kevin Stefanski (Falcons), college heavyweights Jeff Hafley (Dolphins) and Todd Monken (Browns), and rookies Joe Brady (Bills), Mike LaFleur (Cardinals), Jesse Minter (Ravens) and Klint Kubiak (Raiders).

Kubiak has made waves straight out of the gate by revealing that No.1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza will have to wait his turn behind Kirk Cousins, who's coming off a poor stint with the Falcons. Harbaugh, meanwhile, has been dealt a blow with star wide receiver Malik Nabers's comeback from an ACL tear suffering a major setback.

There's plenty of intrigue around Patrick Mahomes and Tank Dell too, with the superstar Chiefs quarterback having sustained a torn ACL in Week 15, and the promising Texans receiver having suffered a gruesome knee injury in December 2024.

Check out all of the TV and streaming details below to find out how to watch NFL preseason from anywhere, including free options.

Watch NFL preseason 2026 live streams for FREE

You can watch all 49 NFL preseason 2026 games free-of-charge on DAZN in the U.K. and Australia. Just register an account.

Away from home? You may not be able to watch the action like you normally would due to regional restrictions. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution — you can use a VPN to unblock that free NFL preseason coverage. We’ll show you how below.

Watch NFL preseason 2026 from anywhere

Away from home and blocked from watching NFL preseason 2026?

You can still tune in live thanks to the wonders of a VPN (Virtual Private Network). The software allows your devices to appear as if they're back in your home country regardless of where in the world you are. Ideal for fans away on vacation or on business. Our favorite is NordVPN. It's the best on the market:

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you want to watch your free DAZN stream of the games, you can choose 'United Kingdom' from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to DAZN and watch NFL preseason 2026 live.

How to watch NFL preseason 2026 in the U.S.

In the U.S., NFL preseason 2026 coverage is split between a multitude of channels and streaming services, including NFL Network, ESPN, NBC, FOX, CBS, ESPN Unlimited, Peacock, Fox One, Paramount+ and Prime Video.

If you've already cut the cord and don't have a cable package, you can get all of those channels through an OTT cable TV alternative.

As alluded to, Sling will give you the most bang for your buck. Sling Blue includes NFL Network, plus local network affiliates from FOX, NBC and ABC (availability varies by market). Sling Orange carries ESPN.

Both plans start at $46/month, but you can combine them for $66/month. You'll get 50% off your first month if you subscribe to Blue or Orange & Blue.

Several games are exclusive to ESPN Unlimited, which carries ESPN Select and all ESPN channels, and costs $29.99/month or $299.99/year.

NBC simulcasts its games on Peacock. You'll need at least a Premium plan to watch live sports, starting at $10.99/month or $109.99/year.

CBS simulcasts its coverage on Paramount+, which starts at $8.99/month.

However, you can get 30 days of Peacock or Paramount Plus for $1 by signing up to Walmart Plus.

FOX simulcasts its coverage on Fox One, which costs $19.99/month after a 3-day FREE trial.

Prime Video costs $14.99/month or $139/year after a 30-day FREE trial.

Fubo, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV will let you tune in too.

How to watch NFL preseason 2026 in Canada

All 49 NFL preseason 2026 games are being shown on DAZN in Canada. Prices start at CA$24.99/month.

Nine of the games are also available to watch on TSN channels. A TSN Plus subscription grants access to everything TSN has to offer for just CA$8/month or CA$80/year.

If you're outside Canada but have a subscription, you can watch the NFL preseason with the aid of a VPN, such as NordVPN.

How to watch NFL preseason 2026 in the U.K.

In the U.K., all 49 NFL preseason 2026 games are free-to-air on DAZN. All you need is an account.

If you're on holiday outside the U.K., you can still follow your usual NFL preseason live streams by using one of the best VPN services, such as NordVPN.

How to watch NFL preseason 2026 in Australia

All 49 NFL preseason 2026 games are free-to-air on DAZN in Australia. All you need is an account.

Not in Australia right now? You can simply use a VPN like NordVPN to watch all the action on your account as if you were back home.

NFL preseason 2026 schedule

NFL HALL OF FAME GAME

Thursday, August 6
8 p.m. — Carolina Panthers vs Arizona Cardinals | NBC, Peacock

WEEK 1

Thursday, August 13
7 p.m. — Detroit Lions vs Cincinnati Bengals
7 p.m. — Green Bay Packers vs Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL Network
7:30 p.m. — Indianapolis Colts vs New England Patriots
8 p.m. — Arizona Cardinals vs Las Vegas Raiders | ESPN Unlimited
8 p.m. — Los Angeles Chargers vs Houston Texas
9 p.m. — Tennessee Titans vs San Francisco 49ers | NFL Network

Friday, August 14
7 p.m. — Denver Broncos vs Atlanta Falcons
7 p.m. — Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs New York Jets | NFL Network
7 p.m. — Miami Dolphins vs Washington Commanders

Saturday, August 15
1 p.m. — Carolina Panthers vs Buffalo Bills
1 p.m. — Cleveland Browns vs Chicago Bears | NFL Network
1 p.m. — Minnesota Vikings vs New York Giants | ESPN Unlimited
4 p.m. — Los Angeles Rams vs Kansas City Chiefs | NFL Network
4 p.m. — Jacksonville Jaguars vs New Orleans Saints | ESPN Unlimited
7 p.m. — Philadelphia Eagles vs Baltimore Ravens | ESPN Unlimited
8 p.m. — Dallas Cowboys vs Seattle Seahawks | NFL Network

WEEK 2

Thursday, August 20
8 p.m. — Las Vegas Raiders vs Houston Texans | ESPN, ESPN, Unlimited
10 p.m. — San Francisco 49ers vs Los Angeles Chargers | NFL Network

Friday, August 21
7 p.m. — New York Jets vs Pittsburgh Steelers | NFL Network
7:30 p.m. — Carolina Panthers vs Jacksonville Jaguars | ESPN Unlimited
9 p.m. — Green Bay Packers vs Denver Broncos | NFL Network

Saturday, August 22
12 p.m. — Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions
1 p.m. — Buffalo Bills vs Cleveland Browns | NFL Network
1 p.m. — Atlanta Falcons vs Indianapolis Colts
1 p.m. — Baltimore Ravens vs Minnesota Vikings | ESPN Unlimited
4 p.m. — New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Rams | ESPN Unlimited
4 p.m. — New York Giants vs Miami Dolphins | NFL Network
7 p.m. — Chicago Bears vs Cincinnati Bengals
7 p.m. — Philadelphia Eagles vs New England Patriots | NFL Network
7:30 p.m. — Kansas City Chiefs vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers | ESPN Unlimited
10 p.m. — Dallas Cowboys vs Arizona Cardinals | NFL Network

Sunday, August 23
8 p.m. — Seattle Seahawks vs Tennessee Titans | FOX, Fox One

WEEK 3

Thursday, August 27
7 p.m. — Pittsburgh Steelers vs Buffalo Bills | NFL Network
8 p.m. — New England Patriots vs Cleveland Browns | Prime Video
8 p.m. — San Francisco 49ers vs Las Vegas Raiders | ESPN Unlimited
10 p.m. — Los Angeles Rams vs Los Angeles Chargers | NFL Network

Friday, August 28
6 p.m. — Washington Commanders vs Baltimore Ravens | NFL Network
7 p.m. — Atlanta Falcons vs Miami Dolphins |
7 p.m. — Houston Texans vs Carolina Panthers |
7:30 p.m. — New York Giants vs New York Jets |
7:30 p.m. — Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Jacksonville Jaguars |
8 p.m. — New Orleans Saints vs Dallas Cowboys | ESPN Unlimited
8 p.m. — Seattle Seahawks vs Kansas City Chiefs | ESPN Unlimited
8 p.m. — Cincinnati Bengals vs Philadelphia Eagles | CBS, Paramount+
9 p.m. — Minnesota Vikings vs Denver Broncos | NFL Network

Saturday, August 29
1 p.m. — Detroit Lions vs Indianapolis Colts | NFL Network
6 p.m. — Chicago Bears vs Tennessee Titans | NFL Network

(All times ET)

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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Hulu is an excellent choice for building your next weekend movie marathon. The streaming service regularly adds both originals and classics to its library. Plus, because it's owned by Disney, it's the home for new releases from several Disney-owned studios. It even has deals with some other studios to get new releases before any other service, whether they're produced by Disney or not.

This weekend, I'm starting things off with "Ex Machina." This sci-fi masterpiece comes from "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" writer Alex Garland and is a must-watch if you've never seen it. Then, you could check out "Imaginary," a newly added horror movie. But the reviews on that aren't great, so I'm recommending you skip it and check out "Pearl" instead, as well as "X" and "MaXXXine," the two other movies in Ti West's horror trilogy.

So, here are the three new to Hulu movies you need to stream this weekend. For more recommendations, check out the full list of everything new to Hulu and Disney+ in August 2026.

'Ex Machina' (2014)

Genre: Sci-fi thriller movie

What's it about? "Ex Machina" stars Domhnall Gleeson as Caleb, a programmer. He's set to spend a week at the home of his company's CEO, Nathan Bateman (Oscar Isaac). On his arrival, he learns his visit's true purpose: he's there to test a humanoid robot with an artificial intelligence (Alicia Vikander) and see if she can pass for human.

Why you should watch it: I firmly fall in the camp of this movie's writer/director, Alex Garland, can do no wrong. That includes everything from the show "Devs" to this year's incredible "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple." "Ex Machina" might be his best work, though. Don't miss it.

Watch "Ex Machina" on Hulu now

'Imaginary' (2024)

Genre: Supernatural horror movie

What's it about? "Imaginary" stars DeWanda Wise as Jessica. She's just moved her family into her childhood home, where her daughter, Alice (Pyper Braun), discovers Chauncey (Dane DiLiegro). This was Jessica's imaginary friend, and it turns out the mother and daughter are the only ones who can see him. That becomes a problem when Chauncey lures them into "The Never Ever," a supernatural realm that's home to all imaginary friends ... including the evil ones.

Why you need to watch it: This isn't the greatest horror movie ever made. At least, not according to Rotten Tomatoes, which rates it relatively poorly. But, it's one of the newest movies to drop on Hulu, so it gets included on the list. Don't worry, I'm going to make it up to you with my final recommendation.

Watch "Imaginary" on Hulu now

'Pearl' (2022)

Genre: Slasher horror movie

What's it about? The follow-up to "X," this slasher film takes us back in time to 1918 Texas. Here we meet Pearl, the villain from Ti West's film. Here, she's not old, though. Instead, she's a more spritely figure played by Mia Goth. But she's still just as sex-crazed and bloodthirsty as the version we meet in "X" nearly 60 years later.

Why you need to watch it: "Pearl" is an excellent slasher. Definitely watch this instead of "Imaginary" if you're in the mood for horror. While you're at it, watch "X" and the third movie in West's trilogy, "MaXXXine," which both also just arrived on Hulu.

Watch "Pearl" on Hulu now

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Paramount+ is a great streaming service if you're building a weekend movie marathon. It adds dozens of movies to the platform each month. It just added over 80 new movies and shows on August 1. Many of these are beloved classics or more modern hits. A few times a month, you also get brand-new movies from Paramount Skydance studios.

This week, I've selected a few classics. Well, one of them might just be a classic to me, but I digress. First up, I'm recommending "Blade Runner 2049," a sequel to "Blade Runner" that's arguably as good as the original. Then, you'll want to check out "From Dusk Till Dawn," which is kind of like "Sinners," but without any of the poignancy about life in Jim Crow South. Instead, you get George Clooney killing vampires and Quentin Tarantino with Selma Hayek's foot in his mouth. Finally, I'm wrapping things up with "The Score," a wonderful heist thriller with a stunning cast.

Here are the three new to Paramount+ movies that you need to be streaming this weekend. If you need more recommendations, check out our full guide to everything new on Paramount+ in August 2026.

'Balde Runner 2049

Genre: Science fiction movie

What's it about? Set thirty years after "Blade Runner," this sequel stars Ryan Gosling as LAPD Officer K. As a blade runner, he's a replicant, aka a bioengineered humanoid. His job is to hunt down replicants that go rogue. But that leads him to Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) and opens up a conspiracy with massive implications for this futuristic world.

Why you should watch it: "Blade Runner" is a classic, but "Blade Runner 2049" is right up there with it. If "Arrival" heralded director Denis Villeneuve as a sci-fi master, this movie cemented it, as have his subsequent "Dune" adaptations. If you've never seen it, it's a must-watch.

Watch "Blade Runner 2049" on Paramount+ now

'From Dusk Till Dawn' (1996)

Genre: Crime action-horror movie

What's it about? "From Dusk Till Dawn" stars George Clooney as bank robber Seth Gecko. He and his murderous brother (Quentin Tarantino) have just knocked over a bank, leaving death in their wake. They spot Jacob Fuller (Harvey Keitel) and his motor home, and, holding him and his family hostage, they head to Mexico to escape the law. But things go from bad to worse when they arrive at an all-night strip club in the desert that's a haven for vampires.

Why you should watch it: This is not the greatest movie ever made. But it is a blast to watch. "Sinners" clearly draws some influence, though it executes the vision far better and with a much deeper story. This is also a rare Tarantino movie he didn't direct.

Watch "From Dusk Till Dawn" on Paramount+ now

'The Score' (2001)

Genre: Heist thriller movie

What's it about? Nick Wells (Robert De Niro) is a safe cracker who is ready to retire with his girlfriend Diane (Angela Bassett) and run his jazz club in Montréal. But when Brian, revealed to really be aspiring master criminal Jack Teller (Edward Norton), comes to Nick with a plan to steal a priceless sceptre, Nick eventually agrees to join, but only if he's in total control.

Why you should watch it: Robert De Niro, Edward Norton, Marlon Brando and Angela Bassett. All in the same movie. That's 22 combined Oscar nominations in acting categories, with four wins (two for De Niro and two for Brando). You'd be hard-pressed to find a more loaded cast in any movie ever made.

Watch "The Score" on Paramount+ now

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Every week, I comb through the recent additions to Netflix’s movie library to find the latest (and greatest) thriller flicks added to the streaming service. Subscribers are in luck this week because Netflix just added a trio of truly fantastic thrillers that any dedicated genre fan really must watch.

That’s no hyperbole. As part of its August 2026 slate, Netflix is adding two 2010s thrillers that I rank among the best of the decade, packing career-highlight performances from Jake Gyllenhaal and Jessica Chastain. And that’s before turning attention to a 1994 classic starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock about a Los Angeles bus rigged to explode if it slows down.

If you want to add some thrills to your Netflix watchlist this week, you’re spoilt for choice. Here are the best thriller movies just added to Netflix.

3 new to Netflix thrillers to watch this week

'Nightcrawler' (2014)

“Nightcrawler” manages to be both thrilling and thought-provoking. It explores our society's desire for salacious coverage of grisly events in a way that is clever and chilling. It works largely because of a personal best performance from Jake Gyllenhaal, and the strong writing and direction from Dan Gilroy further elevate this neo-noir thriller to modern great status. It’s very dark with a dislikeable lead character, but it’s enthralling.

Lou Bloom (Gyllenhaal) is a petty thief who turns to freelance photojournalism to make money. His method is simple, but extremely morally questionable. He arrives on the scene of recent violent crimes or tragic accidents, records footage of the aftermath, and then sells it to a local news network. The more disturbing the footage, the higher the price paid. As Lou strives for increasingly macabre videos, he crosses ethical lines, but he sees it as simply fulfilling consumer demand.

Stream "Nightcrawler" on Netflix now

'Speed' (1994)

“Speed” is a hugely entertaining action-thriller that lives up to its name. This fast-paced watch keeps the momentum high, rarely pausing for breath or giving viewers any time to reflect on the ludicrous nature of its central premise. And how’s this for a fantastic very '90s pairing: it stars Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, with Dennis Hopper in support as a sinister villain. Just ignore the sequel; “Speed 2: Cruise Control” is garbage.

Jack Traven (Reeves) is an LA cop who successfully prevents a criminal from bombing an elevator, saving the lives of 13 people. However, the bomber isn’t finished with his reign of terror. He switches targets to an innercity bus. Planting a new explosive device, he informs Jack that if the bus drops below 50 mph, it will detonate. Now Jack has to defuse the situation with the help of a plucky passenger, Annie Porter (Bullock).

Stream "Speed" on Netflix now

'Zero Dark Thirty' (2012)

Kathryn Bigelow is one of the best filmmakers working in Hollywood at capturing the intensity and political turmoil of modern conflict. From 2008’s Best Picture-winning “The Hurt Locker” to last year’s Netflix original “A House of Dynamite,” Bigelow knows her stuff. If any more proof was needed, in steps “Zero Dark Thirty,” a knotty action-thriller that is more about deep-rooted obsession than it is about exploring the experience of the boots-on-the-ground soldiers.

Jessica Chastain gives a top-tier performance as Maya, a CIA intelligence analyst who is consumed by a singular goal: Finding Osama bin Laden. In the wake of the September 11 attacks, the U.S. military forces are determined to capture (and eliminate) the terrorist leader, and Maya leads the charge, regardless of the personal cost; her drive is unwavering. It all culminates in a tense SEAL operation on bin Laden’s secret compound.

Stream "Zero Dark Thirty" on Netflix now

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I’ve been looking forward to “The End of Oak Street” ever since it was announced. Not only does it look like pure sci-fi goodness, but it also has a strong cast and a fascinating premise involving some seriously terrifying dinosaurs. However, after watching the first trailer, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this film could be connected to something much bigger: “Cloverfield.”

Created by Bad Robot, “Cloverfield” is the mystery-driven sci-fi franchise that began with the 2008 found-footage monster movie, before expanding with “10 Cloverfield Lane” and “The Cloverfield Paradox.” It’s now been several years since we last visited the universe, and fans like me have been eager to see where the franchise could go next. That’s why I was already excited for “The End of Oak Street.” But after digging deeper into the film’s details, I started noticing some surprisingly familiar connections.

Nothing has been officially confirmed, and “The End of Oak Street” may still be its own standalone sci-fi adventure. However, after uncovering these seven clues, I’m genuinely shocked by just how closely it appears to connect with the “Cloverfield” universe.

Top 7 hidden clues

1. ‘Flowervale Street’ was the working title

Before its official title change in early 2026, the film was developed and filmed under the working title Flowervale Street. It’s pretty easy to analyze Bad Robot’s working titles for hidden clues, and this one appears to closely mirror “10 Cloverfield Lane” through a direct word swap.

For example, “Flower” and “Clover” both refer to flowering plants, “Vale” and “Field” both describe natural landscapes, and “Street” and “Lane” both refer to roads or pathways.

This “Flower-Vale-Street” to “Clover-Field-Lane” translation has fueled theories that the working title was a hidden reference to the “Cloverfield” franchise. It also fits with Bad Robot’s history of using production titles that disguise projects while leaving subtle clues for fans to uncover.

2. The real-world location clue

This is one of the first clues I found, and it’s pretty insane. The “Cloverfield” name has always had a real-world connection. When J.J. Abrams developed the original 2008 monster movie, “Cloverfield” was used as the production’s internal codename, inspired by Cloverfield Boulevard in Santa Monica, California, near Bad Robot’s headquarters.

Fans have noticed a possible connection with “The End of Oak Street” too. Taking the film’s title as a literal clue on a map leads you straight to Clover Park. What’s more, Clover Park and Oak Street are just a few blocks away from Cloverfield Boulevard itself.

While this is one of the more speculative theories based on the location names, fans believe it fits with Bad Robot’s history of hiding clues and references in plain sight. Because what else would be at the end of Oak Street?

3. The Platt family name can’t be a coincidence

Character names often act as hidden links between different projects rather than being random choices. The family at the center of “The End of Oak Street” is the Platt family: parents Denise Platt (Anne Hathaway) and Greg Platt (Ewan McGregor), along with their children Audrey Platt (Maisy Stella) and Brian Platt (Christian Convery).

In the original 2008 film “Cloverfield,” the main character who films the Manhattan monster attack on his camcorder is Hudson “Hud” Platt. According to the alternate reality game released in the same year, Hudson Platt was born in 1987.

“The End of Oak Street” is set in 1980s suburban America, placing the Platt family in the same time period as Hudson’s birth and childhood. This has led to theories that Denise and Greg Platt could be Hudson’s parents or relatives, making the Oak Street event a previous chapter in the Platt family history before the events of “Cloverfield.”

4. A mysterious cosmic event tied to ‘The Cloverfield Paradox’

The main plot of “The End of Oak Street” follows a mysterious cosmic event that pulls an entire suburban street out of its original location and places it in a strange world filled with prehistoric creatures. This concept closely connects with the science established in “The Cloverfield Paradox.”

In “The Cloverfield Paradox,” the failure of the Shepard Particle Accelerator aboard the Cloverfield Space Station creates tears between different dimensions and timelines. The event causes objects, creatures, and even parts of the Earth to be displaced across different points in time and space.

One important detail from “Paradox” appears in a news report showing the message: “OMG!!! 5 city blocks just disappeared. This can't be happening...” This alone suggests that the dimensional effects can remove entire sections of a city and relocate them elsewhere. The disappearance of the Oak Street neighborhood mirrors this same phenomenon, meaning it could be another example of the “Cloverfield” universe’s reality-shifting events.

5. The director has teased that there are ‘hidden answers’

Director David Robert Mitchell has addressed the fan theories surrounding “The End of Oak Street,” offering some cryptic comments about the film’s connection to Bad Robot and “Cloverfield.” When asked by SFX Magazine whether the movie would explain the cause of the mysterious cosmic event and how the neighborhood ends up in a dinosaur-filled timeline, Mitchell suggested that audiences will get some answers, but he doesn’t want to explain everything:

“There are certainly some answers in there... Don’t want to over-explain. And I think it’s a subjective thing as to whether or not someone has enough, but I believe that’s the case.”

However, when directly asked about theories linking the film to “Cloverfield,” Mitchell avoided confirming or denying the connection. Instead, he highlighted that he wrote the script before speaking with J.J. Abrams: “Here’s what I can tell you. I wrote the script before I ever personally talked with J.J. You can make of that whatever you will.”

This comment has only increased speculation though since it follows a pattern seen with previous “Cloverfield” projects. Both “10 Cloverfield Lane” (originally developed as The Cellar) and “The Cloverfield Paradox” (originally God Particle) started as separate scripts before being brought into the franchise by Bad Robot. Fans believe “The End of Oak Street” may have followed a similar path.

6. A bright flash in the sky

The blinding flash in the sky detail is considered by fans to be one of the strongest links between “The End of Oak Street” marketing and the wider “Cloverfield” universe. Fans believe this detail is significant because both stories feature the same unusual event: a mysterious flash in the sky before a major sci-fi disaster.

In “10 Cloverfield Lane,” Emmett DeWitt (John Gallagher Jr.) tells Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) how he ended up inside Howard Stambler’s (John Goodman) bunker. He explains that he was at work when he saw “giant, blinding flashes of light” in the distance. Realizing Howard’s warnings about an upcoming disaster were true, Emmett rushed to the bunker and forced his way inside just before the doors closed.

When “The Cloverfield Paradox” was released in 2018, fans connected these flashes to the Shepard Particle Accelerator accident. The machine’s failure created tears in space and time, causing strange events, creatures, and objects to appear across different realities and timelines.

A similar clue appeared during “The End of Oak Street” promotional campaign, which featured an Alternate Reality Game (ARG) across social media accounts like @endofoakstreet. The campaign included 1980s-style classified ads for household items such as old televisions and radios, supposedly recovered from a home damaged by a “cosmic incident.” One vintage television listing included a key detail from the seller, who claimed the screen went static after witnessing a “bright flash in the sky.”

7. Production team and creative connections

The possible connection between these films is also supported by the film’s creative team and its use of traditional alternate reality game (ARG) marketing. “The End of Oak Street” brings together several key creators connected to Bad Robot’s signature sci-fi style. Producer J.J. Abrams, the founder of Bad Robot, is the creative force behind the “Cloverfield” anthology concept.

Writer and director David Robert Mitchell, known for “It Follows” and “Under the Silver Lake,” has built a reputation for creating atmospheric sci-fi and horror stories. The film also features composer Michael Giacchino, a longtime Bad Robot collaborator who created the original Cloverfield theme and worked on projects such as “Super 8” and “Star Trek.”

Even though these are smaller connections, they have helped fuel speculation that “The End of Oak Street” could have a deeper connection to the “Cloverfield” franchise.

The only thing stopping this theory from being true

Sadly, there’s a huge ownership issue that could stop this from being true. The “Cloverfield” franchise is owned by Paramount Pictures, which released “Cloverfield” and “10 Cloverfield Lane,” and handled the release of “The Cloverfield Paradox.” Meanwhile, “The End of Oak Street” was made and released by Warner Bros. Pictures with Bad Robot and Jackson Pictures.

For the film to become a true “Cloverfield” entry, Bad Robot would likely need a deal with Paramount to use the franchise name and related elements. There has been no public confirmation of such an agreement. Early reports and footage descriptions also suggest the film works as a standalone dinosaur sci-fi story, without clear references to any “Cloverfield” monsters.

However, this has led fans to consider the idea of a “spiritual successor.” J.J. Abrams has often described “Cloverfield” as more of a shared concept than a traditional connected franchise. Even without direct references, Bad Robot could still create a story that shares similar ideas. This would allow “The End of Oak Street” to exist as its own Warner Bros. film while still feeling connected to Bad Robot’s wider sci-fi universe.

Do I still want this to secretly be a “Cloverfield” movie? Yes. But am I excited anyway because it looks so good? Absolutely.

"The End of Oak Street" hits theaters on August 14.

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The only thing more inevitable than a second season of the smash hit comedy-drama "Ludwig" (9.5 million viewers) is the fact that John "Ludwig" Taylor (played by David Mitchell) can still be found making a genius problem solver of himself within the Cambridge Police Authority.

Here's how to watch "Ludwig" seaason 2 online from anywhere with a VPN — and potentially for free.

This time, however, he is there as his socially-awkward self with a “proper job” as a Crime Scene Consultant and not just impersonating his identical twin James in a bid to resolve his mysterious disappearance.

He hasn’t given up the extra-curricular problem solving and is still being driven by his sister-in-law Lucy (Anna Maxwell Martin) to find her husband, but he is now forbidden from using any police resources to complete the task that got him into this situation in the first place.

Will that stop him? Here’s a Ludwig-style clue. 5 Across: Refusal to take a gamble. Answer: No chance.

If you love watching “impossible” crimes solved, read on to find out how to watch "Ludwig" season 2 online for free, on TV and from anywhere.

How to watch 'Ludwig' season 2 for free in the U.K.

"Ludwig" season 2 will return to BBC on August 20 and you can watch all episodes for free on BBC iPlayer.

How to watch 'Ludwig' season 2 from abroad

Thanks to the wonders of a VPN (Virtual Private Network), the second season of "Ludwig" will be available to Brits no matter where they are in the world. The software allows your devices to appear to be back in your home country regardless of where in the world you find yourself. Our favorite is NordVPN.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're visiting the U.S. and want to view a U.K. service, you'd select "United Kingdom" from the list.

3. Sit back and watch the show. Head to BBC iPlayer and watch "Ludwig" season 2 episodes online and on-demand for free.

Can I watch 'Ludwig' season 2 in the U.S.?

"Ludwig" season 2 will be available on BritBox in the U.S., but right now we have no confirmation on dates.

However, if you are a Brit in the States for work or on vacation you can catch the show for free by using a VPN such as NordVPN to unblock BBC iPlayer.

How to watch 'Ludwig' season 2 in the U.K.

In the U.K., "Ludwig" season 2 premieres on Thursday, 20 August 2026 on BBC One at 9.p.m. BST (4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT).

All episodes will be available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer, with the first three arriving on the day of the premiere and the remaining three released in September..

Don't forget that you'll need an account with a U.K. postcode (e.g. SE1 7PB) and a valid TV license.

If you're not in the U.K., you can still catch the show by using one of the best VPN services, such as NordVPN.

Can I watch 'Ludwig' season 2 in Canada?

As with the U.S. there are no plans to air "Ludwig" season 2 in Canada yet. When it does arrive we expect it to land on BritBox.

Remember: Those from Blighty in Canada for work or vacation can still catch season 2 for free by using a VPN such as NordVPN.

Can I watch 'Ludwig' season 2 in Australia?

There's no release date for "Ludwig" season 2 in Australia just yet, meaning you might have to wait a while for new episodes to join the first season on 7Plus.

If you are a Brit working or on vacation Down Under, you can catch season 2 by using a VPN such as NordVPN.

Can I watch 'Ludwig' season 2 in New Zealand?

No, not yet. TVNZ+ will broadcast "Ludwig" season 2 for free, but right now we don't have a confirmed release date.

Traveling from Britain to New Zealand? Access your "Ludwig" stream with NordVPN.

'Ludwig' season 2: Need to Know

'Ludwig' season 2 full trailer

'Ludwig' season 2 cast list

• David Mitchell – John "Ludwig" Taylor / James Taylor
• Anna Maxwell Martin – Lucy Betts-Taylor
• Dipo Ola – DCI Russell Carter
• Dorothy Atkinson – DCS Carol Shaw
• Ralph Ineson – Chief Constable Ziegler
• Karl Pilkington – DI Matt Neville
• Dylan Hughes – Henry Betts-Taylor
• Mark Bonnar – Gareth Fisher
• Sian Clifford – Joanne Kemper
• Ben Ashenden – DC Ethan Cole
• Rumi Sutton – DC Caitlin Sullivan

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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing

"Monsters of God" dives into the dark and dangerous world of exotic reptile smuggling as director Eric Goode delivers a five-part docuseries.

Here's how you can watch "Monsters of God" online and from anywhere with a VPN.

Eric Goode previously brought us the hit Netflix doc "Tiger King" and he's back with another animal-related docuseries about the multi-million dollar industry of smuggling reptiles. From rare snakes to turtles and lizards, "Monsters of God" offers insight into the underground networks of illegal dealers and the wildlife officers trying to stop them

Across five weekly episodes, Goode and his collaborator, Jeremy McBride, look at the industry’s Wild West period, specifically in Philadelphia, through the more modern fascination and obsession with collecting the rarest, most endangered reptiles on Earth.

Ready to learn more about reptiles? Here's how to watch "Monsters of God" online with all the streaming details you need below.

How to watch 'Monsters of God' in the U.S.

"Monsters of God" will be available on HBO Max, with new episodes releasing weekly from Thursday, August 6 onwards.

Watch 'Monsters of God' from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling overseas and find that "Monsters of God" isn't airing where you're currently located, that doesn't mean you have to miss the action. With the right VPN (virtual private network), you can stream the show from wherever you are.

We've evaluated many options, and the best VPN you can get right now is NordVPN.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're visiting the U.K. and want to view a U.S. service, you'd select a 'United States' server from the location list.

3. Sit back and binge. Head to your streaming service app and watch "Monsters of God" online from wherever you are in the world.

How to watch 'Monsters of God' online in Canada

"Monsters of God" will air on Crave in Canada.

Subscriptions to Crave cost $11.99/month for the standard, ad-supported package.

Abroad? Don't panic. You just need one of the best VPNs to log in back home. We recommend NordVPN.

How to watch 'Monsters of God' online in in the U.K.

In the U.K., "Monsters of God" will also be released on HBO Max on August 7. Prices start at just £5.99/month.

Visiting the U.K. from Canada? We recommend NordVPN to unblock Crave and more.

How to watch 'Monsters of God' online in Australia

It is a similar occurrence in Australia where "Monsters of God" will land on HBO Max on August 7.

Remember, if you are working or on vacation Down Under and you want to catch the show on your usual domestic streamer you can do so by using a VPN such as NordVPN.

'Monsters of God' - Need to Know

'Monsters of God' - episode guide

US and Canada release schedule

• Episode 1: "The Fever" — August 6, 2026
• Episode 2: "Operation Cobra" — August 13, 2026
• Episode 3: "Smuggler's Inn" — August 20, 2026
• Episode 4: "Operation Chameleon" — August 27, 2026
• Episode 5: "Head of the Snake" — September 3, 2026

'Monsters of God' - trailer

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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

“My Life with the Walter Boys” season 3 has arrived on Netflix, bringing back the romance and family drama that made the series such a binge-worthy hit when it debuted in 2023. Following the fallout of season 2’s emotional cliffhanger, the latest chapter shifts its focus away from the messy love triangle and towards the Walter family as they work through new challenges, complicated feelings, and plenty of relationship issues.

This time around, the family is reeling from patriarch George’s (Marc Blucas) sudden health crisis while experiencing explosive romantic fallout. Alex (Ashby Gentry) uncovers Jackie (Nikki Rodriguez) and Cole’s (Noah LaLonde) secret feelings, sending shockwaves through the love triangle. As the brothers seek fresh starts — Alex with a new rodeo riding team and Cole behind the wheel of race-car driving — Jackie throws herself into a Silver Falls community project. However, the unexpected arrival of a childhood friend from New York threatens to unravel her progress.

There’s no denying that season 3 doubles down on everything fans love about the show, including the yearning and drama, but it does unfortunately fall back into old habits. With a massive cast fighting for screen time, the plot lines often feel overstuffed, bouncing from random subplots to sudden character relationships faster than you can keep track of the brothers. Yet, despite this frustrating clutter, the series somehow keeps its messy charm. Here’s my honest take on “My Life with the Walter Boys” season 3.

Some overcrowding here, but it still has heart

The last time we were in Silver Falls, there was plenty of messiness unfolding, from Jackie and Cole confessing their feelings for each other to George suddenly being involved in an accident that leaves him hospitalized. It was an intense finale for a romantic drama, and season 3 thankfully picks up right where things left off. With the family’s attention turning towards George’s recovery, the romantic conflict takes somewhat of a backseat, which is a welcome choice given these characters need time to process their emotions and figure out what comes next.

“My Life with the Walter Boys” season 3 doesn’t completely stray from the romance, though, so don’t worry. Jackie, Cole, and Alex all get enough screen time to justify the fallout from season 2’s betrayal (because, let’s be real, Jackie emotionally cheated), while each character finally starts developing their own motivations and goals. Alex focuses on his rodeo dreams, Cole discovers a new passion for race cars, and Jackie looks for ways to make a positive impact on the community. These storylines give the trio some much-needed depth beyond the love triangle.

It’s these characters viewers are most invested in, and the series delivers plenty of drama between them. Unfortunately, “My Life with the Walter Boys” season 3 still falls into one of its old habits: trying to juggle too many storylines at once. Beyond the main trio, there’s Danny (Connor Stanhope) and Erin (Alisha Newton) navigating their new romance, Kiley (Mya Lowe) and Dylan’s (Kolton Stewart) growing relationship, Nathan’s isolation (Corey Fogelmanis), Lee (Myles Perez) and Isaac’s (Isaac Arellanes) complicated history with their mother, and Jackie’s old friend arriving in town to stir up trouble.

There are simply too many subplots competing for attention, with George’s health crisis being one of the few storylines that genuinely impacts the wider family dynamic. It’s frustrating, to say the least, because it becomes difficult to fully connect with these characters when there are so many threads being thrown at you. For some viewers, this constant stream of drama might keep things exciting, but I often struggled to keep up. Thankfully, this season does turn up the heat in one key area: the romance. The yearners will still have plenty to enjoy.

Verdict: ‘My Life with the Walter Boys’ season 3 should please fans

“My Life with the Walter Boys” season 3 proves that while this series has its flaws, it knows exactly how to hook its audience. Keeping the tight 10-episode format was a smart move, ensuring the drama stays fast-paced and highly bingeable.

While there are certainly too many competing subplots, it was refreshing to watch Alex, Jackie, and Cole step out of the love triangle's shadow to pursue their own passions in rodeo, community work, and racing. On the adult side of things, Sarah Rafferty is a total standout as Katherine (and arguably gives the best performance). She grounds all the madness with real heart as she juggles a household full of chaotic teens and her husband’s scary hospitalization.

Ultimately, “My Life with the Walter Boys” season 3 might be a narrative overload, but as a guilty pleasure, it remains undeniably impossible to turn off.

"My Life with the Walter Boys" season 3 is streaming on Netflix

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