Netflix is going big this August, rolling out a mix of brand-new originals and fan-favorite classics that could keep even the most casual viewer glued to the couch. Whether you’re in the mood for cozy British mysteries, animated mayhem, political chess matches, or a much-anticipated trip back to Nevermore Academy, there’s a lot to be excited about. We’re counting down the top 10 picks—saving the most buzzworthy for last.
10. The Thursday Murder Club
If witty, British-style mysteries are your cup of tea, then this production of Richard Osman’s bestselling novel should be at the top of your list. Directed by Chris Columbus, a who’s who of British acting royalty turns out for this all-star cast, including Helen Mirren, Ben Kingsley, Pierce Brosnan, Celia Imrie, Jonathan Pryce, and David Tennant. Four retirees spend their days working on cold cases… until a brand-new murder drops in their lap. Coming August 28.
9. My Life With the Walter Boys – Season 2
Teen drama enthusiasts, rejoice. Jackie is back in Colorado for a second season of messy relationships, personal development, and small-town intrigue. She’s attempting to make amends with Alex, maintain boundaries around Cole, and navigate life in Silver Falls. Rodeo danger, football aspirations, and plenty of emotional turns are in store. Streaming August 28.
8. Long Story Short
From BoJack Horseman creator Raphael Bob-Waksal, a fresh animated sitcom about one family across decades of love, loss, and cringeworthy comedy. The voice talent—Abbi Jacobson, Max Greenfield, Nicole Byer, Dave Franco, and Ben Feldman—guarantees lots of personality. Drops August 22.
7. Hostage
High-stakes political intrigue is the dish of the day with Hostage, featuring Suranne Jones as the UK Prime Minister. When her husband is kidnapped and the visiting French president is coerced, the two leaders are led into a perilous standoff. Suspenseful, timely, and full of surprises, it premieres August 21.
6. The Truth About Jussie Smollett?
Few true-crime stories have been as baffling—or divisive as the 2019 attack on Empire actor Jussie Smollett. This film goes in-depth, with commentary from detectives, reporters, lawyers, and Smollett himself. From the makers of Tinder Swindler, it arrives August 22.
5. Night Always Comes
Vanessa Kirby stars in this raw, close-in thriller about a woman running through a treacherous night to come up with $25,000 and save her house. From director Benjamin Caron and based on Willy Vlautin’s novel, it’s a crime tale centered on characters with actual emotional heft.
4. Fixed
Animation icon Genndy Tartakovsky trades sci-fi and swords for good ol’ raunchy dog humor. Fixed is about Bull, a good boy who finds out he’s going to get neutered—and goes on a last hurrah with his animal buddies. Starring Adam Devine, Idris Elba, Kathryn Hahn, and Fred Armisen, it’s an unashamedly goofy ride.
3. My Oxford Year
Romance takes an Oxford spin in this filming of Julia Whelan’s book. Sofia Carson stars as Anna, a driven American whose plans are disrupted by a witty local (Corey Mylchreest). Directed by The Inbetweeners’ Iain Morris, it combines charm, banter, and rolling British landscape. Available to stream August 1.
2. Classic Movie Collections
August isn’t solely dedicated to new releases—Netflix is stocking up on classics. Get ready for American Pie and its sequel, the Jurassic Park trilogy, the Fast & Furious series, Rush Hour, Clueless, Groundhog Day, Megamind, and plenty more. Essentially, a pre-made movie marathon.
1. Wednesday – Season 2
Three years later, Jenna Ortega is once again sporting her black braids as Wednesday Addams. Season 2 teases more mystery, gothic humor, and Nevermore intrigue, with Alfred Gough, Miles Millar, and Tim Burton once again working behind the scenes. New cast additions include Steve Buscemi, Billie Piper, Joanna Lumley, Thandiwe Newton, Christopher Lloyd, and yes, Lady Gaga as a legendary Nevermore teacher. Part 1 premieres August 6, with Part 2 arriving in September.
August 2025 is shaping up to be a binge-watcher’s dream—whether you’re in it for the romance, the suspense, the animated chaos, or the nostalgic comfort of classics. Stock up on snacks, silence your notifications, and settle in.