Summer’s in full swing, the AC is blasting, and Netflix is dishing out the kind of streaming lineup that feels tailor-made for long weekends and lazy afternoons. Whether you’re hiding out from the heat, avoiding the crowds, or simply planning to spend the weekend in your comfiest pajamas, there’s a little something for every kind of binge-watcher this July. From superhero fights to ridiculous shark adventures, here are the 12 best movies and television shows to binge this weekend on Netflix, listed from entertaining to absolutely not to miss.
12. The Summer Hikaru Died
Fans of anime, this one’s for you. The Summer Hikaru Died gives the genre a sad and creepy twist with its approach to friendship and bereavement within a country town. The moody atmosphere and emotional depth make it the kind of supernatural story that sticks with you, perfect for fans of something meaningful and a bit spooky on the weekend.
11. Building The Band
Who says reality TV can’t have heart? Building The Band takes 50 teenage singers and challenges them to form the ultimate music group—without ever seeing each other. It’s all about sound, connection, and raw talent, and it makes for surprisingly wholesome viewing. If you’re after something uplifting with just the right amount of drama, this show hits all the right notes.
10. The Sandman, Season 2
Dreams and nightmares are back. The second season of The Sandman continues exactly where the first left off, going even more deeply into Neil Gaiman’s dark and magical world. With brain-twisting visuals and characters that spring directly from myth, this show is unlike anything else on television—and the best time to get caught up is now.
9. All the Sharks
Forget Shark Week. The Sharks amp up the excitement with an around-the-world competition to shoot as many different sharks as they can. It’s half documentary, half reality show, any filled with aquatic thrills and jaw-dropping moments. Good for ocean enthusiasts, conservationists, and, ahem, shark people.
8. Happy Gilmore 2
Yes, it’s real. Adam Sandler is back on the links in Happy Gilmore 2, and this time he’s bringing Bad Bunny with him. Hold on for crazy swings, huge laughs, and a cast full of nostalgic cameos. If you grew up reciting the original, this is the kind of over-the-top fun you won’t be able to get enough of.
7. Too Much
Lena Dunham’s new romantic comedy Too Much features Megan Stalter as a New York girlfriend who escapes to London post-breakup—and lands in a complicated new relationship with a musician played by Will Sharpe. With Richard E. Grant, Emily Ratajkowski, and Adèle Exarchopoulos on board, this show is cringeworthy, endearing, and relevant in the best possible ways.
6. My Melody & Kuromi
In need of something adorable and reassuring? My Melody & Kuromi brings a pastel-colored universe to life as two unexpected heroes join forces to save the Cloud Kingdom. It’s full of saccharine moments, magical escapades, and soft life lessons—ideal for children or anyone who could use a little extra sunshine in their day.
5. The Old Guard 2
Charlize Theron reprises her role as immortal warrior Andy in The Old Guard 2, this time battling a new adversary played by no less than Uma Thurman. Slick fight choreography, supernatural surprises, and huge comic book vibes make for a sequel that has all of the initial fans’ favorite elements—and more.
4. Field of Dreams
Some classics just never lose their magic. Field of Dreams returns to Netflix, reminding us all about the power of belief, baseball, and second chances. If you’re looking for something heartfelt and timeless to watch with the whole family, this one’s a guaranteed home run.
3. The Blues Brothers
Part musical, part road movie, and completely out of control, The Blues Brothers is a wild trip through American musical history. With unforgettable appearances by James Brown, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin, this cult favorite remains one of the greatest fun films ever created.
2. The Clubhouse: A Year with the Red Sox
Baseball fans, report for duty. The Clubhouse provides an all-access pass to the Boston Red Sox’s 2024 season in behind-the-scenes stories and big-league drama. It’s a must-watch docuseries for sports enthusiasts, and you can double-feature it by also streaming The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox.
1. Jaws
There’s no better way to celebrate summer than with the ultimate shark movie. Jaws is back on Netflix, and it’s just as suspenseful, iconic, and unforgettable as ever. Whether you’ve seen it a dozen times or it’s your first dive into Amity Island’s waters, this is the perfect pick for a thrilling movie night.