Netflix’s July lineup is packed to the brim, with sequels fans have been waiting years for, fresh takes on old favorites, and brand-new stories that might just become your next obsession. Whether you’re feeling nostalgic, ready for a fantasy binge, or just in the mood for something offbeat and hilarious, this month’s releases offer something for everyone.
Happy Gilmore 2: Adam Sandler Swings for the Fences Again
It’s been nearly 30 years since Adam Sandler originally teed up as Happy Gilmore, and now he’s back for another shot in Happy Gilmore 2, which landed on Netflix on July 25. Sandler is joined by old friends like Julie Bowen, Ben Stiller, and Christopher McDonald, but also brings aboard some amusing new faces—Bad Bunny, Travis Kelce, and even golfing legends like Rory McIlroy and John Daly.
The original cast members also return, including Tim Herlihy co-writing and Dennis Dugan executive producing. Kyle Newacheck, who directed Murder Mystery for Sandler, helms this installment. Happy’s attempting to pay his daughter’s tuition at school in the sequel, but naturally, things devolve into signature Gilmore-esque mayhem. Look for excess, celebrity appearances (yes, Eminem and Post Malone appear), and good ol’ helpings of retro laughs.
Madea’s Destination Wedding: Tyler Perry’s Matriarch Takes a Tropical Vacation
Madea’s not finished yet. In her 13th on-screen outing, she’s boarding a plane to the Bahamas in Madea’s Destination Wedding, which opened on July 11. Tyler Perry once again plays writer, director, and star, marking 20 years of Madea on screen with a tale that blends family drama, slapstick humor, and reflective warmth.
The story revolves around Madea’s nephew Brian and his former wife Debrah, whose daughter Tiffany shocks everyone by getting engaged to a rapper—in two weeks, no less. The familiar gang, featuring Cassi Davis Patton, David Mann, and Tamela Mann, is joined by some new faces as they deliver that familiar combination of humor, life lessons, and full-on family mayhem. As Perry’s words went, “Let’s leave the world behind for a moment and come to Madea’s house… laugh, cry, eat, and celebrate.”
The Sandman Season 2: The Dreaming’s Final Chapter
Fantasy fans, hold out no more. The second and last season of The Sandman is releasing in three parts throughout July. Adapted from Neil Gaiman’s classic graphic novels, the show follows up on Dream and his mighty siblings.
Tom Sturridge reprises his role as brooding Dream, accompanied by old faces including Gwendoline Christie as Lucifer and Mason Alexander Park as Desire. Fans will also spot Jenna Coleman, Stephen Fry, and Steve Coogan in the returning cast. Following some off-screen drama with Gaiman, Netflix chose to offer fans closure, and this final installment is set to offer up the dreamlike visuals and epic drama that made the first season so special.
Other Must-Watch Premieres
July isn’t just about sequels. The Old Guard 2 brings back Charlize Theron and her immortal team for more action and soul-searching. Uma Thurman joins as a powerful new villain, while Henry Golding adds intrigue to the mix. With Victoria Mahoney directing, the sequel looks to raise the stakes in every way.
If psychological thrills are your thing, check out Wall to Wall. Released on July 18, the Korean thriller stars a guy named Woo-sung, whose insomnia becomes paranoid when neighbors claim he’s the cause of strange noises. Director Kim Tae-joon amped up the tension in classic K-thriller style.
Music fans, set your calendars for Building the Band, premiering July 9. It’s a sad one—this show includes the last-ever TV stint of late Liam Payne, who serves as a guest judge with AJ McLean, Nicole Scherzinger, and Kelly Rowland on this singing competition.
And for fans of anime, there’s much to explore. The Summer Hikaru Died, from Mokumokuren’s popular manga, began streaming on July 5. It adds a supernatural spin to a small-town friendship tale. SAKAMOTO DAYS returns with fresh episodes on July 14, and My Melody & Kuromi bring a delightful stop-motion journey starring two of Sanrio’s dearest characters beginning July 24.
Glamorous Departures: Say Goodbye to These Favorites
While all of these new releases are dominating the headlines, don’t forget to see what’s departing while it’s still here. July is your final opportunity to stream Barbie, Dune: Part Two, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, and all five seasons of Insecure. Big franchises like Twilight, Ocean’s Eleven, and Hotel Transylvania are departing too, so be sure to press play before it’s too late.
One Month, Endless Possibilities
With a mix of returning icons, breakout newcomers, and buzzy finales, Netflix’s July slate is a reminder that a great night in is just one click away. Whether you’re tuning in for the nostalgia or discovering something new, this month’s lineup proves that streaming is far from slowing down.