If you’re like me, your viewing queue is a labyrinth, too many options, yet somehow none of it really works, and before you know it, an hour has whizzed by in scroll mode. Don’t worry, I’ve got you sorted.
From murder mysteries in the woods to anime thrills, nostalgic returns, and a big-screen behemoth remade, here’s a reverse-order countdown of the 8 newest movies and shows that are worth pressing play on right now.
8. Finally Dawn
We begin in 1950s Rome with Finally Dawn, a sumptuous period romance in which a young woman (Rebecca Antonaci) takes a job as a movie extra and finds herself swept up in a night to remember with a gorgeous starlet (Lily James). With Willem Dafoe, Rachel Sennott, and Joe Keery rounding out the cast, the film is both a dreamy ode to Italian cinema and a glimpse into old Hollywood glamour. If you’re craving something visually rich and a little unconventional, this one’s for you.
7. Robot Chicken: Self-Discovery Special
Adult Swim’s stop-motion cult classic is returning, this time around for its 20th anniversary in a one-off special. The Nerd character is front and center, bouncing between reality TV universes such as 90 Day Fiancé in search of illumination. Since the show isn’t producing regular seasons any longer, this may be the final new Robot Chicken we get for some time, making it a must-see for die-hard fans who’ve been along for the ride.
6. Billy Joel: And So It Goes
For music lovers, HBO Max has dropped a two-part deep dive into the life of the Piano Man himself. Packed with never-before-seen performance footage and interviews with Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, and more, And So It Goes goes beyond the greatest hits to explore Joel’s personal story, influences, and enduring impact. If you’ve ever belted out Piano Man at karaoke, this documentary is practically required viewing.
5. The Summer I Turned Pretty (Season 3)
Prime Video’s swoony teen drama returns after two years off, and it’s dishing out additional love triangles, summer nostalgia, and yes, lots of Taylor Swift soundtrack moments. Season 3 has just launched with two new episodes, and the rest will be released weekly. If you’re after sweet romance with a sprinkle of youthful mayhem, this series still delivers.
4. Sakamoto Days (Season 1, Part 2)
Netflix’s anime hit continues with new weekly episodes. Adapted from the popular manga, Sakamoto Days follows a retired assassin trying to live a quiet life as a convenience store owner, until his violent past inevitably finds him. With sharp humor, slick action, and only a dozen episodes so far, it’s the perfect pick whether you’re a manga reader or new to the series.
3. Untamed
If a wilderness enigma is your vibe, Untamed (Netflix) offers a combination of suspense and survival drama. Eric Bana plays a National Parks investigator who probes a suspicious fatality in Yosemite, only to find a much larger, deadlier mystery. The ensemble cast of Sam Neill, Lily Santiago, and Rosemarie DeWitt adds sufficient intrigue. And because all the episodes have already been released, you can binge through the peril straight from the comfort of your couch.
2. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (Season 3)
Paramount+ has finally released Season 3 of the popular Star Trek spinoff, and it’s playing all the right chords. The first two installments are live, with new ones premiering every week on Thursdays. Renowned for marrying nostalgic Trek feels with original narrative, the show is one of the strongest in the franchise in years. For old-time Trekkies and newcomers alike, the new season is an excellent ride.
1. How to Train Your Dragon (2025 Live-Action)
Number one is Universal’s live-action remake of the much-loved animated film. Directed by Dean DeBlois, the man behind the original trilogy, this installment re-tells the tale of Hiccup and his friendship with Toothless. It’s already winning over critics for keeping the heart and magic of the original but presenting it with a new, cinematic feel. Rent or buy on demand, it’s the ideal pick for a family movie night at home, or just anyone craving a little magic and nostalgia.
And there you have it, eight new streaming pearls that’ll save you from scrolling madness. Popcorn at the ready, lights down low, and enjoy!