Summer Send-Off: 10 Perfect Weekend Watches for your Final Summer Binge
As one of the last summer weekends approaches, it’s the perfect time to unwind and enjoy some great entertainment. Whether you’re looking to escape the heat with a thrilling blockbuster, relax with a lighthearted comedy, or get lost in a captivating series, there’s something for everyone to watch. From highly anticipated new releases to movies that capture the spirit of summer, here’s a roundup of the best movies and shows to make the most of your final summer days.
1. “That 90’s Show”
“That ’90s Show,” a nostalgic spin-off of the beloved “That ’70s Show,” is set to make a splash with its third season, dropping today on Netflix—just two months after the release of season 2. The series follows a new generation of teenagers navigating life in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin, during the 1990s. With a mix of fresh faces and guest appearances from original cast members, the show blends ’90s nostalgia with the classic humor and heart that made its predecessor a hit. As fans eagerly tune in for the latest season, they can expect more laughs, memorable moments, and a trip down memory lane.
2. “Pachinko”
The critically acclaimed series “Pachinko” returns today with the debut of the first episode of its highly anticipated second season. Based on Min Jin Lee’s best-selling novel, the series spans multiple generations, following a Korean family’s journey from their homeland under Japanese occupation to life as immigrants in Japan. “Pachinko” is celebrated for its powerful storytelling, stunning cinematography, and rich exploration of identity, resilience, and the immigrant experience. As season 2 begins, viewers can expect deeper character development, new challenges, and an even more compelling narrative that continues to capture the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
3. “Classified”
The Amazon series “Classified” which released today revolves around a rebellious teenager who is uprooted from her home in Oakland, California, and forced to move to South Africa to live with her estranged father. The show blends elements of drama and cultural exploration as the protagonist navigates her new life in a different country, dealing with personal and familial challenges.
4. “Reasonable Doubt”
“Reasonable Doubt” is a Hulu legal drama centered around Jax Stewart, a high-powered defense attorney in Los Angeles known for her unconventional approach to the law and her dedication to her clients. The show explores themes of justice, morality, and personal conflict as Jax navigates complex legal cases and her tumultuous personal life. Season 2 promises to dive deeper into Jax’s character and the challenges she faces in both her career and personal relationships.
5. “Honest Renovations”
“Honest Renovations” is a home improvement show on The Roku Channel, hosted by Jessica Alba and Lizzy Mathis. The series follows the duo as they help families transform their living spaces to better suit their needs, focusing on practical, stylish, and heartfelt renovations. The show combines elements of home design with personal storytelling, aiming to create functional and beautiful spaces that reflect each family’s unique lifestyle and values.
6. “Only Murders in the Building”
“Only Murders in the Building” is a critically acclaimed mystery-comedy series starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez as three neighbors who team up to solve a murder in their apartment building. Their amateur sleuthing leads to a series of twists and turns, blending humor with suspense. With all three seasons now available to stream on Hulu, it’s the perfect time to catch up on the series ahead of the highly anticipated fourth season premiere next week.
Movies to Watch
7. “Blink Twice”
“Blink Twice” is a thriller directed by Zoe Kravitz that follows Frida, a cocktail waitress who catches the eye of tech billionaire Slater King at his lavish fundraising event. Captivated by her, Slater invites Frida to join him and his friends on a luxurious getaway to his secluded private island. What starts as a glamorous and carefree vacation soon takes a dark turn as mysterious and unsettling events begin to unfold. Frida must navigate the increasingly strange and dangerous situation to uncover the truth and survive. “Blink Twice” is in theaters now.
Trigger Warning: The film includes themes of manipulation, psychological tension, and survival under distressing circumstances, which could be triggering for some viewers.
8. “Incoming”
The new Netflix movie “Incoming” is a coming-of-age comedy that follows four high school freshmen as they gear up for their first big school party. With excitement and nerves running high, the group prepares to navigate the challenges of social dynamics, peer pressure, and the unknowns of teenage life, all while trying to make a memorable impression at the event. The film captures the awkwardness and thrill of stepping into a new social world for the first time.
9. “Fly Me to the Moon”
“Fly Me to the Moon” is an alternate history drama set in 1969, featuring Scarlett Johansson as Kelly Jones, a new marketing specialist at NASA, and Channing Tatum as Cole, a mission launch director. The story revolves around these two frenemies who are forced to team up to secure the final round of funding from Congress for the moon mission. Despite their differences, Kelly and Cole must navigate their contrasting approaches and find common ground to achieve their shared goal of landing on the moon. The film blends tension, humor, and the spirit of the space race era. It is now available for rent or purchase at home following its theatrical release.
10. “Inside Out 2”
“Inside Out 2” is the highly anticipated sequel to Pixar’s beloved film, “Inside Out”. It continues the story of Riley, now a teenager facing new emotional challenges as she navigates adolescence. The movie introduces new emotions alongside the familiar ones as Riley deals with the complexities of growing up. “Inside Out 2” became the highest-grossing Pixar film in history, breaking box office records. Following its successful theatrical release, the film is now available for rent or purchase at home.
As the weekend rolls in, gear up for a binge-worthy mix of captivating shows and must-see films. If you’re craving a powerful drama, dive into the sweeping generational saga of “Pachinko” or get hooked on the intense legal battles in “Reasonable Doubt.” For a fresh cinematic treat, check out Zoe Kravitz’s intriguing directorial debut “Blink Twice,” or relive the magic with “Inside Out 2,” a heartfelt continuation of the animated favorite. Whether you’re settling in for a series marathon or planning a cozy movie night, these picks are sure to keep you entertained all weekend long.