August is bringing a little bit of everything to our screens—from long-awaited book adaptations and romantic comedies to returning fan-favorite TV shows. Whether you’re heading to the theater for an epic literary adaptation or planning a weekend binge at home, these are the movies and series we’re adding to our August watchlist.

Movies

 

The Dog Stars

Ridley Scott brings Peter Heller’s acclaimed novel to the big screen in this post-apocalyptic drama starring Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, and Guy Pearce. Set after a devastating flu pandemic, the story follows a pilot searching for hope, human connection, and a reason to keep going in a world forever changed.

 

The Magic Faraway Tree

Based on Enid Blyton’s beloved The Faraway Tree series, this whimsical fantasy follows three siblings who discover a magical tree whose branches lead to enchanting new worlds. Starring Andrew Garfield, Claire Foy, Rebecca Ferguson, and Nicola Coughlan, the family adventure promises plenty of wonder, imagination, and nostalgic charm.

 

The End of Oak Street

Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor star in this mysterious sci-fi thriller about a suburban neighborhood that is suddenly transported to an unknown world. Forced to work together to survive, the residents quickly realize that nothing about their new reality is what it seems.

 

Spa Weekend

Leslie Mann, Isla Fisher, Anna Faris, and Michelle Buteau headline this comedy about three best friends hoping for a relaxing girls’ getaway—until an unexpected guest turns their luxury spa retreat into complete chaos. Sometimes the best vacations are the ones that go completely off the rails.

 

One Night Only

When two hopeful romantics keep missing each other over the course of one unforgettable night, fate seems determined to bring them together. Starring Maya Hawke, Monica Barbaro, and Callum Turner, this charming rom-com looks perfect for anyone craving a little late-summer romance.

 

Finding Emily

After receiving the wrong phone number for the woman of his dreams, an aspiring musician teams up with a psychology student to track her down. Their campus-wide search soon becomes just as heartwarming—and hilarious—as the romance they’re chasing.

 

The Sun Never Sets

Dakota Fanning leads this highly anticipated drama, making it one of the month’s biggest releases for fans of character-driven storytelling. While plot details remain largely under wraps, Fanning’s return to the big screen alone makes this one worth keeping on your radar.

Bonus: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone – 25th Anniversary

Can you believe it’s been 25 years since Harry first stepped onto Platform 9¾? To celebrate the anniversary of the film that introduced millions to Hogwarts on the big screen, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone returns to theaters for a special engagement. If ever there was an excuse for a magical rewatch (or reread), this is it.

TV Shows

 

Reacher (Season 4)

Lee Child’s unstoppable hero returns for another season on Prime Video, this time adapting Gone Tomorrow. After witnessing a suspicious death on a New York subway, Jack Reacher finds himself pulled into a dangerous conspiracy involving military secrets, government corruption, and powerful enemies determined to keep the truth buried.

 

Outer Banks (Season 5)

The Pogues are back for their final treasure-hunting adventure, bringing more mystery, danger, and plenty of beachside drama as one of Netflix’s biggest YA hits returns. This season will wrap up all the intense emotions and grief surrounding the previous season, with a twist that will never be forgotten.

 

Ted Lasso (Season 4)

Believe is back. Jason Sudeikis returns as everyone’s favorite optimistic football coach in the long-awaited fourth season of the Emmy-winning comedy.

 

Dark Matter (Season 2)

Following its mind-bending first season based on Blake Crouch’s bestselling novel, Dark Matter continues exploring alternate realities, impossible choices, and the lengths one man will go to protect his family.

 

Lioness (Season 3)

Taylor Sheridan’s espionage thriller returns with more high-stakes undercover missions, political intrigue, and action-packed suspense as the Lioness program continues its dangerous work.