August 2019 brought a fresh wave of movies and series to Netflix, offering something for every type of viewer. Whether you’re into thrilling dramas, hilarious comedies, or captivating documentaries, this list highlights the most exciting new releases to watch this month. If you’re wondering what’s worth your time or how to pick the best options for your mood, keep reading for a detailed overview of the top new titles on Netflix this August.
1. Mindhunter: Season 2
David Fincher’s acclaimed crime thriller series returned for its second season on Netflix in August 2019. Following FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench as they delve deeper into the minds of serial killers, this season explores more complex cases and character development. With its meticulous storytelling, chilling performances, and atmospheric cinematography, Mindhunter remains a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and true crime aficionados.
2. The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance
This visually stunning prequel series is a reboot of the 1982 Jim Henson film. Featuring intricate puppetry and elaborate world-building, it tells the story of Thra’s inhabitants fighting against the oppressive Skeksis. Praised for its craftsmanship and engaging storyline, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance offers a nostalgic yet fresh fantasy experience for both new viewers and longtime fans of the original film.
3. Jack Whitehall: Stood Up
British comedian Jack Whitehall’s stand-up special, Stood Up, hit Netflix in August 2019, delivering his signature wit and observational humor. Covering everything from family antics to travel mishaps, Whitehall’s jokes are sharp, relatable, and delivered with charming self-deprecation. It’s a perfect pick for comedy lovers seeking lighthearted, candid laughs.
4. The Umbrella Academy: Season 1
Although it premiered earlier in 2019, The Umbrella Academy’s debut season gained renewed attention in August, thanks to its popularity. Based on the Dark Horse comic series, it follows a dysfunctional family of superhero siblings trying to prevent an apocalypse. With its quirky characters, inventive storytelling, and dark humor, this series is a standout for superhero fans tired of traditional tropes.
5. The Great Hack
This documentary dives into the Cambridge Analytica scandal and examines how personal data was weaponized during the 2016 US presidential election. Combining investigative journalism with expert interviews, The Great Hack offers a compelling look at the ethics of data privacy and manipulation. It’s an eye-opening watch for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, politics, and society.
6. American Son
Starring Kerry Washington, American Son is a tense, emotionally charged drama about a mother searching for her missing son in a police station. Set over one night in a Florida police station, the film explores themes of race, justice, and family. With powerful performances and sharp dialogue, it’s a timely and impactful film that sparks important conversations.
7. The Innocent Man
This true crime documentary series examines two wrongful convictions in Oklahoma, revealing flaws in the justice system. Through interviews, court footage, and detailed storytelling, it uncovers the human stories behind the headlines. Perfect for true crime enthusiasts, The Innocent Man highlights the importance of justice and the devastating consequences of wrongful convictions.
8. 13 Reasons Why: Season 3
The controversial teen drama returned for its third season, continuing to explore sensitive issues such as mental health, bullying, and sexual assault among high school students. With its compelling storytelling and complex characters, it remains a thought-provoking series, though viewers should be mindful of its mature themes and graphic content. It’s a series that sparks debate and reflection among its audience.
9. The Witcher
Based on the popular book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher stars Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a world full of magic and political intrigue. The first season’s release in August 2019 generated huge buzz thanks to its dark fantasy tone, impressive visuals, and complex characters. If you’re into fantasy epics like Game of Thrones, this series is definitely worth a watch.
10. The Chef Show
Jon Favreau and chef Roy Choi team up in The Chef Show, a delightful culinary series that explores different cuisines and cooking techniques. Filmed during Favreau’s movie productions and beyond, it features celebrity guests and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments. Food lovers will appreciate its warm, entertaining approach to cooking and the stories behind each dish.
How to Choose
When deciding what to watch among these new releases, consider your mood and interests. If you love thrillers and crime dramas, Mindhunter and The Innocent Man are excellent choices. For fantasy fans, The Dark Crystal and The Witcher offer immersive worlds. Comedy enthusiasts will enjoy Jack Whitehall’s stand-up, while documentary lovers should check out The Great Hack. Think about whether you prefer binge-worthy series or standalone films, and match the content to your current entertainment cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are these titles suitable for children? Most of these titles are aimed at adult audiences due to mature themes, language, or graphic content. Check each series or film’s rating before viewing with children.
- Do I need to watch previous seasons to understand these new releases? Some series like The Umbrella Academy and The Witcher are new to Netflix in 2019 and are designed to be accessible without prior seasons, but others like Mindhunter are in their second season, so watching earlier episodes might enhance understanding.
- Are these titles available worldwide? Availability can vary by country due to licensing agreements. Most titles are accessible in major regions, but some may be geo-restricted.
- How long do these movies and series typically run? Series episodes range from about 45 to 60 minutes, while movies like American Son are approximately 90 minutes long, fitting easily into a cozy night in.
- Will there be more releases later in August? Yes, Netflix regularly updates its library, so keep an eye out for new titles and special releases throughout the month.
Final Thoughts
August 2019 proved to be an exciting month for Netflix viewers, with a diverse lineup of movies and series that cater to various tastes. From intense crime dramas and thought-provoking documentaries to fantastical adventures and comedic stand-up specials, there’s something for everyone. When choosing what to watch, consider your mood, genre preferences, and whether you’re in the mood for a binge or a quick film. With so many options, August on Netflix offers a perfect opportunity to discover new favorites and enjoy quality entertainment from the comfort of your home.
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