August 2019 brought a fresh wave of Netflix Originals, offering a diverse lineup of new series, films, and documentaries for subscribers worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of thrilling dramas, comedy specials, or fascinating documentaries, this list covers the most notable releases that are worth your time this month. If you’re wondering which titles to prioritize or want a quick overview of what’s hot, keep reading for the essential highlights of Netflix’s August 2019 lineup.
1. Mindhunter: Season 2
After a highly acclaimed first season, “Mindhunter” returned with its second installment on Netflix in August 2019. This psychological crime thriller, created by Joe Penhall and based on true FBI profiling techniques, continues to follow agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench as they delve deeper into the minds of serial killers. The series boasts meticulous storytelling, chilling performances, and a slow-burn intensity that makes it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and psychological thrillers.
2. The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance
This visually stunning fantasy series is a prequel to the 1982 Jim Henson film. Featuring groundbreaking puppetry and intricate world-building, “The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance” explores the origins of the Skeksis and the Gelflings’ rebellion. Its rich storytelling, detailed craftsmanship, and compelling characters make it a standout choice for both fantasy lovers and families seeking an imaginative adventure.
3. Good Omens
Based on Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s beloved novel, “Good Omens” is a comedic apocalyptic series starring David Tennant and Michael Sheen. The show combines wit, satire, and supernatural elements as an angel and demon team up to prevent the end of the world. Its clever dialogue, stellar performances, and unique tone make it one of the most entertaining new releases of August 2019.
4. The Politician
Created by Ryan Murphy, “The Politician” is a satirical comedy-drama centered around high school student Payton Hobart’s political ambitions. The series explores themes of power, ambition, and identity with sharp humor and a star-studded cast including Ben Platt, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jessica Lange. Its witty writing and stylish presentation make it appealing to viewers interested in political drama with a satirical twist.
5. Lucifer: Season 4
Fans of the devilish detective series rejoiced when “Lucifer” returned for its fourth season on Netflix. Starring Tom Ellis as Lucifer Morningstar, the series combines crime procedural elements with supernatural comedy and romance. This season deepens character development and features more of Lucifer’s charming antics, making it a binge-worthy pick for fans of noir with a supernatural edge.
6. The Rain: Season 2
The Danish post-apocalyptic series “The Rain” returned for its second season, continuing the story of Simone and Rasmus as they navigate a world devastated by a deadly virus carried by rain. The show combines survival drama with sci-fi mysteries, offering tense action sequences and emotional character arcs. It’s a compelling choice for viewers who enjoy dark, atmospheric thrillers with a focus on human resilience.
7. Dead to Me
This dark comedy series stars Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini as two women who form an unlikely friendship amid personal tragedy. As secrets unravel, the series balances humor with suspense, exploring themes of grief, guilt, and redemption. Its sharp writing and strong performances make it a standout for viewers who enjoy emotional storytelling with a comedic twist.
8. The Spy: Season 1
Starring Sacha Baron Cohen, “The Spy” is a tense espionage miniseries based on the real-life story of Israeli spy Eli Cohen. Set in the 1960s, it chronicles Cohen’s undercover operations in Syria, with meticulous period detail and compelling performances. This series appeals to fans of political thrillers and historical dramas, offering a gripping look at espionage and sacrifice.
9. The Chef Show: Volume 2
Following the success of its first season, “The Chef Show” returned with more culinary adventures featuring chef Roy Choi and filmmaker Jon Favreau. The series combines cooking, culture, and storytelling as they explore various cuisines and meet talented chefs around the world. It’s perfect for food enthusiasts and anyone looking for a warm, engaging series centered on culinary creativity.
10. The Family Business
This French crime comedy series follows a family of wine producers who secretly run a cannabis empire. Combining humor, crime, and family drama, “The Family Business” offers a fresh take on the crime genre with a distinctly European flavor. Its quirky premise and charismatic cast make it a fun, light-hearted watch for fans of international series and crime comedies.
How to Choose
When selecting which Netflix Originals to watch, consider your personal preferences for genre, tone, and storytelling style. If you enjoy intense crime dramas, “Mindhunter” or “The Spy” might be your top choices. For fans of fantasy and imaginative worlds, “The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance” offers stunning visuals. Comedy lovers should check out “Good Omens” or “Dead to Me” for sharp wit and humor. Also, think about the mood you’re in—whether you want something light and fun or dark and thrilling—and pick accordingly. Lastly, look at cast and creator reputations; trusted names like Ryan Murphy or Neil Gaiman often hint at quality content.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are these Netflix Originals suitable for all ages? Many are aimed at adult audiences due to mature themes, but some like “The Dark Crystal” are family-friendly. Check ratings before viewing.
- Will there be more seasons of these shows? Most series like “Mindhunter” and “The Politician” were renewed or planned for future seasons, but availability depends on Netflix’s decisions.
- Are these shows available worldwide? Availability varies by region; most are accessible in major markets, but some may be geo-restricted.
- Which of these titles received critical acclaim? “Mindhunter,” “Good Omens,” and “The Spy” garnered positive reviews for storytelling and performances, making them safe bets for quality.
- Do these series have subtitles or dubbing options? Yes, Netflix generally offers multiple language options for subtitles and dubbing on all original series.
Final Thoughts
August 2019’s Netflix Originals lineup offers a rich selection of genres and stories, from gripping crime dramas to imaginative fantasies and sharp comedies. Whether you’re looking to binge an entire season or just catch up on a few episodes, these titles showcase Netflix’s commitment to diverse and high-quality original content. Consider your mood, genre preferences, and favorite creators when choosing what to watch, and enjoy the new stories that August has to offer. With such a varied lineup, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy this month on Netflix.
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