Stream This Summer: Your Guide to the Hottest Home Movie Releases
Forget the movie theater lines and overpriced popcorn. This summer, the real blockbuster action is happening in your living room. Streaming services are delivering a cinematic onslaught of original films, from thrilling action adventures to heartwarming comedies, spine-chilling horrors to insightful documentaries. So, grab your remote, dim the lights, and prepare for an epic movie marathon without ever leaving your couch.
USA TODAY’s Watch Party newsletter is your trusted guide to navigating the ever-expanding world of streaming entertainment. We’ve sifted through the noise to bring you an exclusive sneak peek at 15 of the most anticipated movies hitting your favorite platforms this season.
A Summer Streaming Smorgasbord
While theaters are buzzing with summer tentpoles, the streaming giants are unleashing a wave of fresh content designed to captivate audiences of all tastes. This isn’t just filler content; these are star-studded, high-concept films with impressive creative talent behind them.
Whether you’re craving a nostalgic trip back to the ’80s with a teen slasher flick, a pulse-pounding action adventure with globetrotting siblings, or a hilarious comedy featuring a beloved character, there’s something for everyone in this summer’s streaming lineup.
Exclusive Look: 15 Movies Coming to Your Home
Here’s a curated list of 15 must-watch movies heading to your streaming devices this summer:
1. Fear Street: Prom Queen (Netflix)
Dive back into the terrifying world of R.L. Stine with this latest installment in the Fear Street saga. Set in 1988, the film follows India Fowler as an unlikely nominee for Shadyside High’s prom queen. But as the big dance approaches, a raincoat-clad masked killer begins eliminating her competition, turning the night into a deadly game. Get ready for a nostalgic slasher experience filled with suspense and shocking twists.
2. Fountain of Youth (Apple TV+)
Director Guy Ritchie brings his signature adventurous style to this tale reminiscent of Indiana Jones and National Treasure. John Krasinski and Natalie Portman star as estranged siblings, an art thief and a gallery curator, respectively. They embark on a quest to find the legendary Fountain of Youth, but their journey is complicated by a mysterious woman, played by Eiza González, who is also after immortality. Expect thrilling chases, clever puzzles, and plenty of humor.
3. The Retreat (Max)
From Succession creator Jesse Armstrong comes a dramedy exploring the lives of the wealthy and powerful. Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman, Cory Michael Smith, and Ramy Youssef portray tech leaders who gather for a snowy retreat. However, tensions rise and morals are questioned when a global crisis emerges, forcing them to confront their values and relationships. This film promises sharp writing, compelling performances, and a thought-provoking look at the elite.
4. Predator: Stone Age (Hulu)
This animated action adventure blends world history with the iconic Predator franchise. The anthology film tells the stories of three fierce human warriors – a vengeful Viking raider, a ninja in feudal Japan, and an Allied pilot in World War II – as they each face off against a deadly alien hunter with otherworldly weaponry. Prepare for intense battles, stunning animation, and a fresh take on the Predator mythology.
5. Mea Culpa (Netflix)
Tyler Perry writes and directs this twisty thriller starring Taraji P. Henson as a single mom struggling to care for her sick daughter. When she attempts to cash a check and is wrongly accused of bank robbery, a series of chaotic events unfolds. Teyana Taylor and Sherri Shepherd co-star in this drama that promises suspense, intrigue, and powerful performances.
6. Operation Cromwell (Prime Video)
Bryce Dallas Howard stars as an improv comedy teacher who gets an unexpected opportunity to infiltrate the London underworld. When an undercover cop, played by Sean Bean, recruits her, she enlists a couple of her students, Orlando Bloom and Nick Mohammed, to help her impersonate wanted criminals. This action comedy promises plenty of laughs, quirky characters, and a thrilling plot.
7. Echo Valley (Apple TV+)
Sydney Sweeney stars as a troubled young addict who finds herself in a dangerous situation. Julianne Moore plays her worried mother, desperately trying to cover up her daughter’s misdeeds. Domhnall Gleeson is the mysterious man who wants to exploit their misfortune for his own gain. This thriller is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat with its suspenseful plot and strong performances.
8. Sally (Disney+ and Hulu)
This documentary centers on the life of Sally Ride, the groundbreaking NASA astronaut and physicist who became the first woman in space in 1983. The film explores her professional achievements and her personal life, including her long-term relationship with her partner, Tam O’Shaughnessy, which was kept secret from the public for 27 years. A fascinating and inspiring story of a true pioneer.
9. K-Pop: Demon Hunters (Netflix)
This action-packed film follows a trio of wildly popular K-pop superstars who lead a double life as demon hunters, protecting the world from supernatural threats. Their most formidable foes are a group of hellish beasties disguised as a rival boy band. Get ready for high-energy action, catchy music, and a unique blend of genres.
10. The Old Guard 2 (Netflix)
The immortal warriors are back for another action-packed adventure. Charlize Theron reprises her role as Andy, leading her squad of immortal soldiers, including KiKi Layne, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Luca Marinelli, and Marwan Kenzari. They enlist the help of an old friend, played by Henry Golding, to face an ancient foe, portrayed by Uma Thurman. Expect breathtaking action sequences and a compelling story of immortality and sacrifice.
11. Madea Goes to the Bahamas (Netflix)
Tyler Perry returns as Madea in this hilarious comedy. Madea and her pals head to the Bahamas when a young woman named Tiffany, played by Diamond White, drops a bombshell on her divorced parents: she’s marrying a rapper she just met on a yacht in two weeks. Expect plenty of laughs and Madea’s signature brand of humor.
12. Zombies 4 (Disney+)
The Zombies franchise continues with a new installment that takes Zed, played by Milo Manheim, and Addison, played by Meg Donnelly, to a summer camp where they become counselors in the middle of a monstrous rivalry between Daywalkers and Vampires. A fun and musical adventure for the whole family.
13. Happy Gilmore 2 (Netflix)
Nearly 30 years after saving his grandma’s house, Adam Sandler’s iconic golfer returns to the links. Original stars Julie Bowen and Christopher McDonald are back, along with a slew of newcomers, including Travis Kelce, Ben Stiller, Masters champion Rory McIlroy, and Bad Bunny as Happy’s caddie. Get ready for more slapstick humor and golfing mayhem.
14. Good Boy (Netflix)
In this R-rated animated romantic comedy, a mutt named Bull, voiced by Adam Devine, learns he’s going to be neutered. He decides to have one last wild adventure with his pack of pals, including boxer Rocco, voiced by Idris Elba, and beagle Lucky, voiced by Bobby Moynihan, to proclaim his love for the show dog next door, voiced by Kathryn Hahn. Expect hilarious antics and heartwarming moments.
15. The Thursday Murder Club (Netflix)
Based on Richard Osman’s popular novel, this film stars Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie as friends at a retirement home who solve cold cases for fun. When an actual murder lands in their lap, they have to take their sleuthing seriously. A charming and witty mystery with a stellar cast.
Stay Tuned for More
This is just a taste of the exciting streaming content coming your way this summer. Be sure to sign up for USA TODAY’s Watch Party newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest releases, reviews, and recommendations. Get ready to stream your way through an unforgettable summer of entertainment!