The 20 Best New Shows and Movies to Watch This Weekend

It’s the weekend, and you want to relax by watching something entertaining. But with so many streaming services and new releases every week, how do you choose what to watch? This comprehensive guide covers the 20 best new shows and movies to watch this weekend on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and more.

Overview of the Best New Releases

This weekend offers exciting new shows and films across genres like comedy, drama, action, romance, and sci-fi. Highly anticipated titles include Netflix’s psychological thriller “You” season 4 starring Penn Badgley, Prime Video’s new sci-fi series “The Peripheral” produced by the creators of “Westworld”, and Hulu’s horror satire “The Banshees of Inisherin” with Colin Farrell.

For family-friendly options, check out “Slumberland” on Netflix starring Jason Momoa or “My Father’s Dragon” on Prime Video. Horror fans will enjoy Hulu’s “Grimcutty” or the new Netflix movie “The Curse of Bridge Hollow.” Lighthearted comedies include Prime Video’s “Harlem Season 2” and Hulu’s “Rosaline.” Continue reading for the full list of this weekend’s 20 top new releases to add to your watchlist!

The Best New Movie Releases

1. The Banshees of Inisherin (Hulu)

• Release Date: October 21, 2022
• Genre: Comedy, Drama
• Cast: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kerry Condon

Set on a remote island off the west coast of Ireland in 1923, The Banshees of Inisherin follows lifelong friends Pádraic (Colin Farrell) and Colm (Brendan Gleeson). To Pádraic’s confusion, Colm suddenly ends their friendship, leading to alarming and emotionally haunting consequences for both men. This tragicomic film by Martin McDonagh delivers powerful performances and plenty of irreverent humor.

2. The Curse of Bridge Hollow (Netflix)

• Release Date: October 14, 2022
• Genre: Comedy, Horror, Family
• Cast: Marlon Wayans, Kelly Rowland, Rob Riggle

This Netflix Original Halloween-themed movie follows a father (Marlon Wayans) who reluctantly teams up with his teenage daughter to save their town when an ancient spirit causes Halloween decorations to come to life and wreak havoc. With jump scares and laughs, it’s a family-friendly choice perfect for spooky season.

3. Descendant (Netflix)

• Release Date: October 21, 2022
• Genre: Documentary
• Subject: The Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in America

This powerful documentary chronicles the search for the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive on American shores in 1860. Filmmaker Margaret Brown highlights the efforts of Clotilda descendants to uncover their ancestral origins and legacy. Descendant provides poignant insight into an untold story of the transatlantic slave trade.

4. Grimcutty (Hulu)

• Release Date: October 21, 2022
• Genre: Horror, Mystery
• Cast: Sara Wolfkind, Usman Ally, Alison Araya

In this chilling Hulu Original, a teenage girl and her parents are stalked by an internet meme called “Grimcutty” that comes to life and threatens their lives. With a social media monster literally hunting her family, the teen has to figure out a way to stop it before it’s too late. This contemporary horror film tackles timely themes around internet safety and privacy.

5. My Father’s Dragon (Netflix)

• Release Date: November 4, 2022
• Genre: Animation, Family, Adventure
• Cast: Jacob Tremblay, Gaten Matarazzo, Golshifteh Farahani

Based on the Newbery Award-winning children’s book, this hand-drawn 2D animated movie follows a young boy (voiced by Jacob Tremblay) who runs away to a magical island to rescue a baby Dragon. With whimsical art and uplifting themes of bravery and friendship, it’s a heartwarming choice for families.

6. Prey for the Devil (In Theaters)

• Release Date: October 28, 2022
• Genre: Horror, Thriller, Mystery
• Cast: Jacqueline Byers, Colin Salmon, Christian Navarro

In this chilling exorcism thriller, a young nun (Jacqueline Byers) begins training under a Vatican official (Colin Salmon) to become an exorcist. As she confronts a demonic presence, terrifying secrets from the school’s dark past come to light. With intense scares and a nun proving her faith by battling evil, it’s a must-see for horror fans.

7. Slumberland (Netflix)

• Release Date: November 18, 2022
• Genre: Fantasy, Family, Adventure
• Cast: Jason Momoa, Marlow Barkley, Kyle Chandler

In this fantastical family movie, a young orphan girl (Marlow Barkley) discovers a secret map to the dreamworld of Slumberland, where she joins an eccentric outlaw (Jason Momoa) on a quest through dreams. With whimsical visuals and adventure perfect for all ages, it’s a beautifully heartwarming fantasy tale.

8. Taurus (In Theaters)

• Release Date: October 28, 2022
• Genre: Drama, Musical
• Cast: Colson Baker (Machine Gun Kelly), Maddie Hasson, Demetrius “Lil Meech” Flenory Jr.

Rapper MGK stars as a troubled musician battling his inner demons in this intense drama with autobiographical elements. The film delivers a raw, gritty descent into self destruction as he struggles with fame and addiction. With an emotive original soundtrack, Taurus is a powerful music-infused journey carried by MGK’s compelling performance.

The Best New Show Releases

1. Blockbuster (Netflix)

• Release Date: November 3, 2022
• Genre: Comedy
• Cast: Randall Park, Melissa Fumero, Olga Merediz

This 10-episode comedy series stars Randall Park as the dedicated manager of the last Blockbuster video rental store in operation who rallies his quirky staff to stay relevant. Set in the early 2000s, Blockbuster brings plenty of laughs and nostalgia as it explores the connections that make a community.

2. Dated and Related (Netflix)

• Release Date: September 2, 2022
• Genre: Reality dating
• Premise: Pairs of siblings search for love together

In this cringe-worthy reality dating series, pairs of siblings help each other find dates in the South of France. Watch as they try to find “the one” together while also setting new boundaries in their relationships. If you enjoy messy relationship antics, Dated and Related is your next binge.

3. From Scratch (Netflix)

• Release Date: October 21, 2022
• Genre: Romance, Drama
• Cast: Zoe Saldaña, Eugenio Mastrandrea, Danielle Deadwyler

Based on the memoir by Tembi Locke, From Scratch is a heartwrenching cross-cultural love story. When an American woman (Zoe Saldaña) falls in love with a Sicilian man (Eugenio Mastrandrea) on her study abroad trip, their romance leads to sharing a life together back in the States. But their beautiful future faces heartbreak when he becomes ill. Prepare to cry watching this emotional tale celebrating love.

4. Guillermo Del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities (Netflix)

• Release Date: October 25, 2022
• Genre: Horror, Anthology
• Showrunners: Guillermo del Toro

This chilling horror anthology series curated by acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro brings together genre legends to tell terrifying tales, from macabre to magical. With del Toro’s signature creepy visuals, Cabinet of Curiosities has something spooky for everyone this Halloween season.

5. Harlem Season 2 (Prime Video)

• Release Date: February 3, 2023
• Genre: Comedy, Romance
• Cast: Meagan Good, Grace Byers, Shoniqua Shandai, Jerrie Johnson

The single-girl comedy following a group of stylish friends in Harlem returns for Season 2. As the ambitious girlfriends continue to navigate careers, relationships, and all that NYC has to offer, there will be plenty of laughs and drama. Harlem remains a stand-out watch for a fun, sexy, and relatable sitcom.

6. Inside Job (Netflix)

• Release Date: October 22, 2022
• Genre: Adult animation, Comedy, Conspiracy
• Cast: Lizzy Caplan, Christian Slater, Clark Duke

This adult animated comedy focuses on shadow government conspiracies. It centers around tech genius Reagan Ridley, who joins a secret organization that manipulates the world. She struggles to keep their conspiracies under wraps. With sci-fi paranoia and witty satire, Inside Job puts a humorous lens on complex power dynamics.

7. Interview with the Vampire (AMC)

• Release Date: October 2, 2022
• Genre: Horror, Drama
• Cast: Jacob Anderson, Sam Reid, Eric Bogosian

Based on the bestselling novel by Anne Rice, this gothic horror drama remake follows vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson) as he recounts his life story to a journalist. The series expands on Rice’s iconic work with revamped visuals and more perspective. It satisfies longtime fans while inviting in new viewers with its rich themes.

8. The Peripheral (Prime Video)

• Release Date: October 21, 2022
• Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama, Thriller
• Cast: Chloë Grace Moretz, Gary Carr, Jack Reynor

This sci-fi thriller series comes from the creators of Westworld. The Peripheral follows a young woman (Chloë Grace Moretz) who discovers a connection to an alternate reality in the future. The innovative premise provides thought-provoking commentary on technology, capitalism, and humanity. It’s a must-watch for cerebral, complex sci-fi storytelling.

9. The White Lotus Season 2 (HBO)

• Release Date: October 30, 2022
• Genre: Comedy, Drama, Satire
• Cast: F. Murray Abraham, Jennifer Coolidge, Adam DiMarco

The acclaimed social satire set at a fancy vacation resort returns for a second outrageous season. Following a new group of wealthy vacationers in Sicily, The White Lotus continues its scathing take on money, power, and privilege. Laugh and cringe at the dark humor, biting class commentary, and shocking moments.

10. You Season 4 Part 1 (Netflix)

• Release Date: February 10, 2023
• Genre: Psychological thriller
• Cast: Penn Badgley, Tati Gabrielle, Charlotte Ritchie

The first half of the fourth season of Netflix’s smash hit psychological thriller drops in February. This time set in London, Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) takes on a new identity and obsessive tendencies as he pursues a new woman. The new international setting breathes intrigue and menace into the binge-worthy series.

What to Consider When Choosing What to Watch

With so many great options for shows and movies this weekend, how do you narrow down your choice? Here are some helpful factors to consider as you select your weekend watchlist:

• Mood – Choose the genre that matches how you want to feel – light comedy, inspirational drama, thought-provoking docuseries, or escapist fantasy.
• Company – If watching with friends or family, select titles suitable and interesting for the entire group.
• Attention Span – Opt for a feature film if you want a complete story in one sitting. Pick a compelling series for episodic entertainment requiring more extended attention.
• Preexisting Interests – Let favorite actors, creators, franchises or fictional worlds guide your selections. Or discover something completely new!
• Runtime – Balance feature-length films and episodic series based on how much time you want to spend watching this weekend.
• Critical Reviews – Check critic and audience reviews to evaluate overall quality and appeal before watching.
• Popularity – Immerse yourself in current zeitgeist by watching the most buzzworthy new titles. Or look for hidden gems.

Tips for an Optimal Viewing Experience

To fully enjoy whichever shows and movies make it onto your weekend watchlist, keep these viewing tips in mind:

• Eliminate distractions – Create an immersive, cinema-like experience by turning off devices and reducing interruptions.
• Make it comfy – Queue up your content and get cozy under a blanket, in pajamas or your favorite loungewear.
• Snack wisely – Have healthy snacks on hand so you don’t need to pause the action for a kitchen run.
• Use proper equipment – Invest in a quality television or projector and sound system or sound bar to optimize visual and audio elements.
• Take breaks – For series binging, be sure to stand up and move around occasionally to avoid fatigue.
• Watch trailers/previews – Get excited for your chosen title by watching any available trailer or preview clips.
• Go spoiler-free – Avoid reading or watching reviews with plot spoilers so you can encounter surprises and twists organically.
• Let go of distractions – Silence phones and other devices so you can fully immerse in the fictional world.

The Best Movie and TV Streaming Services

To access all of the great new releases mentioned, you’ll need access to the major streaming platforms. Here is an overview of some of the top services for streaming movies and TV shows:

Netflix

• Cost: $6.99–$19.99 per month
• Pros: Extensive library, original programming, mobile access
• Cons: No newer theatrical releases, occasional removal of titles

Hulu

• Cost: $7.99–$14.99 per month
• Pros: Newer movies and next day TV episodes, originals like The Handmaid’s Tale
• Cons: Limited selection of older movies and shows

Amazon Prime Video

• Cost: $9 per month, or $14.99 with full Prime membership
• Pros: Wide selection, exclusives like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, free shipping with Prime
• Cons: Confusing add-on channels and rentals

HBO Max

• Cost: $9.99–$14.99 per month
• Pros: Prestige originals, DC titles, classic films, new theatrical releases
• Cons: Glitchy performance, expired content removed

Disney+

• Cost: $7.99 per month
• Pros: Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar and other Disney properties
• Cons: Geared towards family viewing, smaller library

Conclusion

The wide selection of new movies and shows releasing means you have plenty of stellar options to add to your weekend watchlist. Cozy up and get ready for laughter, scares, action, romance or thought-provoking stories. From long-awaited returning favorites like You or White Lotus to exciting new releases like Cabinet of Curiosities or The Peripheral, there’s something for every taste. Consider your mood, interests and available time – and happy streaming!