Top Streaming Picks for August 2025: Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+ & More
l has a new home in a much friendlier medium: television. Hulu is debuting the sci-fi fantasy series “Alien: Earth” (Aug. 10), a prequel to the iconic movie franchise. Set in the distant future, the show follows a group of explorers who discover dangerous secrets that could destroy their society. It’s set to deliver all the chills and thrills fans of the “Alien” movies love, while also expanding the universe in exciting new directions.
If you’re more into real-life drama, “Exposure” (Aug. 11) might be right up your alley. This true-crime docuseries reexamines high-profile cases with unseen footage and interviews, promising to shed new light on familiar stories. And if romance is your jam, “Heartbeat” (Aug. 18) tells the intertwined love stories of a diverse group of contemporary New Yorkers. It’s a heartwarming and engaging watch.
Binge-worthy: Looking for a show that offers a mix of humor and heart? “Wilma” follows the comedic misadventures of a self-sufficient woman living in modern-day London. If you’re in the mood for something more intense, check out “The Glass House,” a gripping Russian drama that explores the consequences of deception and betrayal. And for fans of political intrigue, “The Contender” offers a behind-the-scenes look at a high-stakes political race.
Play, pause or stop? Play. “King of the Hill” is a beloved classic that promises to deliver the same charm and wit fans fell in love with. “Alien: Earth” is sure to attract sci-fi aficionados and thrill-seekers alike. And with a diverse range of offerings, Hulu has something for everyone this month.
HBO Max ($9.99 a month with ads, or $17.99 with no ads)
A hybrid series is one that can attract both classic TV fans and those looking for something more innovative and different. That’s exactly what “Peacemaker” is. This new HBO Max release (Aug. 5) stars John Cena as the cocky and patriotic superhero who eagerly embarks on a mission to clean up the world’s mess, with his twisted sense of humor and fondness for explicit language setting him apart from other heroes. The series is a spinoff of last year’s “The Suicide Squad” movie and has already been renewed for a second season.
On a more traditional note, August also brings the premiere of “Under the Iron Curtain” (Aug. 15), a historical drama set behind the scenes of the Cold War’s most tense moments. Starring Luke Evans as the charming Soviet agent and Cate Blanchett as the calculating CIA operative, the show promises plenty of twists and turns as the two intelligence agencies clash. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of mystery, “The Lost Pyramid” (Aug. 23) explores the hidden secrets of an ancient tomb, with archaeologists racing against time to unlock its ancient mysteries.
If documentaries are more your speed, HBO Max has you covered with “After the Raid” (Aug. 7), a deep dive into the aftermath of a police operation, and “Dark Corners of the Internet” (Aug. 19), a chilling look at the hidden corners of the web.
Binge-worthy: Fans of psychological thrillers will want to check out “Invisible Scars,” a nail-biting Argentine drama that combines mystery and suspense in an atmospheric setting. For a more light-hearted watch, “Urban Legends” offers a fun and entertaining look at myths and legends from around the world. And if true crime is your thing, “Who Killed Sarah Ferguson?” promises to keep you guessing until the very end.
Play, pause or stop? Play. HBO Max continues to deliver a diverse range of content, from superhero action to historical drama. “Peacemaker” is a standout series that’s sure to appeal to fans of the superhero genre, while “Under the Iron Curtain” offers a gripping look at a pivotal moment in history. With something for everyone, HBO Max is a solid choice for your streaming needs this month.
Disney+ ($7.99 a month, or $15.99 with Hulu and ESPN+)
Disney+ enters August with a mix of new original content and beloved classics. “Soulmates” (Aug. 3) is a romantic anthology series that explores the concept of finding your perfect match through technology. Each episode tells a unique love story, offering a fresh take on the idea of soulmates.
For fans of animated adventures, “The Unicorn Princess” (Aug. 10) follows a young girl who discovers she has the ability to communicate with unicorns. Together, they embark on a magical journey to save their world from dark forces.
