Another month brings a fresh lineup of films to choose from—this is what I cherish about Netflix. Among all the streaming platforms, Netflix consistently offers the most diverse selection each month, featuring everything from beloved rom-coms to thought-provoking war films and new horror releases, all complemented by Netflix Originals that spark widespread discussions. August 2024 is no exception, showcasing highlights such as the unrated version of an epic sci-fi saga that has captured audiences, a poignant Oscar-winning drama about a mother’s unwavering love for her son, and a highly underrated action thriller that laid the groundwork for the latest Mission Impossible films. With so many excellent choices, where do you begin?
I’m here to assist. Below is a curated list of the ten films I highly recommend this month on Netflix. At the end of the article, you’ll find a detailed compilation of every film arriving on the platform in August 2024. As always, the sheer volume of options may astonish—or overwhelm—you, so hopefully, my suggestions will help lighten the load a bit.
The 10 Best New Movies on Netflix in August 2024
Note: This list includes all releases up to August 3, 2024.
Rebel Moon: Director’s Cut (2024)
I’m writing this recommendation on Saturday morning. As a dad with two kids and limited time for movies, I was fortunate enough to find the opportunity to watch the first half of Zack Snyder’s unrated cut of *Rebel Moon* last night. And I must say… I don’t need to see the second half to wholeheartedly recommend this film. As a longtime Snyder fan, this director’s cut has quickly become my favorite in his body of work.
For those unfamiliar with the plot, it centers around a warrior named Kora (portrayed by Sofia Boutella), whose farming community faces a grave threat from the tyrannical, militaristic Imperium. The community is given a mere ten weeks to harvest crops for the oppressive army, leaving none for themselves—a virtual death sentence. Rather than submitting, Kora assembles a band of warriors (featuring a talented cast that includes Djimon Hounsou, Michiel Huisman, Doona Bae, Ray Fisher, Staz Nair, and Charlie Hunnam).
The director’s cut offers ample room for each character’s story to develop and take shape, elevating *Rebel Moon*’s previously PG-13 narrative from great to extraordinary. If you have the patience, this film will take you on a journey unlike any other sci-fi epic.
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The Spectacular Now (2013)
I recall that during the early 2010s, when numerous young adult romance novels were being adapted into films, I struggled to connect with them. These movies often seemed to adhere too rigidly to a formula, overly detailed their characters, and rushed to hit emotional lows. However, one film stood out above the rest, largely due to its lead actors: *The Spectacular Now*. This coming-of-age love story revolves around Sutter Keely (Miles Teller), a laid-back and sociable high school senior who revels in partying and living life to the fullest. His life takes a turn when he meets his reserved and introverted classmate Aimee Finecky (Shailene Woodley), leading him to a relationship that compels him to confront the insecurities he has long ignored. While the movie’s premise may seem straightforward, this simplicity is what lends it profound impact. Director James Ponsoldt expertly draws out the raw emotional authenticity from relatable, often painful situations, beautifully captured by cinematographer Jess Hall’s warm portrayal of the everyday mundanity in the characters’ suburban lives. This film has retained its relevance and charm over the years.
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Godzilla Minus One/Minus Color (2024)
This is a rather unusual experiment that seems tailor-made for Netflix. Similar to the streaming giant’s approach with Zack Snyder’s unrated cut of *Rebel Moon*, Netflix has presented two distinct versions of the Academy Award-winning film *Godzilla Minus One*. The only twist this time? It’s been given a black and white treatment, evoking a classic Godzilla vibe for a modern reimagining that didn’t initially feature an intense color scheme—truly a brilliant concept. Set in post-World War II Japan, the story follows kamikaze pilot Kōichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki) as he grapples with feelings of guilt and loss while his military unit confronts the legendary sea monster. Along the way, he develops feelings for a woman named Noriko (Minami Hamabe) and takes care of an orphaned baby. With a remarkable 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, *Godzilla Minus One* has captured the hearts of many by opting for a more budget-conscious approach, emphasizing character development and social commentary over the heavy CGI often seen in Hollywood blockbusters. This rendition of Godzilla is much more visceral and thrilling.
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Room (2015)
As we’ve seen Brie Larson rise to become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after stars, appearing in two billion-dollar franchises (the Marvel universe and *Fast & Furious*), it’s easy to forget that her journey began with an Oscar-winning performance in the intimate, emotionally harrowing film *Room*. This poignant narrative follows Joy (played by Larson) and her five-year-old son Jack (Jacob Tremblay), who are held captive in a small, confined space they call “Room.” After years of confinement by a captor they refer to as “Old Nick,” Joy strives to create a nurturing environment for her son, who has never known life outside these walls, all while trying to maintain his innocence. The film then shifts dramatically from this imprisonment to the outside world, where they must learn to adapt and find their place in a harsh reality. This intimate and immersive tale unfolds through both a mother’s and a child’s perspective, offering a tension-filled lens that enhances its narrative and explores the challenges of recovery and reintegration into a strange and unforgiving world.
Tarot (2024)
With countless horror films produced each year, many tend to slip under the radar. Occasionally, you might stumble upon a hidden gem, but more often than not, you’re subjected to the same old formulaic plots. However, one film has managed to stand out from the crowd this year: *Tarot*. The story revolves around a group of friends who rent a mansion and uncover a cursed tarot card deck. After each of them draws a card, they are confronted with terrifying (and sometimes fatal) experiences that align with their readings. To combat these dark forces, they enlist the help of occult expert Alma, who unravels the ominous history behind the cards. Directed by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg, this horror film features performances by Harriet Slater, Adain Bradley, Avantika, and Wolfgang Novogratz. While *Tarot* may not be the most groundbreaking horror film in recent years, it’s entertaining and well-executed. It’s great that Netflix is providing this movie—one that might otherwise struggle to find an audience—a chance to connect with viewers who enjoy delving into the depths of the genre.
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Jack Reacher (2012)
At this stage, the collaboration between director Christopher McQuarrie and superstar Tom Cruise is well established, particularly for revitalizing the Mission Impossible series, having delivered Rogue Nation, Fallout, and Dead Reckoning. However, before those films, McQuarrie showcased his skillful pacing and precise storytelling, while Cruise provided his signature charismatic and intense performance in the often-overlooked action thriller Jack Reacher. In this film, Cruise takes on the role of the eponymous character, who finds himself embroiled in a complex case after a sniper murders five random victims. The accused maintains his innocence and seeks Reacher’s assistance, sending the former United States Army Military Police Investigator-turned-drifter on a perilous journey to uncover a conspiracy. Alongside Cruise, who captivates with his compelling presence, Jack Reacher boasts remarkable supporting performances from actors like Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins, Werner Herzog, David Oyelowo, and Robert Duvall. It’s remarkable that such a film exists, with an exceptional cast coming together to deliver an engaging interpretation of a familiar genre narrative.
Save the Last Dance (2001)
Part of me believes I can’t separate this film from my childhood—and perhaps, in many ways, I truly can’t. The natural chemistry between Julia Stiles and Sean Patrick Thomas continues to draw me in, alongside the humble emphasis on ambition and resilience, and the fantastic hip-hop and R&B-laden soundtrack that gives the movie its charm and character. Yet, as an adult viewer, I now appreciate this film directed by Thomas Carter for its thoughtful character development, its examination of race, identity, and class, and its authentic emotional depth that never feels forced or insincere—it’s simply a film that resonates. The story follows Sara (Stiles), a young aspiring ballerina who relocates to a tough Chicago neighborhood after her mother’s sudden passing. There, she shares her passion for dance with Derek, a talented hip-hop dancer who helps her rediscover her love for it. There’s something wonderfully captivating about its straightforward yet deeply dramatic narrative, authentically portraying grief and struggle at such a young age.
Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie (2024)
Who resides in a pineapple beneath the sea? If you can answer that question or sing along to the theme song of SpongeBob SquarePants with enthusiasm, you’re one of the true fans. You might also be excited to know that a new SpongeBob movie is in the works (the fifth one to date, with another focused solely on Plankton coming soon), and The Sandy Cheeks Movie puts SpongeBob’s underwater squirrel friend in the spotlight. This franchise film features Sandy (voiced by Carolyn Lawrence), who joins forces with SpongeBob (Tom Kenny) to save their cherished underwater home from a nefarious plot. With a star-studded voice cast, including Wanda Sykes, Clancy Brown, Bill Fagerbakke, and Johnny Knoxville, this film embraces the fun and quirky spirit of the original television series.
Fury (2014)
Among the list of underrated war films that deserve more attention, Fury ranks high. Additionally, director David Ayer is a filmmaker who merits more recognition and creative freedom in Hollywood. So… I highly recommend you watch Fury—the kind of war film that feels transcendent in its vision and uniquely distinguishes itself from a sea of formulaic genre offerings. Fury follows a battle-hardened tank crew led by Sergeant Don “Wardaddy” Collier (Brad Pitt) during the closing months of World War II. His team consists of young soldiers portrayed by actors Shia LaBeouf, Logan Lerman, Michael Peña, and Jon Bernthal, who forge an intense dynamic within the film’s confined, claustrophobic environment and its brutal, unyielding portrayal of war’s realities, complete with immersive and intense action sequences. Overall, Fury provides a truly cinematic experience. Turn this one up loud and enjoy.
Star Trek: Beyond (2016)
The Star Trek trilogy feels like it premiered ages ago, with the first installment debuting back in 2009, followed by its sequel Into Darkness in 2013, and finally concluding the story in 2016 with Beyond. The significant difference between the first two films, which were decent, and the third, which is quite remarkable, lies in the director’s vision. We transitioned from the dependable J.J. Abrams to the dynamic Justin Lin, the mastermind behind all the best Fast & Furious films (especially Fast Five). Star Trek Beyond continues the journey of the USS Enterprise crew as they venture into the far reaches of uncharted space. During their expedition, they encounter a formidable new adversary, Krall (played by Idris Elba), who assaults the Enterprise, compelling the crew to abandon ship and become stranded on a hostile planet. All the familiar characters return to reprise their roles—Chris Pine as James T. Kirk, Zachary Quinto as Spock, Karl Urban as Leonard McCoy, Zoe Saldaña as Nyota Uhura, Simon Pegg as Montgomery Scott, John Cho as Hikaru Sulu, and Anton Yelchin as Ensign Pavel Chekov—in this thrilling conclusion to an entertaining trilogy.
New Movies Coming to Netflix in August 2024
August 1:
- Borderless Fog (2024)
- Breaking and Re-Entering (2024)
- Bride of Chucky (1998)
- Child’s Play 2 (1990)
- Child’s Play 3 (1991)
- Cult of Chucky (2017)
- Curse of Chucky (2013)
- Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat (2003)
- Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax (2012)
- Fury (2014)
- Godzilla Minus One/Minus Color (2024)
- Hop (2011)
- Jack Reacher (2012)
- Jack Reacher: Never Go Back (2016)
- Love, Charlie: The Rise and Fall of Chef Charlie Trotter (2021)
- Mon Laferte, te amo (2024)
- Monster House (2006)
- Mr. Deeds (2002)
- Not Another Teen Movie (2001)
- Red (2010)
- Red 2 (2013)
- Room (2015)
- Save the Last Dance (2001)
- Star Trek: Beyond (2016)
- Tarot (2024)
- The Deer King (2022)
- The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013)
- The Next Karate Kid (1994)
- The Spectacular Now (2013)
- White Chicks (2004)
- World War Z (2013)
August 2:
- Modern Masters: SS Rajamouli (2024)
- Rebel Moon – Part One: Director’s Cut (2024)
- Rebel Moon – Part Two: Director’s Cut (2024)
- Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie (2024)
August 6:
- Reminiscence (2021)
August 7:
- Downtown Owl (2023)
- Lolo and the Kid (2024)
August 8:
- The Emoji Movie (2017)
August 9:
- Inside the Mind of a Dog (2024)
- Mission: Cross (2024)
- Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba (2024)
August 11:
- Night School (2018)
August 14:
- Daughters (2024)
- Robocar Poli Special: The Story of the Desert Rescue (2023)
- They Shot The Piano Player (2023)
August 16:
- First Man (2018)
- Pearl (2023)
- The Union (2024)
August 20:
- Untold: The Murder of Air McNair (2024)
August 21:
- Nice Girls (2024)
August 22:
- Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos The Movie (2024)
- Secret Lives of Orangutans (2024)
August 23:
- Incoming (2024)
August 28:
- Untamed Royals (2024)
August 30:
- The Deliverance (2024)
- (Un)lucky Sisters (2024)