7 Best New Movies & TV Shows to Binge in August 2023
As we approach the final weeks of summer, take a look at the most anticipated movies and television series worth binging in August 2023.
In light of the first day of August, foreshadowing the final weeks of summer and the back-to-school blues that come along with it, there is nothing a movie marathon with your favorite film enthusiast cannot fix. Amid the hype surrounding Greta Gerwig's Barbie and Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer, there are a variety of films and television series scheduled for release this August that are too worth a visit to the theater or a Saturday night binge.
From science fiction to an uplifting teenage coming-of-age film, there is a stacked lineup of series, new and returning, as well as films that tailor to the needs of a range of audiences. If you are looking for a new series or summer film to obsess over, take a look at L'OFFICIEL's top recommendations for the best TV shows and movies to watch this August.
Moving; (August 9)
A blockbuster TV series is heading our way and this one's not just for your regular K-drama enthusiasts. Moving is a uniquely Korean superhero series that promises jawdropping cut scenes along with heartwrenching moments and rich characters you'll just fall in love with. Based on a popular webtoon series by writer-turned-screenwriter Kangfull and directed by Park In-je (the man behind Kingdom season 2), we now get to see its live adaptation fully kitted with a star-studded cast comprising of veteran actors Ryu Seung-ryong, Han Hyo-joo, Zo In-sung, Cha Tae-hyun and film actor Ryoo Seung-bum's epic return to the small screen.
The story revolves around three high school students and their parents who are hiding their superpowers in plain sight as a mysterious and dangerously strong individual goes in relentless pursuit to eliminate them. The 20 episode series will delve into the heart-tugging back stories of each character, unveiling their motivations, growing pains and the elaborate web that somehow connects them.
NCT 127: The Lost Boys; (August 30)
In an exciting upcoming four-part series, the charismatic members of K-pop sensation NCT 127 — featuring Taeil, Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Mark, and Haechan — will gather for captivating conversations. They'll delve into their formative years, sharing anecdotes of growing up in diverse cities around the globe. Brace yourselves as they open up about their rollercoaster ride to international stardom, reflecting on both the highs and the curveballs that fame has thrown their way.
Get ready for an exclusive peek into the personal journeys of these global K-pop stars. Each episode will shine a spotlight on a subset of two to three members, granting viewers access to their intimate stories and unveiling never-before-seen footage that's sure to be a treat for fans worldwide.
Heart of Stone (August 4)
International intelligence officer Rachel Stone, played by Gal Gadot, is forced to embark on a dangerous journey in order to protect "The Heart," the unknown driver of the plot of the film. Tasked with a peacekeeping operation to keep The Heart from falling into the wrong hands, Heart of Stone is destined for the lovers of all things adventure. If your favorite film genre is similar to that of Mission Impossible or Indiana Jones, Heart of Stone is scheduled for release on August 4 for your next movie night.
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, Season 2 (August 6)
Following the trajectory of the NBA Los Angeles Lakers after the team was bought by businessman Jerry Buss in 1979, Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is back for a second season this August to once again take the process of turning the lackluster LA Lakers into national champions to the big screen. At the prospect of recruiting college phenomenon Earvin Johnson, given the nickname "Magic," follow the strategy of coach Jerry West in the series' second season and watch how the LA Lakers built a dynasty in the world of professional basketball in the 1980s.
Only Murders in the Building, Season 3 (August 8)
The favored series Only Murders in the Building is back for a third series this August with beloved Hollywood personalities Paul Rudd and Meryl Streep joining the already powerful cast of Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short. Telling the story of three strangers living in the same building, all of which have an obsession with true crime, the dynamic trio finds themselves wrapped up in a true evil of their own in their very own Upper West Side apartment building. The series will also be available to stream on Disney+.
Painkiller (August 10)
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Painkiller is a TV mini-series inspired by Barry Meier's book "Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origin of America’s Opioid Epidemic" and The New Yorker article "The Family That Built an Empire of Pain" written by Patrick Radden Keefe. Retelling the origins and the aftermath of the U.S. opioid crisis in 2021, Painkiller is scheduled to be released on August 10 on Netflix and will fuel the curiosity of the everyday history buff.
Star Wars: Ahsoka (August 23)
Calling all Star Wars enthusiasts, there is an emerging threat to a galaxy far, far away in need of Jedi assistance. Playing former Jedi night Ahsoka Tano is Rosario Dawson, following her portrayal of the role in The Mandalorian (2019), the TV mini-series follows the invasion of a vulnerable galaxy, and the beloved character Ahsoka Tano is the only one who can prevent such a tragedy. With the first episode of the mini-series set to be released on August 23, Star Wars: Ahsoka will consist of eight episodes and will premiere with two, perfect for a Saturday night binge session with your fellow science-fiction lover.