Latest news with #SquidGame
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
What the heck is ‘Tudum'? What we know about Netflix's live global fan event this weekend
People who watch Netflix but don't closely follow the platform's announcements are probably wondering this week: What the heck is 'Tudum'? If you're a fan of Netflix originals, you might recognize it as the sound that plays before a Netflix original movie or series and when you open the app. But it's also what the platform has named its global fan event (which is coming later this week) and its' companion website that has exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes content and bonus videos. Here's what we know about the upcoming Tudum event this week and how to watch it live. 'Tudum' is the spelled-out version of the sound that plays before Netflix's original movies and series. It's also the name of the streaming platform's 'companion site,' which helps viewers 'find and fuel' their fandom for the Netflix shows and movies they like, according to Netflix's website. 'On Tudum you'll find exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes content, bonus videos and more,' Netflix's website says. 'And if you log in with your Netflix account, you'll get a more personalized experience based on the TV shows and movies you've recently rated or watched on Netflix.' 'Tudum' is also what Netflix calls its yearly global fan event, where Netflix spotlights its movies, shows, stars and creators. This will be the fifth-ever Tudum event, which began in 2020, and this year, it will be streaming live. Look back at Tudum 2023: 5 things we learned from Netflix's Tudum event, including Stranger Things and Squid Game casting news If this is the first year you're hearing of Tudum, it's because this year is the first time the event will be streamed directly onto the platform. 'Tudum has evolved across multiple formats — festival, livestream, and digital almanac — cementing its place as a signature global event. In 2023, Tudum returned to São Paulo, drawing over 35,000 in-person attendees and recorded more than 78 million views across Netflix's global social channels,' Netflix's website says. 'Now, Tudum LIVE returns on May 31, 2025, streaming live at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET from the Kia Forum in Los Angeles.' This year, Lady Gaga will take the stage for a performance and Sofia Carson, who starred in Netflix's 'Purple Hearts' and 'Carry-On,' will host the event. According to Netflix's website, the event will be 'stacked with Netflix news' and reveal exclusive details about new shows and movies slated to hit the platform. Here are some of the shows and movies that Netflix says will be represented at the event: "Emily in Paris" "Frankenstein" "Happy Gilmore 2" "Love Is Blind" "ONE PIECE" "Outer Banks" "The Rip" "Squid Game" "Stranger Things" "America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders" "The Life List" "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" "Wednesday" "WWE" Tudum 2025 will stream live on Netflix at 8 p.m. ET this Saturday, May 31, from the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: How to watch Tudum 2025 on Netflix: What it is and when it's streaming
Asia Times
16 hours ago
- Business
- Asia Times
Australian rugby the way to tackle China's PNG police play
It may look like a normal sports story – Australia expanding its National Rugby League into Papua New Guinea (PNG) – but it's far more than that. This is one of the most impactful and strategic soft power plays by an Australian government since Australia saw its former PNG colony gain independence in 1975. It's cultural diplomacy at its smartest in a region where Australia is increasingly fighting for influence. With this move, Australia has played the one card China can never match: a connection between these two neighbors grounded in the PNG national religion – National Rugby League. Australia-PNG security relations go back more than a century, with PNG just four kilometers away from Australia. During World War II, Australian defense of PNG from Japanese invasion was grounded in necessity. China is already scoping out a move into PNG security, with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi visiting Port Moresby in early 2024 to discuss a potential policing agreement. This raised serious concerns in Canberra, as the Australian Police Force has been PNG's de facto security guarantor for decades. With China's move, Australia sees that necessity return – and this time, it is playing out not on a battlefield but on a rugby field. China is building roads, bridges, ports, stadiums, empty museums and crumbling presidential palaces while Australia is pitching something more emotional. As Australian Prime Minster Anthony Albanese put it, 'no two countries have a greater passion for rugby league.' While 'shared identity' is often a diplomatic buzzword, in this case, through this shared identity, Australia has the chance to build something far deeper than contracts or aid: a sense of national PNG pride while cementing people-to-people connections, both of which would be a coup for Canberra. Australia is not a global superpower. It is a middle power – like South Korea, Mexico or a rising Indonesia. It lacks the economic clout of China, which can spend billions in infrastructure and aid to win influence through economic diplomacy. And it doesn't have the military reach of the United States, which stations troops worldwide to project force. Middle powers need something different: they need soft power. If you have ever danced to Gangnam Style or binged Squid Game – you have been one of the billions globally swept up in South Korea's cultural soft power diplomacy. Through K-pop, drama, comedy, and reality TV, South Korea has built one of the most powerful and effective soft power machines in the world – shaping global perception of South Korea without building a single bridge or deploying a single solider. However, Australia is not on a South Korean-style path to try and shape global perceptions. Australia is more focused on its region, and it is seeking to change how Papua New Guineans feel about Australia. And sport is a uniquely powerful tool to win hearts and minds. In PNG, National Rugby League isn't just popular — it's the national sport. By providing a platform for PNG to express national pride through a league team, Australia isn't just funding a sports program; it's also investing in how Papua New Guineans feel about Australia – cultural diplomacy in action. Australia wants to know that when it comes to the internal or external security of PNG, they will look to them, not to China. To be blunt, Australia does not want Chinese police or military stationed in its closest neighbor, potentially just four kilometers from its shores. Picture this: Fast forward to 2029, and the PNG league team is in its second season. A local accountant steps out of his office in Port Moresby and spots the regular Aussie police officer walking around. He can't resist a cheeky comment about how PNG thrashed the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Sydney on the weekend. They both laugh and continue their day in the PNG sun. This is people-to-people diplomacy at its finest – unprompted, unforced and totally genuine. Compare this to the Chinese-built Presidential Palace in Vanuatu, a US$31 million 'gift' to PNG's neighbor that quickly fell into disrepair after the 2024 earthquakes. Unable to afford the upkeep, the Vanuatu government all but abandoned the 'gift.' So, when the PNG government is renegotiating security agreements and it floats the idea of replacing the Australian Federal Police with Chinese officers, Australia's hope is that such a shift feels unthinkable to the PNG public. That the connection built through sporting rivalry and the resulting everyday interactions makes alignment with China unpalatable, and this public sentiment constrains the choices of the elected leaders. For PNG, this is also so much more than diplomacy. It's a shot at global sporting recognition — a chance to step onto the international stage in the sport they live and breathe. It's about national pride, visibility and taking on a major rival in a game that's as much PNG as it is Aussie. Influence in the Pacific is not about shouting louder. It's about playing the right game and playing it in a way that wins hearts and minds. Picture a young PNG girl walking through Sydney Olympic Park, proudly wearing a PNG national jersey, buzzing with excitement to see their team take on Australia's best. Maybe, just maybe, it might just be that little girl in the jersey — not a diplomat, not a defense deal, not a presidential palace — who keeps China at bay and Australia on side in PNG. Dylan Harrington is a former Australian Federal Police national security expert specializing in Pacific Island security and a former Australian government trade agreement negotiator.
Tom's Guide
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
New on Netflix in June 2025 — every movie and show coming this month
Netflix has announced everything coming to the streaming service in June 2025 and it's a lot to unpack. So I'm highlighting five must-watch shows and movies that you need to add to your watchlist. The biggest name by far this month is a familiar one: "Squid Game." The hit Korean thriller is back for its third and final season, and it probably goes without saying, but you don't want to miss it. That's not the only returning show this month. "Ginny & Georgia" also returns for its third season, and the Shane Gillis comedy series "Tires" returns for season 2. Whether these are familiar names to you or not, they're undoubtedly the biggest names arriving on Netflix this month. Aside from these top picks, I've got the full slate of everything new to Netflix this month listed below. Plus, we have a roundup of what's leaving Netflix in June 2025, so you have one last chance to watch. Here's everything coming to — and leaving — Netflix this month. "Squid Game" has been one of the biggest shows on Netflix — ever. The dystopian Korean-language thriller is a must-watch whenever new episodes arrive, and this final batch of episodes will be no different. If you've never seen the show before, it stars Lee Jung-jae as Gi-hun, who starts the series as a down-on-his-luck divorced dad, estranged from his daughter and desperate for cash. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. He finds an opportunity for cash, but gets far more than he bargained for and is drawn into a series of deadly children's games with a massive cash prize. He's trying to end the games once and for all, but his attempt was thwarted at the end of season 2. Now, he's the prisoner of The Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) and he might never be seen in public again. Stream on Netflix starting June 27 "Ginny and Georgia" stars Brianne Howey as Georgia Miller, a 30-year-old mother who, between child abuse and being a mother since her teenage years, is carrying a lot of trauma. It's caused her to flee more than one relationship or home at the first possible sign of danger. That's been rough for her kids: Ginny (Antonia Gentry) and Austin (Diesel La Torraca). But they've seemed to have found a home in Wellsbury, Massachusetts, and Georgia seems to have found a long-term partner in her husband-to-be, Paul (Scott Porter), who is the mayor of the town. But that fairy tale ending for their story has been put on hold. Georgia was arrested for murder during her wedding. Can the Miller family handle that pressure? Or will it fracture Ginny and Georgia's already stressed mother-daughter relationship? Stream on Netflix starting June 5 "Tires" stars Steve Gerben as Will, the manager of one of his family's struggling auto-repair shops. But he's not alone at Valley Forge Automotive Center. His obnoxious cousin Shane (Shane Gillis) messes with Will every chance he gets, as do, frankly, the rest of the staff. Season 2 begins with things looking good for Will, though. A surprise marketing win has Will and Shane riding high and the shop doing well, but now they face new challenges. This show is often more funny than good, but given that it's absolutely hysterical, it's still definitely worth watching. Stream on Netflix starting June 5 "The Waterfront" stars Jake Weary as Cane Buckley. Cane's part of the Buckley family, a prominent North Carolina fishing family, led by Cane's parents: patriarch Harlan (Holt McCallany) and matriarch Mae (Maria Bello). Things aren't going well for the Buckleys behind the scenes, though, and they're in danger of losing everything. That causes Harlan to turn to drug smuggling, and puts the Buckleys in bed with an up-and-coming drug lord, Grady (Topher Grace). Based on the trailer, "The Waterfront" looks like a healthy mix of comedy, melodrama and crime. It also looks like it could be Netflix's next surprise hit. Stream on Netflix starting June 19 This thriller stars Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah, a single mother whose day just keeps getting worse. She's just been evicted and is struggling to care for her sick daughter. With nothing left to lose, she holds a bank hostage until she can cash a check and get money to pay for her daughter's medicine. "Tyler Perry's Straw" also stars Sherri Shepherd as Nicole, the bank teller who has to stop Janiyah from doing something more drastic than she's already done. They're joined by Teyana Taylor as Detective Raymond, who empathizes with Janiyah and wants to bring her in without totally ruining her life. Stream on Netflix starting June 6 COMING SOON "The Great Indian Kapil Show" season 3 (IN) (Netflix series) Comedian Kapil Sharma brings desi fun to an all-new season featuring celebrity guests, side-splitting gags and a dash of classic Indian charm. "Rana Naidu" season 2 (IN) (Netflix series) Forced to team up with his estranged father, can Mumbai's top fixer manage one last job for a wealthy client while keeping his family safe? "Too Hot to Handle: Spain" (ES) (Netflix series) A group of flirty Spanish singles expect sun, parties and steamy hookups, but they quickly learn that winning €100,000 requires giving up sex completely. JUNE 1 JUNE 3 "Unseen" season 2 (ZA) (Netflix series) In the wake of tragedy, Zenzi is forced to trust those who put her behind bars. Will her newfound desire for freedom finally put her grief to rest? "Sara - Woman in the Shadows" (IT) (Netflix series) The suspicious death of her son pushes a former secret agent back into action, investigating a series of crimes that grows increasingly sinister. JUNE 4 "Criminal Code" season 2 (BR) (Netflix series) An elite Brazilian Federal Police unit takes on a ruthless criminal gang in a deadly game of wits. "Eva Lasting" season 3 (CO) (Netflix series) As the gang graduates, their newfound freedom brings Camilo a new set of drama — and yearning — for Eva. Can their dreams survive adulthood? "Power Moves with Shaquille O'Neal" (Netflix series) "Power Moves" follows Shaquille O'Neal as he takes on the role of President of Reebok Basketball, returning to the brand that gave him his first shot. Teaming up with Vice President Allen Iverson, Shaq is on a mission to revive the iconic brand and lead a bold comeback from Reebok's Boston headquarters. JUNE 5 "Barracuda Queens" season 2 (SE) (Netflix series) Yearning for the thrill of their home burglaries, the queens set their sights on an even more lucrative target: the fine art galleries of Stockholm. "Ginny & Georgia" season 3 (Netflix series) Georgia has just been arrested for murder during her wedding - ruining her fairy tale ending and putting the spotlight on the Millers like never before. It's always been Ginny and Georgia against the world, but the world has never come for them quite like this. Now, Ginny needs to see where she stands when push comes to shove – Is the two of them against the world something Ginny really wants to sign up for? "Tires" season 2 (Netflix series) Fueled by a surprise marketing victory, Will and Shane have steered the tire shop into the fast lane. But sudden success brings its own challenges. JUNE 6 "K.O." (FR) (Netflix film) A former fighter must find the missing son of an opponent he accidentally killed years ago, taking on a brutally violent crime gang in Marseille. "Mercy For None" (KR) (Netflix series) After severing ties with his gang, a former gangster returns to uncover the truth behind his brother's death — embarking on a relentless path of revenge. "Tyler Perry's Straw" (Netflix film) What will be her last straw? A devastatingly bad day pushes a hardworking single mother to the breaking point — and into a shocking act of desperation. "The Survivors" (AU) (Netflix series) Fifteen years ago, the loss of three young people tore this sleepy seaside town apart. Now, the mysterious death of a young woman dredges up the past. JUNE 7 JUNE 9 "The Creature Cases: Chapter 5" (Netflix family) If there's an animal in need, agents Kit and Sam are ready to help! Join them as they tackle more mysteries and meet friendly new critters along the way. JUNE 10 "Families Like Ours" (DK) (Netflix series) A teenage girl must choose between her divorced parents and her boyfriend after a permanent evacuation of Denmark turns citizens into refugees. "Trainwreck: The Astroworld Tragedy" (GB) (Netflix documentary) Featuring exclusive interviews with survivors, paramedics and festival staff, this documentary examines the 2021 Astroworld tragedy and its aftermath. JUNE 11 "Aniela" (PL) (Netflix series) After her wealthy husband leaves her with nothing, a high-society Warsaw snob is forced to use the only survival skills she has left — her sharp wit. "Cheers to Life" (BR) (Netflix film) A pendant from the past sets Jéssica on a trip through Israel — where family twists, unexpected love and a search for meaning shape the ride of her life. "Cocaine Air: Smugglers at 30,000 Ft." (FR) (Netflix documentary) 2013: Four Frenchmen are arrested in Punta Cana with 700 kg of cocaine — none fit the trafficker profile. This documentary asks: Who was behind the bust? "Our Times" (MX) (Netflix film) After years of research and companionship, two physicists from the 1960s unlock the secrets of wormhole theory and find themselves stranded in 2025. "Titan: The OceanGate Disaster" (Netflix documentary) This documentary explores the Titan submersible's doomed 2023 journey to the wreckage of the Titanic and the ambitious OceanGate CEO behind the endeavor. JUNE 12 "FUBAR" season 2 (Netflix series) Eager to return to action, Luke, Emma and the crew get more than they bargained for when a mysterious terrorist threatens to unleash worldwide chaos. JUNE 13 "Kings of Jo'Burg" season 3 (ZA) (Netflix series) Veronica Masire now bears the responsibility of the family curse, as she picks up where her brother left off — ruling Jo'Burg with legacy and power. JUNE 14 JUNE 16 JUNE 17 "Justin Willman: Magic Lover" (Netflix comedy special) Sleight-of-hand sorcery. Mischievous mind games. Mind-blowing illusions. Justin Willman conjures up laughs in a special where comedy and magic collide. "Kaulitz & Kaulitz" season 2 (DE) (Netflix series) The show must go on! Tom and Bill Kaulitz are back to share their exciting lives, even as dark clouds gather in paradise. "Trainwreck: Mayor of Mayhem" (GB) (Netflix documentary) Rob Ford scandalized Canadian politics as the brash yet beloved mayor of Toronto — until an infamous video of him smoking crack sparked his downfall. JUNE 18 "America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders" season 2 (Netflix series) A new batch of hopefuls face fierce competition, high expectations and even higher kicks as they vie for a spot with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. "Rosario Tijeras (Mexico)" season 4 (MX) (Netflix series) Years after Rosario's sacrifice, her legend haunts her daughter, Ruby. As the teen's life takes a dangerous turn, secrets from her past begin to unravel. "Somebody Feed Phil" season 8 (Netflix series) Fresh flavors and new friends await as globetrotting foodie Phil Rosenthal expands his culinary horizons to Amsterdam, Boston, Basque Country and more. "Yolanthe" (NL) (Netflix series) This reality series follows Yolanthe Cabau in her glamorous new life in Los Angeles as she faces unexpected challenges and ghosts from her past. JUNE 19 "The Waterfront" (Netflix series) A prominent North Carolina fishing family wades into treacherous waters to keep their crumbling business empire afloat. (Netflix series) "KPop Demon Hunters" (Netflix family) When K-pop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey aren't selling out stadiums, they're using their secret powers to protect their fans from supernatural threats. "Olympo" (ES) (Netflix series) The Pyrenean High Performance Center: home to Spain's most promising athletes. The question is, how far will they go to reach the top — and stay there? "Semi-Soeter" (ZA) (Netflix film) Power couple Jaci and JP find themselves in a bumpy predicament when a new work pitch for a baby brand forces them to play the perfect pretend parents. JUNE 22 JUNE 24 "Steph Tolev: Filth Queen" (Netflix comedy special) Bow down to the queen as fearlessly filthy Steph Tolev rules the stage with hilarious confessions, unfiltered dating stories and absurd observations. "Trainwreck: Poop Cruise" (GB) (Netflix documentary) An engine fire leaves 4,000 passengers stranded at sea without power and plumbing in this wild documentary about the infamous "poop cruise" of 2013. JUNE 25 "The Ultimatum: Queer Love" season 2 (Netflix series) Six couples put their love to the test by moving in with other partners. Are they ready for marriage — or is "the one" actually someone else? JUNE 27 "Pokémon Horizons: The Search for Laqua" season 2 part 3 (JP) (Netflix family) With their training complete, the three young adventurers embark on a new quest to learn more about Lucius and track down the rest of the Six Heroes. "Squid Game" season 3 (KR) (Netflix series) The third and final season of Squid Game follows Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) after losing his best friend in the game and being driven to utter despair by The Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), who was hiding his true identity to infiltrate the game. Gi-hun persists with his goal to put an end to the game, while the Front Man continues onto his next move and the surviving players' choices will lead to graver consequences with each round. The world eagerly awaits to see the grand finale written and directed by Director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who has vowed to bring the epic story to its deserved closure. Can we hope for humanity in the cruelest of realities? Fans all over the world are counting the days until the final answer is revealed. Leaving 6/1/25 "Batman Begins""Beginners""Burlesque""Closer""Cult of Chucky""Daddy Day Care""The Dark Knight""The Dark Knight Rises""Den of Thieves""From Prada to Nada""GoodFellas""Ma""Magic Mike XXL""Pride & Prejudice""Ted""Ted 2""Two Weeks Notice" Leaving 6/11/25 "Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story""Trap" Leaving 6/14/25 "Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" Leaving 6/16/25 "The Equalizer" seasons 1-3"Won't You Be My Neighbor?" Leaving 6/17/25 "Carol" Leaving 6/19/25 "Migration" Leaving 6/21/25 "American Sniper" Leaving 6/22/25 "Brain on Fire" Leaving 6/26/25 "Ordinary People" Malcolm has been with Tom's Guide since 2022, and has been covering the latest in streaming shows and movies since 2023. He's not one to shy away from a hot take, including that "John Wick" is one of the four greatest films ever made. Here's what he's been watching lately:
San Francisco Chronicle
a day ago
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
New to stream in June: 'The Bear' returns, ‘Squid Games' ends and a new vision for ‘Predator'
The weather isn't the only thing heating up in June. The Netflix cultural phenomenon 'Squid Game' is set to launch its final season and the Hulu comedy-drama 'The Bear' is returning for its highly anticipated fourth season. Meanwhile, crime comes in both comedy and drama flavors this month thanks to 'Deep Cover' and 'Echo Valley.' Whatever your taste, streaming offerings on Netflix, Disney+ and Prime Video have something for everyone. 'Predator: Killer of Killers' Director Dan Trachtenberg ('Prey') returns to the 'Predator' franchise with an animated anthology film that explores more humans who have dueled the alien hunters throughout history. This time, a ninja in feudal Japan, a young Viking warrior and a Black American World War II pilot all try to survive encounters with alien stalkers bent on acquiring trophies. This is the first time a film in the series has been animated, but the Predators look no less terrifying as drawings than they do in real life. Watch it: Animated. Streaming on Hulu and Disney+ starting June 6. 'Ocean with David Attenborough' David Attenborough is synonymous with quality nature documentaries, and 'Ocean' looks like no exception. In this new film, Attenborough looks at the increasingly dire state of the Earth's sea, plagued by overfishing, reef bleaching and other manmade catastrophes. However, Attenborough also highlights remarkable recent discoveries that make him feel a healed world is still possible. 'Deep Cover' Imposter syndrome got you down? Check out the adventures of three British improv comedians who get recruited by the police to infiltrate the London underworld. Bryce Dallas Howard, Orlando Bloom and Nick Mohammed star as three hapless and struggling actors who agree to play the role of their lives: criminal masterminds. Despite having the law enforcement instincts of Sunday school teachers, they managed to 'yes and…' their way deep into the local rackets. Tom Kingsley ('The Darkest Universe') directs. Watch it: Comedy. Streaming on Prime Video starting June 12. 'Echo Valley' From writer Brad Ingelsby ('Mare of Easttown') comes a new crime thriller about the lengths a mother will go to in order to protect her daughter. Julianne Moore ('Still Alice') wakes one night at her remote horse farm to find her daughter (Sydney Sweeney, 'Euphoria') at her door, covered in her boyfriend's blood and begging for help. The two navigate a rocky relationship and the consequences of murder as suspicion grows. 'The Bear,' Season 4 The chef comedy 'The Bear' has quickly become one of the most compelling watches on streaming, and Season 4 is rumored to be the final entry. Last season left off with a cliffhanger as an all-important review of the family restaurant in the Chicago Tribune threatened to close the doors. Meanwhile, head chef Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) alienates everyone around him with antisocial behavior. Season 4 will show him trying to rally his family, friends and coworkers once again to turn the Bear into something special, if he can only curb his self-destructive tendencies. 'Squid Game,' Season 3 The long and twisted Korean survival drama 'Squid Game' is ending this month on Netflix. Last season ended with a cliffhanger as Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) led an uprising against the terrifying Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), who runs the deadly games that players compete in for a large cash prize. The last season will deal with Gi-hun's continued quest to end the games against impossible odds. If you've been holding off exploring the 'Squid Games' world, now is the perfect time to dive in. Jef Rouner is a freelance writer.
Tom's Guide
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
5 biggest Netflix movies and shows I can't wait to watch in summer 2025
It's not technically summer yet, but I feel like most of us are already in that sun-soaked mindset. And Netflix seems to agree, because the streamer's summer 2025 lineup is already rolling out, and there's a lot to get excited about. Unfortunately, a few of the most-anticipated titles didn't make the cut this season as we're still waiting on 'Stranger Things' season 5, 'Nobody Wants This' season 2, and the next Benoit Blanc mystery in 'Knives Out 3.' But honestly, the fresh releases taking their place might just make up for it. Netflix is still churning out content at lightning speed, so I'm trying not to get too hyped. Still, with the next (and final chapter) of 'Squid Game,' a new romantic drama starring Sofia Carson, and the return of Wednesday Addams, all dropping in the next few weeks, summer 2025 is already off to a strong start. So, here are the five biggest Netflix movies and shows I can't wait to watch this summer. 'Squid Game' season 3 is easily one of my most anticipated Netflix releases this year. After that intense season 2 finale, I've been counting the days, and now the end is in sight. Lee Jung-jae returns as Gi-hun, but this time, he's playing to destroy the game for good. The final season follows him as he spirals after the loss of his best friend and becomes obsessed with taking down the Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), who manipulated everything from within. The latest trailer sets the tone fast: a crying baby, a hallway shaped like a knife, Gi-hun chained in a gift-wrapped box, and a gumball machine spitting out red and blue spheres for the next twisted round. With returning director Hwang Dong-hyuk stating he wanted to introduce games that could 'really show the lowest bottom of human beings,' this could be 'Squid Game' at its most brutal and brilliant. Stream season 3 on Netflix starting June 27 When Netflix first released its summer lineup there was one movie that caught my attention, which was the dark thriller 'Brick.' 'Brick' stars Matthias Schweighöfer and Ruby O. Fee as Tim and Olivia, a couple who awaken to find their apartment building encased by a mysterious, impenetrable brick wall that appeared overnight. As they realize that all the residents are similarly trapped, the group must collaborate to uncover the origin of the wall and find a way out before it's too late Reading the premise gave me instant 'The Platform' and '10 Cloverfield Lane' vibes, two of my favorite claustrophobic thrillers that are tense, eerie, and packed with psychological suspense. Naturally, this one shot straight to my watchlist. Stream it on Netflix starting July 10 Netflix has a knack for some pretty engaging mysteries. Over the years, they've built up an impressive collection of standout thriller shows, and 'Untamed' looks like it could be the next big hit. The story centers on Kyle Turner (Eric Bana), a special agent in a high-level unit of the National Parks Service. When a murder rocks Yosemite — a national park that draws millions of visitors annually — Kyle is pulled into the investigation. Alongside Lily Santiago's rookie park ranger, Naya Vasquez, and Sam Neill's Paul Souter, the show seems to dig into the hidden, darker secrets tied not only to the case but also to Kyle's own past. Set against a wild backdrop that fans of 'Yellowstone' will feel right at home with, 'Untamed looks' like it could have all the suspense and drama to keep us hooked. Fingers crossed it delivers everything it promises! Stream it on Netflix starting July 17 I'm a total sucker for romance movies, especially the ones loaded with tension and that perfect sprinkle of longing, so it's safe to say 'My Oxford Year' is already at the top of my comfort-watch list. Adapted from Julia Whelan's beloved novel, the story follows an ambitious American student whose dream year at Oxford gets complicated when she crosses paths with a charming local. With Sofia Carson and Corey Mylchreest leading the cast, even the first-look images have me totally hooked. I'm pretty easy to please when it comes to romance movies. If the characters are relatable, the chemistry feels real and the story stirs up those warm, fuzzy emotions, I'm all in. Based on the plot and the cast of 'My Oxford Year,' I'm optimistic it'll be a charming watch even if it doesn't quite reach high quality status. Stream it on Netflix starting August 1 'Wednesday' season 2 is almost here and I'm excited to delve in again. After that first season exploded into a full-blown cultural phenomenon (from TikTok dance trends to endless fan theories about what's next), I'm more than ready to head back to Nevermore Academy. Jenna Ortega returns as Wednesday Addams, and this time, she's reportedly leaning even harder into the horror elements. The creators have teased a darker, bloodier season that shifts away from romance and dives deeper into the mysteries and monsters that made the first outing so fun. The new cast includes big names like Steve Buscemi and Billie Piper, and Ortega herself is now a producer, which suggests she's had real influence over the character's evolution. Add in a fresh mystery, old adversaries, and some seriously creepy glimpses from the teaser trailer, and it's safe to say season 2 might outdo the first. Stream part 1 on Netflix starting August 6, with part 2 arriving on September 3
