As summer settles in, streaming platforms are rolling out a diverse slate of new releases that promise to keep viewers glued to their screens. From the dramatic tension of "Squid Game" Season 3 to the comedic chaos of "The Bear" Season 4, and the technological marvels of Marvel’s "Ironheart," this weekend’s lineup offers something for every taste.
Kicking off the weekend with high stakes is Netflix’s "Squid Game" Season 3, the final chapter in the globally acclaimed Korean thriller. Picking up after protagonist Gi-hun’s failed rebellion against the sinister Front Man, the season plunges deeper into the brutal games that have gripped audiences worldwide. With six episodes now streaming, viewers can expect intense competition, deadly challenges including a harrowing twist on jump rope, and long-awaited answers to lingering mysteries, such as the true identity of the Front Man and Detective Jun-ho’s quest to uncover the secret island where the games unfold. Lee Jung-jae returns as Gi-hun, joined by Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-joon, and a strong supporting cast. Critics have lauded the season with a 91% rating, though audience reception is more mixed, hovering around 50%, reflecting divided opinions on the continuation of the saga.
Meanwhile, over on Hulu, "The Bear" Season 4 is stirring up the kitchen heat once again. The Emmy-winning dramedy, starring Jeremy Allen White as Carmy, explores the relentless pressures of running a struggling restaurant in Chicago. This season intensifies the drama as Carmy, Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), and the rest of the crew navigate a critical restaurant review, tight finances, and personal conflicts. Despite the show’s strong performances and occasional poignant moments, some critics note that it struggles to escape the repetitive patterns and pacing issues that plagued Season 3. All ten episodes are available now, offering fans a chance to dive back into the chaotic, heartfelt world of "The Bear."
Marvel fans can tune into "Ironheart" on Disney+, which follows young genius Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne), introduced in "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever," as she develops her own Iron Man-style armored suit. Set in Chicago, the series pits Riri against the enigmatic Parker "Hood" Robbins (Anthony Ramos), whose magical abilities challenge her faith in technology. The show blends superhero action with emotional depth, particularly through Riri’s AI assistant modeled after her late best friend, Natalie (Lyric Ross), highlighting themes of grief and innovation. While the series has its moments, some viewers feel it could benefit from a sharper focus on its core ideas. The first three episodes are currently streaming.
Apple TV+ introduces "Smoke," a slow-burning crime thriller inspired by the true story of serial arsonists in the Pacific Northwest. Created by acclaimed writer Dennis Lehane and starring Taron Egerton as arson investigator Dave Gudsen and Jurnee Smollett as detective Michelle Calderone, the series delves into the dark underbelly of the fires that terrorize the region. The show combines procedural elements with character-driven drama, exploring the personal toll of the investigation. The first two episodes are available now, setting the stage for a nine-episode arc that promises to intensify throughout the summer.
Prime Video offers "Countdown," a thriller starring Jensen Ackles as LAPD detective Mark Meachum, who joins a secret task force following the public murder of a Homeland Security officer. As the investigation unfolds, Meachum uncovers a conspiracy with potentially catastrophic consequences. Despite its promising premise, "Countdown" has received mixed reviews, with critics citing a lack of suspense and dull pacing, reflected in a 33% critic score versus a more favorable 69% audience rating. Episodes one through three are currently streaming.
Documentary enthusiasts can explore "My Mom Jayne" on HBO and HBO Max, a deeply personal film directed by Mariska Hargitay about her mother, Jayne Mansfield, a 1960s icon who died when Hargitay was just three. The documentary offers an intimate look at Mansfield’s life and legacy, exploring the collision between public persona and private reality. Premiering June 27 at 8 p.m. ET, it provides a poignant reflection on fame, family, and identity.
For those in search of animation and family-friendly fare, HBO Max debuts "The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie," the first fully animated feature-length Looney Tunes film in years. Directed by Pete Browngardt, the sci-fi comedy follows Porky Pig and Daffy Duck as they defend their farm from an alien invasion inspired by 1950s B-movie tropes. Its playful tone and nostalgic charm make it a standout for viewers of all ages.
Peacock adds to the horror genre with "The Woman in the Yard," starring Danielle Deadwyler as Ramona, a grieving mother confronted by a mysterious veiled woman ominously claiming, "Today's the day." Set in a rural fixer-upper, the film blends psychological and supernatural elements reminiscent of "The Babadook," exploring themes of grief, isolation, and family stress. Although the scares are subtle, the film’s atmosphere and Deadwyler’s committed performance create a chilling experience. It began streaming on June 27.
Other noteworthy additions include "Enigma," a documentary by Zackary Drucker streaming on Max, which chronicles the lives of trans icons April Ashley and Amanda Lear, highlighting their groundbreaking contributions and the challenges they faced. On Prime Video, "Eric LaRue," starring Judy Greer and Alexander Skarsgård, presents a gripping drama about a mother grappling with the aftermath of her son’s involvement in a school shooting, offering a nuanced exploration of trauma and healing.
For viewers seeking a broader variety, SyFy’s "Revival" explores a rural Wisconsin town where the deceased return to life, creating a unique murder mystery. HBO’s "Duster," set in 1970s Arizona and starring Josh Holloway, offers a period crime drama with muscle cars and bellbottoms. Apple TV+ presents "Murderbot," a quirky sci-fi series starring Alexander Skarsgård, and AMC+ features "Nautilus," an adventurous anti-colonial adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic tale.
In theaters, "F1 The Movie," directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt, revs up the excitement with a story of a former racing driver mentoring a rookie amid high-stakes competition. Meanwhile, "The Last Rodeo," a faith-based film starring Neal McDonough, continues to resonate with audiences both in theaters and on VOD.
With such a rich array of options spanning genres and platforms, the last weekend of June 2025 offers viewers an opportunity to indulge in compelling stories, thrilling dramas, and heartwarming comedies. Whether you’re in the mood for the intense finale of "Squid Game," the heartfelt chaos of "The Bear," or the nostalgic laughs of Looney Tunes, this weekend’s streaming lineup has you covered.
