Barbenheimer has taken the world of cinema by storm, and the the hottest new shows and films in the OTT space are also bringing their A game. Step into the captivating world of entertainment as we bring you a handpicked selection of new releases. From action adventures to heartwarming tales and murder mysteries, there’s something for everyone in this exciting lineup. Without further ado, let’s dive into the new shows and films that are dropping on streaming platforms in the first half of August.
1. Heart Of Stone
Making her international debut, Alia Bhatt is all set to share screen space with actors Gal Gadot and Jamie Dornan in this crime-action film, which is set to put a female spin on action franchises like Mission Impossible and James Bond. Heart of Stone revolves around Agent Rachel Stone (Gadot), the only intelligence operative who stands between her global, peace-keeping organisation and the loss of its most valuable — and dangerous — asset, codenamed: The Heart.
Streaming on Netflix on August 11
2. Heartstopper Season 2
As opposed to shows/films that often glorify the hardships of LGBTQIA+ characters, Heartstopper is a breath of fresh air with its nonchalant depiction of sexualities and sexual orientations. Hitting all the right spots with inclusivity and diversity, the teen series is based on the book of the same name. While Season 1 introduced all the characters navigating their life through love, life and friendships, Season 2 delves deeper into it. Nick and Charlie navigate their new relationship, Tara and Darcy face unforeseen challenges, and Tao and Elle work out if they can be more than just friends. With exams on the horizon, a school trip to Paris and a prom to plan, the gang has lots to juggle with. Although the show tackles serious issues, the makers want to emphasise on hope and that things can and will get better.
Streaming on Netflix on August 3
3. Made In Heaven Season 2
After four years, the second season of the much-anticipated series is finally dropping this month. While Made In Heaven tells the story of Tara (Sobhita Dhuliapala) and Karan’s (Arjun Mathur) wedding planning company and shows an apt depiction of big fat Indian weddings, it goes way beyond that. Each wedding tackles the underlying issues that are very much prevalent in Indian society – whether it’s dowry, age, impotency, and domestic abuse, among others. The second season will do the same while also diving deep into the interpersonal lives of Tara and Karan. Actors like Mona Singh, Mrunal Thakur, Shibani Akhtar, Dia Mirza, and Pulkit Samrat along with Jim Sarbh and Kalki Koechilin make an appearance this season.
Streaming on Prime Video on August 10
4. Red, White & Royal Blue
Based on Casey McQuiston’s critically acclaimed New York Times best-seller, Red, White & Royal Blue is a same-sex love story that is sure to make your heart melt. Its plot? Alex Claremont-Diaz (Taylor Zakhar Perez) is the son of the President of the United States and shares many common traits with Britain’s Prince Henry (Nicholas Galitzine)–good looks, undeniable charisma, international popularity…and total disdain for each other. Their long-running feud hasn’t really been an issue until a disastrous public altercation at a royal event becomes front page headlines, driving a potential wedge in U.S./British relations at the worst possible time. Heading into damage-control mode, their families and handlers force the two rivals into a staged truce. Despite being a setup, Alex and Henry’s icy relationship turns into friendship and unexpectedly develops into something more. While it might sound like any other cliche romantic film, we’re here for it. A cliche is good sometimes, so we can’t wait to see how their love story turns out.
Streaming on Prime Video on August 11
5. Only Murders In The Building Season 3
The slightly bizarre, very humorous crime-solving trio is back! And this time, two new entrants have joined the cast to make the murder mystery even more intriguing. The official synopsis reads, “Season three finds Charles, Oliver & Mabel (played by Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez) investigating a murder behind the scenes of a Broadway show. Ben Glenroy (Paul Rudd) is a Hollywood action star whose Broadway debut is cut short by his untimely death. Aided by co-star Loretta Durkin (Meryl Streep), our trio embarks on their toughest case yet, all while director Oliver desperately attempts to put his show back together. Curtain’s up!”
Streaming soon on Disney+ Hotstar
6. Guns & Gulaabs
Starring Rajkummar Rao, Dulquer Salmaan, Adarsh Gourav, TJ Bhanu and Gulshan Devaiah, the series is set in the cartel-run town of Gulaabgunj, where an unprecedented opium deal pulls a big-city cop and a lovesick mechanic into its chaotic clutches. Blending the romance of the ’90s with a crime thriller while effortlessly lacing it in humour, the show will keep you at the edge of your seat!
Streaming soon on Netflix
