The best series and movies to watch this August weekend

The weekend brings a diverse array of streaming content, offering viewers a range of genres including science fiction, dark comedy, mystery, family violence, comedy, and stories centered around characters challenging societal norms. Among the new releases are Bugonia directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, Rosebush Pruning by Karim Aïnouz, and the series Fragmentos, based on Bret Easton Ellis's work, alongside Re loca and the latest episode of Stuart no puede salvar el universo. These five options provide a variety of choices for entertainment during the final days of August. Stuart no puede salvar el universo has received its fifth episode this week, with the second season already confirmed. In the fourth episode, Mayim Bialik, known for her role as Amy Fowler in The Big Bang Theory, appears as Stuart finds himself in a psychiatric hospital questioning whether his memories of traveling through dimensions are the result of fertile imagination or a psychotic break. With the second season confirmed, Stuart and his friends continue their journey through the universe while trying to fix a multiversal apocalypse. Four episodes of the first season are currently available exclusively on HBO Max. The show features Kevin Sussman as Stuart, Lauren Lapkus as Denise, Brian Posehn as Bert, and John Ross Bowie as Barry. Produced by Chuck Lorre Productions in collaboration with Warner Bros. Television, the series was created, written, and produced by Chuck Lorre, Zak Penn, and Bill Prady. The production highlights the ongoing exploration of themes related to authority and the challenges faced by individuals within structured systems. My Sad Dead is a new Argentine thriller on Netflix based on a story by Mariana Enríquez. The film follows a character navigating through personal and professional turmoil, reflecting broader societal issues. This addition to Netflix’s lineup offers a fresh perspective on contemporary storytelling. Bugonia, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, combines dark humor, science fiction, and a deeply unsettling look at the present. Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons deliver standout performances as they portray a powerful pharmaceutical company CEO who is kidnapped by a man convinced he is an alien planning to destroy Earth. The film explores conspiracy theories, misinformation, corporate power, and the difficulty of distinguishing truth from belief. It is described as both absurd and unsettling, capturing the unique visual and narrative style of Lanthimos. Available on HBO Max since August 14, Bugonia continues to draw attention for its bold approach to genre conventions. On Amazon Prime Video, Re loca stars Natalia Oreiro, Fernán Mirás, and Diego Torres. The film follows Pilar, a woman approaching her 40th birthday whose life in Buenos Aires becomes increasingly overwhelming. Working in advertising under an abusive boss, living with an inattentive husband and a chaotic stepson, facing ignored friendships and noisy neighbors, Pilar reaches a breaking point after meeting a mysterious old man. This encounter leads to unexpected consequences as she loses all filters and expresses her thoughts freely. The film provides a compelling narrative exploring personal struggles and societal pressures. Mubi presents Rosebush Pruning, directed by Karim Aïnouz, featuring Riley Keough, Callum Turner, Elle Fanning, Jamie Bell, and Pamela Anderson. The film offers an intense and disturbing portrayal of a family plagued by secrets, desires, violence, and toxic relationships, appealing to fans of more daring author cinema. Premiering exclusively on MUBI in Argentina starting August 21, 2026, the film sets up a tense atmosphere as a wealthy American white family lives in isolated hedonism, seeking love and recognition among their members, designer clothing, and pop music. When an outsider infiltrates the family, underlying tensions surface, leading to fractured familial bonds. The tragicomedy promises to delve into complex human dynamics and emotional conflicts.