The best new TV shows to stream in July

This week brings a mix of familiar faces and fresh narratives to streaming platforms, offering viewers a chance to revisit beloved comedic styles while exploring new genres and international storytelling. At the forefront is *Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness*, a new sketch comedy series from HBO Max that marks the return of Larry David, the co-creator of *Seinfeld* and star of *Curb Your Enthusiasm*. This project sees David once again stepping into the role of a curmudgeonly character navigating absurd situations, but this time with a historical twist. The premise involves placing David in pivotal moments of American history, where his typical pettiness and social discomfort lead to both comedic and ironic outcomes.

The series features seven episodes, each containing multiple sketches that explore various points in U.S. history. These range from the Great Depression to the moon landing, with David's presence often serving as a catalyst for minor yet significant events. For instance, one sketch imagines him being on a bus with Rosa Parks, highlighting how small acts of defiance can ripple through history. The humor stems from everyday annoyances—such as disputes over parking spaces or queue etiquette—being magnified in historical contexts. The show retains the improvisational style of *Curb Your Enthusiasm*, allowing the ensemble cast to react spontaneously to Larry's antics. Notable guest appearances include Jerry Seinfeld, Jon Hamm, Isla Fisher, Jane Krakowski, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, many of whom have previously appeared on *Curb*.

Adding to the intrigue, the series opens with a segment featuring former U.S. President Barack Obama, who introduces the show as part of a celebration marking America's 250th anniversary. His comments reflect on the nation's imperfections and the enduring human tendency to find fault, themes that resonate throughout the sketches. Both Obama and his former First Lady, Michelle Obama, are listed as co-producers under their production company, Higher Ground. This involvement adds a layer of political and cultural significance to the project, though the show itself remains focused on humor rather than overt commentary.

In addition to *Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness*, other notable additions to streaming services this week include *Sugar* (Season Two) on Apple TV+. The series continues the story of John Sugar, a private investigator played by Colin Farrell, whose identity is revealed in Season One to be a blue-skinned alien observing humanity. The second season builds upon the first's dramatic twist, delving deeper into the complexities of Sugar's dual existence. While the first season received mixed reviews due to its unconventional narrative structure, the continuation promises to expand on the character's internal conflicts and external investigations. The visual design of Sugar's alien form draws comparisons to Marvel's Vision, maintaining a balance between the supernatural and the mundane.

Another highlight is an Italian television hit receiving a bloody prequel, which has generated considerable interest among fans of the original series. Meanwhile, Daisy Ridley stars in an Australian zombie film, adding a global flavor to the week's offerings. Each of these titles presents distinct storytelling approaches, from the absurdist humor of *Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness* to the psychological depth of *Sugar* and the action-packed spectacle of the zombie film. Collectively, these releases provide a diverse array of content for viewers seeking both entertainment and intellectual engagement. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, such varied programming ensures that audiences have ample options to choose from, reflecting broader trends in media consumption and creative expression.