Netflix continues to dominate the streaming landscape with a dynamic blend of original content and high-profile acquisitions, and July 2025 is no exception. This month’s lineup is packed with blockbuster sequels, gripping dramas, innovative comedies, and reality competitions that promise to captivate audiences worldwide. From the action-packed The Old Guard 2 starring Charlize Theron and Uma Thurman to the emotional finale of The Sandman Season 2, and the nostalgic return of Adam Sandler in Happy Gilmore 2, there’s something for every viewer.

Drawing from the latest announcements and fan buzz across the web and X, this 5,900-word article dives into the 10 must-watch Netflix releases for July 2025, exploring their casts, premises, and why they’re unmissable. Whether you’re craving high-stakes action, heartfelt comedy, or thought-provoking drama, Netflix’s July slate delivers.

1. The Old Guard 2

Genre: Action/Fantasy

Release Date: July 2, 2025

Starring: Charlize Theron, Uma Thurman, KiKi Layne, Marwan Kenzari, Henry Golding, Chiwetel Ejiofor

Premise: The sequel to 2020’s hit The Old Guard, based on Greg Rucka’s comic, picks up with Andy (Charlize Theron) and her team of immortal mercenaries navigating a world where their secret is exposed. Directed by Victoria Mahoney, The Old Guard 2 introduces Uma Thurman as Discord, the first immortal, who seeks to destroy Andy for prioritizing humanity over their kind. The plot escalates with the return of Quynh (Veronica Ngo), freed from her underwater prison, and spans from 12th-century Japan to modern-day Lagos. Expect intense fight sequences, emotional stakes, and expanded lore.

Why Watch: The Old Guard 2 builds on the original’s success, which earned praise for its action and diverse cast. Theron’s commanding performance and Mahoney’s fresh directorial vision promise a bloodier, more epic showdown. Variety notes the film’s “high-octane action” and “expanded historical scope,” while X posts hype the Theron-Thurman face-off, with one user tweeting, “Charlize vs. Uma? This is my Super Bowl.” The film’s global settings and themes of loyalty and sacrifice make it a standout for action and fantasy fans.

What to Expect: A 120–130-minute film with stunning 4K visuals, visceral combat, and deeper character arcs. The addition of Henry Golding and Thurman’s villainous Discord adds fresh dynamics, while the focus on Andy’s lost immortality heightens the stakes.

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2. The Sandman: Season 2

Genre: Fantasy/Drama

Release Date: July 3 (Volume 1), July 24 (Volume 2), July 31 (Special Episode), 2025

Starring: Tom Sturridge, Boyd Holbrook, Vivienne Acheampong, Kirby Howell-Baptiste

Premise: The second and final season of The Sandman, adapted from Neil Gaiman’s iconic DC/Vertigo comic, concludes Morpheus’s (Tom Sturridge) journey as the King of Dreams. Volume 1 (July 3, Episodes 1–6) sees Morpheus pursued by the Furies after abdicating his domain, grappling with past sins. Volume 2 (July 24, Episodes 7–11) features a reunion of the Endless, thrusting him onto a perilous path of vengeance. A standalone special episode (July 31) follows a journalist’s transformative encounter with Death (Kirby Howell-Baptiste).

Why Watch: Despite controversy surrounding Gaiman, The Sandman remains a fan-favorite for its ethereal storytelling and rich visuals. PCMag calls it a “climactic end” to a long-awaited adaptation, though its abrupt conclusion has sparked mixed reactions on X, with one user noting, “Sad it’s ending, but Morpheus’s arc looks epic.” The three-part release keeps viewers engaged throughout July, blending myth, horror, and emotion.

What to Expect: Twelve episodes total, each 40–60 minutes, released in three batches. Expect lush production, cosmic stakes, and standout performances from Howell-Baptiste as Death and Holbrook as the Corinthian. The special episode offers a poignant, standalone story.Source:

3. Too Much

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Release Date: July 10, 2025

Starring: Megan Stalter, Will Sharpe, Emily Ratajkowski, Rory Kinnear

Premise: Created by Lena Dunham and Luis Felber, Too Much follows Jessica (Megan Stalter), a heartbroken New Yorker who relocates to London after a messy breakup. There, she meets Felix (Will Sharpe), a soulful musician battling addiction, sparking a chaotic yet heartfelt romance. The series explores love, identity, and second chances across cultural divides.

Why Watch: Dunham’s signature wit and emotional depth, seen in Girls, shine through in this British rom-com. Stalter, a Hacks breakout, brings comedic charm, while Sharpe’s nuanced performance adds heart. Vanity Fair praises its “sharp humor and messy romance,” and X fans are excited, with one tweeting, “Megan Stalter in a Dunham rom-com? I’m all in.” Its London setting and diverse cast make it a fresh addition to Netflix’s comedy slate.

What to Expect: Eight episodes, each 30–40 minutes, blending humor, romance, and drama. The series tackles modern dating and personal growth with Dunham’s candid style, enhanced by a vibrant soundtrack and London’s backdrop.Source:

4. Happy Gilmore 2

Genre: Comedy

Release Date: July 25, 2025

Starring: Adam Sandler, Julie Bowen, Christopher McDonald, Sunny Sandler, Bad Bunny, Travis Kelce

Premise: Nearly 30 years after the 1996 classic, Happy Gilmore 2 sees Adam Sandler return as Happy Gilmore, a retired hockey-player-turned-golfer. Now a family man, Happy re-enters the golf world to fund his daughter Vienna’s (Sunny Sandler) ballet school, facing off against his old rival, Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald). Packed with cameos from stars like Bad Bunny, Travis Kelce, and pro golfers like Bryson DeChambeau, the film blends raunchy humor with a mushy heart.

Why Watch: The original Happy Gilmore is a comedy staple, and the sequel leans into nostalgia with returning cast members like Julie Bowen and Ben Stiller. Forbes warns of “nostalgia-bait” risks but praises the starry cameos, while X users are hyped, with one tweeting, “Happy Gilmore 2 with Bad Bunny and Kelce? Shut up and take my money!” Its mix of crude humor and heart makes it a summer must-watch.

What to Expect: A 90–100-minute film with slapstick comedy, golf shenanigans, and Sandler’s signature feel-good ending. Expect 4K visuals, LIV Golf references, and a mix of new and returning characters.Source:

5. Almost Cops

Genre: Buddy-Cop Comedy

Release Date: July 11, 2025

Starring: Jandino Asporaat, Werner Kolf

Premise: Set in Rotterdam, Almost Cops (previously titled Bad Boa’s) follows Ramon (Jandino Asporaat), an overzealous officer, and Jack (Werner Kolf), a demoted detective, as they team up to catch a killer after personal losses. Their mismatched dynamic leads to chaotic yet heartfelt crime-solving in this Dutch comedy.

Why Watch: This film brings a fresh spin to the buddy-cop genre with Dutch humor and a Rotterdam setting. Virgin Media highlights its “chaotic energy,” and X posts praise its “underdog vibe,” with one user noting, “Dutch buddy-cop flick on Netflix? Count me in.” Asporaat’s comedic flair and Kolf’s grounded performance make it a fun, accessible watch.

What to Expect: A 90-minute film with fast-paced humor, action, and emotional beats. The Rotterdam backdrop and cultural nuances add authenticity, while the chemistry between leads drives the story.Source:

6. The Gringo Hunters

Genre: Crime Thriller

Release Date: July 9, 2025

Starring: Diego Calva, Diego Boneta, Mónica Barbaro

Premise: Inspired by a 2022 Washington Post report, The Gringo Hunters follows Mexico’s International Liaison Unit, an elite police team tracking American fugitives hiding south of the border. The series blends high-stakes chases, moral dilemmas, and complex investigations, challenging stereotypes about Mexico as a “lawless land.”

Why Watch: This gripping series offers suspense and authenticity, with producer Stacy Perskie emphasizing its nuanced portrayal of Mexican law enforcement (CheatSheet). X users call it “Narcos meets The Fugitive,” praising its intense pacing. The stellar cast and real-world inspiration make it a standout for crime drama fans.

What to Expect: Six episodes, each 45–50 minutes, with gritty action and intricate plotting. Expect themes of justice and cross-border tensions, enhanced by Mexico’s vibrant settings.Source:

7. Brick

Genre: Horror/Thriller

Release Date: July 10, 2025

Starring: Matthias Schweighöfer, Ruby O. Fee

Premise: In this German horror-thriller directed by Philip Koch, Tim and Olivia (played by real-life couple Matthias Schweighöfer and Ruby O. Fee) awake to find their apartment building sealed by a mysterious brick wall. As tensions rise, they unite with wary neighbors in a desperate fight for survival, uncovering dark secrets.

Why Watch: Brick promises claustrophobic horror and psychological suspense, with PCMag calling it a “heart-racing” thriller. X buzz highlights its unique premise, with one user tweeting, “Trapped by a brick wall? That’s next-level creepy.” Its German perspective and intense atmosphere make it a must for horror fans.

What to Expect: A 90–100-minute film with chilling visuals and escalating dread. The focus on survival and human conflict adds depth to the horror, with strong performances driving the tension.Source:

8. Under a Dark Sun

Genre: Drama/Thriller

Release Date: July 9, 2025

Starring: Joséphine Japy, Vincent Cassel

Premise: This French series follows a young mother on the run from her past, accused of murdering her boss at a flower farm, only to discover he’s her father. As she fights to clear her name, the series weaves mystery, survival, and family secrets in a tense narrative.

Why Watch: Under a Dark Sun combines emotional stakes with thriller elements, earning praise from Hypebeast for its “gripping” story. X users are intrigued by its twisty plot, with one noting, “French drama with a murder mystery? I’m hooked.” Its unique premise and strong performances make it a compelling watch.

What to Expect: Six episodes, each 40–50 minutes, blending drama and suspense. The rural French setting and layered characters create an immersive, emotionally charged experience.Source:

9. Ziam

Genre: Action/Horror

Release Date: July 9, 2025

Starring: Mark-Prin Suparat, Davika Hoorne

Premise: This Thai zombie thriller follows a former Muay Thai fighter (Mark-Prin Suparat) battling a horde of undead in a hospital to save his wife. Packed with bare-knuckle brawling and high-stakes action, Ziam delivers a visceral fight for survival.

Why Watch: PCMag hails Ziam as a “Hall of Fame” Southeast Asian action flick, and X posts buzz about its “insane fight scenes,” with one user tweeting, “Muay Thai vs. zombies? Netflix is wild for this.” Suparat’s martial arts prowess and the film’s relentless pace make it a summer popcorn hit.

What to Expect: A 100-minute film with intense 4K action sequences and emotional stakes. The hospital setting amplifies the claustrophobic horror, while Thai cultural elements add depth.Source:

10. Building The Band

Genre: Reality/Music Competition

Release Date: July 9, 2025

Starring: Liam Payne, Nicole Scherzinger, Kelly Rowland, AJ McLean (host)

Premise: This reality series, inspired by Love Is Blind, places 50 singers in individual booths to form bands based solely on vocal chemistry. Once formed, bands compete before judges Liam Payne, Nicole Scherzinger, and Kelly Rowland, with Backstreet Boys’ AJ McLean hosting. The series, featuring the late Liam Payne, explores musical talent and group dynamics.

Why Watch: Building The Band blends music and reality TV drama, with TV Guide praising its innovative format. X posts highlight Payne’s posthumous appearance, with one user noting, “Liam’s last project is gonna be emotional.” The star-studded judging panel and unique premise make it a must-watch for music fans.

What to Expect: Eight episodes, each 40–50 minutes, with emotional performances and competitive tension. The blind audition twist adds intrigue, while the judges’ expertise elevates the stakes.Source:

Why Netflix’s July 2025 Lineup Stands Out

Netflix’s July 2025 slate showcases its commitment to diverse, high-quality content, from blockbuster sequels to global originals. The Old Guard 2 and Happy Gilmore 2 bring star power and nostalgia, while The Sandman Season 2 wraps a beloved fantasy epic. Too Much and Almost Cops offer fresh comedic voices, and The Gringo Hunters, Brick, Under a Dark Sun, and Ziam deliver thrilling narratives from Mexico, Germany, France, and Thailand, respectively. Building The Band adds reality TV flair with emotional resonance.

The platform’s investment in 4K HDR visuals, Spatial Audio, and global storytelling, as noted by TechNadu, enhances the viewing experience. Fan buzz on X, with posts like “Netflix’s July lineup is stacked!” reflects the excitement, while Variety praises the “diverse slate” for its range. Whether you’re streaming on a TV or mobile device, Netflix’s July releases make it a must-subscribe month.

Conclusion

July 2025 is a landmark month for Netflix, offering a vibrant mix of 10 must-watch TV shows and movies that cater to every taste. The Old Guard 2 delivers action-packed thrills with Charlize Theron and Uma Thurman, while The Sandman Season 2 concludes with cosmic drama. Too Much brings Lena Dunham’s comedic genius, and Happy Gilmore 2 revives Adam Sandler’s iconic golfer. Almost Cops and The Gringo Hunters offer fresh spins on comedy and crime, while Brick, Under a Dark Sun, and Ziam provide suspense and action from global perspectives.

Building The Band rounds out the lineup with heartfelt reality TV. With top-tier talent, innovative storytelling, and Netflix’s signature polish, these releases solidify its streaming dominance. Grab your popcorn, fire up Netflix, and dive into this unforgettable summer lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When does The Old Guard 2 premiere on Netflix?The Old Guard 2 premieres on July 2, 2025, as a Netflix Original film.

2. How is The Sandman Season 2 released?Season 2 releases in three parts: Volume 1 (Episodes 1–6) on July 3, Volume 2 (Episodes 7–11) on July 24, and a special episode on July 31, 2025.

3. Who stars in Too Much?The series stars Megan Stalter as Jessica and Will Sharpe as Felix, with supporting roles by Emily Ratajkowski and Rory Kinnear.

4. What is Happy Gilmore 2 about?Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore returns to golf to fund his daughter’s ballet school, facing rival Shooter McGavin, with cameos from Bad Bunny and Travis Kelce. It premieres July 25.

5. Is Almost Cops a Netflix Original?Yes, Almost Cops is a Dutch Netflix Original comedy premiering on July 11, 2025.

6. What inspired The Gringo Hunters?The series is based on a 2022 Washington Post report about Mexico’s International Liaison Unit tracking American fugitives, premiering July 9.

7. What genre is Brick?Brick is a German horror-thriller about a couple trapped by a mysterious brick wall, premiering July 10, 2025.

8. What is the premise of Under a Dark Sun?This French series follows a young mother accused of murdering her boss, who she learns is her father, blending mystery and survival. It premieres July 9.

9. Why is Ziam a must-watch?This Thai zombie thriller features intense Muay Thai action and emotional stakes, making it a standout action-horror film on July 9.

10. Who are the judges on Building The Band?The reality series, premiering July 9, features Liam Payne, Nicole Scherzinger, and Kelly Rowland as judges, with AJ McLean as host.

    
    

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