Best New Movies and TV Shows to Watch This Week

☕️ TL;DR

Recent recommendations: [Film] The Octopus with Eight Lucky Arms, [Film] The Balcony of Limoges, [British Series] Trust Me, [U.S. Series] Outside the Campus Season 1, [Italian Series] The Law According to Lidia Poët Season 3, [Film] The Days I Lived in Versailles, [Film] Zombieland Saga: Dream Galaxy Paradise, [Reality Show] Become a Farmer Season 4

Notable new trailers: Escape from Dead End Street Official Trailer, House of the Dragon Season 3 Final Trailer, Ice Age 6: Lava Crisis First Trailer, How to Pull Off a Big Score First Look Trailer

Film and TV news highlights: Spider-Man: Brand New Day Confirmed for China Release, Moana: Voyage Begins Set for China Release on July 10, Heart Dog Companion Set for China Release on June 26, The Backrooms Confirmed for China Release, The Odyssey Unveils New Poster

For previous recommendations, click here or browse the #WhatToWatchThisWeek tag at the end of this article. For more themed watchlists, click here. If you’d like more in-depth film and television content, be sure to follow our companion column, What to Watch Café. As always, feel free to leave suggestions in the comments section. Thank you for your continued support of the What to Watch series.

[Film] Remarkably Bright Creatures

Keywords: Drama / Comedy
Also Known As: Remarkably Bright Creatures
Runtime: 111 min
Where to Watch: Netflix; Douban Link

We are all remarkably bright creatures, after all.

@潘誉晗: Tova, a 70-year-old widow, has lived with profound loss for decades. The disappearance of her son thirty years ago remains the deepest wound in her heart, and the death of her husband a few years earlier only added to her sorrow. Yet she hides it well. She regularly meets friends for afternoon tea and works nights cleaning an aquarium. Even so, she remains deeply lonely. Her only confidant is Marcellus, an octopus living in the aquarium. After Tova injures her ankle, the aquarium hires a temporary replacement named Cameron. Driving into town in a beat-up RV, Cameron claims he’s there to collect a debt, but in truth, he’s searching for his biological father.

Adapted from the novel of the same name, the film tells a heartwarming story about an elderly woman, a young man, and an octopus. Unable to communicate with humans through language, Marcellus nevertheless possesses remarkable intelligence. Through his tentacles, he senses the hidden pain carried by both Tova and Cameron—a shared feeling called loneliness. He also recognizes the kindness that remains within these two lost souls. The film unfolds at a gentle pace, without dramatic twists or high-stakes moments, yet somehow manages to become deeply healing and comforting before you even realize it.

[Film] A Balcony in Limoges

Keywords: Drama
Also Known As: Un balcon à Limoges / A Balcony in Limoges
Runtime: 70 min; Douban Link

Maybe don’t take advantage of nice people.

@利兹与青鸟: Gladys drifts from place to place, carefree and untamed, unconcerned by social expectations and unwilling to be tied down. Eugénie, on the other hand, is a caregiver devoted to public service, with a noticeable streak of cleanliness and obsessive tendencies. Former high school classmates, the two reconnect by chance in a parking lot. Unable to stand seeing Gladys’s skirt held together with safety pins, Eugénie invites her home, repairs it properly, and even tries to help her obtain a health insurance card and social benefits. Gradually, the two grow closer. Meanwhile, a philosophy teacher living across the street quietly observes everything that happens on Eugénie’s balcony from his apartment window.

Gladys and Eugénie represent opposite ends of the spectrum: freedom and order. Whether judged morally or behaviorally, Gladys is the one viewers are more likely to find difficult to accept. Yet Eugénie, who appears far more helpful and compassionate, commits an astonishing act after feeling wronged. The philosophy teacher, reminiscent of the observer in Rear Window, serves as a neutral onlooker with a touch of philosophical reflection, providing the audience with additional intrigue. The film plays out like an absurd fable, documenting a series of unsettling events through visuals that feel almost mundane. This contrast adds both mystery and voyeuristic fascination while satirizing the destruction caused by these opposing extremes—and taking a subtle jab at the hypocrisy of self-proclaimed impartial observers.

[British Series] Believe Me

Keywords: Drama / Crime
Also Known As: Believe Me
Runtime: Approximately 47 min per episode × 4 episodes; Douban Link

Can a woman who comes home late after drinking still be considered credible?

@潘誉晗: Sarah’s first night out since becoming a mother turns into an enjoyable escape. On the ride home, she chats casually with her taxi driver. The driver smiles, pulls out a stack of cash, claims he won it at a casino, and offers Sarah a drink, saying he can’t celebrate himself because he’s driving. After drinking it, Sarah blacks out. When she regains consciousness, she finds herself in a hospital. Her physical condition tells her she has been sexually assaulted, but when she reports the crime, the police refuse to believe her. In their eyes, Sarah is simply a well-dressed woman who stayed out drinking late into the night.

This latest ITV limited series is based on real events in the United Kingdom. In 2003, a woman who had been sexually assaulted reported the crime to police, only to be ignored. Later, several other women with similar experiences came forward seeking help and were likewise dismissed. Their common trait? They were young, attractive women who had been drinking and returning home late—not the “perfect victims.” As a result, testimonies were disregarded, evidence was destroyed, and cases were even absurdly closed. Drawing directly from reality, the series not only reconstructs the crimes themselves but also exposes the corruption and incompetence that existed within the British policing system.

[TV Series] Off Campus Season 1

Keywords: Drama / Romance / Sports
Also Known As: Off Campus Season 1
Runtime: Approximately 53 minutes per episode × 8 episodes; Douban link

Wasn’t it just a mutually beneficial gentleman’s agreement?

@潘誉晗: Graham is the captain and star player of Blair University’s ice hockey team, making him one of the most popular figures on campus. Unfortunately, while he shines on the ice, his philosophy grades are far less impressive. Determined not to let academics interfere with his athletic career, he approaches Hannah and asks her to tutor him after noticing her perfect exam score in class. Hannah immediately refuses, but when Graham offers to help her get the attention of the upperclassman she has a crush on, she agrees. And so begins a charming campus romance between a talented music student and a star hockey player.

Premiering in mid-May, Off Campus quickly gained momentum, consistently topping weekly streaming charts and even surpassing the final season of the hugely popular teen drama Euphoria. Its success is hardly surprising. Created by an all-female production team, the series offers viewers much more than just romance. While the premise may feel familiar, audiences are drawn to the way the two leads gradually grow closer and help heal each other’s emotional scars. Their journey toward self-healing and personal growth is what truly makes the story special.

[Italy] The Law According to Lidia Poët Season 3

Keywords: Drama / Mystery / Biography / History / Crime
Also Known As: La legge di Lidia Poët Season 3
Runtime: Approximately 50 minutes per episode × 6 episodes
Available on: Netflix; Douban link

Women can absolutely be lawyers.

@潘誉晗: The story now moves to 1887. Enrico has successfully entered parliament and is actively advocating for reforms that would allow his sister Lidia to become a practicing lawyer. Lidia’s relationship with her partner is also going smoothly, and life appears to be on the right track—until Grazia, a long-lost friend she has not seen in years, suddenly reappears and is arrested for murdering her husband. To save her friend, who has endured years of domestic abuse, Lidia persuades her brother to take the case. Unexpectedly, the prosecutor handling the trial turns out to be her current lover, while the journalist eager to cover the case is her former boyfriend.

Caught between uncovering the truth and navigating a complicated love triangle, Lidia certainly has a lot on her plate this season.

Based on real events, the series authentically and objectively recreates the struggles faced by women lawyers in that era through Lidia’s story. Although Lidia was the first woman in Italy to obtain a law license, she was still forbidden from practicing law and could only work as an assistant in her brother’s office. Even in court, she was often met with skepticism and cold judgment from juries. Beyond the main storyline, the season’s other cases also faithfully reflect the challenges and hardships experienced by women at the time.

[Film] My Life in Versailles

Keywords: Animation / Drama
Also Known As: La vie de château – Mon enfance à Versailles / My Life in Versailles
Runtime: 81 minutes; Douban link

Living a simple yet happy life in a dreamlike palace.

@利兹与青鸟: Violet, a little girl with bright orange-red hair, loses both of her parents in a terrorist attack. Following her mother’s wishes, she moves in with her uncle, who lives in a small cottage within the grounds of Versailles. Her uncle works in cleaning and maintenance at the Palace of Versailles. He is rough around the edges, keeps a rather messy home, and has little experience taking care of children. Struggling to accept her new reality, Violet often skips school and returns to sit outside her old house. In response, her uncle takes her on walks through the palace, chats with her by the fire, and plays snowball fights with her in the gardens. Just as Violet begins to fall in love with her new life, she learns that she may soon have to leave for her grandmother’s home.

Adapted from the 2021 short film of the same name, the movie uses the magnificent Palace of Versailles as its backdrop. Exploring hidden underground tunnels, cycling through the palace at night, and even chatting with Louis XIV all add a layer of whimsical fairy-tale magic to the story. The animation features simple linework paired with bright, cheerful colors, while playful visual touches—such as stars falling from the sky and shattering because of the uncle’s loud snoring—bring extra humor and charm. Yet the film goes beyond being a delightful tale about a child adapting to a new life. It also explores family relationships, differing approaches to parenting, and other real-world issues. In her own small way, Violet tries to mend the relationship between her uncle and her grandparents, while her uncle’s companionship helps her gradually overcome her grief. The film reaches its conclusion with a light touch, while leaving behind a lingering emotional resonance.

[Film] Zombie Land Saga: Yumeginga Paradise

Keywords: Sci-Fi / Music / Comedy
Also Known As: ゾンビランドサガゆめぎんがパラダイス / Zombie Land Saga: Yumeginga Paradise
Runtime: 120 minutes, with a very short post-credit scene; Douban link

A new “Good Morning SAGA” shouted across the galaxy.

@SHY: In 2025, with the World Expo set to open after its venue is unexpectedly relocated to Saga, Franchouchou has been selected as the event’s promotional ambassador and is preparing for a concert at SAGA Arena to be broadcast worldwide. However, a giant UFO suddenly appears over Saga and launches an attack on humanity. Thrust into the center of this unprecedented crisis, can Franchouchou save Saga—and perhaps even the entire Earth?

Following two critically acclaimed TV anime seasons, this regional revitalization anime, which initially attracted little attention before its debut, concludes its journey with a spectacular theatrical finale that shoots straight into the stars. Staying true to the successful formula of its predecessors, the film continues its wild genre mashups, blending B-movie zombie and alien movie tropes into a nonstop parade of absurdity. Even the most conventional climactic moments can suddenly take an unexpected turn. MAPPA’s production quality has also reached new heights, with several exhilarating action sequences delivering the feel of a blockbuster film.

Amid all the bewildering developments that leave both humans and zombies scratching their heads, this is still, at its core, a proper idol anime. Tae, previously the least developed member, takes center stage in the film, as forgotten foreshadowing is revisited and the bonds between Franchouchou’s members grow even stronger. Fighting aliens is merely a side quest—the emotional live performances that make you laugh and cry are what truly matter. Even after life itself has long faded away, youth can still shine brightly. This unconventional project is destined to remain etched in viewers’ memories for years to come.

[Reality Show] Become a Farmer 4

Keywords: Reality Show
Also Known As: Become a Farmer
Runtime: Approximately 90 minutes per episode × 32 episodes
Available on: iQIYI; Douban link

Being a porter isn’t really a profession—it’s a fate.

@潘誉晗: For its fourth season, Become a Farmer heads to Motuo in Tibet. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and known for its complex terrain and the saying “four seasons in a single day,” Motuo becomes the new destination for the ten young participants. They take part in farming, desertification-control planting projects, initiatives supporting ecological restoration, and efforts to promote and sell local agricultural products. Their work not only injects youthful energy into Motuo but also offers local farmers a new path toward revitalization.

The first two seasons of the labor documentary reality show Become a Farmer were widely praised, but the increasingly commercialized approach of the third season drew polarized reactions. Fortunately, the production team listened to feedback and remembered the program’s original mission: to farm seriously and help rural communities. This season, they set foot on the soil of Motuo. “Between the vastness of heaven and earth lies the hardship of people’s lives.” The cameras devote more attention to the people of Motuo, especially the porters who carry heavy loads across one snow-covered mountain after another. Through their stories, viewers witness just how difficult development has been for China’s last county to gain road access.

In 2013, after 53 years of effort, Motuo was finally connected by road and ceased to be an isolated plateau outpost. And in 2026, perhaps it is finally time for more people to truly see Motuo.

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[Film] Spring @利兹与青鸟: In an orphanage attached to a church in 18th-century Venice, girls receive musical education before being married off to widowers old enough to be their fathers. The impoverished Vivaldi arrives to lead the girls’ orchestra and soon discovers Cecilia’s extraordinary musical talent. Determined to avoid an arranged marriage and pursue her dream of music, Cecilia resorts to nearly self-destructive measures to carve out a future for herself, unaware of how long and uncertain the road ahead may be. The film vividly portrays the oppression women faced during that era, while lead actress Tecla Insolia, known from The Art of Joy, delivers a series of deeply moving performances.

[Korean Drama] The Secret Inspector @潘誉晗: Due to a misunderstanding, Noh Jun-gi, once the star employee of the corporate audit division, is demoted by department head Joo In-ah to Audit Team Three. The team specializes in investigating employees’ extramarital affairs, offering virtually no career prospects. Determined to return to his former position, Jun-gi decides to uncover Joo In-ah’s own scandal and bring her down from management. This romantic workplace drama centers on a corporate investigation unit, offering a fresh premise and plenty of over-the-top, hilarious scandals. It’s an easy and entertaining watch.

[Japanese Drama] One Vote in the Galaxy @利兹与青鸟: Kuroki Haru once again plays Molly, a determined career woman. This time, she works as a political secretary. After suffering the emotional blow of being abandoned by her father, she unexpectedly decides to support Akari Tsukioka, the owner of a small tavern, in running for Governor of Tokyo. Molly finds healing in Akari’s warmth and optimism, while Akari gains the courage to embrace a new chapter in life with Molly’s support. Although the story can feel somewhat idealistic, it balances that with realistic political maneuvering and election tactics. Molly’s long-suppressed emotions eventually burst forth with remarkable nuance and intensity, making this an inspiring story about moving toward the light.

[American TV Series] Malcolm in the Middle: Life Is Still Unfair @潘誉晗: This revival focuses on an adult Malcolm. Over the past decade, he has kept his distance from his parents and even hidden the fact that he now has a daughter. One day, he receives a call from his parents asking him to attend their wedding anniversary celebration. Twenty years after the original series ended, the beloved sitcom Malcolm in the Middle returns, preserving the charm of the original while continuing to deliver laughter, tears, and heartfelt family moments.

[American TV Series] Manhattan Hustle Diaries @利兹与青鸟: Although it’s a workplace comedy about five young professionals trying to build careers in Manhattan, the original English title, Not Suitable for Work, perfectly captures the feelings of modern workers. Some struggle to survive in the world of investment finance, while others serve demanding “devil wears Prada” bosses in the fashion industry. The series balances stressful situations with lighthearted humor, while also exploring the complicated relationships among the five leads. The premise may not be particularly groundbreaking, but with episodes running around half an hour, it makes for an easy and enjoyable watch.

[American TV Series] Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 19 @潘誉晗: Late one night, three graduate students are driving down a highway when another vehicle forces them to stop. Two armed men emerge, abduct them, and lock them inside a dilapidated building. And this is far from their first crime. Season 19 of Criminal Minds returns to a more traditional procedural format, recapturing much of what made earlier seasons so compelling. While Elias remains part of the story, the arrival of a new serial killer introduces an intriguing new subplot.

[Spain] Berlin Season 2 @潘誉晗: One day, Berlin receives a commission from a duke who wants him to steal the famous painting Lady with an Ermine. The duke’s remark about “perfecting his collection” convinces Berlin that he must possess many other valuable treasures. Once again, Berlin reunites his team, pretending to accept the job while secretly plotting to uncover the duke’s hidden riches. Where are the secret passages hidden within the ancient castle? And why does the duke possess such vast amounts of cash? Just like its first season, the sequel remains highly binge-worthy.

[Film] Love Live! Hasunosora Girls’ High School Idol Club Bloom Garden Party @SHY: Having finally reached the stage of their dreams, Kaho Hinoshita and her friends take their first step toward the future—and spend their final day as students of Hasunosora. Centered around the now-discontinued mobile game Link! Like! Love Live!, this first animated feature for the Hasunosora group serves as both a debut and a farewell. Written by Fumiaki Maruto, author of Saekano, the film successfully balances a heartfelt goodbye to the graduating members with hope for the future. Fans are likely to find comfort in it while awaiting the TV anime starring the 106th class.

[Film] Galactic Express Galaxy☆Subway: All Stops to the Theater @SHY: After being arrested for violating intergalactic traffic laws, Chiharu and Makina are assigned to clean the interstellar train known as the “Galactic Express.” However, the supposedly retired train suddenly goes out of control, plunging its six passengers into an unprecedented cosmic disaster. Following the breakout success of last year’s short web animation, the story expands onto the big screen. Rather than merely compiling existing episodes, the film introduces the perspective of Officer Futago, depicting the parallel investigation unfolding outside the train. It retains the original’s breezy charm while offering a smoother and more cohesive narrative.

[Reality Show] Yoo Jae-suk’s Guesthouse Rules! @潘誉晗: The new Korean variety show Yoo Jae-suk’s Guesthouse Rules! brings together Yoo Jae-suk, Lee Kwang-soo, Byeon Woo-seok, and Ji Ye-eun as they build and operate their own guesthouse from scratch. A group of highly outgoing guests is then selected from the general public to stay there. As the saying goes, “The customer is king,” but the hosts’ happiness matters too. Doing things their own way is ultimately part of providing a better experience for both guests and visitors. And honestly, seeing Yoo and Lee reunite on screen again is reason enough to tune in.

📅 This Week’s New Trailers

Official Trailer for Escape from Dead End Street

On June 1, the film Escape from Dead End Street released its official trailer and is set to premiere in North America on August 14. Directed by David Robert Mitchell and produced by J. J. Abrams, the film stars Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor. After a violent thunderstorm, dinosaurs suddenly appear in a suburban neighborhood. A married couple and their child must embark on a perilous journey to escape the deadly streets. Source

Final Trailer for House of the Dragon Season 3

On May 29, HBO released the final trailer for its hit series House of the Dragon Season 3, which premieres on June 21. Starring Matt Smith, Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, Steve Toussaint, and Rhys Ifans, the season sees rival factions vying for power as war looms on the horizon. The promise of “an empire that cannot be destroyed” comes at the cost of bloodshed and loss. Source

First Trailer for Ice Age 6: Lava Crisis

On June 4, Disney unveiled the first trailer for the animated film Ice Age 6: Lava Crisis, scheduled for release in North America on February 5, 2027. The first feature-length installment in the franchise since the closure of Blue Sky Studios, the film reunites the entire Ice Age gang. As for that acorn-obsessed squirrel, what kind of chaos has he unleashed this time? A brand-new adventure of fire and ice awaits. Source

First Trailer for How to Pull Off a Big Score

On June 2, the film How to Pull Off a Big Score released its first trailer. Directed by David Leitch (Bullet Train, The Fall Guy, Deadpool 2), the movie stars Nicholas Hoult, Zoë Kravitz, Anna Sawai, Lázaro Felíz, and Pete Davidson. It follows a group of bank robbers who post videos of their crimes online, daring the police to chase them down. The film opens in North America on September 4.

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Big Fish & Begonia Re-Release Trailer: On June 3, the animated film Big Fish & Begonia released a trailer announcing its theatrical re-release. Familiar lines from Chun, Qiu, and Kun transport audiences back to that unforgettable summer and dreamlike world. The film returns to theaters on June 19 and will be screened in IMAX 2D for the first time. An exclusive IMAX screening will also take place during this year’s Shanghai International Film Festival.

The Bladesman Season 2 Release Date Trailer: Adapted from Xu Xianzhe’s manga of the same name and produced by Colored Pencil Animation, the story returns to the chaos of the late Sui Dynasty. Dao Ma acquires the legendary Zijiao Forest Saber, carrying both a sharp blade and a righteous heart. Meanwhile, the Jade-Faced Ghost seeks vengeance for his adoptive father, and bloodstained memories reveal deeply moving stories. Premieres on Tencent Video on June 11. Source

First Trailer for The Bladesman 3D Animated Film: Also adapted from Xu Xianzhe’s manga and produced by Dongyuan Pictures, the film follows Dao Ma, a guard serving Yang Guang, who witnesses the tragic death of his sister during a palace coup in the Sui Dynasty. Far from the bloody intrigues of the imperial court, he wanders the desert in search of the true meaning of being a hero and ultimately finds redemption.

Trailer for Grotesque Ghost Writer: Mexico’s first stop-motion animated feature film, Grotesque Ghost Writer, is directed by Mexican brothers Arturo and Roy Ambriz (Frankelda’s Book of Spooks), protégés of Guillermo del Toro. Set in 19th-century Mexico, the story follows a gifted writer who enters her own subconscious mind and confronts the monsters she has created. Premieres on Netflix on June 12.

Lucky Releases First Trailer: Starring Anya Taylor-Joy alongside Drew Starkey, Timothy Olyphant, and Annette Bening, Lucky is created by Jonathan Tropper (Banshee, The Adam Project) and adapted from Marissa Stapley’s bestselling novel. The series premieres on Apple TV+ on July 15.

New Trailer for Warriors of Future: Prelude: Executive produced by Louis Koo, planned by Sean Man, directed by the Choi Brothers, written by 10PM and the Choi Brothers, with character designs by FCP and mechanical designs and art direction by FeCYZ. The film depicts the largest high-tech war in Earth’s history, as a super artificial intelligence confronts the united forces of humanity in an all-out conflict.

📽 Film & TV News Weekly

Spider-Man: Brand New Day Confirmed for China Release

On June 1, Spider-Man: Brand New Day was officially confirmed for release in mainland China, accompanied by a new trailer and poster. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and starring Tom Holland and Zendaya, the film follows a hero who was once New York’s protector but has now been forgotten by the entire world. As a deadly new threat emerges and his heroic powers awaken once more, can the isolated Spider-Man rise from adversity and be reborn? Source

Moana: Voyage Sets Mainland China Release for July 10

On June 5, Disney’s live-action blockbuster Moana: Voyage released a mainland China release-date trailer and poster, confirming its premiere on July 10. Moana makes her first appearance in live-action form, joining forces with the demigod Maui, played by Hollywood star Dwayne Johnson, as they sail into unpredictable legendary waters, brave towering waves, and embark on a magnificent fantasy adventure. Source

Heart and Hound Sets Mainland China Release for June 26

On June 5, Thailand’s breakout hit film of 2026, Heart and Hound, released a mainland China release-date trailer and poster, confirming its premiere on June 26. Created by the acclaimed team behind How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies and Bad Genius, the film tells the story of a stray dog and a lifetime of encounters, companionship, reunions, and farewells. Everything connected to you is remembered in a dog’s heart. Source

The Backrooms Confirmed for China Release

On June 3, the horror film The Backrooms was officially confirmed for release in mainland China, accompanied by a new poster. The release date has yet to be announced. Produced by A24 and directed by Kane Parsons, the film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve, Finn Bennett, and Lukita Maxwell. It is adapted from the YouTube short film series Backrooms and its endlessly expanding “liminal space” concept. Source

The Odyssey Unveils New Poster

On June 4, The Odyssey released a new poster. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, with Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron also appearing. Adapted from Homer’s epic poem, this mythological action epic follows Odysseus’ long and perilous journey home after the Trojan War. The film opens in North America on July 17.