4 must-watch movies and series coming to Netflix (May 1, 2025)

It's May, which means with the upcoming warmer months (north of the equator), we get more beachy films. Or, at least, a warmer and fluffier feel as far as the films we see on Netflix. The comedy will be fun, and the drama less emotionally upsetting. Well, maybe.

To be sure, we might get more Beach Bingo-type things than Ironweed. Both are fine films, though one is better suited for winter, while the other is more suitable for summer. We like both, but we need them at specific times of the year.

Which films and series should you stream on Netflix beginning May 1? Here are some suggestions. All will entertain you.

Four gems to stream on Netflix to begin May 2025

Ocean's Eleven (2001)

While some might not remember it, this film is a remake of an original that featured Frank Sinatra and others of the Rat Pack. That 1960 film is fun, though highly sexist (a product of its time), but George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and company make this less about politics and more about the heist.

It's pure fun, but not dumb. The film approaches what's happening in a much more realistic and seat-of-your-pants way than the original was capable of. The filmmakers and producers, who comprise many of the cast, know full well who should play which parts, and this is immensely entertaining.

The Four Seasons (Netflix Original)

We cannot wait! The only thing that would make this likely gem better is if Alan Alda were brought back in some way. Maybe he will. Who knows?

The series follows several couples who often vacation together. Tina Fey, Domingo Coleman, Steve Carell, and Will Forte all play a part. How can this not be good? Expect a bunch of laughs and drama, but ultimately, fun. This is just what we would expect from a Fey show.

The Jerk (1979)

For those who have only seen Steve Martin as the straight man compared to Martin Short, this will be an awakening. Martin is a forerunner of comedians like Will Ferrell. The story is ridiculous, and that is as it was intended. But there is never a wink.

Martin finds himself the bane of many sad (and hilarious) situations, and he also finds himself along the way. He even sees the beat early on. And if you are going as far as the end of the fence, Martin could use the ride.

American Graffiti (1973)

Before Star Wars, George Lucas made a couple of other films that had nothing to do with sci-fi. American Graffiti is not ever going to get the notoriety that Star Wars does, but it is excellent nonetheless. Plus, Harrison Ford is also involved.

So is Ron Howard. In a film about high school, and a massive throwback to the 1950s, the film gives us laughs, but also the reality of feeling like a teenager again. This comedy might not have won Best Picture, but it has aged well and is worth watching.

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