May arrives with a mix of streaming content across major platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, and others. While the beginning of the month may seem calm, prepare for a surge of highly anticipated releases as May progresses. If you’re looking for the best shows and movies to stream this month, our Ringer Streaming Guide is here to help you navigate the options and plan your watch list.
This May, catch up on any series you missed from April before diving into the new releases. The first couple of weeks offer a manageable number of must-see shows, acting as a prelude to the exciting premieres scheduled for later in the month. By the end of May, expect to see some of the year’s biggest streaming events launching on the same day. So, take advantage of this quieter period to get ready for a packed end to the month, and let this guide be your companion in choosing what to stream.
What’s New to Streaming in May: Ringer’s Top Picks
A curated selection of movies and TV series debuting this month that The Ringer highly recommends.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (May 1, HBO Max)
Alan Siegel on why it’s a must-watch: Terminator 2 stands out from other 90s action movies because of its unique blend of emotional depth and spectacular action. However, this description might even undersell its true impact. With groundbreaking visual effects from Industrial Light & Magic, a powerful female lead, countless quotable lines, and remarkably relevant themes, it redefined the blockbuster genre. As the highest-grossing film of 1991, it set a new standard for summer blockbusters that continues to influence cinema today. For fans of action, sci-fi, and iconic filmmaking, Terminator 2 is essential viewing on HBO Max this May.
The Circle, Season 4 (May 4, Netflix)
Shea Serrano explains the show’s appeal: What makes The Circle so compelling is its surprising take on connection in the digital age. Despite initial expectations that it would highlight the isolating aspects of heavy internet use, it actually fosters a sense of human connection. As the season progresses, the participants become increasingly relatable and human, even through the barriers of screens. This social experiment reveals how isolation can paradoxically bring people closer. Expect a mix of humor and genuine emotional moments, especially when catfish contestants grapple with the reasons behind their online personas. The Circle season 4 promises more unexpected depth and social commentary on Netflix.
The Staircase (May 5, HBO Max)
Andrew Gruttadaro on the true crime drama: Following his Academy Award win for the HBO documentary Murder on a Sunday Morning, Jean-Xavier de Lestrade sought to explore another facet of the justice system. While Murder focused on the wrongful accusation of a young Black man, The Staircase examines the legal process through the case of Michael Peterson, a wealthy white man. De Lestrade’s team reviewed hundreds of cases to find one that would provide this contrasting perspective on murder trials in America. The Staircase delves into the complexities of the Peterson case, offering a detailed look at the criminal justice system from a different angle, streaming on HBO Max this May.
Girls5Eva, Season 2 (May 5, Peacock)
Alison Herman highlights its comedic brilliance: The theme song of Girls5Eva perfectly encapsulates the show’s essence – seemingly lighthearted but sharply satirical. It cleverly critiques late-90s girl groups and the experiences of women in show business as they age. Girls5Eva, a Spice Girls-esque group that had their peak in the late 90s, gets a second chance when their old hit is sampled by a Gen Z rapper. The surviving members seize this opportunity for a comeback. Season 2 on Peacock continues the hilarious and insightful journey of this reunited girl group navigating the modern music industry and their personal lives.
The Challenge: All Stars, Season 3 (May 11, Paramount+)
Randall Coburn on the nostalgia factor: The Challenge: All Stars is a spin-off that brings back veteran players from MTV’s long-running competition series. It reunites familiar faces for a game that reflects the evolution of The Challenge from lighthearted fun to serious athletic competition. This season highlights the intense physical and mental challenges that define the modern show, a far cry from its early beach games. Moreover, All Stars is a key part of MTV’s strategy for Paramount+, aiming to reconnect with Gen X and millennial viewers who may have drifted away. For long-time fans of The Challenge, season 3 of All Stars on Paramount+ is a nostalgic and competitive must-watch.
Hacks, Season 2 (May 12, HBO Max)
Herman praises its ensemble cast: Hacks is more than just a two-person show; it’s an exploration of the unique world surrounding the rich and famous. The series delves into the lives of those orbiting a legendary comedian, from her dedicated business manager to her personal blackjack dealer and her cynical adult daughter. Jean Smart, who rightfully won an Emmy for Season 1, is central to this enclosed world. However, Hacks truly shines as an ensemble piece, showcasing the collaborative effort behind a successful career in entertainment. Season 2 on HBO Max promises more sharp wit and insightful character studies.
Conversations With Friends (May 15, Hulu)
Based on Sally Rooney’s acclaimed novel, Conversations With Friends follows the complex relationships of two college students and an older married couple. This highly anticipated series on Hulu explores themes of love, intimacy, and modern relationships with the nuanced storytelling Rooney is known for.
Somebody Feed Phil, Season 5 (May 25, Netflix)
Phil Rosenthal returns for another season of Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix, continuing his culinary journeys around the globe. This season promises more delicious food, cultural exploration, and Phil’s signature humor and heartwarming interactions. Perfect for foodies and travel enthusiasts alike.
Stranger Things, Season 4: Part 1 (May 27, Netflix)
Herman reflects on the show’s evolution: Stranger Things became a phenomenon in 2016 largely due to its charming cast of young actors and their on-screen chemistry. However, as the child stars grew up, the series faced the challenge of adapting. Season 3 addressed this head-on, questioning how the show could maintain its appeal as its young cast aged. While Stranger Things Season 2 proved its nostalgic charm could extend beyond the initial season, Season 3 tested its ability to evolve beyond the childhood of its main characters. Season 4, Part 1, premiering on Netflix, will further explore the direction of Stranger Things as its characters enter a new phase of their lives.
Obi-Wan Kenobi (May 27, Disney+)
A highly anticipated addition to the Star Wars universe, Obi-Wan Kenobi on Disney+ sees Ewan McGregor reprise his iconic role. Set between the events of Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, the series follows Obi-Wan’s life in exile as he watches over a young Luke Skywalker. Obi-Wan Kenobi is expected to be a major streaming event in May, offering Star Wars fans a deeper look into this beloved character’s story.
New-ish Things You Might’ve Missed: Catch Up Recommendations from Ringer
Because it’s nearly impossible to keep up with every new release, here are some recent premieres worth checking out.
Ozark, Season 4: Part 2 (Netflix)
Derek Lawrence on the series finale: Jason Bateman, who won an Emmy for directing, returned to direct the Ozark series finale. He and showrunner Chris Mundy aimed to create an ending that was ambiguous and thought-provoking. Bateman notes, “Should it be a cautionary tale? Should it be a victory? Should it be a failure? Do they get away with it, or do they not?” The finale maintains this opacity, leaving the audience to interpret the ultimate fate of the characters. Ozark’s final episodes on Netflix offer a complex and unresolved conclusion to the Byrde family saga.
We Own This City (HBO Max)
From the creators of The Wire, We Own This City on HBO Max delves into the corruption within the Baltimore Police Department’s Gun Trace Task Force. This gritty and realistic series explores themes of power, corruption, and the war on drugs, offering a compelling and timely narrative for viewers interested in crime dramas.
Ambulance (Netflix)
Adam Nayman reviews Michael Bay’s action thriller: Michael Bay’s Ambulance is presented as both a comeback and a throwback, a standalone, R-rated action movie intended for a theatrical experience. Apart from a few modern touches like FaceTime, the plot of a hijacked ambulance racing through Los Angeles could easily be set in the 90s. The film even references The Rock, Bay’s earlier hit, highlighting a sense of nostalgia. Ambulance, now streaming on Netflix, delivers high-octane action in classic Michael Bay style.
Outer Range (Amazon Prime)
Outer Range on Amazon Prime is a neo-western thriller with a supernatural twist. Starring Josh Brolin, the series follows a rancher fighting for his land and family as he discovers a mysterious void on his property. Outer Range blends family drama with sci-fi elements, creating a unique and intriguing streaming experience.
Barry, Season 3 (HBO Max)
Miles Surrey on the dark comedy: Barry skillfully combines the worlds of contract killing and show business, highlighting the self-deception needed to succeed in both. The series continues to explore damaged characters who avoid self-reflection, whether it’s a hitman seeking redemption or a showrunner distorting her past. Season 3 of Barry on HBO Max delves deeper into the dark and often absurd consequences of their choices.
Russian Doll, Season 2 (Netflix)
Herman questions the nature of perfect endings: Russian Doll Season 2 revisits Nadia Vulvokov (Natasha Lyonne) as she navigates new existential puzzles after seemingly resolving her time loop in the first season. The new season, streaming on Netflix after a hiatus, explores how to reopen a story that felt perfectly concluded. Russian Doll continues to blend dark humor, philosophical themes, and Natasha Lyonne’s unique style in its second chapter.
Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off (HBO Max)
Katie Baker describes the documentary’s depth: Sam Jones’s Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off is a documentary that thoughtfully examines the life of a pioneer in skateboarding. Reminiscent of other documentaries about extreme athletes, it explores the highs and lows of pushing boundaries in a progressive field. Featuring insights from Tony Hawk and his peers like Rodney Mullen, the film reflects on the fleeting nature of glory and the challenges of maintaining relevance. Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off on HBO Max is a compelling look at an icon and the evolution of skateboarding.
