The Literary Film & TV You Need to Stream in August

Summer’s winding down, but the literary adventures are just heating up! This August, prepare to be transported by captivating adaptations that bring beloved books to the screen, perfect for cozying up with as the days grow shorter. Here are some must-stream titles.
For the Bookworm Who Craves the Fantastical:
“The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” (Prime Video, September 2): Journey back to Middle-earth thousands of years before Frodo’s quest in this highly anticipated prequel series based on J.R.R. Tolkien‘s appendices. Explore the forging of the rings and the rise of Sauron, witnessing the creation of legendary characters and the forging of an epic new saga.
“The Sandman” (Netflix, August 19): This dark fantasy series, adapted from Neil Gaiman‘s iconic graphic novel, promises a captivating dive into the realm of dreams and nightmares. Dive into the world of Dream, the Lord of Dreams, as he navigates the realms of human and mythical creatures, mending his fractured kingdom.
“The Wheel of Time” (Amazon Prime Video, September 1): The second season of this epic fantasy series, based on Robert Jordan’s sprawling fantasy novels, picks up the fight against the Dark One. Expect intricate world-building, complex characters, and thrilling battles as the heroes struggle to save the world from an encroaching darkness.
For the Thriller Enthusiast:
“The Woman in the House Across the Street From the Girl in the Window” (Netflix): This dark comedy thriller, inspired by the psychological thriller “The Woman in the Window”, stars Kristen Bell as a woman who becomes convinced she has witnessed a crime. Filled with twists, turns, and plenty of humor, this series is perfect for those seeking a suspenseful and darkly funny watch.
“Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities” (Netflix, October 21): Prepare to be creeped out by this anthology series, inspired by the horror master’s own love of macabre tales. Each episode will be a self-contained story based on a different literary inspiration, promising a chilling and unique journey into the dark side of storytelling.
For the Heartfelt Romanticist:
“The Summer I Turned Pretty” (Amazon Prime Video, July 14): This coming-of-age romance series, adapted from Jenny Han’s beloved novels, is perfect for fans of “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before”. Follow the love triangle between Belly and her two childhood friends, as their summers by the beach unfold with heartfelt connections and emotional growth.
For the Historical Fiction Fanatic:
“The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” (Prime Video, September 2): While primarily a fantasy series, “The Rings of Power” also delves into the Second Age of Middle-earth, a period steeped in history and myth. It promises a rich tapestry of characters and events, with fascinating glimpses into the past that shape the future of Tolkien’s world.
“The White Lotus” (HBO Max, October 30): Season two of this satirical social commentary takes a sharp turn towards history, with the cast vacationing in a Sicilian resort. Prepare for a darkly comic exploration of power dynamics, class disparities, and the enduring relevance of history in the present.
This August, don’t just watch, experience. Let these literary adaptations transport you to fantastical worlds, chilling thrillers, and heartfelt romances, all from the comfort of your own home. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and prepare for a journey into the world of books, brought to life on the screen.