5 Films and TV Shows to Watch This Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day weekend is finally here and it’s the perfect time to kick back, relax, and indulge in some new films and shows. Having trouble deciding what to watch? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From an uplifting comedy about learning to trust again to superheroes who kick some major butt, there’s something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? See our picks for what you should be watching this long weekend.

Mr. Mercedes

Starring: Brendan Gleeson, Harry Treadaway, Kelly Lynch, Jharrel Jerome, Ed Anderson, Rob Niter, Justine Lupe, and Breeda Wool.
Where to Watch it: Audience Network
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ½ out of 4

Photo Credit: AT&T

It’s safe to say, Stephen King is having a moment right now. His work has been the source material for several adaptations, both on the small and silver screen. This includes everything from It and The Dark Tower in theaters now to The Mist and Castle Rock on television, but the standout for us is the AT&T Original, Mr. Mercedes. The suspenseful crime drama follows the story of Bill Hodges (Brendan Gleeson), a retired detective, who’s haunted by a case he’s never able to solve involving a psychopathic killer who drives a stolen Mercedes into a crowd of innocent people. Helmed by David E. Kelley (Big Little Lies, Goliath), the series will send shivers down your spine and Harry Treadaway is incredibly convincing as the deranged lunatic, Brady Hartsfield a.k.a. Mr. Mercedes. We don’t recommend watching this show with the lights off!

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Beach Rats

Starring: Harris Dickinson, Madeline Weinstein, Kate Hodge, Neal Huff, Nicole Flyus Frank Hakaj, Anton Selyaninov, David Ivanov, and Harrison Sheehan.
Where to Watch it: In theaters now
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ out of 4

Photo Credit: Neon

If you’re feeling a little adventurous this Labor Day weekend and plan on spending some time outdoors, we recommend seeing Eliza Hittman’s Beach Rats. The film first made waves at Sundance and is currently playing in select theaters. It tells the story of Frankie (Harris Dickinson), a confused Brooklynite, who lives a double life and struggles to come to terms with his sexuality and masculinity. Beach Rats is not your standard coming-of-age story and Harris Dickinson’s performance is one to marvel at. He’s a name we’ll be talking about for years to come.

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Opening Night

Starring: Topher Grace, Alona Tal, Lauren Lapkus, Anne Heche, Taye Diggs, Rob Riggle, Paul Scheer, J.C. Chasez, and Lesli Margherita.
Where to Watch it: On iTunes, Amazon, or own it on DVD via Wolfe Video (in the U.S. only).
Rating: ★ ★ ★ out of 4

Photo Credit: Sookie Pictures

Opening Night is a raunchy, no-holds-barred musical comedy about a failed actor turned stage manager who must keep his eccentric cast and crew in line hours ahead of its premiere on Broadway. While the film, at times, may seem all too familiar, its charm lies in the fact that it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Yes, they break into song in the middle of a scene, and yes, dance battles are included, but it’s done with R-rated humor and in a self-deprecating manner that works. Truly a must-see!

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The Defenders

Starring: Charlie Cox, Krysten Ritter, Mike Colter, Finn Jones, Elodie Yung, Jessica Henwick, Sigourney Weaver, Scott Glenn, Rosario Dawson, and Elden Henson.
Where to Watch it: Stream on Netflix.
Rating: ★ ★ ★ out of 4

Photo Credit: Netflix

The wait is over! The Defenders have finally assembled to put an end to the Hand once and for all. The series, which includes two seasons of Daredevil and Jessica Jones and a season of Luke Cage and Iron Fist, has consistently hit the mark, and The Defenders is no different. It packs a punch with its memorable action sequences, character development, and cohesive storyline. Our only gripe is there are only eight episodes. We need more. So, what are you waiting for, start binge-watching it today!

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Unleashed

Starring: Kate Micucci, Steve Howey, Justin Chatwin, Sean Astin, Josh Brener, and Hana Mae Lee.
Where to Watch it: In theaters or digitally.
Rating: ★ ★ ★ out of 4

Photo Credit: Braveart Films

No roundup would be complete without a rom-com, am I right? Finn Taylor’s out-of-the-box film, Unleashed, delivers all the feels you’ll need this holiday weekend. The story centers around Emma (Kate Micucci), an app designer, who suffers the ultimate betrayal from her boyfriend. I know, you’re probably thinking to yourself, “okay, he cheats on her”. Wrong. He steals a multi-million dollar idea from her, which causes her to lose faith in humanity. She, instead finds comfort within her pets, Summit and Ajax, but after an astrological event, they’re transformed into humans. They’ll teach Emma to learn to love herself again and to open her heart. While the plot may sound outrageous on paper, trust us, it’s a winner. Plus, Justin Chatwin and Steve Howey are the MVPs embodying their animal counterparts to a T.

Which one are you going to check out? Let us know in the comments below.