Every month, all the major streaming services add a host of newly acquired (or just plain new) shows, movies, and documentaries into their ever-rotating libraries. So what’s a dedicated reader to watch? Well, whatever you want, of course, but the name of this website is Literary Hub, so we sort of have an angle. To that end, here’s a selection of the best (and most enjoyably bad) literary film and TV coming to streaming services this month. Have fun.
NEW:
Forever
Netflix, May 8
Literary bona fides: based on Forever… by Judy Blume (1975)
Mara Brock Akil is giving Judy Blume’s iconic 1975 novel about first love a contemporary update in this sweet-looking teen series. “I’ve always credited Judy Blume as part of the seasoning of my voice as a writer,” said Brock Akil. “She was one of the first writers I read that dared to be honest about the human condition in young people and you can see traces of her writing style within my own. I’m honored to reimagine one of my favorite books, Forever.” Regina King directs.
Murderbot
Apple TV+, May 16
Literary bona fides: based on The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells (2017-present)
Alexander Skarsgård stars as a rogue security unit that breaks free of its programming and uses its newfound autonomy to watch a lot of soap operas. And also to figure out the meaning of life? Frankly, this looks delightful.
Sirens
Netflix, May 22
Literary bona fides: based on Elemeno Pea by Molly Smith Metzler (2011)
This limited series was created for Netflix by Molly Smith Metzler, based on her 2011 play Elemeno Pea. Meghann Fahy stars Devon, who shows up at her sister Simone’s (Milly Alcock) workplace (a mansion in Martha’s Vineyard) and becomes disturbed by her bizarre relationship with her uber-rich boss (Julianne Moore) and her husband (Kevin Bacon). Should be fun, considering those involved.
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Dept. Q
Netflix, May 29
Literary bona fides: based on the Department Q series by Jussi Adler-Olsen (2007-present)
Matthew Goode stars as cantankerous, guilt-riddled detective Carl Morck in Scott Frank’s (The Queen’s Gambit) new series based on the Danish procedurals, which shifts the action to Edinburgh. No trailer yet, so crime fans, keep your eyes peeled.
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The Better Sister
Prime Video, May 29
Literary bona fides: based on The Better Sister by Alafair Burke (2019)
Jessica Biel and Elizabeth Banks star as estranged sisters in this limited series directed by Craig Gillespie—until they find themselves brought back together unexpectedly…after one of their husbands is murdered. Aw!
THROWBACK:
The Shining (1980)
Max, May 1
Literary bona fides: based on The Shining by Stephen King (1977)
It’s The Shining! If spring is already feeling too cheerful and warm for you, here’s your opportunity to retreat into the wintry doldrums with Jack Nicholson.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Max, May 1
Literary bona fides: based on The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris (1988)
Also not exactly springy, despite the title, but it’s a classic for a reason.
Notting Hill (1999)
Max, May 1
Literary bona fides: very much concerning a bookstore
Okay, here we go: a romantic comedy from the golden age, in which a dorky bookstore owner (Hugh Grant) and an internationally beloved actress (Julia Roberts) fall in love. In London! Now that’s springtime entertainment.
Far from the Madding Crowd (2015)
Hulu, May 1
Literary bona fides: based on Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy (1874)
Carey Mulligan stars with Matthias Schoenaerts, Tom Sturridge, Michael Sheen, and Juno Temple in the latest of many adaptations of Hardy’s classic novel. Mulligan makes it worth the watch.
