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The Best New Movies on Netflix and Amazon Prime in July 2026

The Best New Movies on Netflix and Amazon Prime in July 2026

Summer 2026 is packed with new movies, but let's be real—most of them are garbage. I spent the past week watching everything that dropped on Netflix and Amazon Prime in July. I sat through some real stinkers so you don't have to. Here are the ones that actually made me feel something.

Netflix: 'Eclipse' (Original)

I didn't expect much from 'Eclipse.' Another sci-fi movie about a solar event? Yawn. But this one is different. It's about a family trapped in a small town during a total eclipse that causes strange phenomena. The acting is solid—especially from the lead, who you might recognize from 'The Crown.' The tension builds slowly, and the ending surprised me. It's not perfect, but it's genuinely creepy. I watched it with the lights on. Recommended for fans of 'A Quiet Place' or 'The Road.'

Netflix: 'The Last Resort' (Documentary)

This documentary about a failing beach resort in Thailand is fascinating. It follows the staff and guests over one chaotic summer. The owners are delusional, the guests are ridiculous, and the staff are the real heroes. It's funny, sad, and surprisingly deep. I laughed out loud at the scene where a guest tries to argue about a cockroach. It's streaming now, and it's only 90 minutes. Perfect for a lazy Sunday.

Amazon Prime: 'Neon Nights' (Original)

'Neon Nights' is a neon-noir thriller set in 1980s Miami. It's stylish, violent, and has a killer soundtrack. The plot is standard—a detective investigating a murder—but the execution is top-notch. The cinematography is gorgeous, and the lead actor gives a career-best performance. It's getting mixed reviews, but I loved it. If you like 'Drive' or 'Blade Runner 2049,' you'll dig this.

Amazon Prime: 'The Green Horizon' (Independent)

This is the hidden gem of July. It's a small indie film about a botanist in the Amazon rainforest who discovers a new species. The pacing is slow, but the visuals are stunning. The sound design—the birds, the insects, the rain—makes you feel like you're there. It's not for everyone, but if you appreciate art, watch it. I found it deeply moving.

Avoid These

I also watched some duds. 'Space Dogs 3' on Netflix is a cash grab. 'The Wedding Planner's Wedding' on Amazon Prime is cringey. And 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral: Reboot' is exactly as bad as it sounds. Save your time.

My Honest Take

This month is better than usual for streaming. 'Eclipse' and 'Neon Nights' are the standouts. But don't sleep on the documentary and the indie film. They remind me why I love movies—they can surprise you. Grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and enjoy. I'll be back next month with another update.

TR
Amanda Brooks

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