2019 is shaping up to be a massive year for Netflix. From new original shows and movies to returning seasons to a plethora of other incredible content, there will be no shortage of viewing material for you to Netflix and chill to.
While it’s hard to see too far beyond January just yet, here are 10 movies and TV shows coming to Netflix in 2019 that we think you’ll be interested in:
A Series of Unfortunate Events (Season 3) – Jan. 1
When Netflix announced its adaptation of Daniel Handler’s beloved, zany books, many people questioned whether A Series of Unfortunate Events would be adaptable to the screen without sacrificing the nuances that make it so charming. However, three seasons’ worth of content is a decent indicator that the show has its fan base. Season 3 will tackle the final four books in the novel series, bringing the Netflix Original show to what will hopefully be a satisfying close.
The Dark Knight – Jan. 1
The superhero movie genre was forever changed in 2008. Not only did that year mark the launch of the Marvel Cinematic Universe but it also saw the release of what many consider the greatest superhero movie of all-time, The Dark Knight. Continuing the grounded and realistic approach to comic book adaptations that made Batman Begins so successful, director Christopher Nolan stepped things up a notch for this sequel by bringing in a new, visceral take on the Caped Crusader’s most prevalent rogue, The Joker, in a role that led to Heath Ledger receiving an Oscar, albeit posthumously.
Solo: A Star Wars Story – Jan. 9
For the first time in franchise history, two Star Wars movies hit theaters in less than six months from one another. Unfortunately, many believe that’s why the latter of the two, Solo: A Star Wars Story, performed so poorly at the box office. Nevertheless, this film is far more enjoyable than critics gave it credit for, revealing the early days of the galaxy’s most lovable scoundrel and his Wookiee companion. If poor reviews and bad word of mouth kept you from giving Solo a chance before, consider giving it a shot when it arrives on Netflix. Trust us; we’ve got a good feeling about this.
The Punisher (Season 2) – Jan. 18
The Netflix corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been virtually castrated over the past several months, with Daredevil, Luke Cage and Iron Fist all being canceled. However, until we hear otherwise, Frank Castle is still in the clear, at least for now, because Season 2 of The Punisher arrives on Netflix January 18. In addition to Jon Bernthal’s Frank Castle, we’ll also see the return of Ben Barnes’ Billy Russo and Deborah Ann Woll’s Karen Page, along with several series newcomers. Plot details for Season 2 remain largely under wraps at this time, but knowing Frank, expect things to be as brutal and bloody as ever.
Carmen Sandiego (New Series) – Jan. 18
This fan-favorite children’s educational franchise is being given new life, courtesy of the Netflix Original series Carmen Sandiego. Featuring the voices of Gina Rodriguez and Finn Wolfhard, the show will serve as a “serialized look at Carmen’s backstory that is told from her perspective,” along with finally providing the character with a definitive origin story.
Ant-Man and the Wasp – Jan. 29
After the emotional rollercoaster that was Avengers: Infinity War, Marvel Studios gave fans a palette cleanser in the form of Ant-Man and the Wasp. This sequel doubles down on the humor and size-changing shenanigans that made the first film so captivating, but with an increased presence from Hope Van Dyne, aka The Wasp, which adds a whole new dynamic to the story. As far as sequels go, Marvel tends to fall short when it comes to sophomore outings, but Ant-Man and the Wasp, much like Captain America: Winter Soldier and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, in a welcome exception to the rule.
Incredibles 2 – Jan. 30
14 years is quite a gap between an original film and a sequel. Still, Incredibles 2 proved that it was well worth the wait. Kicking off just moments after the events of The Incredibles, this film immediately throws you right back into the world of the Parr family, warts and all. All of the charm and heart of the original is still on display, which is largely due to writer/director Brad Bird’s focus on the family dynamic as opposed to the typical superhero genre tropes. If you didn’t get a chance to catch this one in theaters, mark your calendars now.
The Umbrella Academy (New Series) – Feb. 15
Based on the Dark Horse Comics series by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá, Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy could very well end up filling the void left by the aforementioned canceled Marvel shows. The series follows six adopted siblings with special abilities who reunite after learning of their father’s death. However, solving that mystery proves to be easier said than done, and with the world on the brink of destruction, that’s not entirely unexpected. Whether you’re a fan of the comic book source material or not, The Umbrella Academy should definitely be on your radar.
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (Season 1, Part 2) – Apr. 5
It was hardly a secret that Chilling Adventures of Sabrina would return to Netflix. After all, the streaming service ordered two seasons when it picked up the series from The CW. However, it was later revealed that Season 1 would actually be split into two parts, each consisting of 10 episodes (excluding the Christmas special), so what we’re getting in April is part two of Season 1. Still, semantics aside, there’s still plenty of time to catch up on part one before the next batch of episodes arrives this spring.
Stranger Things (Season 3) – July 4
Fans were patiently waiting to find out when Season 3 of the hit sci-fi series Stranger Things would return. Then, on New Year’s Eve, Netflix finally revealed we’d be returning to Hawkins, Illinois on July 4. Little is known about Season 3 at this time, other than it will take place in 1985, but if the past two seasons are any indication, we’re in for even more hair-raising supernatural hysteria.