The week of May 30, 2025, brings a compelling slate of new releases across major streaming platforms, with true crime documentaries taking center stage. From the chilling unsolved mystery of the Tylenol poisonings to the disturbing exposé of a funeral home’s malfeasance, viewers have plenty of gripping content to explore. Beyond the grim realities, a diverse array of dramas, comedies, and family-friendly movies also debut, offering something for every mood.
Unpacking True Crime’s Latest Offerings
The true crime genre is particularly strong this week, with two significant docuseries delving into real-life horrors. Netflix’s “Cold Case: The Tylenol Murders” offers a deep dive into the infamous 1982 Chicago incident where seven people died after consuming cyanide-laced Tylenol capsules. This three-part series meticulously reconstructs the events, featuring interviews with the victims’ families to shed light on their profound losses. It also examines various theories surrounding the unsolved crime and tracks down James W. Lewis, a key figure who was convicted of extortion in connection with the case but never charged with the murders. Lewis, who appears in previously recorded interviews, reiterates his innocence while the documentary explores the broader implications and investigative missteps of the era.
Simultaneously, HBO and Max present “The Mortician,” a three-part documentary series that uncovers the shocking practices at the Lamb Funeral Home in Pasadena, California. Directed by Joshua Rofé, the series chronicles how David Sconce, who took over the family business in the 1980s, engaged in morally reprehensible and inhumane acts to maximize profits. Behind a veneer of respectability, the funeral home exploited grieving families and even desecrated the deceased. The series features exclusive interviews with Sconce himself, newly released from prison, alongside victims’ families and former employees, offering a stark look at the dark side of the mortuary industry and the subsequent regulatory reforms.
Beyond True Crime: Diverse Dramas and New Movies
While true crime captures significant attention, the streaming landscape is also enriched with compelling narrative content. Prime Video debuts “The Better Sister,” an eight-part series adapted from Alafair Burke’s crime novel. Starring Jessica Biel and Elizabeth Banks, the show follows two estranged sisters whose lives become entangled after a brutal murder.
Max continues its rollout of “And Just Like That…” Season 3, picking up with Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte navigating life in their 50s. Meanwhile, HBO and Max are also releasing “Mountainhead,” the feature directorial debut of “Succession” creator Jesse Armstrong. Starring Steve Carell, Jason Schwartzman, Ramy Youssef, and Cory Michael Smith, the film follows a group of wealthy tech entrepreneurs on a mountain retreat who are confronted with global catastrophes resulting from AI technology.
For younger audiences and animation fans, “Dog Man” premieres on Peacock, offering a family-friendly adventure based on the popular graphic novel series.
Streaming Highlights and Trending News
Other notable releases making waves this week include the Netflix series “The Survivors,” an Australian miniseries exploring guilt and long-buried secrets, and “Mercy for None,” a high-octane Korean revenge thriller. Viewers looking for more dramatic fare can find “Straw,” a psychological drama on Netflix, and “Deep Cover,” a comedy on Prime Video. The week’s streaming news also includes the return of Arnold Schwarzenegger in “FUBAR Season 2” on Netflix, promising more action and espionage.
The streaming services are clearly catering to a wide range of tastes, with a clear emphasis on true crime narratives that prompt reflection on historical events and societal issues. This surge in captivating documentaries and intriguing dramas ensures that there’s no shortage of content to keep viewers engaged throughout the week. As new tv and movies continue to flood the market, staying updated on what’s trending has become essential for any avid streamer.
