It has been a rainy Minnesota summer. It might not be ideal swimming weather, but it’s perfect for turning on a movie or settling in with a good book. From old favorites to new releases, these movies, TV shows, books, and podcasts are perfect for the days when you need to cozy up indoors.
Movies
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to revisit a favorite movie, discover something new, or queue up a film for the whole family.
“Happy Gilmore”
Ahead of the release of “Happy Gilmore 2” on July 25, rewatch this feel-good fan-favorite. Adam Sandler stars as an aspiring hockey player turned golfer in the sports comedy turned cult classic. Watch it on Netflix.
Courtesy of IMDB
“Sinners”
Now available on HBO Max, Sinners isn’t your typical horror movie. From director Ryan Coogler, it’s part Southern Gothic (set in Jim Crow-era 1930s Mississippi), part vampire thriller, and rich with history, music, and myth. With standout performances from Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, and newcomer Miles Canton, Sinners is a must-watch.
Courtesy of IMDB
“The Wild Robot”
An animated robot movie might seem like an unexpected recommendation, but “The Wild Robot” is touching and enjoyable for the whole family. The movie follows a shipwrecked robot stranded on an uninhabited island who, forced to adapt to harsh surroundings, bonds with young animals. Plus, it has a Minnesota connection—Lakeville native Lucie Lyon served as first assistant editor on the film. Watch the three-time Oscar nominee on Netflix.
Courtesy of DreamWorks
TV Shows
Perfect for bingeing in bed or watching with friends, these TV shows are sure to brighten any rainy day.
“Your Friends & Neighbors”
In a wealthy neighborhood where appearances are everything, one man’s midlife crisis takes a mildly criminal turn when Andrew Cooper (Jon Hamm) starts robbing his friends and neighbors. Turns out, snooping through other people’s lives is great for gaining perspective on your own. Watch it on Apple TV.
Courtesy of Apple TV
“The Four Seasons”
This comedy-drama follows three couples and lifelong friends who travel together once every season. As they settle into middle age, the six friends navigate shifting relationships, evolving identities, and the complicated feelings that come with growing older. It’s funny, honest, and full of unexpected emotional turns—plus, the star-studded cast includes Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Colman Domingo, Will Forte, and others. What’s not to love? Watch it on Netflix.
Photo by Jon Pack/Netflix
“Shrinking”
Jason Segel stars as a new widower and therapist in this heartwarming but hilarious comedy series. Grieving his own loss while trying to help others, he throws professional boundaries out the window—with chaotic and heartfelt results. Harrison Ford co-stars as his blunt, no-nonsense mentor, bringing dry wit and surprising depth to the show. Watch it on Apple TV.
Courtesy of Apple TV
“Somebody Somewhere”
Set in Manhattan, Kansas, this critically acclaimed series combines small-town charm with heartwarming honesty. Bridget Everett stars as Sam, a woman grappling with her sister’s death and return home while slowly finding comfort in unexpected friendships. Its Midwestern setting and dry humor will feel especially familiar to Minnesota viewers. Watch it on HBO Max.
Courtesy of Warner Bros. Discovery
Podcasts
Once a niche hobby, podcasts are a national sensation. Perfect for background noise, long drives, or winding down on a rainy afternoon, these podcasts offer something for everyone.
“Crime Junkie”
Beware: “Crime Junkie” is thrilling, addictive, and perfect for binge-listening. Each episode, hosts Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat dive into a new true crime case with sharp storytelling and suspense. It’s sure to keep you hooked from start to finish.
“SmartLess”
“SmartLess“ is perfect for a lighthearted listen and a big laugh. Hosted by Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes, each episode features one host bringing a mystery guest. Genuinely funny and candid conversations are sure to follow.
Courtesy of Sirius XM
“The Happiness Lab”
Yale psychology professor Dr. Laurie Santos breaks down the psychology of happiness in her podcast, “The Happiness Lab”. Her insights are engaging, backed by real research, and easy to apply to everyday life. Whether you’re searching for joy or just curious about your brain, this podcast is worth a listen.
Books
Whether you’re in the mood for something introspective, romantic, or edge-of-your-seat suspenseful, these books are perfect company for a stormy day.
“Great Big Beautiful Life”
Written by bestselling romance author Emily Henry, “Great Big Beautiful Life” is about two rival writers from a small town in Georgia. As they compete to write to write the memoir of a reclusive heiress, they start to fall for each other. An easy, feel-good read, this novel is hard to put down.
“Orbital”
Set entirely aboard a space station, Samantha Harvey’s poetic novel unfolds over a single day as six astronauts reflect on Earth and isolation. It’s quiet, moving, and a quick read—perfect for a rainy afternoon.
“Wild Dark Shore”
This New York Times bestseller by Charlotte McConaghy follows the Salt family, the last inhabitants of the remote island near Antarctica. When a woman washes ashore, the family navigates thrilling twists and reconcile with the past. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy a blend of thriller and mystery.
