May 12-18: Netflix to Add 20 New Releases – Here Are the 2 to Watch

By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man = Follow me on X.

Netflix this week (May 12-18, 2025) plans to add 20 new shows and movies to its streaming lineup. Here are the two most interesting, in my humble opinion:

American Manhunt: Osama bin Laden – Netflix Original Documentary
Release Date: Wednesday, May 14
The Netflix three-part documentary will feature interviews with government leaders and military personnel who played a role in the hunt for the man behind the 9/11 terrorist attack on the United States. Netflix is promising rare behind-the-scenes footage of the hunt for bin Laden so it sounds like must viewing for history buffs.

Smile (2022)
Release Date: Wednesday, May 14
Sosie Bacon stars as Rose, a therapist whose patient commits suicide during a session after flashing a sinister smile. Rose soon sees other people exhibiting similar characteristics – and that weird smile – leading her to believe that the behavior is contagious and she may be infected. I’ve seen Smile and highly recommend it. It’s a satire of our fears of contagion (particularly in a post-Covid world) disguised as a simple horror film. Very well done.

Complete List of New Releases On Netflix This Week

Monday, May 12
Tastefully Yours

Tuesday, May 13
All American: Season 7
Bad Thoughts
Untold: The Liver King

Wednesday, May 14
American Manhunt: Osama bin Laden
Fred and Rose West: A British Horror Story
Married at First Sight: Season 17
Smile
Snakes and Ladders

Thursday, May 15
Bet
Love, Death & Robots: Volume 4
Franklin
Pernille: Season 5
Secrets We Keep
Thank You, Next: Season 2
Vini Jr.

Friday, May 16
Dear Hongrang
Football Parents
The Quilters
Rotten Legacy

Have More Questions? Ask The TV Answer Man!Have a question about a favorite show, streaming service, or new TV technology? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvanswerman.com. Please include your first name and hometown in your message.

Phillip Swann

Who Is The TV Answer Man?
The TV Answer Man is veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered television for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch TV. See the bio for Phillip Swann here.