Virginia is buzzing with cinematic energy this August! From dynamic local film festivals to trending streaming picks and iconic Hollywood movies with deep ties to the Commonwealth, there’s never been a better time to dive into what’s hot on screens across the state. Whether you’re into indie flicks, thrilling horror, nostalgic classics, or the latest Netflix gems — Virginia has something for every film lover.
Let’s explore what’s trending this week in Virginia’s movie scene, both in theaters and from the comfort of your couch.
1. Local Film Festivals Taking Over August
August 2025 has transformed Virginia into a film lover’s paradise, with film festivals popping up in every corner of the state. Here are the biggest ones you’ll want to catch:
🎞️ GenreBlast Film Festival – Winchester
🗓️ August 28 – August 31
📍 Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Back for its 9th annual edition, GenreBlast celebrates bold, independent genre cinema. From horror to LGBTQ+ films, this festival is a launchpad for daring filmmakers. Expect a mix of sci-fi, fantasy, thrillers, and documentaries that push boundaries and leave a mark.
📽️ Alexandria Film Festival – Alexandria
🗓️ August 5
🎥 Highlight: “The Great Divide”
Set at the historic Lyceum museum, this intimate screening offers a powerful indie experience. “The Great Divide” is expected to spark conversations on modern societal issues.
🎥 RFN Indie Fest – Richmond
🗓️ August 9
📍 The Park RVA
A one-day celebration of independent voices in cinema, featuring film screenings, panel talks, and industry workshops. It’s the perfect event for aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles looking to network.
🎭 Suffolk Center Summer Film Series – Suffolk
🗓️ August 15
🎬 Feature Film: “The Color Purple”
This cultural event brings together community and cinema, showcasing the powerful adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel in a historic venue.
🎬 48 Hour Film Project – Norfolk
🗓️ August 17
📍 Naro Expanded Cinema
A showcase of rapid-fire filmmaking creativity where teams write, shoot, and edit a film in just two days. Expect surprises, innovation, and a lot of local talent.
✍️ Virginia Screenwriters Forum Showcase – Richmond
🗓️ August 17
📍 Institute for Contemporary Art, VCU
This annual short film showcase gives screenwriters a chance to shine — a unique opportunity to see fresh storytelling straight from Virginia’s creative core.
🌍 Montopolis: Ghost Almanac – Blacksburg
🗓️ August 6
Not your typical screening! Ghost Almanac pairs short horror films with a haunting live musical score. A hybrid art and film event that promises an immersive cinematic experience.
🎞️ Marion’s Lincoln Theatre Film Series – Marion
🗓️ August 8, 11, and 15
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Aug. 8: “Film Freaks”
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Aug. 11: “Golden Oldies”
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Aug. 15: “Saturday Night Fever”
Classic cinema lives on at the Lincoln Theatre, offering something nostalgic, musical, and timeless.
2. What’s Hot on Streaming in Virginia Right Now
Not in the mood to go out? Here are the top trending streaming picks in Virginia this week:
🎬 Netflix Highlights
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“My Oxford Year” – A charming romantic drama.
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“KPop Demon Hunters” – Action meets K-pop in this adrenaline-fueled ride.
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“Happy Gilmore 2” – Adam Sandler returns for the highly anticipated sequel.
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“Gladiator II” – A bold reimagining of the Oscar-winning classic.
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“An Honest Life” – A gripping legal thriller.
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“Untamed” – A wild, emotional survival tale.
📺 Prime Video Picks
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“We Were Liars” – Based on the bestselling YA mystery novel.
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“The Better Sister” – A dark family drama loaded with twists.
📡 Hulu Favorites
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“The Amateur” – Espionage and identity collide.
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“The Assessment” – A dystopian drama packed with social commentary.
🎞️ HBO Max Standouts
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“Death of a Unicorn” – Surreal, stylish, and unforgettable.
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“Sinners” – A gritty crime saga with critical acclaim.
🦅 Peacock Originals
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“The Phoenician Scheme” – International intrigue and espionage.
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“Drop” – A small-town mystery that’s gaining buzz.
⭐ Coming Soon
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Captain America: Brave New World is expected to land on Disney+ in late 2025 — Marvel fans, mark your calendars!
3. Classic Films That Call Virginia Home
Virginia has a rich Hollywood history. Here’s a look at iconic films shot in the Commonwealth that continue to trend locally:
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🎬 “Harriet” (2019) – Filmed entirely in Virginia, bringing the story of Harriet Tubman to life.
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💍 “Loving” (2016) – Filmed in Central Virginia; depicts the Supreme Court case that changed America.
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🕵️ “Argo” (2012) – Included scenes shot at CIA HQ in McLean.
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🚁 “Mission: Impossible” (1996) – Filmed partially in McLean.
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🎖️ “Major Payne” – Shot at The Miller School in Albemarle County.
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🏈 “Remember the Titans” (2000) – Set in Alexandria, a powerful sports drama.
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🧠 “Silence of the Lambs” – Features scenes from Quantico’s FBI Academy.
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💃 “Dirty Dancing” – Filmed at Mountain Lake Lodge in the Alleghany Highlands.
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🎥 “TURN: Washington’s Spies” – AMC’s hit historical series was filmed across Virginia.
Final Thoughts
From grassroots festivals and Hollywood blockbusters to streaming gold, Virginia is more than just a filming location — it’s a living, breathing part of American film culture. Whether you’re heading to Richmond, Winchester, Blacksburg, or simply streaming from your living room, there’s no shortage of film magic in the Commonwealth this week.
