Memorial Day 2023 has arrived.
Whether you’re taking a vacation or it’s business as usual, there’s always time to relax and watch something on the small screen.
From new specials to classic, military-themed movies, there’s something out there for everyone. Here’s what to watch.
“The Curious Case of Natalia Grace”
This documentary special covers the bizarre news story of a couple who adopted a child, but began to suspect she might be a violent adult in disguise who meant to harm their family. Were they correct and truth is stranger than fiction? Or was that an elaborate excuse for parental abuse? Find out.
Where to watch: Monday (9.p.m.) on ID. Additional airings Tuesday and Wednesday.
“Pearl Harbor”
It’s sappy, but it’s nevertheless fun, and themed to the holiday. Revisit the epic 2001 war movie starring Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, Jennifer Garner and Kate Beckinsale.
Where to watch: Streaming on Max.
“A Grammy Salute to the Beach Boys”
Nothing evokes the mood for impending summer more than tunes from the Beach Boys. This two-hour special features a wide variety of famous musicians performing classic Beach Boys songs, including Beck, Brandi Carlile, Charlie Puth, Fall Out Boy, John Legend, Lady A, LeeAnn Rimes and more. This was recorded earlier in the year, shortly after the February Grammys ceremony. The Beach Boys themselves attended and were in the audience (Brian Wilson, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston and Mike Love).
Where to watch: Monday, May 29 on CBS (9 p.m.)
“Reacher”
Based on the Jack Reacher book series and stars Alan Ritchson as the giant, no-nonsense former military policeman who travels to various small towns and finds himself enmeshed in crimes and hijinks. Season 1 was entertaining, and it’s been renewed for Season 2.
Where to watch: Prime Video.
“FDR”
This three-part documentary covers the life of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, covering his fight with polio to leading America during the Great Depression. It’s co-executive-produced by Bradley Cooper.
Where to watch: History (8 p.m.)
“Saving Private Ryan”
Watch the modern classic 1998 war movie starring Tom Hanks as a Captain who takes his men behind enemy lines to find Private Ryan (Matt Damon), whose brothers have been killed in combat.
Where to watch: stream it on Paramount+.
“The Hangover” movies
If you’re nursing some bad vibes from from partying too hard over the long weekend, there’s good news — you can watch movies themed to your experience. The modern classic comedies starring Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms will run back-to-back in a marathon.
Where to watch: Monday, May 29 on TBS (airing between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.)
“Top Gun: Maverick”
It doesn’t get more military-themed than the hit “Top Gun” sequel. Arriving decades after the original 1986 movie, this reunited Tom Cruise as the naval aviator, Maverick, and added Glenn Powell, Miles Teller and Jon Hamm.
Where to watch: Prime Video.
“The Lost City”
Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum star in this wacky, escapist rom-com about a romance author and her cover model who end up on an epic adventure and get kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire (Daniel Radcliffe).
Where to watch: Stream it on Paramount+ or Prime video.
