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100 Best Movies on Netflix Ranked by Tomatometer (January 2025)

In our world of massive entertainment options, who’s got time to waste on the below-average? You’ve got a subscription, you’re ready for a marathon, and you want only the best movies no Netflix to watch. With thousands of choices on the platform, both original and acquired, we’ve found the 100 top Netflix movies with the highest Tomatometer scores! Time to get comfy on the couch!

New Top Movies this Month: Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl , Apollo 13 , Dallas Buyers Club , Erin Brockovich , Inception , Notting Hill , Schindler’s List , Spider-Man , and more .

Arriving this month: Hereditary (Jan. 15), You Hurt My Feelings (Jan. 26)

Leaving this Month: Selma , Zero Dark Thirty , Kung Fu Panda , Superbad    

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (2024) 100%

His House (2020) 100%

Godzilla Minus One (2023) 99%

Miss Juneteenth (2020) 99%

The Forty-Year-Old Version (2020) 99%

Under the Shadow (2016) 99%

Schindler's List (1993) 98%

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020) 97%

Dolemite Is My Name (2019) 97%

Mudbound (2017) 97%

I Lost My Body (2019) 97%

Roma (2018) 96%

Atlantics (2019) 96%

Rebel Ridge (2024) 96%

Boyz N the Hood (1991) 96%

Apollo 13 (1995) 96%

To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018) 96%

Outside In (2017) 96%

The Irishman (2019) 95%

Marriage Story (2019) 95%

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) 95%

Hit Man (2023) 95%

They Cloned Tyrone (2023) 95%

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) 95%

Klaus (2019) 95%

The Power of the Dog (2021) 94%

The Lost Daughter (2021) 94%

Emily the Criminal (2022) 94%

Hustle (2022) 94%

The Sea Beast (2022) 94%

Private Life (2018) 94%

Uncorked (2020) 94%

Spider-Man 2 (2004) 93%

Pearl (2022) 93%

Enola Holmes 2 (2022) 93%

Cam (2018) 93%

Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical (2022) 93%

Da 5 Bloods (2020) 92%

Dallas Buyers Club (2013) 92%

The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) (2017) 92%

The White Tiger (2021) 92%

El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019) 92%

Nimona (2023) 92%

Orion and the Dark (2024) 92%

The Willoughbys (2020) 92%

Set It Up (2018) 92%

1922 (2017) 92%

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022) 91%

A Quiet Place Part II (2021) 91%

Phantom Thread (2017) 91%

May December (2023) 91%

Woman of the Hour (2023) 91%

Beasts of No Nation (2015) 91%

The Squid and the Whale (2005) 91%

Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood (2022) 91%

High Flying Bird (2019) 91%

Happy as Lazzaro (2018) 91%

Gerald's Game (2017) 91%

You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah (2023) 91%

All Quiet on the Western Front (2022) 90%

Society of the Snow (2023) 90%

Oxygen (2021) 90%

Spider-Man (2002) 90%

The Kindergarten Teacher (2018) 90%

On Body and Soul (2017) 90%

The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020) 89%

The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018) 89%

Always Be My Maybe (2019) 89%

Compliance (2012) 89%

Fear Street Part Three: 1666 (2021) 89%

Mary and The Witch's Flower (2017) 89%

I Am Mother (2019) 89%

I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore (2017) 89%

Paddleton (2019) 89%

The Breaker Upperers (2018) 89%

1917 (2019) 88%

The Two Popes (2019) 88%

Fear Street Part Two: 1978 (2021) 88%

Inception (2010) 87%

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017) 87%

Lady Chatterley's Lover (2022) 87%

My Father's Dragon (2022) 87%

Fair Play (2023) 86%

Vivo (2021) 86%

The Wonder (2022) 85%

Shortcomings (2023) 85%

Erin Brockovich (2000) 85%

Munich: The Edge of War (2021) 85%

The Deepest Breath (2023) 85%

Top Five (2014) 85%

Meet the Parents (2000) 85%

Waves (2019) 84%

Notting Hill (1999) 84%

Liar Liar (1997) 83%

Emilia perez (2024) 76%.

The Swimmers (2022) 82%

Mr. Peabody & Sherman (2014) 81%

Marnie (1964) 81%

Sixteen Candles (1984) 81%

Melancholia (2011) 80%

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The 50 Best Movies on Netflix Right Now (January 2025)

You won't be angry you watched Furiosa

To start off the new year, Netflix got a big shipment of Warner Bros. films from 2024, including two big hits, Dune: Part Two and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire , and two big flops, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga and Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1 . It was a bad spring for movies with "Saga" in the title. But while those two flops may not have been worth going to the theater for, they're definitely worth watching if you don't have to get off your couch. That's why they're on our list of the best movies to watch on Netflix right now. 

This is a list of the best movies to watch on Netflix right now . To keep things relevant, we're specifically highlighting the best recent releases, Netflix originals, and some of our own personal favorites.

Last updated Jan. 3; newer additions are at the top.

Dune: Part Two

Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet, Dune 2

Respectfully,  Dune: Part One  was basically a really long, really beautiful trailer for  Dune: Part Two , which makes  Part Two  all the more thrilling. The  Denis Villeneuve -directed film finds Paul Atreides ( Timothée Chalamet ) joining forces with the Fremen people (which includes his love interest,  Zendaya 's Chani, and his hype man,  Javier Bardem 's Stilgar), who live on the desert planet Arrakis, to wage war against the ruthless House Harkonnen (which includes  Stellan Skarsgård 's Baron and  Austin Butler 's Feyd-Rautha). - Allison Picurro   [ Trailer ]     

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

Anya Taylor-Joy, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

This prequel to action classic Mad Max: Fury Road (also available on Netflix) is a pretty thrilling flick in its own right. Anya Taylor-Joy takes over from Charlize Theron as Furiosa, a post-apocalyptic big rig driver, for this origin story, as she seeks revenge on Dementus ( Chris Hemsworth ), a large-nosed wasteland warlord who killed her family. It's not as good as its predecessor, but Fury Road is one of the best action movies of all time, so almost nothing compares. Furiosa is still worth watching to experience the unique, highly specific world director George Miller has built over the course of 45 years. -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ]

Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1

Kevin Costner, Horizon: An American Saga - Part 1

Kevin Costner infamously left Yellowstone to focus on his four-part Western film series Horizon , which will be lucky to make it to two parts after Part 1 bombed at the box office in 2024. Part 2 is complete and sitting on a shelf, and maybe if enough people watch Part 1 on Netflix, the second chapter will finally see the light of day. The craziest part is that Horizon is actually fairly good, a sweeping, old-fashioned tale about how the West was won with beautiful cinematography and an impressive ensemble cast led by Costner, Sienna Miller , Sam Worthington , and Abbey Lee . -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ]

Jason Bateman, Carry-On

This Christmas Eve-set action thriller is Netflix's self-conscious attempt to create its own Die Hard franchise —  and it's working, as Carry-On had the most-watched debut of any Netflix original in 2024.  Taron Egerton stars as a regular guy TSA agent who has to try to stop an enigmatic assassin known only as the Traveler ( Jason Bateman ) from bringing a bomb onto a flight from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. It's been well-received for a Netflix original thriller, with critics appreciating its tense plot and fun performances. -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ]

Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, JJ Ó Dochartaigh, and Naoise Ó Cairealláin, Kneecap 

This musical comedy is pure anarchy in the best way. It's an exaggerated biopic about the titular hip-hop group from Belfast, who rap in the Irish language about Irish Republican politics and taking lots of drugs with equal gusto. For Kneecap, partying and politics are all part of the same thing. These lads have the classic Irish gift of gab, and the movie is sort of like a tall tale about three people who made something out of nothing through talent, attitude, and a little bit of luck. It's heavily fictionalized, to be fair, but there's an element of truth to most of it. You've never seen a musician biopic like this. Michael Fassbender co-stars.  -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ]

The Piano Lesson

Danielle Deadwyler and John David Washington, The Piano Lesson

Denzel Washington produces his son Malcolm's directorial debut, which is an adaptation of playwright August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Malcolm's brother John David and Till 's Danielle Deadwyler star as siblings who are at odds over what to do with a family heirloom, a piano decorated with carvings by their enslaved great-grandfather. He wants to sell it it to help fund their future, while she wants to keep it so they don't forget their past. It's a powerful story, and Deadwyler is getting Oscar buzz for her performance. The cast also includes Samuel L. Jackson and Ray Fisher . -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ]

Emilia Perez  

Zoe Saldaña, Emilia Perez

You might watch the opening scene of Emilia Perez , where Zoe Saldaña sings and dances through the streets of Mexico City in a way that makes it clear why she's primarily an actress, and say "this isn't for me." And that's fine. But you're missing out on seeing the performance that could make Saldaña, who is technically the second-highest-grossing actress of all time, an Academy Award winner. She plays an attorney who helps a Mexican cartel boss get gender-affirming surgery and start a new life as Emilia Perez (Karla Sofia Gascon, who is a Best Actress contender) in this delirious musical crime dramedy from acclaimed French filmmaker Jacques Audiard . -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ]

Kelsey Asbille, Don't Move

Yellowstone 's Kelsey Asbille stars in this survival thriller from producer Sam Raimi , who knows a thing about horror in the woods . She plays a grieving mother on a solo hiking trip in Big Sur, where she has plans to do something terrible. But then she encounters a serial killer ( Finn Wittrock ), who injects her with a paralytic agent to make it easier for him to take her back to his cabin. And in that loss of control, she rediscovers her will to live — and fight. It's a tight little thriller with some great scenes of noose-tightening dread.  -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ]

It's What's Inside

It's What's Inside is what A24's party-game-gone-horribly-wrong Talk to Me  should have been, and could be the spiritual successor to the delightfully twisted Bodies Bodies Bodies . The conceptually rich horror film about college friends who reunite for a wedding and swap bodies — yes, swap bodies! — when one guest brings some new tech over for some entertainment goes to some seriously depraved places, and the excellent cast is up for the actors' exercise and then some. More "OMG!" than scary, It's What's Inside is twisted fun about Gen Z'ers who are obsessed with all things surface level.  -Tim Surette [ Trailer ]

Rebel Ridge

Aaron Pierre, Rebel Ridge

Terry ( Aaron Pierre ) is trying to post bail for his cousin when all his money is stolen by local cops who seized his possessions under false pretenses. Now, Terry has a whole conspiracy that he'll need to unravel — and a lot of dirty cops to deal with along the way. The action in this one, which comes from Green Room director Jeremy Saulnier , packs a ton of energy, and Pierre, who replaced John Boyega in the lead role after Boyega dropped out during filming, is outstanding. It's always nice when a movie turns out OK even with that sort of behind-the-scenes upheaval. -Phil Owen [ Trailer ]

His Three Daughters

Elizabeth Olsen, Carrie Coon and Natasha Lyonne, His Three Daughters

An old man is dying and in hospice care, and his three daughters ( Elizabeth Olsen , Carrie Coon , and Natasha Lyonne ) are reunited as they stay with him during his final days. All is not well, of course — the daughters don't get along under the best of circumstances. His Three Daughters is the best sort of emotional family drama: the touching kind that feels like you're watching something that really happened. -Phil Owen [ Trailer ]

Glen Powell and Adria Arjona,  Hit Man

Richard Linklater is known for making thoughtful films about suburbia and the inevitable toll that time takes, but his latest is pure fun. Hit Man stars Top Gun: Maverick 's Glen Powell (who also co-wrote the film with Linklater) as a college professor who goes undercover as a hit man in order to arrest those who try to hire him. But when a beautiful woman (Adria Arjona) tries to enlist his services to kill her husband, he falls in love with her and tries to save her from the law. The film is astonishingly based on a true story and earned rave reviews on the festival circuit late last year. As Gavia Baker-Whitelaw writes in her TV Guide review , "Linklater understands that the best rom-com protagonists have strong personalities — the weirder the better — and Arjona and Powell are happy to play their assigned roles to the hilt." - Tim Surette [ Trailer ]

Godzilla Minus One

On the American side of the Godzilla franchise, things don't usually get too serious, but maybe we're doing it wrong. Because Godzilla Minus One , the latest Godzilla flick from Japan, is both an awesome Godzilla spectacle made at a tiny fraction of the cost of the American ones, and a fascinating rumination on post-World War II Japan. Which is to say that Godzilla Minus One is that rare monster flick that we can say is just a great movie, period, rather than being "good for a Godzilla movie." - Phil Owen [ Trailer ]

A Simple Favor

Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, A Simple Favor

This spicy little thriller sees an up-and-coming mommy blogger named Stephanie (Kendrick) befriend a fashion executive named Emily (Lively), who wastes no time in disappearing without a trace. Stephanie investigates, gets a little bit too close with Emily's hot husband in the process, and learns some really wild things about her missing friend's past. It's all just a bit too much — there's a reason the book on which this movie is based isn't particularly well regarded — but with Kendrick holding things down in front of the camera, and Feig's deft touch behind the wheel, A Simple Favor is impossible to turn off once you get going. - Phil Owen [ Trailer ]

Anyone But You

Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney, Anyone but You

A romantic comedy movie starring two blonde leads harkens back to the days of yore, which is probably at least some of the reason why Anyone But You was such a big hit. The film follows Bea ( Sydney Sweeney ) and Ben ( Glen Powell ), who, after their fairy tale first date turns to mutual hate, reunite at a destination wedding. And then, get this, a series of events forces them to pretend to be a couple in order to keep up appearances. Classic! Actually, it literally is classic: Anyone But You  is loosely based on the Shakespeare comedy  Much Ado About Nothing.  - Allison Picurro [ Trailer ]

Gillian Anderson and Rufus Sewell, Scoop

In 2019, BBC Newsnight managed to land an interview with British Royal Prince Andrew to discuss his relationship with billionaire convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — that interview had major negative consequences for the prince, and would lead to his ostracism from the royal family over the next few years. This docudrama tells the story of how that incredibly unlikely interview came to be, both from the perspectives of the media and the royal family's PR liaison who was responsible for making it happen. Scoop condenses the details of this story a bit more than it needs to, but it makes up for it with riveting performances by Anderson, Piper, and Hawes and a kinetic pace that never lets you look away. - Phil Owen [ Trailer ]

This immensely emotional documentary charts the stories of several young American girls and their imprisoned fathers, and their preparations for a special Daddy-Daughter Dance at the prison. While that may sound like a feel-good sort of thing, it's only partly uplifting —  Daughters  is an unflinching look at some of the many ways that the U.S.'s practice of mass incarceration affects not just the people in prison, but their families and everyone else they know. If you're in the mood for feeling every emotion you've got in you,  Daughters  is the right choice.  -Phil Owen   [ Trailer ]

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The Greatest Night in Pop

Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, and Lionel Richie, The Greatest Night in Pop

'80s kids remember the charity anthem "We Are the World," a massive collaboration put together between Lionel Richie, Michael Jackson, Bob Geldof, Harry Belafonte, and Quincy Jones to bring awareness to famine in Africa that brought together dozens of pop music's biggest stars. This documentary with tons of behind-the-scenes footage charts its creation, from Jackson's humming of a melody to the ultra-secretive recording session to its impact (it's still the ninth-best selling physical single of all-time), and it's all guided by the charismatic Richie, whose recounting of meeting with Jackson in his animal-filled house kicks off this unbelievable story. It's worth watching just to see Bob Dylan look very uncomfortable the entire time. - Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

The Society of the Snow

Enzo Vogrincic, Society of the Snow

The disaster of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 in 1972 has been covered in many books and movies, but J.A. Bayona's take stands on its own thanks to some heart-pounding action sequences. The film covers the survivors of a plane crash in the Andes, and the lengths — including cannibalism — to which they had to go to see the next day. Society of the Snow is one of Netflix's 2024 Oscar nominees, most notably for its nomination for Best International Feature. - Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan,  Maestro

The expertly composed Maestro  raked in Oscar nominations this season. In addition to directing and writing this biopic about composer Leonard Bernstein,  Bradley Cooper  stars in the leading role, opposite  Carey Mulligan  as Bernstein's wife, Felicia Montealegre. It's hardly surprising that critics are  heaping praise on  both lead performances. - Kat Moon   [ Trailer ]

May December

Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore,  May December

In  May December , Gracie  (Julianne Moore ) and Joe's ( Charles Melton ) marriage threatens to crumble when an actor shows up on their porch one day. To prepare for a film, Elizabeth ( Natalie Portman ) has made it her goal to learn about their controversial relationship beyond the tabloid headlines from two decades ago. But what happens when the actor takes her research a little too far? - Kat Moon   [ Trailer ]

Michael Fassbender, The Killer

David Fincher 's newest project,  The Killer , is based on the French graphic novel series of the same name that was first published in 1998. The film stars  Michael Fassbender  as an assassin bent on fulfilling his mission without letting emotions cloud his judgment.  Charles Parnell ,  Kerry O'Malley ,  Sala Baker , Sophie Charlotte, and  Tilda Swinton  round out the cast.  The Killer 's trailer promises a chilling energy signature to Fincher's films, as well as high-octane, smoothly choreographed action scenes. - Kat Moon   [ Trailer ]

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Rarely do sequels match the energy of the original, but in this case, Across the Spider-Verse , the sequel to 2018's Oscar-winning Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse , should clear some space for more trophies. Miles Morales ( Shameik Moore ) returns as a more established hero and travels the Spider-Verse with Gwen ( Hailee Steinfeld ), where they, along with a group of various Spider-People from different universes, must stop a new evil. The animation is incredible, the beats are delicious, and the emotional story hits hard. This is as close to a must-watch as there is. - Tim Surette  [ Trailer ]

The Saint of Second Chances

Rebecca and Mike Veeck, The Saint of Second Chances

This documentary is less a historical document and more of a series of true tall tales passed down from generation to generation about the Veeck family, notably Bill Veeck, the beloved and fun-loving owner of the Chicago White Sox in the 1970s, and his son Mike, whose up-and-down relationship with his dad — which hit a low after Mike's brainchild, the infamous "Disco Sucks" night, tarnished Bill's reputation — eventually left him clawing his way back up in the world of baseball and reflecting on his relationship with his own family. Mike is charismatic as he talks about his dad and his life, and Malmberg and Neville have fun with the direction, bringing in Charlie Day to play a young Mike Veeck in reenactments. It's a heartwarming story that transcends the world of baseball. - Tim Surette  [ Trailer ]

They Cloned Tyrone

Jamie Foxx, Teyonah Parris, and John Boyega,  They Cloned Tyrone

It would be a shame if  They Cloned Tyrone  got lost in the Netflix shuffle. The sci-fi mystery is director  Juel Taylor 's feature film debut, and boasts a trio of standout lead performances from  John Boyega ,  Teyonah Parris , and  Jamie Foxx , playing three people thrown together by circumstance who, after a shooting in their neighborhood, find themselves wrapped up in an increasingly bizarre government conspiracy. Their search for answers leads them down an eerie path, and to say more would be a disservice to this funny, inventive film. - Allison Picurro  [ Trailer ]

The Deepest Breath

Alessia Zecchini, The Deepest Breath

The A24-produced documentary about a couple at the top of the freediving world really delves into what drives people to risk everything to be the best. World champion freediver Alessia Zecchini and Irish safety diving instructor Stephen Keenan seemed destined to meet, but their passion for exploring beneath the surface and risk-taking meant danger would always be near what they loved to do. There are some interesting storytelling choices made by director Laura McGann that some say border on manipulation, but the end result is worth it, and no one can deny that the stunning and treacherous underwater footage of the dives will make your heart pound.  -Tim Surette [ Trailer ] 

This charming animated movie about not putting labels on people may seem pretty typical, but it relays that message well and is the rare family-friendly film with LGBTQ+ themes. (The film was reportedly delayed multiple times and eventually canceled in 2021 by boneheaded Disney leadership because of its LGBTQ+ storyline , before being revived by Annapurna and Netflix.) Based on the award-winning graphic novel by ND Stevenson, Nimona features  Riz Ahmed as the voice of a disgraced knight whose only chance at redemption is a rambunctious, shapeshifting teenager ( Chloë Grace Moretz ). Set in a world that evokes science-fiction and D&D fantasy, it's a feast for the eyes, but it's your heart that will feel the fullest by the end.  -Tim Surette [ Trailer ] 

All Quiet on the Western Front

This epic adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque's classic and ever-timely 1929 anti-war novel is one of the best Netflix Original movies of 2022, and the winner of the Best International Film award at the 2023 Academy Awards as well as a nominee for Best Picture. It tells the story of Paul Bäumer (Felix Bammerer), a 17-year-old who enlists in the Germany army and gets a firsthand look at the pointless, dehumanizing slaughter of World War I. It's a devastating film that's especially notable for composer Volker Bertelmann's modern, powerful score. -Liam Mathews [ Trailer ] 

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery   

Kate Hudson, Jessica Henwick, Daniel Craig, and Leslie Odom Jr., Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

The first  Knives Out  was a box office smash, and the sequel got the widest (though still very brief) theatrical release for a Netflix movie ever, but make no mistake, this stylish sequel is a Netflix film.  Daniel Craig  returns as master detective Benoit Blanc, who's tasked with solving a murder mystery at a Greek villa that starts out as a game and turns real. The cast includes  Edward Norton ,  Kate Hudson , and  Dave Bautista . The plotting is brilliant, the performances are delightful, and the social commentary is astute. In his  review  for TV Guide, Jordan Hoffman gave it a 9 out of 10, an exceptionally high score for any movie, let alone a Netflix Original after 2019. -Liam Mathews  [ Trailer ]

Emily the Criminal

Aubrey Plaza, Emily The Criminal

Aubrey Plaza stars in this crime drama that isn't technically a Netflix original but had such a small indie release that it may as well be. The White Lotus star plays the titular aspiring artist, who has a crushing amount of student debt and a past felony conviction that prevents her from getting a job that makes enough money to pay down what she owes. But then she meets a guy named Youcef ( Theo Rossi ), who runs a credit card fraud ring. It's a tight little thriller with astute social commentary. -Liam Mathews   [ Trailer ]

Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio

It took  Guillermo del Toro  a decade to bring this passion project, a stop-motion adaptation of the timeless tale of the puppet who wants to be a real boy, to life. GDT's take is steeped in his signature allegorical style of dark fantasy, setting the story in Fascist 1930s Italy and making Pinocchio much less cute than the Disney version of popular imagination. In his review for TV Guide, Jordan Hoffman had particular praise for Pinocchio's character design. "He's lively and charming and lovable, but still looks like real wood," he wrote. "It truly is a work of minor magic." -Liam Mathews  [ Trailer ]

My Father's Dragon

If you don't have a kid, you might consider picking one up to watch  My Father's Dragon , the latest animated film from Irish studio Cartoon Saloon. Cartoon Saloon gave us the outstanding  Wolfwalkers , as well as  Song of the Sea  and  The Secret of Kells , all of which were nominated for Oscars and all of which are fantastic. My Father's Dragon is an adaptation of the classic children's novel of the same name, and features the voices of Jacob Tremblay , Gaten Matarazzo , and Whoopi Goldberg . We miss the Irish accents Cartoon Saloon movies usually have, but it's still really good. -Tim Surette [ Trailer ]

As Americans, we're pretty much just "Marvel movie, drrr drrr, Star Wars, drrr drrr," but now's your chance to expand your range to some quality action from international cinema. S.S. Rajamouli's insane epic RRR is a global phenomenon, a dazzling period adventure about two real figures from India's history who meet, form a friendship, and fight the British Raj together, and find a missing girl. With over-the-top, physics-defying action sequences, you won't care that it runs over three hours long. - Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood  

Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood

Richard Linklater returns to his animation style of choice — rotoscoping, in which film is drawn over frame-by-frame for realistic movement with a dream-like feel — that he used in Waking Life and A Scanner Darkly . This time, it's used to tell a story about his very real childhood growing up in Houston in the late 1960s and a very unreal story about a 10-year-old boy who goes to the moon in a secret NASA program. It's a wistful, energetic tale of childhood innocence during a period of immense change, and Linklater nails the vibe of youthful exuberance and coming-of-age. Plus, it has a fantastic soundtrack. Watch this with your parents, they'll love it. (You will, too.)  -Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

The Lost Daughter

Dakota Johnson and Olivia Colman, The Lost Daughter

Maggie Gyllenhaal 's directorial debut is dark, psychological goodness. In this adaptation of the Elena Ferrante novel, Olivia Colman stars as Leda, a college professor on a solo trip to Greece, where she meets and becomes obsessed with Nina ( Dakota Johnson ), a young, overwhelmed mother. It all quickly turns into the vacation from hell as Nina forces Leda to confront memories of her own experience as a young mother. Jessie Buckley plays the younger version of Leda in flashbacks, while Peter Sarsgaard , Ed Harris , Dagmara Dominczyk , and Paul Mescal fill out the rest of the cast.  -Allison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

The Power of the Dog

Kodi Smit-McPhee and Benedict Cumberbatch, The Power of the Dog

Jane Campion's first film since 2009 heads out on the range with one mean cowboy in Benedict Cumberbatch . The 1925-set Western quickly reaches a boil and holds it as a rancher ( Jesse Plemons ) gets a new wife ( Kirsten Dunst ) whom his brother (Cumberbatch) takes a strong disliking to. It's a masterclass of simmering tension and spellbinding acting, but if you're here for shoot 'em ups, this Western ain't it. - Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

tick, tick... BOOM!

Andrew Garfield, tick tick...Boom!

Lin-Manuel Miranda has a type: musicals about guys who are worried their time is running out. And why mess with success? Miranda makes his directorial debut with this film adaptation, already racking up good reviews, of Rent creator Jonathan Larson's semi-autobiographical musical. Andrew Garfield stars as the struggling playwright, who's anxious that he hasn't accomplished enough by his upcoming 30th birthday. (The story is made more poignant by Larson's real-life early death at the age of 35, the night before Rent 's off-Broadway premiere.) Garfield is a hit in this, Vanessa Hudgens is in her element, and Bradley Whitford does a rock-solid Sondheim impersonation. - Kelly Connolly   [ Trailer ]

Lily, Chloe, and Sadie, Found

This documentary about three adopted Chinese high schoolers looking into their roots could also pass as a robot test, because if you aren't moved to tears at some point, then you're made out of tin. What makes it so effective is that it looks at adoption from every angle: the girls looking for answers and discovering their culture, their adoptive families looking to help them find their roots, the Chinese families who were forced to give up their babies under China's one child policy, and the intrepid investigator who helps adopted children find their birth parents in China. It's an emotional wallop. - Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

The Harder They Fall

Regina King, Idris Elba, and LaKeith Stanfield, The Harder They Fall

This Netflix blockbuster is an action Western with a lot more style than you're used to. Director Jeymes Samuel takes a tried-and-true cowboy premise — a gang gets together to exact revenge on the persons responsible for the deaths of loved ones — and infuses it with gorgeous violence, snappy dialogue, and a predominantly Black cast that includes  Regina King ,  Idris Elba ,  LaKeith Stanfield ,  Jonathan Majors ,  Delroy Lindo , and  Zazie Beetz . The result is a rollicking good time and one of the gosh dang coolest films you'll see.  -Allison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

Ryan Murphy and Jason Blum executive produce this documentary about Exodus International, an Evangelical group formed in the '70s that claims it could turn gay people straight through prayer and conversion therapy. What's most interesting about this film is that it features interviews with ex-leaders who are now speaking out against the movement they were part of for so many years.  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

Da 5 Bloods

Spike Lee 's latest is a sprawling drama split between two timelines: the first during the Vietnam War, where a group of Black soldiers band together, and the second during the present, where the surviving members, now aging veterans, return to the country in the hopes of recovering the remains of their fallen squad leader ( Chadwick Boseman , in one of his last performances) and locating the gold they buried years ago. It's a dazzling, stylized adventure, and the kind of movie that will make you walk away feeling like you learned something without skimping on character development.  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

My Octopus Teacher

This film about the intimate relationship between a man and his octopus won the Oscar for Best Documentary in 2021. Craig Foster, a diver, buddies up with an octopus in South Africa for a year, documenting her life as she sleeps, eats, and battles sharks. The whole experience teaches Foster about life and moves him to gain appreciation for humanity's relationship with nature, as well as form a closer bond with his son. The whole thing feels a little like a more wholesome version of Guillermo del Toro's  The   Shape of Water , but I'm not here to knock anyone who dares to explore interspecies friendships.  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

I Am Not Your Negro

Raoul Peck's 2016 documentary that's an adaptation of James Baldwin's manuscript about racism in America through the eyes of Black people -- specifically civil rights activists Martin Luther King Jr. Malcolm X, and Medgar Evans -- is a visual masterpiece with a clear message: America has failed the Black community. The powerful 2016 film brims with energy through old footage of segregation and current shots of protests in the streets in the wake of police violence against minorities. It's an essential watch to better understand America's shameful past and present. - Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

Sorry Mank , you aren't the best black-and-white film on Netflix. Not even close. Alfonso Cuaron 's 2018 personal tale of a housekeeper in Mexico to a wealthy Mexican family won Best Foreign Film, Best Director (Cuaron), and Best Cinematography (Cuaron) at the 91st Academy Awards, but could have won tons more. It's both quiet and epic in scope, balancing a fascinating relationship between a hard-working woman named Cleo and the family that relies on her, unforgettable shots involving hundreds of extras, and a sensitive story on life bubbling under the surface. – Tim Surette   [ Trailer ]

Homecoming: A Film By Beyoncé

Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that Homecoming is perhaps the best, most impactful concert film of at least the past few years. This is Beyoncé at the absolute top of her game, showing not only her historic performance at Coachella 2018, but the emotionally and physically taxing preparation that led up to it. It's just a pleasure to watch, not only because Beyoncé's unparalleled work ethic and commitment to precision, but because of how dedicated she and her team of artists, dancers, and musicians were to making sure the performance was a celebration of Black culture. It's called Homecoming because of the way it evokes traditions made popular by homecoming concerts at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and it's maybe the most entertaining history lesson you'll ever get. Also, there's a pitch-perfect Destiny's Child reunion. We love to see it.  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

Always Be My Maybe

Randall Park and Ali Wong, Always Be My Maybe

Ali Wong  co-wrote this 2019 romantic comedy in which she stars as Sasha, a celebrity chef who returns home to San Francisco to open a new restaurant and runs into her former childhood friend, Marcus (co-writer  Randall Park ). The romantic chemistry from their teenage years still remains, and after she breaks off her engagement to her fiancé after he delays their wedding yet again, Sasha attempts to embark on a new relationship with Marcus. However, his fears and her fame -- and a great guest spot from  Keanu Reeves  -- create obstacles that first have to be overcome before true happiness can be found. - Kaitlin Thomas   [ Trailer ]

The Irishman

Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Ray Romano, The Irishman

Martin Scorsese loves telling stories about almost-great men undone by their own hubris, and The Irishman is the latest example of that. A lot was made of its three-hour runtime, and its use of CGI to de-age its stars, Robert De Niro , Joe Pesci , and Al Pacino , but those aren't the only things this film has to offer. De Niro plays Frank Sheeran, the titular Irishman, who works as a hitman alongside Russell Bufalino (Pesci) and famous Teamster Jimmy Hoffa (Pacino), both of whom are tied to organized crime. It's an epic about power and betrayal, and contains easily the best performance De Niro's given in years.  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

Marriage Story

Laura Dern and Scarlett Johansson, Marriage Story

A marriage unravels in Noah Baumbach's latest, as Charlie ( Adam Driver ) and Nicole ( Scarlett Johansson ) try to keep themselves afloat during their divorce. Yes, there's definitely a lot movie going on in this movie emotionally, but isn't the most important takeaway that we got two great memes out of it? I think so.  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

Dolemite Is My Name

Eddie Murphy, Dolemite Is My Name

In 1970s Los Angeles, struggling musician-comedian Rudy Ray Moore ( Eddie Murphy ) decides to create a raunchy alter ego named Dolemite in an effort to get noticed. The movie highlights the way, through his work, Moore was able to help pioneer rap as a musical genre. It also provides wider commentary on the blaxploitation phenomenon, and touches on some of Murphy's own feelings about the critics who have commented on his films. Spoiler: He doesn't care!  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

Chadwick Boseman,  Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

Chadwick Boseman 's final movie role was in this Netflix original, which is based on the Tony-nominated August Wilson play. Viola Davis stars as Ma Rainey, a powerhouse blues singer in 1927 Chicago who holds up a recording session to butt heads with her white manager, and Boseman plays a trumpeter in the recording session angling to get a foothold in the music business. On its own, it's a good film that has a lot to say about race and music ownership, but the performances from Davis and Boseman elevate it.  -Aliison Picurro   [ Trailer ]

Best Netflix movies: the 41 best films worth watching in January 2025

What are the best Netflix movies to stream today? TechRadar reveals all

• How we choose

Searching for the best Netflix movies to stream today? You're in luck. TechRadar's entertainment experts have put in the hard yards to compile a list of the 41 best movies to watch on Netflix , including a number of the streamer's original offerings and plenty of licensed ones. The streamer has a seemingly immeasurable number of films to choose from these days, so we're sure you'll be glad of our help.

If you want even more recommendations, you should read our everything new on Netflix in January 2025 guide and if you want to catch some movies before they bid farewell to the streamer this month, then have a look at everything leaving Netflix in January 2025 . It's packed with numerous new movies that have made their way onto the streamer over the past month . However, if you're in the mood to binge watch a TV show or rather focus on something shorter, then check out our best Netflix TV shows to watch list.

From animated flicks to war epics, Netflix's movie library has something for everyone and we've made it easier for you to decide what to watch by picking out the best from each genre, so read on to get the lowdown on the best Netflix films available to you.

Best action movies on Netflix

Age rating: PG-13 Runtime: 120 minutes Main cast: Taron Egerton, Jason Bateman, and Sofia Carson Director: Jaume Collet-Serra RT score: 88%

If airport security wasn't hard enough, Netflix's festive thriller Carry-On   just made it even more difficult. Carry-On brings some Die Hard action with Taron Egerton stepping into the role of a modern-day hero as young TSA agent Ethan. As he works the busy airport shift on Christmas Eve, Ethan's day turns into a full-blown nightmare when he's blackmailed by a mysterious passenger into letting a dangerous package onto a flight. Carry-On is an entertaining watch with crazy stunts and rip-roaring gun fights as Elliot tries to outsmart Jason Bateman's sinister stranger. Already streamed Carry-On? Here are 3 more action movies with over 90% on Rotten Tomatoes to watch next.

• Watch Carry-On on Netflix now
• Watch the Carry-On trailer on YouTube

Zero Dark Thirty

Age rating: R Runtime: 113 minutes Main cast: Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Joel Edgerton Director: Kathryn Bigelow RT score: 91%

The brilliant Zero Dark Thirty is now on Netflix. If you want a longer watch, this one clocks in at nearly 2 hours 40 mins, and it's one of the best action movies out there. It might be over 12 years old but it never gets old and it's one of Kathryn Bigelow's finest works (she's also behind Point Break and The Hurt Locker ). Here, a CIA analyst and her team are on a mission to track an infamous terrorist leader who is responsible for the 11 September attacks. With a great cast led by Jessica Chastain, this one will have you on the edge of your seat and I can't recommend it enough. You'll see other big stars like Chris Pratt making an appearance too.

• Watch Zero Dark Thirty on Netflix now
• Watch Zero Dark Thirty 's trailer on YouTube

Baby Driver

Age rating: R Runtime: 113 minutes Main cast: Ansel Elgort, Lily James, Jon Hamm, Kevin Spacey, Jamie Foxx, Eiza González and Jon Bernthal Director: Edgar Wright RT score: 92%

Famed British filmmaker Edgar Wright ( Scott Pilgrim vs the World , Shaun of the Dead ) put pedal to the metal with this barnstorming high-octane action-thriller, and I've loved it since I saw it in the theater. Elgort plays 'Baby', a getaway driver who relies on the beat of his personal soundtrack to get his crew of goons out of a jam whenever he's needed. However, when he falls for Debora (James), the woman of his dreams, 'Baby' sees a way out of his crime-based life for good – but naturally, he's forced into one final job, which threatens the freedom and clean slate he desperately craves. I think it's one of the most slick and stylish flicks we've had in years, and Wright's signature kinetic style elevates it beyond other simple action fare. I also love the soundtrack, which is woven right into the action, like the action version of a musical. Baby Driver is a pulsating, thrills-a-minute ride that deserves more recognition.

• Watch Baby Driver on Netflix now

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• Watch Baby Driver 's trailer on YouTube

All Quiet on the Western Front

Age rating: R Runtime: 148 minutes Main cast: Felix Kammerer, Albrecht Schuch, Aaron Hilmer, and Moritz Klaus Director: Edward Berger RT score: 90%

It’s been a good few years since Dunkirk and 1917 reminded audiences of the horrors of war, but Netflix assumed that responsibility with shocking but beautifully-made WWI epic, All Quiet on the Western Front . Based on Erich Maria Remarque’s landmark novel of the same name (which was first adapted into a feature film in 1930), this award-winning German-language movie tells the story of a young German soldier (Felix Kammerer) whose naive expectations of fighting for his country are shattered by war’s harrowing reality. As you'd expect, All Quiet on the Western Front is brutal, vivid and poignant – just don’t expect to reach its credits feeling particularly joyous.

• Watch All Quiet on the Western Front on Netflix now

• Watch All Quiet on the Western Front's YouTube trailer

The Harder They Fall

Age rating: R Runtime: 139 minutes Main cast: Idris Elba, Jonathan Majors, Zazie Beetz, Delroy Lindo, and LaKeith Stanfield Director: Jeymes Samuel RT score: 88%

Jeymes Samuel's feature film directorial debut wasn't expected to be this good. But The Harder They Fall , which stars the likes of Idris Elba, Zazie Beetz, and Regina King, is a superb Western that deserves your attention. Jonathan Majors, who was recently found guilty of domestic abuse and whose career is effectively over as a result, plays Nat Love, an outlaw who discover his mortal enemy Rufus Black (Elba) is being released from prison. Unsurprisingly, Love takes the law into his own hands and assembles his crack team of gunslingers to stop that from happening. A stylized, gun-toting action flick that's somewhat predictable in its makeup, The Harder They Fall will have you whooping and hollering at the screen regularly.

• Watch The Harder They Fall on Netflix now

• Watch The Harder They Fall's YouTube trailer

Best animated movies on Netflix

Apollo 10 1/2: a space age childhood.

Age rating: PG-13 Runtime: 98 minutes Main cast: Jack Black, Bill Wise, Lee Eddy, Milo Coy, Zachary Levi, and Glen Powell Director: Richard Linklater RT score: 91%

Netflix is home to lots of great animated flicks , so if you’re keen to mix up your movie-watching diet, films don't come much more unconventional than the streamer’s Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood . Boyhood director Richard Linklater returns to filmmaking duties with this animated feature, which tells the story of the 1969 moon landing from multiple perspectives. The movie shares the visual style of Linklater’s previous animation, 2006's A Scanner Darkly , and features the voice talents of The Super Mario Bros . Movie's Jack Black, Shazam! Fury of the Gods ' Zachary Levi, and Top Gun: Maverick star Glen Powell. Despite its needlessly lengthy title, Apollo 10 1/2 is a genuinely unique take on one of history’s most iconic moments, and serves as yet more proof of Netflix's willingness to invest in boundary-pushing storytelling.

• Watch Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood on Netflix now

• Watch Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood's trailer on YouTube

Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio

Age rating: PG Runtime: 121 minutes Main cast: Gregory Mann, Ewan McGregor, David Bradley, Tilda Swinton, Cate Blanchett, and Finn Holfhard Directors: Guillermo del Toro and Mark Gustafson RT score: 96%

Who says Netflix has lost its taste for originality? With Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio , the streamer breathes new life into Carlo Collodi's beloved 1883 fairytale about a wooden puppet who longs to become a real boy. Shot entirely using stop-motion (in a manner akin to Netflix series The House ), del Toro’s darker adaptation is set in 1930s Italy during Mussolini’s fascist regime and features a star-studded voice cast that includes Ewan McGregor, David Bradley, Tilda Swinton, Christoph Waltz and Cate Blanchett. Indisputably one of the best Netflix movies in years.

• Watch Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio on Netflix now

• Watch Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio's trailer on YouTube

The Mitchells vs The Machines

Age rating: PG Runtime: 114 minutes Main cast: Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, Michael Rianda, and Olivia Colman Director: Michael Rianda RT score: 97%

One of the best Netflix family movies The Mitchells vs the Machines stars Mitchell (Abbi Jacobson), an aspiring filmmaker who's about to head to college – until her dad, conscious that they've been drifting apart, cancels her plane ticket and insists on a family road trip. Halfway through this fraught journey, an AI takes revenge on its billionaire creator and the world is suddenly under duress from smart robots. A lot of Spider-Verse 's visual touches cross over into this film, with 2D annotations and drawings on the already-pretty 3D visuals. Most of all, it's nice to see Netflix backing a family movie that's not just full of talking dogs and other hackneyed nonsense so often seen in CG kids' fare. 

• Watch The Mitchells vs the Machines' on Netflix now

• Watch The Mitchells vs the Machines' YouTube trailer

Age rating: PG Runtime: 102 minutes Main cast: Chloe Grace Moretz, Riz Ahmed, Eugene Lee Yang, and Frances Conroy Directors: Nick Bruno and Troy Quane RT score: 92%

Based on ND Stevenson's 2015 graphic novel of the same name, Nimona is a delightfully fun, action-packed, funny, and heartfelt flick that's also unapologetically queer. Star Wars alumnus Riz Ahmed voices Ballister Blackheart, a futuristic knight who's framed for a crime he didn't commit. The only witness who can save him from a lengthy jail term is Nimona ( The Peipheral 's Chloe Grace Moretz), a shapeshifter who Blackheart is sworn to seek out and destroy. Cue a wild buddy cop-style adventure that teaches kids to have an open mind about people who are different to them in more ways than one. Nimona has been lauded for its LGBTQ+ representation, subversive storytelling, and gorgeous visuals among many other positives. A truly worth entry in our best Netflix movies guide.

• Watch Nimona on Netflix now

• Watch Nimona's trailer on YouTube

The Sea Beast

Age rating: PG Runtime: 119 minutes Main cast: Karl Urban, Zaris Angel-Hator, Jared Harris, and Dan Stevens Director: Chris Williams RT score: 94%

The Sea Beast proved Disney doesn’t have a monopoly on layered, child-friendly storytelling upon its arrival in July 2022. Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Chris Williams ( Moana , Big Hero Six ), the movie follows Jacob Holland (voiced by The Boys ’ Karl Urban), a celebrated sea monster hunter whose life is upended when a young girl, Maisie Brumble (newcomer Zaris-Angel Hator), stows away on his ship. Charming, action-packed, and beautifully-rendered, The Sea Beast was praised by audiences and critics alike upon release, and serves as further proof that Netflix should think twice about scaling back its animation department . If it still is, that is.

• Watch The Sea Beast on Netflix now

• Watch The Sea Beast's trailer on YouTube

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Age rating: PG Runtime: 140 minutes Main cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac, Jake Johnson, Luna Lauren Velez, Bryan Tyree Henry, Issa Rae, Daniel Kaluuya, and Jason Schwartzman Directors: Kemp Powers, Joaquin Dos Santos, and Justin K. Thompson RT score: 95%

As a spectacularly assembled animated superhero film, there are few better than it in the genre space right now than Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Vers e – both from animation and storytelling perspectives. Set 14 months after Into the Spider-Verse , viewers are reunited with Miles Morales, Gwen Stacey, and Peter B Parker as they embark on a new multiverse-spanning journey that, unlike its forebear, won't be such an easy one to navigate. In my Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse review , I said it "fulfils its ambitious promise to deliver an amazing follow-up to its 2018 predecessor". Once you've watched it, read my Across the Spider-Verse ending explained article to see how it sets up its Beyond the Spider-Verse sequel. Then, see where it ranks in our best Spider-Man movies guide, or find out how to watch the Spider-Man movies in order .

• Watch Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse on Netflix now

• Watch Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse's YouTube trailer

Ultraman: Rising

Age rating: PG Runtime: 117 minutes Main cast: Christopher Sean, Julia Harriman, Tamlyn Tomita, Keone Young and Gedde Watanbe Director: Shannon Tindle RT score: 83%

Ultraman: Rising is an animated reboot of the iconic Japanese franchise by Tsuburaya Productions. The superhero movie follows all-star athlete Ken Sato (voiced by Christopher Sean), who returns home to take on the Ultraman mantle as Tokyo is attacked by giant monsters. However, Sato soon finds himself adopting a baby kaiju of his own and must protect both his hometown and the baby monster from evil. Ultraman: Rising has been praised for its action-packed entertainment, gorgeous visuals, heartwarming story and current themes that's perfect for the whole family.

• Watch Ultraman: Rising on Netflix now

• Watch Ultraman: Rising's YouTube trailer

Best comedy movies on Netflix

Age rating: 15 Runtime: 118 minutes Main cast: Adam Sandler, Juancho Hernangomez, Queen Latifah, and Robert Duvall Director: Jeremiah Zagar RT score: 93%

If you were a fan of 2019's Uncut Gems , listen up: Hustle , a surprisingly entertaining basketball drama, delivers more Adam Sandler-sized surprises. After discovering a once-in-a-lifetime player with a rocky past abroad, Stanley Sugerman (Sandler), a down-on-his-luck Philadelphia 76ers scout, takes it upon himself to bring the young phenom to the States without his team's approval. Against the odds, the pair must work to prove that they both deserve to make it big in the NBA. That synopsis might sound like standard sports drama fare, but Hustle earned unexpectedly glowing reviews ahead of its muted release. Trust us: this is no Jack and Jill.

• Watch Hustle on Netflix now

• Watch Hustle's trailer on YouTube

Age rating: R Runtime: 141 minutes Main cast: Putri Marino, Lutesha, Abimana Aryasatya, Arie Kriting, and Kristo Immanuel Director: Timo Tjahjanto RT score: 100%

The Big 4 may have flown under the radar when it comes to other Netflix action comedies - it certainly did for me. This Indonesian flick centers on four retired assassins who are thrust back into the game when they meet a strait-laced detective determined to catch a mysterious killer. It's one of four action comedies with over 85% on Rotten Tomatoes and has everything I could want from the genre, with outrageous action sequences, hilarious banter and a bunch of misfit characters that will have you in fits of laughter.

• Watch The Big 4 on Netflix now

• Watch The Big 4 trailer on YouTube

Age rating: R Runtime: 116 minutes Main cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Molly Kate Bernard, Retta and Evan Holtzman Director: Richard Linklater RT score: 95%

One of Netflix's highly-anticipated new movies was Hit Man , which definitely proved to be a hit, man! The twisted comedy went down a treat with its 95% Rotten Tomatoes score and spent three weeks at the number one spot in the Netflix Global top 10 list when it was released in June. Glen Powell stars as Gary Johnson, an undercover agent who poses as a fake hitman to help a woman in need and soon finds himself falling for her. It’s a deceptively dark thriller that’s packed with drama and romance, which is bound to bring entertainment to any night of the week. Meanwhile, Hollywood’s newest A-lister Powell will have you swooning as he oozes charisma in any role he plays.

• Watch Hit Man on Netflix now

• Watch Hit Man trailer on YouTube

Best drama movies on Netflix

Enola holmes.

Age rating: PG-13 Runtime: 124 minutes Main cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, Sam Claflin, and Helen Bonham Carter Director: Harry Bradbeer RT score: 91%

Stranger Things ' Millie Bobby Brown started to expand her acting career with this period-set comedy-mystery flick that's both an adaptation of Nancy Springer's Enola Holmes Mysteries book series and a spin-off of the Sherlock Holmes legend. Brown plays the titular character (and younger sister of Cavill's Sherlock), who travels to London to locate her missing mother. Unsurprisingly, she gets side-tracked, and finds herself teaming up with a runaway lord to get to the bottom of a particularly thrilling case that threatens the UK. A breezy but fun-filled adventure flick, Enola Holmes bubbles away nicely with its more than entertaining narrative, which is ably led by Brown's effervescent Holmes. Its sequel is also available to stream on Netflix.

• Watch Enola Holmes on Netflix now

• Watch Enola Holmes' YouTube trailer

The Irishman

Age rating: R Runtime: 209 minutes Main cast: Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Al Pacino, and Anna Paquin Director: Martin Scorsese RT score: 95%

This threateningly long Scorsese pic attracted attention for the extensive effects work used to de-age its old stars, and it's a creative decision that's sometimes distracting. But there's no denying the appeal of seeing Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Al Pacino in the same movie together for likely the last time, and this life-spanning, mostly rewarding crime epic is a suitable tribute to their collective talents. The Irishman is an unmissable crime movie that follows Frank Sheeran (De Niro) as he recounts his long association with the Bufalino crime family and infamous union leader Jimmy Hoffa (Pacino). It's a languid film – and not a patch on Goodfellas – but absolutely among the best Netflix movies the streaming service has financed to date. Find out where we ranked it in our best Martin Scorsese movies piece.

• Watch The Irishman on Netflix now

• Watch The Irishman's YouTube trailer

The Hand of God

Age rating: R Runtime: 130 minutes Main cast: Filippo Scotti, Tony Servillo, Teresa Sapoangelo, and Marlon Joubert Director: Paolo Sorrentino RT score: 83%

The Hand of God marks the movie-making return of beloved Italian director Paolo Sorrentino, and tells the semi-autobiographical tale of a young man (Filippo Scotti, standing in for a teenage Sorrentino) grappling with the pressures of growing up in 1980s Naples. As well as referring to the infamous goal scored by Argentine footballer (and Napoli legend) Diego Maradona at the 1986 World Cup, the film's title alludes to a tragic and life-affirming event that forces its protagonist to grow up quicker than he'd otherwise like. To say more risks spoiling The Hand of God 's most tender moments, though the movie's beautiful locations, hypnotic camerawork, and larger-than-life characters ensure it ranks among Sorrentino's best work.

• Watch The Hand of God on Netflix now

• Watch The Hand of God's YouTube trailer

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

Age rating: R Runtime: 94 minutes Main cast: Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Glynn Turman, and Colman Domingo Director: George C. Wolfe RT score: 97%

Based on the play by August Wilson – and despite the gorgeous period set dressing and costume design, it definitely feels very stage-y – Oscar winner Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is a fantastic watch. Viola Davis stars as legendary 'Mother of Blues' Ma Rainey, with the film focusing on one fraught recording session with Ma and her band, and the tension between the musician and her white producers and management. The late Chadwick Boseman ( Black Panther ) stars as Levee, an innovative trumpet player who struggles to find his place in the music scene, amid bandmates who don't always take him seriously. It's a sad but insightful movie that explores how culture is worth protecting and valuing, in a world where it's easily taken and monetized, and the film truly comes to life in its amazing musical sequences.

• Watch Ma Rainey's Black Bottom on Netflix now

• Watch Ma Rainey's Black Bottom's YouTube trailer

Molly's Game

Age rating: R Runtime: 140 minutes Main cast: Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, Jeremy Strong Director: Aaron Sorkin RT score : 81%

I love a movie with witty fast-paced dialogue and Molly's Game has this in spades. It's a trademark of Aaron Sorkin, who has proved to be an expert in creating razor sharp scripts after penning Charlie Wilson's War, Money Ball,   Steve Jobs, The Social Network, A Few Good Men, The West Wing  and  The Trial of the Chicago 7 (just to name a few). For his directorial debut, he couldn't have chosen a more stranger than fiction story than that of the real-life Poker Princess, Molly Bloom. This biopic crime drama is dripping in mystery, suspense and intrigue. It takes you into the world of the most exclusive high rollers from all walks of life, from rock stars and athletes to FBI agents and Russian mafia, and while it's of course dramatized, it does (largely) stay true to what really happened. Don't believe me that this is a great watch? Go on then, call my bluff and find out.

• Watch Molly's Game on Netflix now

• Watch Molly's Game trailer

Beasts of No Nation

Age rating: R Runtime: 137 minutes Main cast: Idris Elba, Abraham Atta, and Kurt Egyiawan Director: Cary Fukunaga RT score : 91%

We won't beat about the bush – Beasts of No Nation is a tough watch. No Time to Die 's Cary Fukunaga directs this harrowing feature, which follows the journey of a young orphan (Abraham Attah) forced into becoming a child soldier by a fierce warlord (Idris Elba) during an unnamed African civil war. An adaptation of Uzodinma Iweala's novel of the same name, Beasts of No Nation is a masterfully-shot story documenting the human cost of conflict, and places the uncomfortable realities of war front and centre. This isn't one to watch with the kids, but sitting through its two-hour narrative is an enlightening, dare-we-say necessary movie experience.

• Watch Beasts of No Nation on Netflix now

• Watch Beasts of No Nation's YouTube trailer

The Power of the Dog

Age rating: R Runtime: 128 minutes Main cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kristen Dunst, Jesse Plemons, and Kodi Smit-McPhee Director: Jane Campion RT score: 94%

It’s safe to say that Jane Campion’s The Power of the Dog was the critical hit – and one of the best Netflix movies – of 2021. Widely praised for its slow-burning psychological drama, it follows the story of a menacing rancher (Benedict Cumberbatch) who doesn’t take kindly to the arrival of his brother’s new wife (Kirsten Dunst) and her son (Kodi Smit-McPhee). Cumberbatch arguably gives a career-best performance as the volatile Phil Burbank here, which undoubtedly made interesting prep for Doctor Strange 2 . It's a slow-burner, but The Power of the Dog is a masterful piece of filmmaking.

• Watch The Power of the Dog on Netflix now

• Watch The Power of the Dog's YouTube trailer

Phantom Thread

Age rating: R Runtime: 130 minutes Main cast: Daniel Day Lewis, Vicky Krieps, Lesley Manville, and Camilla Rutherford Director: Paul Thomas Anderson RT score: 91%

Shortly after Licorice Pizza – director Paul Thomas Anderson's most recent flick – hit 2023's awards circuit, Netflix added his previous film Phantom Thread to its library. This one tells the story of a dressmaker (Daniel Day-Lewis) in 1950s London who falls for a young waitress (Vicky Krieps). That might sound like a potentially boring narrative, but Phantom Thread is actually masterfully-shot. It's also a poignant exploration of what it means to be an artist, combining Oscar-winning costume design with a stunning soundtrack (from Radiohead and frequent Anderson collaborator Johnny Greenwood) to rank among its director's finest work. One of the best Netflix movies, this certainly is.

• Watch Phantom Thread on Netflix now

• Watch Phantom Thread's YouTube trailer

Age rating: R Runtime: 134 minutes Main cast: Yalitza Aparicio, Marina de Tavira, Marco Graf, Fernando Grediaga, and Daniela Demesa Director: Alfonso Cuaron RT score: 96%

An astonishing ode to motherhood in all forms, Roma is the most personal film to date from visionary director Alfonso Cuarón ( Children of Men , Gravity ). On paper, it's is not the easiest sell – a subtitled black and white film about a live-in housekeeper spoken almost entirely in Spanish and the indigenous Mixtec language. But Cuarón's 2018 critical hit is nonetheless riveting from a cinematic standpoint. More a series of vignettes than a traditional three-act story, it examines the life of a Mexico City family in the early 1970s during a time of great social upheaval.

• Watch Roma on Netflix now

• Watch Roma's YouTube trailer

Society of the Snow

Age rating: R Runtime: 145 minutes Main cast: Enzo Vogrincic, Augustin Padella, Esteban Bigliardi, and Simon Hempe Director: J.A. Bayona RT score: 90%

J.A. Bayona’s latest flick – based on real-life events – is a harrowing portrayal of human endurance and how our primal survival instincts assume dominance over our humanity. Society of the Snow tells the tragic story of the 1972 Andes Air Disaster, which saw a Uruguayan rugby team crash-land in the freezing South American mountain range en route to a Chile-based tournament. Trapped in one of the most inhospitable places on Earth, the 16 survivors are forced to take extreme measures in order to stay alive. A heart-breaking and grim tale of human morality, but one that equally shines an earnest, powerful light on surviving against all odds. If you enjoyed Society of the Snow, then check out these five true survival thrillers to watch next.

• Watch Society of the Snow on Netflix now

• Watch Society of the Snow's YouTube trailer

Age rating: R Runtime: 109 minutes Main cast: Florence Pugh, Tom Burke, Niamh Algar, and Elaine Cassidy Director: Sebastien Lelio RT score: 89%

Florence Pugh ( Black Widow , A Good Person ) proved her generational talent yet again in Netflix's unsettling drama-cum-horror The Wonder . Set in the Irish Midlands in 1862, the movie stars Pugh as an English nurse called to observe a young girl (Kíla Lord Cassidy) who remains miraculously alive and well despite not having eaten for four months. As period dramas go, The Wonder is an absorbing and fantastic flick that confirms Pugh's ability to embody every role she plays.

• Watch The Wonder on Netflix now

• Watch The Wonder's YouTube trailer

Best horror movies on Netflix

A quiet place part ii.

Age rating: R Runtime: 97 minutes Main cast: Emily Blunt, Cillian Murphy, Millicent Simmonds, Noah Jupe Director: John Krasinski RT score: 95%

As an impressive follow up, you won't want to miss A Quiet Place Part II. Here, we pick up after the dramatic events of the original movie, once again following Emily Blunt's Evelyn and her children as they fight to survive in a horrible post-apocalyptic landscape that previously killed her husband and one of her sons. The terror is still ever-prevalent here, and John Krasinski proves he's a very good horror director. With lots of tension, scares and atmosphere, I for one am pleased we've got a strong franchise like A Quiet Place to enjoy.

• Watch A Quiet Place Part II on Netflix now

• Watch A Quiet Place Part II YouTube trailer

Age rating: R Runtime: 77 minutes Main cast: Mark Duplass, Patrick Brice Director: Patrick Brice RT score: 91%

I love simple, well executed movies like Creep . With a cast of two people (plus an uncredited role for Duplass' real-life spouse), they've managed to make something truly unsettling. It's also found footage which makes the whole experience feel real and uncomfortable, like you shouldn't be watching this. When a struggling videographer travels to a remote cabin to take on a job, you just know something isn't right. It gets weirder and weirder, and you just can't look away no matter how much you feel you should.

• Watch Creep on Netflix now
• Watch Creep's YouTube trailer

The Fear Street movie trilogy

Age rating: R Runtimes: 107 minutes ( Fear Street 1 ); 110 minutes ( Fear Street 2 ); 114 minutes ( Fear Street 3 ) Main cast: Kiana Madeira, Olivia Welch, Gillian Jacobs, Sadie Sink, Benjamin Flores Jr, Emily Rudd, and Ryan Simpkins Director: Leigh Janiak RT score: 84% ( Fear Street 1 ); 87% ( Fear Street 2 ); 88% ( Fear Street 3 )

Launched in July 2021 as part of a new Netflix horror movie binge watch experiment , the Fear Street movie trilogy looked to recapture the bold and innovative multi-film storytelling formula that other popular horror franchises had seemingly perfected. And, in short, it did. Set across three flicks, the Fear Street series – itself based on R.L. Stine's books of the same name – told the story of a group of 90s-era teens as they attempt to break a curse that's loomed over their town for over 300 years. With lashings of the supernatural and witchcraft, R-rated slasher violence, an intriguing narrative, and more than a few notable faces – Stranger Things ' Sadie Sink and Maya Hawke are among its cast – the Fear Street movies are well worth watching.

• Watch Fear Street Part 1 on Netflix now

• Watch Fear Street Part 1's YouTube trailer

Age rating: TV-14 Runtime: 93 minutes Main cast: Wunmi Mosaku and Sope Dirisu Director: Remi Weekes RT score: 100%

This Weekes-directed movie stars Mosaku ( Loki ) and Dirisu ( Gangs of London ) as Rial and Bol, a refugee couple from South Sudan who struggle to adjust to their new life in the UK. The overriding issue? The duo believe there's an evil supernatural force haunting their council home and the surrounding area. His House might not sound all that thrilling, but you'll want to give it a chance, trust us. Mosaku and Dirisu deliver powerhouse performances in this occasionally terrifying movie that, like Get Out , has plenty of important things to say about cultural and socio-political divides. There's a reason why it holds a perfect 100% RT critical score – it's because it's a darn good film.

• Watch His House on Netflix now

• Watch His House's YouTube trailer

Best romance movies on Netflix

Age rating: R Runtime: 105 minutes Main cast: Glen Powell, Zoey Deutch, Lucy Liu, and Taye Diggs Director: Claire Scanlon RT score: 92%

It's often rare to see a rom-com get such a high Rotten Tomatoes score, but when  Set It Up  was released back in 2016 it became a trailblazer in the world of modern rom-coms, finally bringing life to the dying genre. Now a full-blown Hollywood star, Glen Powell stars as Charlie and Zoey Deutch plays Harper, two exploited assistants who set up their demanding bosses to eliminate the stress of working for them.  Set It Up  is powered by Powell and Deutch's irresistible romantic chemistry, which make it a must-watch in my eyes.

• Watch Set It Up on Netflix now

• Watch the Set It Up trailer on YouTube

To All the Boys I've Loved Before

Age rating: PG-13 Runtime: 100 minutes Main cast: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Anna Cathcart, Israel Broussard, Janel Parrish, Madeleine Arthur and John Corbett Director: Susan Johnson RT score: 96%

To All the Boys I've Loved Before became one of the streamer's "most viewed original films ever with strong repeat viewing" when the first installment of the rom-com franchise landed on Netflix. Based on Jenny Han's book trilogy, To All the Boys I've Loved Before follows teenager Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor) whose unassuming life is upended when her secret love letters are mailed out to every boy she's ever loved. The hit love story refreshed the rom-com genre and developed a cult following with its realistic depiction of teenage life and high school relationships. To All the Boys I've Loved Before is a top tier feel good movie and is one of the best Netflix teen movies with its lovable and relatable characters.

• Watch To All the Boys I've Loved Before on Netflix now

• Watch To All the Boys I've Loved Before's YouTube trailer

Best sci-fi movies on Netflix

Age rating: R Runtime: 100 minutes Main cast: Logan Marshall-Green, Harrison Gilbertson, Betty Gabriel, Melanie Vallejo and Benedict Hardie Director: Leigh Whannell RT score: 88%

Upgrade is something that was desperately needed to refresh streaming action movies. I sorely miss genre-based action thrillers in the mainstream cinema landscape that are visually interesting and build on underlying themes, but Upgrade soon answered my prayers. Saw and Insidious writer Leigh Whannel's polished and tense direction makes this movie inventive yet still manages to tie into the memorable plot. In Upgrade , Grey Trace (Logan Marshall-Green) is left paralyzed in hospital after a deadly mugging which killed his wife. He's offered the chance to walk again by implanting an artificial intelligence chip called STEM and he soon develops superhuman strength. As he seeks revenge on the attackers who ruined his life, he becomes a brutal killing machine with the help of STEM. The cyberpunk action flick is still etched into my mind with its stylish cinematography, dark twists and jaw-dropping action sequences, which makes it definitely worth watching.

• Watch Upgrade on Netflix now

• Watch Upgrade 's trailer on YouTube

Godzilla Minus One

Age rating: PG-13 Runtime: 125 minutes Main cast: Ryûnosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Munetaka Aoki, Hidetaka Yoshioka, and Yuki Yamada Director: Takashi Yamazaki RT score: 98%

Few movies have recently spawned as many “where can I stream it?” questions as Godzilla Minus One . Finally, though, months after the unexpectedly successful film’s theatrical release, Netflix has not only secured its streaming rights, but it also surprisingly dropped the sci-fi horror epic on its platform in early June. A new Japanese entry in Godzilla ’s packed back catalogue, Minus One returns to the iconic kaiju’s roots with a destruction-filled and trauma-inducing tale set in post-war Japan. In it, the island nation desperately wrestles with the titanic monster’s emergence from the deep and subsequently terrifying rampage across the Asian country. Easily one of 2023’s best movies , Godzilla Minus One is a thematically rich, harrowing, and occasionally jaw-dropping spectacle. Read our Godzilla Minus One review to learn more about the first-ever Godzilla flick to win an Oscar. There's also a black and white version of the movie that was released on Netflix on August 1.

• Watch Godzilla Minus One on Netflix now

• Watch Godzilla Minus One's YouTube trailer

Age rating: R Runtime: 121 minutes Main cast: Ahn Seo -hyun, Tilda Swinton, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Giancarlo Espostio Director: Bong Joon-ho RT score: 86%

If you've enjoyed Bong Joon Ho's Oscar Best Picture winner Parasite , you might want to check out his previous movie, Okja , which is still one of the best Netflix movies on the platform. It tells the bizarre tale of a young girl Mija and her best pal, an enormous creature called Okja, whose friendship comes under threat when a nasty CEO (Tilda Swinton) has evil plans for the titular animal. It's a refreshing movie with a nice angle of animal activism – a very different proposition to Parasite , for sure, but one that also demonstrates the director's ability to blend genres.

• Watch Okja on Netflix now

• Watch Okja's YouTube trailer

They Cloned Tyrone

Age rating: R Runtime: 119 minutes Main cast: John Boyega, Jamie Foxx, and Teyonah Parris Director: Juel Taylor RT score: 95%

They Cloned Tyrone is an absolutely brilliant movie. To discuss its plot at length is to spoil its biggest surprises, but here's a brief synopsis to give you a flavor of what to expect: "A series of eerie events thrusts an unlikely trio (Jamie Foxx, John Boyega, and Teyonah Parris) onto the trail of a nefarious government conspiracy in this pulpy mystery caper." We thoroughly enjoyed what it has to offer on multiple levels and our exclusive chat with John Boyega is well worth reading for a peak behind the curtain on its production. Once you're watched it, be sure to read our ending explainer on They Cloned Tyrone for Boyega's thoughts on its surprising ending .

• Watch They Cloned Tyrone on Netflix now

• Watch They Cloned Tyrone's YouTube trailer

Best thriller movies on Netflix

Woman of the hour.

Age rating: R Runtime: 94 minutes Main cast: Anna Kendrick, Daniel Zovatto, Tony Hale, and Nicolette Robinson Director: Anna Kendrick RT score: 90%

Anna Kendrick takes on 'The Dating Game Killer' in her directorial debut Woman of the Hour . The crime thriller is based on a 1978 episode of  The Dating Game  where the seemingly normal Rodney Alcala (Daniel Zovatto) appeared alongside contestant Sheryl Bradshaw (Kendrick). However, Alcala was not the unassuming bachelor he portrayed on TV. In reality, he was actually a serial killer in the midst of a murder spree and went on the show to find his potential next murder victim. As a fan of Kendrick in  Pitch Perfect  and  A Simple Favor, I was interested to see her tackle true crime and it most certainly paid off. The insane creep factor in Woman of the Hour was enough to make the hairs on the back of my neck stand up, and her sharp social commentary on how women are treated in the entertainment industry is a much-needed wake-up call. TechRadar's senior entertainment writer Lucy Buglass revealed that it's the scariest movie she's seen in 2024 so far and it's not even a horror , so what are you waiting for?

• Watch Woman of the Hour on Netflix now

• Watch the Woman of the Hour YouTube trailer

A Simple Favor

Age rating: R Runtime: 117 minutes Main cast: Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Henry Golding, Linda Cardellini, Dustin Milligan, Ava LaFramboise, Rupert Friend, Jean Smart, Ian Ho and Joshua Satine Director: Paul Feig RT score: 84%

If you mix scandal, lies and secrets with a stylish suburban neo-noir then you get the cocktail that is A Simple Favor . Two women are at the center of intrigue in Paul Feig’s mystery thriller when single mother Stephanie (Anna Kendrick) becomes friends with the mysterious Emily (Blake Lively) who suddenly disappears without a trace. When Stephanie goes on a mission to track her down, she stumbles upon something far more sinister than she could ever imagine. Lively is delicious as the scene-stealing femme fatale of Emily whose razor-sharp remarks and brilliantly bizarre behavior is topped off with jaw-dropping outfits and a 1960s French pop soundtrack.

• Watch A Simple Favor on Netflix now

• Watch A Simple Favor's YouTube trailer

Emily the Criminal

Age rating: R Runtime: 97 minutes Main cast: Aubrey Plaza, Theo Rossi, Gina Gershon, Brandon Sklenar, Megalyn Echikunwoke and Jonathan Avigdori Director: John Patton Ford RT score: 94%

Emily the Criminal sees Aubrey Plaza take on the role of Emily, a college graduate who is struggling to find work due to her criminal record. In a desperate bid to make money, she becomes involved in a credit card fraud scheme which swiftly goes off the rails when she becomes romantically involved with the organizer. Plaza expertly embodies the despair that forces Emily to the lowest level of crime and is a gripping story of someone escaping constant turmoil. If you love a crime thriller, Emily the Criminal is a short, sharp movie that will have you hooked for the entire 97 minutes running time with gripping criminal activities.

• Watch Emily the Criminal on Netflix now

• Watch Emily the Criminal's YouTube trailer

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

Age rating: PG-13 Runtime: 141 minutes Main cast: Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monae, Kathryn Hahn, Dave Bautista, Kate Hudson, and Leslie Odom Jr Director: Rian Johnson RT score: 92%

Knives Out wowed fans and critics alike in 2019, so sequels were inevitable. The first of those – Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery – is another elaborate and highly entertaining whodunnit from director Rian Johnson. Buoyed by its excellent ensemble cast and a confidence carried over from its predecessor’s success, Glass Onion is even showier and bolder than Knives Out – though the film proved exceptionally divisive among fans of Benoit Blanc's debut outing upon release.

• Watch Glass Onion on Netflix now

• Watch Glass Onion's YouTube trailer

Age rating: R Runtime: 120 minutes Main cast: Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jeong, Kim Byeong-Ok Director: Park Chan-wook RT score: 83%

Oldboy is a masterpiece that will haunt you long after the final credits roll – seriously, it really will. It's a harrowing story based on Greek mythology that was originally a Japanese manga series in the 90s. Not familiar with the ancient play Oedipus Rex that inspired these modern adaptations (I'll save you 104 minutes by telling you now: skip the 2013 version)? I won't spoil it for you because it makes the twist at the end of the movie much more shocking, but fair warning: this does not have a happy ending. Seen as one of the biggest films to spark the Korean wave in cinema, the movie is iconic in more ways than one. One scene that will forever stick with me is a fight sequence in a hallway that is reported to have taken multiple takes to get the flawless single shot it now is. The infamous scene is said to have inspired the fight choreography in many action films since, making Oldboy a piece of film history.

• Watch Oldboy on Netflix now

• Watch the Oldboy trailer

How we choose the best Netflix movies

To land a place on our list of best Netflix movies, each title doesn't have to be a huge hit on the world's best streaming service (i.e. one of the most-streamed movies in the platform's entire history). Instead, the movie needs to pass two tests: hold an 80% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes (RT) and be personally recommended by one of the members of the TechRadar streaming team.

Our team of writers include Matthew Bolton, Amelia Schwanke, Tom Power, Lucy Buglass and Grace Morris, who all write and watch movies every day. We have varying views of what makes a good movie, which means our personal tastes cover a wide-range of genres and even sub-genres like psychological thrillers, action adventures, superhero spectacles, supernatural horrors and romantic dramas.

Together, we use this criteria and our cinephile expertise to help inform which films we pick to be the best Netflix movies. There are thousands of movies to stream on Netflix and this changes every month with new arrivals and removals, so this is by no means an exhaustive list. Instead, make sure to check back in with us every month to see which new entries we add.

For more Netflix coverage, read our best Netflix documentaries and best Netflix shows guides. Yet to subscribe to the streaming giant? Read our guide on how to sign up to Netflix , too. Or, you're fed up of the recent price hikes, see whether you should cancel Netflix instead.

As TechRadar's senior entertainment reporter, Tom covers all of the latest movies, TV shows, and streaming service news that you need to know about. You'll regularly find him writing about the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and many other topics of interest.

An NCTJ-accredited journalist, Tom also writes reviews, analytical articles, opinion pieces, and interview-led features on the biggest franchises, actors, directors and other industry leaders. You may see his quotes pop up in the odd official Marvel Studios video, too, such as this Moon Knight TV spot .

Away from work, Tom can be found checking out the latest video games, immersing himself in his favorite sporting pastime of football, reading the many unread books on his shelf, staying fit at the gym, and petting every dog he comes across. Got a scoop, interesting story, or an intriguing angle on the latest news in entertainment? Feel free to drop him a line.

• Matthew Bolton
• Amelia Schwanke Senior Editor UK, Home Entertainment
• Axel Metz Phones Editor
• Grace Morris Entertainment Writer
• Lucy Buglass Senior Entertainment Writer

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47 best Netflix movies in 2025

The best movies on Netflix for your streaming pleasure

• New Additions

Science fiction

Documentaries, family movies.

With the best Netflix movies, you may never have to leave the house. They'll provide hundreds of hours of entertainment, whether you're in the mood for action, comedy, thrills, romance, or education. 

Netflix original films can be hit or miss. On the one hand, they've got Oscar nominees like "Maestro"; on the other, well, check out movies like "Rebel Moon" but better . 

Fortunately, the streaming service is still constantly adding licensed movies. You can find everything from newer hits to older classics.

The best movies on Netflix to stream now

New additions to best netflix movies, 'the whale'.

Charlie (Brendan Fraser) is a reclusive 600-pound English teacher who conducts his classes online. While teaching, he keeps his camera off to hide his appearance. After the death of his male partner, Charlie turned to compulsive eating as a way to cope with grief and guilt, and is seeing his health rapidly deteriorate. In the middle of it all, he attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter Ellie (Sadie Sink), whom he abandoned years ago when he left her mother for his partner. Through difficult and encounters with Ellie and others in his life, Charlie struggles to find redemption and meaning in his final days as he comes to term with where his life has brought him.

Genre:  Drama Rotten Tomatoes score:  64% Stars:  Brendan Fraser, Sadie Sink Director:  Darren Aronofsky Watch now

'Will & Harper'

Will Ferrell and his close friend, former "SNL" head writer Harper Steele, travel across America as Harper, who transitioned during the pandemic, reintroduces herself. She revisits the small-town Americana destinations she once felt at home in with Ferrell by her side as a supportive companion, seeing her old stomping grounds through new eyes. This heartwarming road trip also includes cameos from comedy royalty and plenty of hilarious moments, but it also explores difficult themes while examining Will and Harper's enduring friendship. It's the type of movie that should put a smile on everyone's face, and it'll leave you wishing you had a great friend like Harper, too. 

Genre:  Documentary Rotten Tomatoes score:  99% Stars:  Will Ferrell, Harper Steele Director:  Josh Greenbaum   Watch now

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'Rebel Ridge'

Former Marine Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre) finds himself entangled in a web of corruption after he arrives in the small town of Shelby Springs. While on his way to help his cousin post bail, he's soon finds his bank account and assets seized and his life thrown into shambles. He goes toe to toe with the local law enforcement, which ends up finding him forced to delve into a small-town conspiracy with a mysterious background. In the end, he'll have to take down police chief Burnne (Don Johnson) if he wants the town to ever go back to the thriving community it once was – or to free his cousin. 

Genre:  Action Rotten Tomatoes score:  95% Stars:  Aaron Pierre, Don Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, David Denman Director:  Jeremy Saulnier   Watch now

'Wicked Little Letters' 

"Wicked Little Letters" follows Rose Gooding (Olivia Colman), an Irish immigrant, and her former friend, Edith Swan (Jessie Buckley), after Edith accuses Rose of sending her a series of expletive-filled letters. Rose denies writing the messages, while Edith remains convinced Rose sent them,. Edith can hardly imagine anyone else harboring resentment towards her, especially after Edith reported Rose to child protective services. The scandal ignites a firestorm in their close-knit community, leading to a trial that threatens to tear the town apart. It's a tense back-and-forth row between the women that blows up into something else entirely, but in the end it all comes down to examining how far one will go to protect their reputation. 

Genre:  Black comedy Rotten Tomatoes score:  80% Stars:  Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley, Anjana Vasan, Joanna Scanlan Director:  Thea Sharrock Watch now

Lola (Nicola Peltz Beckham) works hard to to save enough money to rescue her younger brother Arlo (Luke David Blumm), from their toxic and oppressive home life and their mother Mona (Virginia Madsen). Driven by her desire to provide him with the opportunities she never had, Lola's focuses on securing a better future for her brother. But when a tragic event shatters Lola's world, her world is upended forever. As Lola navigates the aftermath, she reflects on the impact that the people around her have had on her life on identity.

Genre:  Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 56 % Stars:  Nicola Peltz Beckham, Raven Goodwin, Richie Merritt Director:  Nicola Peltz Beckham Watch now

"Goyo" follows an autistic man (Nicolás Furtado) who finds comfort and meaning in his role as a museum guide. With a profound appreciation for the masterpieces of Vincent Van Gogh, Goyo has enjoys a stable and familiar existence with a familiar routine. His world is soon shaken by newly-hired security guard Eva (portrayed by Nancy Dupláa), who finds herself falling for Goyo and his uncomplicated ways. While they become fast friends, there's a spark between them that rapidly grows until it's consumed the pair in the familiar flames of romance. 

Genre: Romance Rotten Tomatoes score: 83% Stars: Nicolás Furtado, Nancy Dupláa, Pablo Rago Director: Marcos Carnevale Watch now

'Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F'

In the latest installment of the "Beverly Hills Cop" series, Eddie Murphy reprises his role as detective Axel Foley, returning to the franchise after over 20 years. Foley is drawn back into the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills when his daughter's safety is threatened by unknown assailants. Determined to keep his daughter out of harm's way, Foley must team up with an unlikely ally – his daughter's ex-boyfriend (Joseph Gordon-Levitt). He also seeks the help of some old acquaintances to get to the bottom of a conspiracy affecting the entire city, resulting in some knock-down, drag-out action scenes straight out of the '80s.

Genre: Action Rotten Tomatoes score: 78% Stars: Eddie Murphy, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Taylour Paige Director: Mark Molloy Watch now

Sophie (Frankie Corio/Celia Rowlson-Hall) is a young woman who looks back on a significant vacation she shared with her father, Calum (Paul Mescal), two decades earlier at a once-vibrant but now deteriorating holiday resort. As Sophie delves into her memories, she focuses on the precious moments spent with her father when she was just 11. Simultaneously, Calum grapples with the challenges of life beyond his role as a father now as he struggles with the cornucopia of issues plaguing him throughout his adult life. 

Genre: Coming of age/Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 96% Stars: Paul Mescal, Frankie Corio, Celia Rowlson-Hall Director: Charlotte Wells Watch now

Gary Johnson (Glen Powell) is a seemingly ordinary man who finds himself entangled in a web of deception when he pretends to be a professional hit man. Madison (Adria Arjona) is a woman with secrets of her own who enlists Gary's services. As their paths intertwine, the chemistry between them is undeniable, and a romantic connection begins to develop. However, their budding relationship is soon put to the test as layers of lies and deceit threaten to unravel the truth. It turns out no one has been telling the complete truth about themselves, after all. 

Genre: Comedy/Action Rotten Tomatoes score: 96% Stars: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Retta Director: Richard Linklater  Watch now

'Godzilla Minus One'

"Godzilla Minus One" takes us back in time to postwar Japan for a thrilling mixture of emotional drama and destructive action. Chiefly, it follows kamikaze pilot Kōichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki) who struggles with guilt both over his military abandonment and his failure to fight during an earlier encounter with the giant lizard. 

On his return home, he takes in and starts to build a connection with homeless woman Noriko Ōishi (Minami Hamabe) and an orphaned baby. When Godzilla looms over an already-devastated Tokyo, Shikishima links up with a group of veterans who are determined to stop the monster in its tracks.

Genre: Action/Sci-fi Rotten Tomatoes score: 98% Stars: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, Director: Takashi Yamazaki Watch now

'May December'

Elizabeth Berry (Natalie Portman) visits a couple known for their widely publicized, controversial age-gap romance. Berry's role in the movie is to portray Gracie Atherton-Yoo (Julianne Moore), who ends up marrying the same man she was involved with in her 30s when he was only 13, now twenty years later. As Berry delves into the dynamics between Gracie and her husband Joe (Charles Melton), she discovers the frailties in their marriage. This journey uncovers a trove of long-buried secrets that threaten to break the couple apart.

Genre: Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 90% Stars: Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, Charles Melton Director: Todd Haynes Watch now

'The Squid and the Whale' (2005) 

Noah Baumbach, the indie director who was also half of the writing team that just blessed us with Barbie, made his name with movies like The Squid and The Whale. Here, we see a family on the verge of collapse. Frustrated father Bernard (Jeff Daniels) can't get his books published anymore, while wife Joan (Laura Linney) has been unfaithful and successful. 

All of this finds its way to their sons (Owen Kline and Jesse Eisenberg), who have a very hard time adjusting to everything. A fantastic small story that gets all of its emotional beats perfect, The Squid and the Whale is still a great watch.

Genre: Family drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 92% Stars: Jeff Daniels, Laura Linney, Jesse Eisenberg, Owen Kline Watch now

'All Quiet on the Western Front' (2022)

Netflix's 2022 version of All Quiet on The Western Front does the improbable: it actually earns a space alongside the 1930 original film.  For those unfamiliar, the movie tracks 17-year-old Paul Bäumer (Kammerer), who is compelled to enlist to serve in the Imperial German Army for the First World War. He enters the battlefield with a mind filled with propaganda but soon realizes his dreams of being an iconic hero reached too far. A tough and emotionally gripping movie that will make you uncomfortable and compelled to keep watching. It's one of the best Oscar movies to stream online with 90% or higher on Rotten Tomatoes .

Genre: War Rotten Tomatoes score: 91% Stars: Daniel Brühl, Felix Kammerer, Albrecht Schuch, Aaron Hilmer Director: Edward Berger Watch now

'Marriage Story' (2019)

Director/writer Noah Baumbach is continuing to improve as he matures, as evidenced by his latest feature: "Marriage Story", released both in theaters and on Netflix. While Baumbach has fared well in fractured family tales before, this film stands out for deftly telling both sides of the chaotic divorce at its core. Of course, that would mean little without strong acting, and the leading performances of Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver make the emotional trauma real for all watching. In short: watch to understand the meme of the film's stars arguing, keep watching to engage with one of the best Netflix movies.

Genre: Romantic drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 97% Stars: Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson, Laura Dern Director: Noah Baumbach Watch now

The Irishman (2019)

Forget all of the Scorsese vs comic book movies debate, the only drama you need to know about in this conversation is how good the famed director's latest film, The Irishman, is. One of the best movies on Netflix is long enough to be broken into  4 digestible 'episodes'  that are about 52 minutes each. And this crime thriller utilizes each and every moment to build suspenseful situations for Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci and Al Pacino, with the latter portraying Jimmy Hoffa, a good friend of De Niro's character.

Genre: Crime drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 97% Stars: Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Al Pacino Director: Martin Scorsese Watch now

El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019)

Breaking Bad fans have had it good. First, they got a prequel in the series Better Call Saul. Then, they got a sequel in this one-off movie, which follows Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) after the events of the Breaking Bad series finale. Last we saw Jesse, he was driving off after being held captive. But breaking free is just the first step in a fraught journey for Jesse, who has to figure out how to leave his life behind and start over. Does this movie need to exist? No, but it's deeply satisfying to hang out with Jesse again and to see so many Breaking Bad cameos. 

Genre: Crime/Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 91% Stars: Aaron Paul, Jesse Plemons, Bryan Cranston Director: Vince Gilligan Watch now

The Power of the Dog (2021)

An adaptation of Thomas Savage's novel of the same name, The Power of The Dog is another film that Netflix can use to say "we're not all Adam Sandler comedies and big action movies." An intense western set in 1925 Montana, the film is focused on two ranch-owning brothers: Phil (Benedict Cumberbatch) and George (Jesse Plemons). George marries Rose (Kirsten Dunst) who has sent her son Peter (Kodi Smith-McPhee) to college to study medicine. 

Unfortunately, Phil's the mean-spirited and cruel type, and he loves to be meant to Rose and Peter. Stellar performances from the whole cast are heightened by the film's gorgeous beauty and a phenomenal score from Johny Greenwood (whose also composed for The Phantom Thread, among others). It's one of Netflix's latest Oscar-nominated movies .

Genre: Western/Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 96% Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Kodi Smit-McPhee Director: Jane Campion Watch now

Roma (2018)

This beautifully-shot black-and-white film gives director Alfonso Cuarón a chance to show a slice of his past. Taking place in Mexico City in the early 1970s, Roma focuses on an indigenous woman who serves a white family, as they all fight to survive calamity after calamity. From betrayals to natural disasters, Roma throws the kitchen sink at this family, and then tacks on the Corpus Christi Massacre of 1971. Emotionally harrowing, this Academy Award-nominated film (and one of the best dramas on Netflix ) demands you watch with tissues or some other coping mechanism.

Genre: Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 96% Stars: Yalitza Aparicio, Marina de Tavira Director: Alfonso Cuaron Watch now

Mudbound (2017)

Black soldiers have fought alongside white soldiers for America in many wars, but come home only to find they have to fight for their lives in a different way. That's the message of Dee Rees' powerful drama, set after World War II. White soldier Jamie McAllen (Garrett Hedlund) and black soldier Ronsel Jackson (Jason Mitchell) return to their small Mississippi town. Jamie's brother owns a struggling farm, where Ronsel's parents work as tenants. The two former soldiers begin to build a friendship, but the racist attitudes of Jamie's family and the community lead to a devastating confrontation.

Genre: Historical drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 97% Stars: Carey Mulligan, Jason Clarke, Mary J. Blige Director: Dee Rees Watch now

The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)

The Coen Brothers do it again, with a sumptuous short story slab of Western storytelling. Starring a whole host of A-list actors, and James Franco, the anthology has been nominated for three Academy awards and is a movie that wriggles through both comedy and blood-speckled violence seamlessly. Yes, it’s a satire on Westerns, and yes there’s plenty of Coen-esque characters involved, but beneath the pastiche this is a love letter that tips a cowboy hat to the movies of old. — Marc Chacksfield

Genre: Western drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 91% Stars: Tim Blake Nelson, James Franco, Liam Neeson, Zoe Kazan Director: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen Watch now

Tigertail (2020)

A delicate, elegant love story that spans continents and decades, Tigertail comes from writer/director Alan Yang, an Emmy winner and co-creator of Master of None. Pin-Jui is a poor young man from Huwei ("tiger tail") who falls for a wealthy girl, Yuan Lee, but ends up losing touch with her. Pin-Jui jumps on an opportunity to go to America, but years of grueling work leave him a shell of himself and unable to connect with his daughter. When a chance to revisit the past comes along, he takes it, hoping to change his life into the one he always wanted.

Genre: Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 79% Stars: Hong-Chi Lee, Tzi Ma, Christine Ko Director: Alan Yang Watch now

Beasts of No Nation (2015)

Cary Joji Fukunaga directed Beasts of No Nation: a wartime drama based on the 2005 novel by Uzodinma Iweala. In a fictional African country, a war breaks out, which separates the young Agu (Abraham Attah) from his family. Now, he must navigate the war-torn country, evading hostile militia forces and coming face-to-face with senseless violence. This one's not just one of the best movies on Netflix but an original to boot.

Genre: War drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 92% Stars: Idris Elba, Abraham Attah Director: Cary Joji Fukunaga Watch now

The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)

Writer/director Aaron Sorkin brings his signature rapid-fire, sharp and witty dialogue to this story of the 1969 trial of seven people charged by the federal government with conspiracy and more, arising from the protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The star-studded cast is more than up to the task of delivering Sorkin's words. 

Genre: Historical drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 91% Stars: Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jeremy Strong Director: Aaron Sorkin Watch now

Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Spike Lee's newest joint wasn't intended to be so timely, but then again, the director has always been ahead of his time in speaking to the truths that underpin our society. The story follows four African-American Vietnam veterans who reunite in Ho Chi Minh to retrieve the remains of their fallen squad leader Stormin' Norman (the late Chadwick Boseman). All of them — Eddie (Norm Lewis) Melvin (Isiah Whitlock Jr.), Otis (Clarke Peters) and Paul (Delroy Lindo) — are struggling with personal issues as well as memories of their time in Vietnam.

Genre: War drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 92% Stars: Delroy Lindo, Chadwick Boseman, Clarke Peters, Isiah Whitlock Jr. Director: Spike Lee Watch now

'The Peanut Butter Falcon'

When a young man with Down syndrome named Zak (Zack Gottsagen), he meets an outlaw fisherman named Tyler (Shia LaBeouf) who's on the run. Zak wants nothing more than to meet his hero, the Salt Water Redneck, so Tyler accompanies him on a trip to North Carolina to attend the Redneck's wrestling training school. All the way, care facility representative Eleanor (Dakota Johnson) trails the pair until she finds herself joining them on their quest, having learned that Zak's future at his home facility is a bleak one. 

Genre: Comedy/drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 95% Stars: Shia LaBeouf, Dakota Johnson, John Hawkes, Zack Gottsagen Director: Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz Watch now

'Leave the World Behind'

This thriller, based on Rumaan Alam's novel of the same name, follows a family on a getaway who find themselves in the middle of a world in chaos. While vacationing at an idyllic home in the middle of nowhere, a cyberattack destroys society as we know it. A cautionary tale of overreliance on technology and a terrifying vision of a different kind of apocalypse, this Netflix original is a big budget picture of what our future could look like should social order crumble in many of the same ways around us.   Genre:  Apocalyptic psychological thriller Rotten Tomatoes score:  74% Stars:  Julia Roberts, Ethan Hawke, Mahershala Ali, Kevin Bacon Director:  Sam Esmail Watch now

They Cloned Tyrone (2023)

Fontaine (John Boyega) sells drugs, Slick Charles (Jamie Foxx) is a pimp and Yo-Yo (Teyonah Parris) is a sex worker. And while this trio may come off as caricaturish in a bad way if you only read that above sentence and watched They Cloned Tyrone's trailer expecting the worst, Netflix's managed to release a gem of a movie.

And it all starts with a big twist that you might have ruined for you (as it was for me) when you read a review. Instead, just take my word that Netflix's created a stellar modern Blaxploitation movie that deals with government surveillance. And its trio of leads all deliver to make it a must-see. 

Genre: Sci-fi comedy thriller Rotten Tomatoes score: 91% Stars: John Boyega, Jamie Foxx, Teyonah Parris, Kiefer Sutherland, David Alan Grier Directors: Juel Taylor Watch now

Missing (2023)

June (Storm Reid) was going to have the weekend most teen dream of. The plan was simple, throw a rager of a house party while her mother Grace (Nia Long) was on vacation with her new boyfriend Kevin (Ken Leung). The only problem? Mom didn't come home.

Missing, told through the screens and cameras of everyone tied to Grace's disappearance, is an inventive mystery. And in a very 2023 twist, June hires Javier (Joaquim de Almeida), a gig economy worker in Colombia to help track her mother down. Filled with the twists and turns, Missing will leave you hanging on every click and yelp.

Genre: Mystery/Thriller Rotten Tomatoes score: 87% Stars: Storm Reid, Joaquim de Almeida, Ken Leung, Nia Long, Daniel Henney, Amy Landecker, Megan Suri, Tim Griffin Directors: Will Merrick, Nicholas D. Johnson Watch now

Do Revenge (2022)

At Miami's elite Rosehill Country Day High School, Drea's (Camila Mendes) picture-perfect life shatters when an intimate video with her boyfriend goes viral. Ostracized and humiliated, she forms an unlikely alliance with Eleanor (Maya Hawke), the mysterious new girl at school. Together, they plan to take their revenge on those who wronged them. But as Drea enlists Eleanor to be her eyes and ears to strike back against her boyfriend, she soon finds that things aren't exactly what they seem. Though it seems Drea and Eleanor have formed the foundation of an unshakeable friendship, old habits die hard and it soon comes to light that Eleanor may be hiding more than she's letting on. - BV

Genre: Comedy Rotten Tomatoes score: 84% Stars: Camila Mendes, Maya Hawke, Austin Abrams Director: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson Watch now  

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery may not be streaming on Netflix this minute, but having paid to see it in theaters, I can give it a strong recommendation. In fact, I think you should see this film on Netflix, rather than spend time and money to see Benoit Blanc's latest mystery in theaters. This sequel finds the southern sleuth on a private island in Greece where a wealthy tech mogul is pretending to get killed to set up a murder mystery for his friends, a group of influencers who call themselves disruptors. Funny, engaging and serpentine in its mystery, Glass Onion is the latest piece of proof that director Rian Johnson can do no wrong.

Genre: Comedic noir Rotten Tomatoes score: 93% Stars: Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Dave Bautista, Janelle Monae, Kate Hudson, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr. Director: Rian Johnson Watch now

Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020)

If you're in the mood for a deeply silly but also truly heartwarming comedy, Eurovision is a great choice. It fits right in with the other movies in Will Ferrell's ouvre, like Blades of Glory and Anchorman. He plays Lars, an Icelandic man-child who's obsessed with the Eurovision Song Contest (which is a real thing!). Along for the ride is his childhood friend Sigrit (Rachel McAdams). When they finally get the chance to compete, will Lars' single-minded focus on winning ruin his relationship with Sigrit?

Genre: Comedy and musical Rotten Tomatoes score: 64% Stars: Will Ferrell, Rachel McAdams, Dan Stevens, Pierce Brosnan Director: David Dobkin Watch now

Dolemite Is My Name (2019)

A strong example of a veteran actor who's "still got it," "Dolemite Is My Name" stars Eddie Murphy as Rudy Ray Moore, the comedian who became the iconic blaxploitation character Dolemite. But while Murphy owns the film outright, we get another actor coming out from the shadows to wow us, with Wesley Snipes stealing scenes as D'Urville Martin, the director who Moore clashes with. But while the film is stocked to the brim with great actors (including Keegan-Michael Key, Craig Robinson and Tituss Burgess), this is still Murphy's film. This is one of the best movies on Netflix overall.

Genre: Dramatic comedy Rotten Tomatoes score: 97% Stars: Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Da'Vine Joy Randolph Director: Craig Brewer Watch now

If you want to browse more of our favorite funny films and shows, we've listed even more of the best comedies on Netflix to keep the laughs coming.

Troll (2022)

Professor Nora Tidemann (Ine Marie Wilmann) is a paleontologist with trolls etched in her memory from childhood. When mysterious eruptions and unusual footprints draw attention to the mountains of Dovre, Tidemann has to investigate. Assisted by father Tobias (Gard B. Eidsvod), a disgraced professor, military Captain Kris Holm (Mads Sjøgård Pettersen), and government advisor Andreas Isaksan (Kim Falck), Nora races against time, seeking answers to a number of riddles from the past. Soon a troll awakens, threatening Oslo with a complete evacuation and an impending nuclear strike to get rid of it once and for all. Nora has to make a difficult decision if she wants to save the creature's life or the lives of Norway's citizens. 

Genre: Monster, Action/Adventure Rotten Tomatoes score: 89% Stars: Ine Marie Wilmann, Kim Falck, Mads  Sjøgård Pettersen Director: Roar Uthaug Watch now

You know you're in for a wild ride when a director describes his own film as being about "imaginary friendship between two superheroes." And that's exactly how S.S. Rajamouli described his amazing epic film RRR, which focuses on two Indian folk heroes working together to fight British Colonialists in the 1920's. It all starts when an evil colonialist steals a girl after tricking her family into a "sale" they didn't know was happening. RRR, which feels part Fast & Furious and part Step Brothers, is a joyous epic film that we bet the MCU will be copying in upcoming Marvel movies for years to come.

Genre: Drama/Action Rotten Tomatoes score: 89% Stars: N.T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Ajay Devgan, Alia Bhatt, Shriya Saran Director: S.S. Rajamouli Watch now

The Old Guard (2020)

Just when we thought summer would pass by without a blockbuster movie, we get a thrilling, action-packed treat in The Old Guard. Four immortal warriors, led by the ancient and badass Andy (Charlize Theron), have been helping humanity for centuries. When their secret is exposed to a ruthless CEO, Andy and new recruit Nile (KiKi Layne) team up to prevent him from using them as money-making lab rats. The movie puts a fresh spin on the superhero saga — more philosophical, thoughtful and emotional than most entries in the genre. And more progressive, with a deeply romantic same-sex pairing. All of that has us clamoring for The Old Guard 2 . Get with the undying program, Netflix!

Genre: Action and fantasy Rotten Tomatoes score: 82% Stars: Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Marwan Kenzari, Chiwetel Ejiofor Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood Watch now

If you want to browse more of our favorite action movies, we've listed even more of the best action movies on Netflix to keep you entertained.

Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018)

Those video games you love don't make themselves, as you seen in Bandersnatch, which highlights the hazards of overworked employees. Since this is a Black Mirror film, though, everything goes crazy as the audience is given the ability to direct the protagonist's actions, turning the movie into a choose-your-own-adventure experience. The many forking twists of the film mean that its advertised 90 minute run time can stretch to 150 minutes, if you find all of its endings and story points.

Genre: Interactive sci-fi drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 72% Stars: Fionn Whitehead, Will Poulter, Craig Parkinson Director: David Slade Watch now

For more of our favorite sci-fi movies, we've listed even more of the best sci-fi movies on Netflix so you can delve into wilder adventures.

Victim/Suspect (2023)

While much of Netflix's documentaries look back at famous true crime stories of note, Victim/Suspect takes on a more important topic. Journalist Rae deLeon is investigating how rape cases are prosecuted by police officers, and how the accusers can be turned into the accused by the criminal justice system.

Both a damning indictment of the police and proof of the value of investigative journalism, Victim/Suspect is proof that Netflix is still giving a platform for important stories.

Genre: Documentary Rotten Tomatoes score: 82% Stars: Rae deLeon, Amanda Pike Director: Nancy Schwartzman Watch now

13th (2016)

A Netflix original, 13th, directed by Ava DuVernay, is an in-depth look at the prison system. She examines the intersection of racism and mass incarceration in the United States. The film is named for the Thirteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which prohibited slavery and freed the slaves. Public figures like Angela Davis, Van Jones and Cory Booker make captivating appearances.

Genre: Documentary Rotten Tomatoes score: 97% Stars: Angela Davis, Cory Booker, Henry Louis Gates Director: Ava DuVernay Watch now

The Tinder Swindler (2022)

The last few years or so have seen rise to the era of scammer documentaries and shows based on con artists-turned-celebrities. One of Netflix's most successful documentaries on the topic is The Tinder Swindler, which opened eyes about how wild the art of catfishing can get. While some lie on Tinder to lure someone into the bedroom, Simon Leviev swiped right to trick people into giving him millions of dollars in help he supposedly needed. At just under two hours, this smartly-paced documentary is a cinematic page-turner, and may be the best version of its genre to date.

Genre:  Documentary Rotten Tomatoes score:  97% Watch now

Descendant (2022)

Netflix's documentaries are mostly known for the true crime stories, and while Descendant is technically one of those, it's far from the cold case stories that chart on the streaming service. One of the best Netflix movies in years, this film tells the untold story of the Clotilda, the last known ship to smuggle stolen Africans to America — through the descendants of its captive passengers. Currently, they live in a region known as Africatown (found near Mobile, Alabama), and this film shows their fight to keep their communal story from being forgotten. Hidden after the Clotilda was burned and sunk to destroy evidence of this all even happening, the stories out of Africatown are as important as any Netflix has told.

Genre: Documentary Rotten Tomatoes score: 100% Director: Margaret Brown Watch now

What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015)

Nina Simone was a celebrated singer who did as much for the world of music as she did for the perception of black singers in the United States. Liz Garbus directed this documentary about Simone's life, working with Lisa Simone Kelly, Nina's daughter, as the executive producer. in addition to being on our best Netflix movies list, the film has already been showered with awards, praising its accuracy and quality.

Genre: Music documentary Rotten Tomatoes score: 89% Stars: Nina Simone Director: Liz Garbus Watch now

For more of our favorite documentaries on the big red streaming machine, check out our guide to the best Netflix documentaries so you can delve into wilder adventures.

The Wailing (2016)

In the quiet of the South Korean the village of Gokseong becomes the backdrop for a mysterious infection and multiple murders. Officer Jong-goo (Kwak Do-won) faces a macabre puzzle that finds him trapped in a web woven by a Japanese stranger whose arrival in the village heralds a wave of inexplicable. As Jong-goo investigates, he meets Moo-myeong (Chun Woo-hee), an enigmatic woman in white. When Jong-goo's own daughter falls ill, he must figure out a way to get to the bottom of the killings and all the illnesses plaguing Gokseong, even at the cost of his own life, to save his daughter's. - BV

Genre: Horror Rotten Tomatoes score: 99% Stars: Kwak Do-won, Hwang Jung-min, Jun Kunimura Director: Na Hong-jin Watch now

For more of our favorite scary movies, check out our guide to the best horror movies on Netflix so you can keep the screams going.

'The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar'

This short but sweet adaptation of the Roald Dahl story of the same name is an Oscar winner. It follows a gambling-addicted wealthy man who decides to stop relying so much on his riches and more on his senses. He spends years learning to see without his eyes and use his hands instead — all to cheat at poker. He decides to give the money to charity after attaining the impressive feat and travels the world hitting up casinos to win more money and contribute more cash to hospitals and orphanages to build up some of the best around the globe ahead of his untimely death. - BV

Genre: Drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 96% Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch, Ralph Fiennes, Dev Patel Director: Wes Anderson Watch now  

'Marcel the Shell With Shoes On'

This adorable and charming mockumentary dramedy about a one-inch-tall shell named Marcel is a feature adaptation of Dean Fleischer Camp's shorts, which he co-wrote with voice star Jenny Slate. Marcel lives with his grandmother Connie and their pet lint, Alan. They were once part of a sprawling community of shells but now have a lonely existence. When a documentary filmmaker discovers them in his Airbnb, he posts a video that earns Marcel fame and fans — and hope of finding his long-lost family. - KW

Genre: Drama/comedy Rotten Tomatoes score: 98% Stars: Jenny Slate, Rosa Salazar, Thomas Mann Director: Dean Fleischer Camp' Watch now  

Nimona (2023)

Knight Ballister Boldheart (Riz Ahmed) stands falsely accused and cornered, with only Nimona (Chloë Grace Moretz) by his side. She's a rebellious teenager whose unpredictable shapeshifting powers seem much more trouble than they're worth until she learns to use them for the right cause. While Ballister is determined to restore his honor, Nimona seems much more interested in sowing discord wherever she goes. This somewhat dysfunctional duo go on some serious misadventures from kidnapping someone involved in Ballister's situation to investigating Nimona's true origins. It's equal parts heartwarming and chaotic, but all memorable. - BV

Genre: Animation/Family Rotten Tomatoes score: 94% Stars: Chloë Grace Moretz, Riz Ahmed, Eugene Lee Yang Director: Nick Bruno, Troy Quane Watch now

Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood (2022)

Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood is one of those great family-friendly movies that also just a great movie in general. And when you see its animation style and take note of all the emotion conveyed, you won't be surprised to hear that this is a Richard Linklater (Waking Life, A Scanner Darkly, Slacker) joint. And this time, he's brought his lens and charm to the summer of 1969, as the first moon landing captivated the world. Oh, and it's narrated by Jack Black. 

Genre: Adventure/coming of age Rotten Tomatoes score: 92% Stars: Jack Black, Bill Wise, Lee Eddy, Milo Coy, Director: Richard Linklater Watch now

The Mitchells vs. The Machines (2021)

The Mitchells vs. The Machines is one of our picks for the best family movies on Netflix , and it's good enough for a slot in our main list. Not only does this animated movie about a family during a robot uprising offer a great cast that parents and kids will both love (including Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph and Olivia Colman), but it looks amazing too.

And that's only what we expect from Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the team behind the amazing Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. And that's the kind of movie that set a great standard for what an animated movie should be. Throughout, you've got a good story, with the Mitchells trying to reconnect for one last time before daughter Katie goes off to film school.

Genre: Animated comedy/adventure Rotten Tomatoes score: 97% Stars: Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, Eric Andre and Olivia Colman Director: Mike Rianda Watch now

If you want to browse more of our favorite animated films, we've listed even more of the best family movies on Netflix for your next movie night.

The Lovebirds (2020)

The Lovebirds got mixed reviews, as you can see from the low Rotten Tomatoes score, but we found it to be a funny, delightful romp showcasing two of our favorite actors. Issa Rae (Insecure) and Kumail Nanjiani (Silicon Valley, The Big Sick) combine their comedic talents, playing a couple who are on the verge of breaking up when they get unintentionally embroiled in a murder mystery. The plot definitely defies logic, but honestly, who cares? Watching the two leads bicker, freak out, get kicked by a horse and dress up in ridiculous outfits is  worth it.

Genre: Romantic comedy Rotten Tomatoes score: 66% Stars: Kumail Nanjiani, Issa Rae Director: Michael Showalter Watch now

To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

Netflix may be single-handedly reviving the romantic comedy genre, thanks to charming and winning films like To All the Boys I've Loved Before. Yes, it's a teen flick, but the story and performances appeal to adults, too, making it one of the best romantic comedies on Netflix . Lana Condor stars as Lara Jean Covey, a high school girl whose previously non-existent love life spirals out of control  when the letters she wrote to her crushes are mailed out. When popular jock Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo) receives one, he hatches a plan with Lara Jean to solve their respective romantic problems by pretending to be a couple. But in true rom-com fashion, they start to catch feelings for each other.  — Kelly Woo

Genre: Young adult romance drama Rotten Tomatoes score: 97% Stars: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo Director: Susan Johnson Watch now

How we pick the best Netflix movies

Deciding what movies make this list, and which don't is a two step process that usually repeats itself. We watch as many Netflix movies as we can, and then we debate the quality of them.

This is why we keep looking through what's been added to Netflix to see what to add here, because Netflix is still one of the best streaming services because stays true to its core competency of offering high-quality films that it didn't make. (You can also check out Netflix's secret codes that can unlock new categories for you). 

• The best Netflix comedies • The best family movies on Netflix • The best horror movies on Netflix • The best Netflix documentaries • The best Netflix anime movies and shows • The best Netflix sci-fi movies

Looking to the future, the big list of new Netflix movies for 2023 is stacked with stars. And as for the immediate future: Netflix’s password sharing crackdown isn't even here in the U.S., but its first mistake led to even more confusion.

And if you run out of titles, try the best movies on Amazon Prime Video , the best Hulu movies and the best Peacock movies next.

You'll also want to check out guide to the best Netflix shows for more ways to make the most of your Netflix account.

How to access blocked movies on Netflix

Wherever you are in the world, Netflix offers a huge range of top-quality movies like the ones we’ve listed above. However, due to something called geo-blocking, you may find that your favorite flick isn’t available. This is especially noticeable if you’ve traveled abroad – a film you had your eye on back at home may well now not be available.

The easiest way around this is to use a Netflix VPN . By using a VPN to change your virtual location, you can trick Netflix into showing you that country’s catalog of movies. Perfect if you’re in need of a blockbuster to fill your vacation downtime, or even if you fancy globetrotting from the comfort of your sofa.

Kelly is the streaming channel editor for Tom’s Guide, so basically, she watches TV for a living. Previously, she was a freelance entertainment writer for Yahoo, Vulture, TV Guide and other outlets. When she’s not watching TV and movies for work, she’s watching them for fun, seeing live music, writing songs, knitting and gardening.

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• Henry T. Casey Managing Editor (Entertainment, Streaming)
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The 30 best movies on Netflix

Netflix has many quality offerings, including beloved classics and compelling originals.

Well Go USA/Courtesy Everett Collection; Sony Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection; 20thCentFox/Courtesy Everett Collection

It's hard to believe that Netflix only launched in 2007, but apparently, that’s all the time it takes to change the face of movie/TV consumption. When it introduced its then-revolutionary mail-in rental service, Netflix was competing with businesses like movie theaters, Blockbuster, and even Tower Video. Some of those stalwarts have faltered, but Netflix has only continued to expand its library and influence.

Beyond a treasure trove of original series and features, the service has curated a laundry list of excellent films both new and old. Here are the 30 best movies on Netflix right now.

1917 (2019)

Francois Duhamel/Universal Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

This Oscar-winning war film presents its story with bracing realism. In 1917 , Lance Corporal William "Will" Schofield ( George MacKay ) is a British soldier embarking on a perilous journey through the trenches and battlefields of World War I. Will is paired with Lance Corporal Thomas "Tom" Blake ( Dean-Charles Chapman ) and tasked with personally delivering a message to a colonel to call off an offensive attack that would put British soldiers in harm's way.

Director Sam Mendes and cinematographer Roger Deakins skillfully give the film the illusion of being shot seamlessly — as if in only one continuous take — which, EW's critic observes , "effectively drops the viewer into the center of the story and compels them to stay there, fully immersed in every muddy step, hunger pang, and rifle click." — Kevin Jacobsen Where to watch 1917 : Netflix EW grade: A– ( read the review ) Director: Sam Mendes Cast: George MacKay, Dean-Charles Chapman, Mark Strong , Andrew Scott , Richard Madden , Colin Firth , Benedict Cumberbatch

American Psycho (2000)

Christian Bale elevated his career to a new level with his committed portrayal of Patrick Bateman in American Psycho . The film centers on Patrick, an investment banker immersed in the empty consumerism of the corporate world, whose jealousy and lust for power leads him to murder. As EW's critic writes , " Mary Harron 's American Psycho is a merry-prankster nightmare — a cheerfully irreverent drawing-room slasher movie." While the film was ultimately a box office disappointment, time has been kind to American Psycho ; its depiction of a social-climbing yuppie with anxiety over how other people perceive him makes him eerily relatable — just hopefully without the whole serial killer part. — K.J.

Where to watch American Psycho : Netflix

EW grade: N/A ( read the review )

Director: Mary Harron

Cast: Christian Bale, Justin Theroux , Josh Lucas , Bill Sage, Chloë Sevigny , Reese Witherspoon , Samantha Mathis, Matt Ross , Jared Leto , Willem Dafoe

Call Me by Your Name (2017)

Sony Pictures Classics/Courtesy Everett Collection

This sensual tale of yearning set in 1983 Italy is one of director Luca Guadagnino 's finest works. Timothée Chalamet stars as Elio, a 17-year-old who falls in love with his father's handsome new graduate student, Oliver ( Armie Hammer ). Basking in the hot summer days, Elio and Oliver explore the countryside and form a passionate bond that will affect both of their lives forever. The film made a star out of Chalamet, who earned an Oscar nomination for his sensitive, complex performance as a teen coming of age and realizing what he desires for himself. As EW's critic writes of the film , "It’s real life, heartbreaking and sublime." — K.J.

Where to watch Call Me by Your Name : Netflix

EW grade: A– ( read the review )

Director: Luca Guadagnino

Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Armie Hammer, Michael Stuhlbarg , Amira Casar, Victoire Du Bois

Captain Phillips (2013)

Barkhad Abdi's declaration of "I'm the captain now" may have taken on a life of its own, but this action drama has substance beyond the catchphrase. Based on the true story of Richard Phillips and his experience as captain of a U.S. cargo ship hijacked by Somali pirates, Captain Phillips unfolds with nerve-wracking tension as the eponymous merchant mariner tries to negotiate his way through a delicate situation.

Tom Hanks delivers one of his best modern performances as the beleaguered captain — with the film's final scene ranking as one of the finest of his storied career — while Abdi, making his film debut as ruthless pirate leader Abduwali Muse, rightfully earned himself an Oscar nomination. — K.J.

Where to watch Captain Phillips : Netflix

EW grade: B+ ( read the review )

Director: Paul Greengrass

Cast: Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Catherine Keener

Carol (2015)

Wilson Webb/Weinstein Company/Courtesy Everett Collection

This period drama from auteur Todd Haynes is one of the most sumptuous films of the modern era. Therese ( Rooney Mara ) is a department store clerk who has a chance encounter with a glamorous older woman, Carol ( Cate Blanchett ), in 1950s New York. A secret affair blossoms from there, as Carol and Therese forge an intense emotional and romantic connection that complicates their lives. With deeply felt, Oscar-nominated performances from Blanchett and Mara and stunning technical craft — from the music score to the period-specific production design and costumes — Carol is a transporting experience from start to finish. — K.J.

Where to watch Carol : Netflix

Director: Todd Haynes

Cast: Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Sarah Paulson , Jake Lacy , Kyle Chandler

Emily the Criminal (2022)

Aubrey Plaza gives one of her finest turns to date in this grounded thriller. She plays the titular down-on-her-luck felon who resorts to theft to make her way out from under a mountain of debt. "She may be a wanton criminal, but she's also a woman very much for these times," EW's critic writes . "Not the anti-heroine we knew we needed, maybe, but one that we deserve." It's a visceral, often unbearably anxious film that showcases Plaza's steeliest, most nuanced performance in a career full of them. —Declan Gallagher

Where to watch Emily the Criminal : Netflix

Director: John Patton Ford

Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Gina Gershon, Megalyn Echikunwoke, Theo Rossi, Bernardo Badillo

Godzilla Minus One (2023)

Toho International/Courtesy Everett Collection

Films in the long-running Godzilla franchise aren't exactly known for their human characters compared to the titular giant reptilian monster, but this universally acclaimed installment is a rare exception. The film focuses on former kamikaze pilot Kōichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki), a man with PTSD after failing to prevent Godzilla from destroying an island community during World War II. Haunted by the incident, Shikishima looks for redemption when the imposing monster returns to terrorize Japan.

EW's critic ranks Godzilla Minus One — which won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects — as the fourth-best film in the franchise, writing , "This sweeping blend of character-driven drama, maritime adventure, and kaiju mayhem is popcorn entertainment at its best." — K.J.

Where to watch Godzilla Minus One : Netflix

Director: Takashi Yamazaki

Cast: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, Munetaka Aoki, Hidetaka Yoshioka, Sakura Ando, Kuranosuke Sasaki

Jaws (1975)

The miracle of this granddaddy of all summer blockbusters is that it still holds up nearly 50 years later. Steven Spielberg 's iconic thriller about a great white shark terrorizing beachgoers and the trio of men who try to hunt it down is pure entertainment at its most biting. From the menacing Oscar-winning score by John Williams to the vividly drawn personalities of the three heroes to the near-constant state of dread, Spielberg's confidence in his vision is remarkable to witness, especially so early in his career. — K.J.

Where to watch Jaws : Netflix

Director: Steven Spielberg

Cast: Roy Scheider , Robert Shaw , Richard Dreyfuss , Lorraine Gary, Murray Hamilton

The Killer (2023)

David Fincher 's latest thriller is a white-knuckle, pared-down genre exercise that calls back to '70s exploitation films but also owes quite a bit to Anton Corbijn's The American (2010). Michael Fassbender stars as the nameless assassin who, after a hit goes wrong and his family is targeted, chases after a shadow enforcer ( Tilda Swinton ) for revenge. EW's critic observes , "With a reptilian coldness, Fassbender infuses the 'Killer' with an eerie stillness that underscores the character's lack of empathy and warmth." —D.G.

Where to watch The Killer : Netflix

EW grade: C+ ( read the review )

Director: David Fincher

Cast: Michael Fassbender, Tilda Swinton, Arliss Howard, Charles Parnell, Sala Baker

Miss Juneteenth (2020)

Vertical Entertainment/Courtesy Everett Collection

This underseen independent drama finally gives Nicole Beharie the role she deserves, and she makes the most of the opportunity, delivering one of the most nuanced performances in recent years. Beharie plays Turquoise, a single mother whose glory days as the winner of the Miss Juneteenth pageant are behind her. Now working multiple jobs to support her 15-year-old daughter, Turquoise hopes she will follow in her footsteps by entering the pageant herself, though her daughter is less than enthused. Tackling themes of family legacy, broken dreams, and unexpected victories, Miss Juneteenth is a lovingly realistic examination of mothers and daughters. — K.J.

Where to watch Miss Juneteenth : Netflix

Director: Channing Godfrey Peoples

Cast: Nicole Beharie, Kendrick Sampson, Alexis Chikaeze

Molly's Game (2017)

Courtesy of STXfilms

Oscar-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin made his directorial debut with this engrossing biographical drama about entrepreneur Molly Bloom and her tumultuous experience in the world of high-stakes poker. Jessica Chastain plays the title role, following her journey from aspiring Olympian to bottle service waitress to running an underground poker empire. Her success is soon threatened when multiple mafias get involved in her games leading to an FBI investigation and her indictment.

The film soars on the strength of Chastain's charismatic performance, a perfect match for Sorkin's signature clever dialogue. As EW's critic writes , Molly's Game is "a cool, crackling, confident film that appeals to your intelligence instead of insulting it." — K.J.

Where to watch Molly's Game : Netflix

Director: Aaron Sorkin

Cast: Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba , Kevin Costner , Michael Cera , Jeremy Strong , Chris O'Dowd , Bill Camp

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)

With the new TV remake with  Donald Glover  and  Maya Erskine  now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, there's no better time to revisit the 2005 film of the same name.  Brad Pitt  and  Angelina Jolie  star as John and Jane Smith, a couple whose marriage is on shaky ground. They also happen to both be skilled assassins, though neither is aware of each other's occupation. This all changes when they're both assigned to kill the same target, which complicates everything to the point that they're soon tasked with killing each other. Hijinks ensue, and the film is propelled by the undeniable chemistry between Pitt and Jolie, who  EW's critic writes  have a "chemical zing." Thus, Brangelina was born.  —K.J.

Where to watch  Mr. & Mrs. Smith : Netflix

EW grade:  N/A ( read the review )

Director:   Doug Liman

Cast:  Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie,  Adam Brody ,  Kerry Washington

No Hard Feelings (2023)

This raunchy comedy represented both a strong comeback for Jennifer Lawrence after a few low-key years and a return to form for the genre, which has seen lean times as of late. It stars Lawrence as a down-on-her-luck thirtysomething who, in order to repair her car, must deflower a nerdy young man (Andrew Barth Feldman) before he goes off to college. No Hard Feelings isn't a perfect movie, but it is often laugh-out-loud funny and subversive in all the right ways without ever insisting upon itself. EW's critic calls the film "a welcome addition to a dwindling genre — and a reminder that Lawrence is one [of] Hollywood's best (and funniest) leads." —D.G.

Where to watch No Hard Feelings : Netflix

EW grade: B ( read the review )

Director: Gene Stupnitsky

Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman, Matthew Broderick , Laura Benanti, Natalie Morales

Nyad (2023)

Annette Bening gives an astonishing, Oscar-nominated performance as real-life marathon swimmer Diana Nyad, who at 64 trained to become the first person to swim to Cuba. Equally riveting as Nyad's trainer is Jodie Foster (also Oscar-nominated), reminding viewers that in terms of steely confidence, someone rarely does it better than her. "The two women also share an effortless chemistry that breathes vitality into their onscreen bond and wholeheartedly sells their decades-long connection," EW's critic writes . —D.G.

Where to watch Nyad : Netflix

EW grade: B– ( read the review )

Directors: Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi

Cast: Annette Bening, Jodie Foster, Rhys Ifans, Luke Cosgrove, Karly Rothenberg

Phantom Thread (2017)

Laurie Sparham/Focus Features/Courtesy Everett

Paul Thomas Anderson 's 1950s-set costume drama is a transfixing exploration of power dynamics within a relationship, and how love can be sickening — literally. Daniel Day-Lewis , in his self-proclaimed final film role ( though that's not true ), stars as Reynolds Woodcock, a renowned fashion designer who enters a tumultuous romance with Alma ( Vicky Krieps ), a waitress whom he soon makes his muse. But Alma is much cleverer than she appears, while Reynolds is more difficult to live with than she had hoped, leading to dysfunction. Adorned with dry humor and sumptuous visuals, Phantom Thread is a masterwork from one of modern cinema's best craftsmen. — K.J.

Where to watch  Phantom Thread : Netflix

EW grade:  B ( read the review )

Director:  Paul Thomas Anderson

Cast:  Daniel Day-Lewis, Vicky Krieps, Lesley Manville

The Power of the Dog (2021)

Jane Campion 's adaptation of the Thomas Savage novel is a spellbinding Western drama about power and control. Set in 1920s Montana, the film centers on Phil Burbank ( Benedict Cumberbatch ) a cruel rancher who psychologically torments his brother ( Jesse Plemons ), sister-in-law ( Kirsten Dunst ), and her soft-spoken son Peter ( Kodi Smit-McPhee ) on the ranch they share. After Peter discovers a buried secret about Phil, he methodically plots his revenge on his uncle. Campion deservedly won an Oscar for Best Director for the film; as EW's critic praises , "being submerged in her ineffable world feels not just like two hours in the dark, but high art." — K.J.

Where to watch  The Power of the Dog : Netflix

EW grade:  A– ( read the review )

Director:  Jane Campion

Cast:  Benedict Cumberbatch, Jesse Plemons, Kirsten Dunst, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Thomasin McKenzie, Genevieve Lemon,  Keith Carradine ,  Frances Conroy

A Quiet Place Part II (2021)

John Krasinski proved his horror movie bona fides with his jump-scare-filled breakout hit A Quiet Place , and the inevitable sequel did not disappoint. Set in a postapocalyptic world where a blind, extraterrestrial species with sensitive hearing has ravaged humanity, A Quiet Place Part II follows the Abbott family's continued survival as they are forced to retreat from their destroyed home. Armed with the knowledge of the creatures' vulnerability to high-frequency feedback, the family sets out into dangerous territory and reunites with a family friend, Emmett ( Cillian Murphy ), who discovers another weakness that could help them defeat the species.

The sound design is once again a highlight in Part II as Krasinski broadens the scope of the universe he created, with EW's critic praising , "Krasinski manages to render relatively straightforward tasks — nursing a baby, tuning a radio, walking through a train car — harrowing." — K.J. Where to watch A Quiet Place Part II : Netflix EW grade: B+ ( read the review ) Director: John Krasinski Cast: Emily Blunt , Cillian Murphy, Millicent Simmonds, Noah Jupe, Djimon Hounsou, John Krasinski, Okieriete Onaodowan

Raftar Creations/Courtesy Everett Collection

This Indian action epic rightfully broke out as an international success in 2022. Set during the British Raj in the 1920s, the film centers on Komaram Bheem (N.T. Rama Rao Jr.) and his plan to reunite a kidnapped girl with her mother; meanwhile, a determined officer, Alluri Sitarama Raju (Ram Charan), is hot on his trail. Their lives intersect when they rescue a boy in a train accident and they form a bond, ironically unaware of each other's identities. Packed with rousing sequences (particularly the performance of the Oscar-winning song "Naatu Naatu"), RRR is an entertaining thrill ride that puts Hollywood blockbusters to shame. —K.J.

Where to watch RRR : Netflix

Director: S.S. Rajamouli

Cast: N.T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Shriya Saran, Samuthirakani, Ray Stevenson , Alison Doody, Olivia Morris

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)

This sugar-rush sequel took all of the best things about Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and magnified them. It continues the tale of Miles Morales as he struggles with his newfound powers to find his place in a multi-verse of Spider-Men. If only all family-oriented animated films were this invigorating, or indeed, risk-taking. As EW's critic writes , " Across the Spider-Verse  mines greater emotional depth by exploring the familial relationships of Gwen and Miles from the perspectives of both parents and children."  —D.G.

Where to watch Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse : Netflix

Directors: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson

Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld , Jake Johnson , Oscar Isaac

The Squid and the Whale (2005)

Everett Collection

This understated domestic dramedy follows a Brooklyn family rocked by an impending divorce. After struggling novelist Frank ( Jeff Daniels ) and his more successful wife, Joan ( Laura Linney ), reveal their separation to their kids ( Jesse Eisenberg and Owen Kline), everything becomes a battle as the brothers choose sides and the parents try to find a way forward. Writer-director Noah Baumbach excavates his own childhood to tell a story of family strife in all its (sometimes hilarious) messiness. EW's critic calls the film a "caustically funny, awfully sad, pitilessly autobiographical coming-of-age story." — K.J.

Where to watch The Squid and the Whale : Netflix

Director: Noah Baumbach

Cast: Jeff Daniels, Laura Linney, Jesse Eisenberg, Owen Kline, William Baldwin, Anna Paquin

Stand by Me (1986)

Columbia Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection

A search for a missing body is the catalyst for a group of boys coming of age in this treasured classic, based on a Stephen King novella. Wil Wheaton , River Phoenix , Corey Feldman , and Jerry O'Connell star as the quartet of preteens who hope to become local heroes by finding the body of a fellow boy — and learn a lot about life along the way. An ode to friendship, EW's critic calls Stand by Me "a timeless classic for boys of all eras, best captured by the film's final line: 'I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was 12. Jesus, does anyone?'" — K.J.

Where to watch Stand by Me : Netflix

Director: Rob Reiner

Cast: Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell, Kiefer Sutherland

Tangerine (2015)

There is much to praise with this independent film from writer-director Sean Baker : it was shot entirely by iPhones and has great style; it casts two transgender actresses as leads, each giving strong performances. But it's also a good old-fashioned screwball comedy, following a day in the lives of transgender sex worker friends Sin-Dee (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez) and Alexandra (Mya Taylor), After Alexandra informs Sin-Dee that the latter's boyfriend has been cheating on her, the pair go on a journey through the streets of Hollywood to confront him. EW's critic raves , " Tangerine  is touching for its non-condescending stance toward working girls and the spirit of the sidewalk." — K.J.

Where to watch Tangerine : Netflix

Director: Sean Baker

Cast: Kitana Kiki Rodriguez, Mya Taylor, Karren Karagulian, Mickey O'Hagan, Alla Tumanian, James Ransone

The Teachers' Lounge (2023)

Sony Pictures Classics/Everett Collection

After this tense Oscar-nominated German film gets going, it refuses to let up. Carla Nowak (Leonie Benesch) is the bright-eyed new teacher at a school where her fellow educators are trying to uncover the culprit behind multiple thefts from the teachers' lounge. She soon finds herself embroiled in the case when she spots a colleague stealing money, only for that colleague to deflect onto her. The Teachers' Lounge moves with the energy of a thriller, with viewers' anxiety rising the further Carla grapples with mounting pressure. — K.J.

Where to watch The Teachers' Lounge : Netflix

Director: Ilker Çatak

Cast: Leonie Benesch, Michael Klammer, Rafael Stachowiak, Anne-Kathrin Gummich, Eva Löbau

Tick, Tick...Boom! (2021)

Jonathan Larson was a celebrated composer and playwright most famous for penning the Broadway musical Rent . He also wrote a semi-autobiographical musical based on his life called Tick, Tick...Boom! , which Lin-Manuel Miranda adapted to this well-received musical drama. Andrew Garfield , in an Oscar-nominated turn, stars as Larson, following his struggle to mount a musical while dealing with a tumultuous personal life. " Tick, Tick… Boom!  is a totem for the thrills and trials of making art, with all the sacrifices and empathy it requires," EW's critic writes. — K.J.

Where to watch tick, tick...BOOM! : Netflix

Director: Lin-Manuel Miranda

Cast: Andrew Garfield, Alexandra Shipp, Robin de Jesús , Joshua Henry, Judith Light , Vanessa Hudgens

Triple Frontier (2019)

J.C. Chandor 's masculine action riff, about a group of special ops planning a heist in South America, is a stark contrast to his earlier, more patient efforts in 2011's Margin Call , 2013's All Is Lost , or 2014's A Most Violent Year (his masterpiece). While not as thematically strong as those films, Triple Frontier offers a dose of adrenaline that, much like The Strangers , harkens back to a forgotten era of mid-'70s B pictures. "There may be no honor among thieves," EW's critic writes , "but  Triple Frontier certainly makes watching them pretty entertaining."  —D.G.

Where to watch Triple Frontier : Netflix

Director: J.C. Chandor

Cast: Ben Affleck , Oscar Isaac, Charlie Hunnam , Pedro Pascal , Garrett Hedlund

Vera Drake (2004)

Fine Line/courtesy Everett

Writer-director Mike Leigh 's characterization of the title character in this powerful period drama is so vivid, that you'd be forgiven if you assumed she was based on a real-life person. The film follows Vera (Imelda Staunton), a humble wife and mother living in 1950s London who attends to various people around the city. Notably, her work includes illegally performing abortions for girls and women who need them, putting herself at risk for the benefit of others. It's a harrowing story but beautifully portrayed by Staunton, who won a BAFTA and earned an Oscar nomination for her soul-bearing performance. — K.J.

Where to watch Vera Drake : Netflix

Director: Mike Leigh

Cast: Imelda Staunton, Eddie Marsan, Daniel Mays, Phil Davis, Sally Hawkins

The Wailing (2016)

This brilliant South Korean thriller from director Na Hong-jin turns frenzied after a new villager arrives in a tight-knit community, bringing a wave of serial murders along with him. To elaborate any further would give away some of the film's best-kept twists, of which there are many. Suffice it to say, The Wailing is one of the most over-the-top, gratuitous, and devilishly fun horror pictures of the last decade. As EW's critic praised, " The Wailing  never bores as Na slathers his tale with generous supplies of atmosphere and awfulness."  —D.G.

Where to watch The Wailing : Netflix

Director: Na Hong-jin

Cast: Hwang Jung-Min, Kwak Do-won, Kim Hwan-hee, Kim Do-yoon

Will & Harper (2024)

Courtesy of Netflix

Will Ferrell and Harper Steele have been close friends since joining Saturday Night Live in the mid-'90s. After Steele came out as a trans woman in 2022, she and Ferrell embarked on a road trip across America so he could get to know her authentic truth and for her own personal journey of self-acceptance. This documentary — hilarious and moving in equal measure — chronicles the trip as Ferrell learns how to be an ally and wield his privilege for good and Steele opens up about her demons and finds catharsis. "Come for the laughs, cameos, and raw emotions," writes EW's critic , "stay for the pitch-perfect theme song co-written and performed by  Kristen Wiig ." — K.J.

Where to watch Will & Harper : Netflix

Director: Josh Greenbaum

Cast: Will Ferrell, Harper Steele

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Three More (2024)

This whimsical anthology film finds auteur director Wes Anderson bringing the stories of Roald Dahl to life. Originally released as four short films in 2023, Netflix has now assembled them all into one collection. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar , which won the Oscar for Best Live Action Short , centers on the titular character's years-long training process to be able to see without his eyes — all so he can cheat at gambling.

Other shorts are The Swan (about the struggles of a bullied boy), The Rat Catcher (about, well, an exterminator of rats), and Poison (about a man who finds a snake in his bed). Anderson's flair for carefully crafted aesthetics is a throughline, as is his love of the art of storytelling. — K.J.

Where to watch The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Three More : Netflix

Director: Wes Anderson

Cast: Ralph Fiennes , Benedict Cumberbatch , Dev Patel , Ben Kingsley , Richard Ayoade , Rupert Friend

The Wrong Missy (2020)

Katrina Marcinowski/Netflix/Everett

On paper, The Wrong Missy is nothing new: David Spade goes on a bad date with Lauren Lapkus, whose name is Missy, and then means to invite a cute girl (Molly Sims), hilariously also named Missy, with him on a company retreat to Hawaii. (No points for guessing which Missy ends up on the trip.) The film coasts by on a general likability, but if not for Lapkus' performance, the story would be lost at sea. She glues the entire enterprise together with a mixture of well-played raunch and genuine pathos, selling the moment and keeping the plot bouncing along to the next joke. —D.G.

Where to watch The Wrong Missy : Netflix

Director: Tyler Spindel

Cast: Lauren Lapkus, David Spade, Molly Sims, Jackie Sandler, Rob Schneider

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