An unexpected thriller has debuted at Number 1 on Netflix over the last week, proving itself to be a popular film despite mixed reviews from audiences. Thriller movies have become popular across the streaming service as of late, with suspenseful movies like 'On the Line' and 'The Postcard Killings' briefly becoming major hits for the platform. These movies being popular show how the genre is becoming a staple for those interested in subscribing to the streaming service.
Now, Netflix has revealed the Number 1 movie worldwide for the week of March 25 through March 31, 2024, is the new thriller film 'Heart of the Hunter.' Similar to how last week's streaming success 'On the Line' got negative reviews, the service's new hit sits at a 50% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite this, though, the film has garnered 19.7 million watch hours across 11 million views within its first three days on the platform.
'Heart of the Hunter' follows a retired assassin named Zuko Khumalo, who is abruptly pulled out of retirement when his friend's father is kidnapped. After a series of tense encounters, the protagonist uncovers a conspiracy involving South Africa's government, leading to the major events of the movie. What follows is an action-focused experience that utilizes its setting to tell a unique story about government corruption and espionage.
Due to its mixed reviews, it seems 'Heart of the Hunter's' bolstered popularity may be partially due to the number of thrillers on Netflix that have taken hold of a large audience as of late. With movies like 'The Accountant' also showing up on the Top 10 list for last week, it's clear the genre is a key factor in the new film's success. What makes it so interesting, though, is how it managed to become popular without any familiar Hollywood faces attached, showing just how much variety in thrillers viewers are willing to engage with.
Despite its mixed reviews, 'Heart of the Hunter' still offers an original story that may engage viewers looking for something along the lines of other popular thrillers. Its South Africa setting also makes the movie unique compared to others in the same genre, offering a different perspective that may resonate with audiences in a wholly original way compared to other thrillers. Since the film debuted at Number 1, Netflix subscribers could continue to watch the movie in the coming week, amplifying its success.
'Heart of the Hunter' was released on Netflix on March 29, 2024.
Source: Netflix
