Looking for some good movies to watch this week? Looking at the Netflix top 10 is usually my go-to, but it can often feel like a mixed bag. While it provides a handy guide to what’s currently popular, it doesn’t always reflect the highest quality of content. Some weeks, the streaming service is dominated by animated movies aimed primarily at younger audiences.
However, if you dig a little deeper into the rankings, you’ll find a few standout gems that are definitely worth your time. After sifting through the list, we’ve chosen three movies that deliver a substantial, engaging experience beyond mere box office numbers. These selections are well worth adding to your watchlist.
This article is based on the Netflix top 10 movies as of 11 a.m. ET on Sept. 20.
BEST MOVIES IN THE NETFLIX TOP 10
'American Gangster'
One of the most underrated crime dramas just crashed Netflix's top 10, and it's based on a shocking true story. This movie is based on the true story of Frank Lucas, a heroin dealer in Harlem during the late 1960s and early 1970s. It stars Denzel Washington as Lucas, who rises to power by importing heroin directly from Southeast Asia and creating a successful drug empire.
The story follows his ascent and the challenges he faces, particularly from the law, represented by Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe). Roberts is a dedicated detective trying to bring down Lucas and his operation. "American Gangster" does a brilliant job at showing the impact of drugs on society and the lengths people will go to for power and wealth.
Watch it now on Netflix
'Rebel Ridge'
Our first recommendation has to be one of the greatest action-thrillers of this year. It rightly earned its No.1 spot on Netflix, and it didn’t deserve to be knocked off by a movie like "Uglies" (yes I’m salty about that). However, it’s still in second place, and I would urge you to watch it again if you’ve already seen it.
"Rebel Ridge" centers around Terry Richmond (played by Aaron Pierre, the next big action star), a man who arrives in the small town of Shelby Springs to bail out his cousin and protect him from imminent danger. However, Terry’s mission is derailed when corrupt local law enforcement unjustly seizes his life savings. This confrontation leads him into a deadly struggle against Police Chief Sandy Burnne (Don Johnson) and a corrupt department that holds a tight grip on the town.
Watch it now on Netflix
'Edge of Tomorrow'
Despite receiving widespread critical acclaim for its smart storytelling and thrilling action, "Edge of Tomorrow" unfortunately underperformed at the box office. Honestly, this still baffles me considering Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt are brilliant, and the movie in general throws sci-fi and action together in the most satisfying way. Regardless, it deserves to be in the top 10.
This movie is set in a future where Earth faces an invasion by a powerful alien race. The story follows Major William "Bill" Cage (Tom Cruise), a soldier who finds himself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day every time he dies in battle. With the help of Rita Vrataski (Emily Blunt), a renowned soldier, Cage uses his ability to try and defeat the aliens and save humanity.
Watch it now on Netflix
NETFLIX TOP 10 MOVIES RIGHT NOW
1. "Uglies" (2024)
2. "Rebel Ridge" (2024)
3. "Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter" (2024)
4. "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" (2023)
5. "Officer Black Belt" (2024)
6. "Trolls Band Together" (2023)
7. "American Gangster" (2007)
8. "Edge of Tomorrow" (2014)
9. "Black Mass" (2015)
10. "The Boss Baby" (2017)
