Before Netflix was the home of some of the biggest and best shows on TV, Netflix was more associated with movies. It all started with its red envelopes, sending DVDs directly to people's homes. It soon became one of the most popular platforms to stream movies in the world (now streaming is the only option as the Netflix DVD service has ended). And it doesn't disappoint, as the amount of Netflix movies to stream is vast.
Of course, such a big library is a positive and a negative. It's a positive because there are seemingly endless options to choose from, but that amount of choice can lead to a lot of scrolling an in decision on what to settle on watching. Allow us to help with that by assembling on official ranking of the best Netflix movies to stream right now.
The list we've put together below (not ranked, just in alphabetical order) includes both the best of the ever expanding slate of Netflix original movies, which are always going to be available on Netflix, and movies that rotate in and out of the service each month; so be sure to check back with this post to see what's new on the service that you should be watching. (FYI, we're only doing feature length movies, so not including shorts, even the Oscar-winning The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.)
Let's not waste any more time and dive right into WTW's picks for the best Netflix movies to watch right now.
104 best Netflix movies to stream right now
13th (2016)
Netflix has plenty of amazing documentaries in its library that challenge and inform viewers, perhaps none more so than the Oscar-nominated 13th, directed by Ava DuVernay. The movie reexamines the 13th amendment to the US Constitution, which officially ended slavery but, as the movie posits, also may have led to the racial inequality of the current US prison system. Available: US/UK
22 Jump Street (2014)
Who knew how much we needed a movie adaptation of the 80s TV show 21 Jump Street? Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum star in 21 Jump Street and 22 Jump Street, which see their baby-faced policemen sent undercover in high school then college to try and bust up drug rings. Part of what makes these movies so funny is their meta commentary on Hollywood's penchant in the 2010s to try and reboot old 80s IP, but what makes them classics is that while doing that they also told a compelling story with great characters brought to life by Hill and Tatum. Picking between the two, we'll take 22 Jump Street, but you can watch either (or both) on Netflix right now. Available: US only
1917 (2019)
Sam Mendes put viewers into the middle of World War One action with his movie 1917. Following two British soldiers (Dean-Charles Champman and George MacKay) as they attempt to deliver a message that could save the lives of 1,600 men is made to look like it is done in one take, which ratchets up the intensity as the audience (like its two main characters) get very little time to breathe. Available: US/UK
3:10 to Yuma (2007)
A classic, 21st-century made western, 3:10 to Yuma is just about everything that fans of the genre could want. Fantastic shootouts, a man standing up for justice in a lawless land and a black hat villain that draws us in. The latter two are provided by Christian Bale and Russell Crowe, respectively, as the farmer who ultimately takes it upon himself to deliver a notorious outlaw to the titular train for his trial, having to go through his entire gang to do so. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)
1930's All Quiet on the Western Front, an anti-war story depicting a young German soldier's harrowing experiences during World War One, was among the first Best Picture winners, but Netflix's remake of All Quiet of the Western Front from German director Edward Berger maybe even better than the original. With today's technology they can masterfully reconstruct the intense battle sequences of the story, but at its heart are still the characters who are forced to endure the worst. Available: US/UK
Always Be My Maybe (2019)
The rom-com has found new life on Netflix, with Always Be My Maybe as one of the streamer's best original movies in the genre. Ali Wong and Randall Park star as childhood friends we reconnect as adults wondering with the question hanging over their heads: why did they never end up together? An excellent script, Wong and Park's great chemistry and a memorable Keanu Reeves cameo make Always Be My Maybe a movie you'll love in love with. Available: US/UK
American Factory (2019)
One of Netflix's Oscar-winning documentaries, American Factory focuses on an Ohio factory that was set to close when it is rescued by a Chinese billionaire. The documentary focuses on the struggles of how the Chinese and American work cultures mix. Available: US/UK
American Gangster (2007)
Ahead of their collaboration in Gladiator II, Netflix has another great Denzel Washington and Ridley Scott movie, American Gangster. This crime drama is based on the true story of Frank Lucas (Washington), a Harlem drug lord who became as powerful as any criminal in New York, and Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe), the underdog cop that worked to bring him down. Washington is superb as usual and the ensemble features many familiar faces, but out of everyone it was screen legend Ruby Dee that earned an Oscar nomination for her performance. Available: US/UK
American Psycho (2000)
Watch the cult classic that was key in Christian Bale getting the role of Bruce Wayne/Batman right now on Netflix. American Psycho is enjoyable unhinged, as Bale plays an investment banker by day and serial killer by night in this satire of 1980s business types. It's a bit unfortunate that director Mary Haron hasn't gotten the chance to make more movies for as beloved as this one is. Available: US/UK
*Leaving December 31
Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood (2022)
Richard Linklater is a singular American filmmaker with such classics as Dazed and Confused, the Before trilogy and Boyhood. With Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood, he manages to capture the awe of the Moon Race era as he imagines what it would be like if a child from a small town in Texas was recruited to help NASA as they work on the Apollo missions. Available: US/UK
The Babadook (2014)
Hard to believe that Jennifer Kent's horror masterpiece is 10 years old, but even The Babadook remains one of the prime examples of the 21st century trend of "elevated horror." What gives it that title is that Kent hid a story about grief in this monster's tale. Even so, the scares in it rank right up there with other classic horror movies, making this a great pick for spooky season. Available: US/UK
Baby Driver (2017)
People love Edgar Wright's Cornetto trilogy (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, World's End) and rightly so, but the director has done some great work beyond that, including the heist movie Baby Driver. The story centers on a young getaway driver, Baby (Ansel Elgort), who is always listening to music, but that doesn’t stop him from being the best in the business. Attempting to get out of the game though proves quite difficult for him. The movie is edited to fit perfectly with the soundtrack, which just adds to the overall excitement. Available: US/UK
Bad Boys (1995)
While Bad Boys: Ride or Die prove that Martin Lawrence and Will Smith are still able to kick some butt, the original Bad Boys remains one of the defining action comedy movies of the 90s, as Lawrence and Smith have incredible chemistry as two Miami police officers with an edge, while Michael Bay solidified his chops as an action movie director with his debut movie. Available: US/UK
Beasts of No Nation (2015)
One of the first Netflix original movies remains one of its best. Beasts of No Nation, directed by Cary J. Fukunaga and featuring Idris Elba in an acclaimed supporting performance, is a drama based on the experiences of a child soldier fighting in Africa. Available: US/UK
Big Daddy
Adam Sandler has made a number of original movies for Netflix, but one of his 90s classics is now streaming on the platform: Big Daddy. Sandler stars as an apparent slacker whose life of leisure is disrupted when a 5-year-old is dropped off at his doorstep and he is charged with taking care of him. The movie has a bit more traditional drama to it than some of his other 90s classics, but it still has plenty of bits that get me howling. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
The Birds (1963)
Alfred Hitchcock's final, bonafide masterpiece was The Birds. Even though there is nothing complex about this one — the movie literally is just about birds attacking people in a small California town — the Master of Suspense was able to bring his trademark thrills to make these creatures that we see every day become a terrible menace. Tippi Hedren stars, in a performance where she was infamously tormented as much by Hitchcock as she was the actual birds. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
The Book of Clarence (2024)
Jeyems Samuel previously offered his take on the western (which we have included on this list), and now he took on the biblical epic with The Book of Clarence, one of WTW's best-reviewed movies of the year. LaKeith Stanfield stars as man down on his luck when he decides to change his fate by emulating Jesus of Nazareth and proclaiming himself a new prophet. The movie is expertly made, with a killer soundtrack and is funny, though not at the expense of religion. It's well worth checking out. Available: US only
Boyz n the Hood (1991)
John Singleton's memorable debut movie Boyz n the Hood depicts three teens (Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut and Ice Cube) growing up in South Central Los Angeles, where drugs, violence and even the police make life exceedingly dangerous for young Black men. More than 30 years later the movie's legacy still resonates, so much so that WTW included it in our 100 best movies of all time list. Available: US/UK
Bridesmaids (2011)
While Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill and other male actors were making big comedies like Knocked Up, Superbad and The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph and Melissa McCarthy reminded us that women can be just as ridiculous and crazy as the guys in the hilarious movie Bridesmaids. Wiig stars as the maid of honor for her best friend Rudolph's wedding, but she struggles to get along with the rest of the bridal party. Of all the classic comedies of that period, Bridesmaids arguably had the most success, becoming a box office smash and a Best Picture nominee. Watch it again on Netflix this month. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Call Me By Your Name (2017)
Luca Guadagnino's love story between a young man (Timothee Chalamet) and the graduate student (Armie Hammer) working for his father for the summer is poetic, vivid and sexy (it's a new addition to our list of sexiest movies). Call Me By Your Name was widely acclaimed at the time and the years have done little to diminish it as a powerful story of first love. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Carol (2015)
Cate Blanchett gave one of her finest performances in the Todd Haynes' movie Carol. In the 1950s set story, Blanchett stars as the titular housewife for begins an intimate relationship with a young store clerk, played by the equally magnificent Rooney Mara. But as their connection grows, so does the complications in keeping their relationship a secret. Carol is as well made as it is emotionally powerful. Available: US/UK
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
If you ever need the Christmas spirit, Netflix has plenty of holiday-themed movies to pick from. A fun one is The Christmas Chronicles, which sees Kurt Russell play Santa Claus, whose delivery of presents is interrupted by a sister and brother who attempt to capture him on camera. There is also a sequel, The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two, if you're interested. Available: US/UK
Cinderella Man (2005)
Based on the inspiring true story of 1930s boxer, Russell Crowe stars in Cinderella Man as James J. Braddock. His family devastated by the Great Depression, Braddock resurrects his career and his family's situation with a string of improbable wins in the boxing ring that lead to him getting a chance to fight for the heavyweight championship of the world. Ron Howard directs the movie that also stars Paul Giammati and Renée Zellweger. Available: US/UK
Collateral (2004)
Tom Cruise usually plays the hero, but he makes a fantastic villain in the Michael Mann-directed thriller Collateral. Cruise plays Vincent, a hitman who contracts taxi Max (Jamie Foxx) to drive him around all night as he performs a series of jobs. The scenes where Cruise and Foxx just talk in the cab from job to job are amazing (it's little surprise to see why Foxx earned an Oscar nomination for this role), but the action scenes will also get your adrenaline pumping. Available: US only
Da 5 Bloods (2020)
Spike Lee took on the Vietnam War in this tale of four African-American vets who return to Vietnam seeking the treasure that they buried and to bring back the remains of their fallen squad leader. Lee was on a hot streak with Da 5 Bloods and BlackKlansman, and we're still shocked that Da 5 Bloods didn't earn more than its one Oscar nomination for Best Original Score. Available: US/UK
Darkest Hour (2017)
In one of his most unrecognizable performances (and that is saying something), Gary Oldman won an Oscar for his role as Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour. The movie follows the iconic leader as he takes the position of Prime Minister in the early days of World War 2, as Hitler's Nazi Germany has England in a tough spot and the path forward looks dark. Available: US/UK
*Leaving December 15
The Deer Hunter (1978)
Michael Cimino's epic war movie The Deer Hunter earns that descriptor for reasons other than massive battles. Instead, the movie is a deep dive into the emotional horrors of war and the ripple effect it has on not just those that experience it but the ones closest to them; though the prisoner of war camp sequence is as intense as any battle scene you've probably seen. Robert De Niro, Meryl Streep and Christopher Walken are all brilliant, with Walken earning an Oscar for his supporting performance. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Dolemite Is My Name (2019)
Eddie Murphy gives one of his most critically acclaimed performances as he honors a beloved figure of the 1970s Blaxploitation movies, Rudy Ray Moore, who created and starred as the character Dolemite in various movies. Dolemite Is My Name tells Moore's story and features a fantastic cast that includes Keegan-Michael Key, Mike Epps, Craig Robinson, Titus Burgess, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Snoop Dogg, Ron Cephas Jones, Luenell, Chris Rock and Wesley Snipes. Available: US/UK
Dumb Money (2023)
Retelling the story of the GameStock revolution during the pandemic, Dumb Money is a fun, underdog story about a group of small time investors taking on the major hedge funds and disrupting Wall Street like never before. Paul Dano leads a great ensemble that includes America Ferrera, Seth Rogen, Nick Offerman, Shailene Woodley, Pete Davidson and more in what WTW called the "Rocky of Wall Street movies" in our Dumb Money review. Available: US only
Easy A (2010)
One of Emma Stone's breakout roles, Easy A showcased her comedic talents as she plays a high schooler who becomes the subject of scorn when rumors about her sexual exploits start to go around the school. However, unlike Hester Prynne in The Scarlet Letter, from which the movie takes a few of its nods, Stone's Olive leans into it and tries to take back control of the narrative. Easy A is a great high school comedy with standout performances from Stone, Stanley Tucci, Patricia Clarkson and Amanda Bynes. Available: US only
Emilia Perez (2024)
Movie fans got a fantastic, traditional adaptation of a Broadway musical in 2024 with Wicked, but meanwhile Netflix delivered a fresh jolt of energy to the genre with Emilia Perez. From French auteur Jacques Audiard, Emilia Perez tells the story of a drug cartel leader who with the help of a lawyer manages to begin anew and live her authentic life as a woman. The music is as unique as the story, all resulting in an incredible movie with a number of stellar performances, though Zoe Saldana is the stand out for my money. Available: US/UK
Enola Holmes (2020)
Millie Bobby Brown has practically become the de-factor queen of Netflix between Stranger Things and her number of Netflix original movies, the best of which is definitely Enola Holmes. Brown stars as the titular younger sister of famed detective Sherlock Holmes (played by Henry Cavill), who takes on her own case involving a young lord in trouble. Available: US/UK
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
With a plot that the one-and-only Charlie Kaufmann could come up, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless mind is one of the most original and moving romantic comedies (dramedy?) one the 2000s. Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet star as a couple who attempt to have each other erased from their memories after they break up, but when Carrey's Joel's subconscious begins to regret the process, he does what he can to try and keep his girlfriend's memory safe inside his head. Available: US/UK
*Leaving December 31
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020)
The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the most popular and wonderfully bonkers events in the world, so Will Ferrell's movie on the singing competition is no less joyfully insane. Starring alongside Rachel McAdams, the pair star as Icelandic musicians who may not be the most talented, but are desperate to live their dreams and compete in Eurovision. Funny and with some great musical moments, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga is one of the better Will Ferrell movies we've had of late. Available: US/UK
Extraction (2020)
Chris Hemsworth may have traded in his hammer but he is still nearly superhuman in Extraction, an action movie that sees him play a black market mercenary hired to rescue a kidnapped son of an international crime lord. Extraction features multiple incredible action set pieces that will wow viewers, but the movie may also be among Hemsworth's better performances. Available: US/UK
Fair Play (2023)
A modern-day take on the erotic thriller genre that was popular in the 1990s, Fair Play stars Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich as a young couple whose relationship is pushed to the brink when an unexpected promotion shifts the dynamics in their relationship. Both young stars give good performances and first-time feature director Chloe Domont crafts a taut viewing experience. Available: US/UK
Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
Amy Heckerling is beloved for directing Clueless, but she made two generation-defining high school movies as she was also behind the 1980s classic Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Written by Cameron Crowe, the movie takes a look at an ensemble of high schoolers as they deal with sex, drugs and all the other elements of high school. It features a great ensemble, including Judge Reinhold, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Forest Whitaker, Eric Stolz, Phoebe Cates, Sean Penn and a quick appearance by a little known Nicolas Cage. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Field of Dreams (1989)
Whether you've been interested in watching Field of Dreams ever since John Mulaney hilariously recounted the movie's plot at the 2024 Oscars or are a long-time fan of the movie and feel like a rewatch, now's a great time with it streaming on Netflix. In case you missed Mulaney's recap, Costner stars as an Iowan farmer who hears a mysterious voice telling him to build a baseball field where he grows his crops. Once he does, ghosts of famous baseball players begin to show up to play. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Friday Night Lights (2004)
Did you know before it was a hit TV show, Friday Night Lights was a movie? It's true, and while it may not have garnered as fervent as a fan base or had as catchy a mantra ("Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose"), the Friday Night Lights movie is very good. Adapted from a book that was based on a true story, the movie details a season of a Texas high school football team in a town where the sport is insanely important, putting pressure on these young kids to deliver a state championship. It's definitely one of the better football movies in recent memory. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
The Forty-Year-Old Version (2020)
Playwright, rapper, comedian and filmmaker Radha Black pulled triple duty on The Forty-Year-Old Version: directing, writing and starring in the dramedy loosely based on her own experiences as a playwright attempting to make her career breakthrough before she turns 40. Black is great in all three aspects, delivering a funny and inspiring story of artistic persistence. Available: US/UK
The Gentlemen (2019)
If you've watched the TV series The Gentlemen on Netflix, you can now watch the movie that inspired it on the streaming service as well. Guy Ritchie's 2019 movie was star-studded, with Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Michelle Dockery, Jeremy Strong, Colin Farrell, Henry Golding, Eddie Marsan and Hugh Grant among the cast, telling a classic Ritchie crime story of violence, drugs and wit. Available: US only
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc is back on the case in Glass Onion, the second movie in the Knives Out mystery franchise from Rian Johnson. The second installment is just as funny and twisty as the original Knives Out, with just as (and perhaps even more) star-studded cast that included Edward Norton, Janelle Monae, Kate Hudson, Leslie Odom Jr., Kathryn Hahn, Dave Bautista, Jessica Henwick and Madelyn Cline alongside Craig. Available: US/UK
Godzilla Minus One (2023)
Hollywood has been making big bucks with its new version of Godzilla that has been at the center of movies like Godzilla x Kong and Monarch, but the iconic movie monster's original country, Japan, put forth the best Godzilla movies in years with Godzilla Minus One. It did so by not only employing Oscar-winning visual effects to depict Godzilla and his path of destruction, but by actually investing time in its human characters to create a compelling and touching story for all the time Godzilla is not on screen. Its black-and-white version, Godzilla Minus One Minus Color, is also now streaming on Netflix. Available: US/UK
The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)
An underrated Netflix original movie, The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society stars Lily James as a British author who discovers a group of people on a small British Isle that created this unique club as a type of salvation while they were under Nazi occupation during World War 2 and finds herself falling for the group as a whole and one of its member in particular. It's a charming movie with a great performance by Lily James and a yet-to-breakout Glen Powell. Available: US/UK
The Harder They Fall (2021)
Writer-director Jeymes Samuel put his own spin on the western with the magnificent The Harder They Fall. Thrilling and funny, it brought a fresh spin to a classic Hollywood genre (something Samuel did again with the 2024 movie The Book of Clarence). We'll ride with this movie any time and highly recommend checking it out for yourself. Available: US/UK
Hero (2002)
One of the most acclaimed Chinese filmmakers of all time, Yimou Zhang made perhaps his most popular movie with Hero. This martial arts period drama stars Jet Li as a nameless hero who recounts how he defeated three powerful warriors. But what makes Hero truly stand out is how Zhang crafted each of the three storylines with distinct colors. The movie is as beautiful to look out for its costumes and sets as it is exciting to watch for the martial arts action. Available: US only
Hit Man (2024)
One of my favorite movies of 2024 so far, Richard Linklater and Glen Powell's Hit Man is a hilarious, sexy and all-around fun watch. The movie is based on the real-life of Gary Johnson, a college professor who moonlighted as a fake hit man to help capture individuals looking to commit murder. However, things take a turn when Gary forms a connection with one of the suspects and begins to have a relationship with her.
Hustle (2022)
One of the best new movies coming from then Adam Sandler/Netflix partnership of the last few years is the basketball drama Hustle. Sandler plays a pro scout who risks it all when he discovers an unknown prospect in Spain. Sandler is probably still best known for his comedies, but he has proven time and time again (and again in a movie further down) that he is a more than capable dramatic actor as well. Available: US/UK
Icarus (2017)
This is a great example of how a documentary can start out being one thing and then take on a life of its own. Documentarian Bryan Fogel was an avid cyclist who wanted to see if his results would truly be better using a doping program that often clouds the sport. He works with a Russian scientist to create the plan, only for things to come out that snowball into a global scandal and turn the documentary into a geopolitical thriller. Icarus would wind up winning the Oscar for Best Documentary. Available: US/UK
The Irishman (2019)
Before making Killers of the Flower Moon for Apple TV Plus, Martin Scorsese worked with Netflix on his epic crime drama The Irishman, which featured Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci and Harvey Keitel, among others. De Niro stars Frank Sheeran, a mafia hitman who allegedly assassinated union leader Jimmy Hoffa (Pacino). It's a three-hour plus movie, but a masterful one in the hands of Scorsese and these legendary actors. Available: US/UK
Jaws (1975)
It may be hard to believe now knowing that Steven Spielberg is one of the most influential directors of all time, but when he made Jaws in 1975 he was just an upstart kid who was struggling to bring this movie to completion. But even though he had to improvise with a famously malfunctioning mechanical shark, the challenges allowed Spielberg to highlight his creative genius and create one of the greatest thriller, and greatest movies outright, of all time. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
Another entry to get you in the holiday spirit any time of year is Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey. In the movie, Forest Whitaker is a master toy maker whose latest invention is stolen from him. It takes his adventurous granddaughter to get him out of his funk and save the day in time for Christmas. It's a charming musical that is perfect for the whole family. Available: US/UK
The Karate Kid (1984)
Cobra Kai is a big hit on Netflix (Cobra Kai season 6 returns this fall), but it all started with the 80s classic The Karate Kid. Ralph Macchio stars in this movie as a new kid in town who after being bullied is taught karate by the unsuspecting groundskeeper at his apartment complex, Mr. Miyagi (the great Pat Morita), helping him stand up for himself and participate in a regional karate tournament. It's a classic for a reason. Available: US/UK
The King (2019)
Before Timothée Chalamet was a messianic figure in Dune, he played the king of England in Netflix's The King. This historical epic depicts young Henry V as he rises to the throne and wage war against a strong French army. It's a showcase of how Chalamet became one of the biggest young actors in Hollywood. Available: US/UK
Klaus (2019)
A different take on the Santa story, Klaus is a gorgeously animated movie featuring the voice work of Jason Schwartzman, J.K Simmons, Rashida Jones, Norm MacDonald and Joan Cusack. Once you watch it good luck not making it a part of your annual Christmas movie rotation. Available: US/UK
Kneecap (2024)
One of the wildest and most entertaining movies of 2024 is now streaming on Netflix in Kneecap. Based on a real-life Irish hip hop band of the same name, the movie offers a fictionalized version of how the band got its start and became a symbol in the fight to preserve the native Irish language. Available: US only
Logan Lucky (2017)
Fans of the Ocean's Eleven movies are going to love Steven Soderbergh's other star-studded heist comedy, Logan Lucky. Channing Tatum gives one of his best performances in the movie as one half of a pair of brothers that decide to try and change their fate by staging a robbery of a NASCAR race. Riley Keough, Daniel Craig, Hilary Swank, Katie Holmes, Seth Macfarlane, Sebastian Stan and more star in the movie. Available: US only
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020)
While Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is probably most known for being the last movie that Chadwick Boseman starred in, the adaptation of the August Wilson play is a showcase for Boseman as well as the great Viola Davis, with strong supporting turns from Colman Domingo and Glynn Turman as members of a 1920s band going through a contentious recording session. Available: US/UK
The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)
The Man from U.N.C.L.E. is a criminally underrated action movie from Guy Ritchie and starring Henry Cavill, Armie hammer and Alicia Vikander. An adaptation of an old TV series, this 1960s set spy drama is sauve, thrilling and overall damn entertaining. It's a real shame it didn't get the reception it deserved initially, but you can remedy that now on Netflix. Available: US only
Mank (2020)
A movie about the writing of what is widely considered the greatest movie of all time (Citizen Kane), David Fincher's Mank is pretty great in its own right. While it definitely helps if you have some base knowledge of Hollywood history ahead of time, the story of screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz using his first-hand experience to criticize some of the most powerful political and media players of the day is enthralling to watch. Available: US/UK
Marriage Story (2019)
The opposite of a romance movie, Marriage Story takes a look at the ending of a relationship, specifically the divorce between Adam Driver's Charlies and Scarlett Johansson's Nicole. The two stars are brilliant as the story doesn't shy away from all facets of a messy divorce, as is Laura Dern as Nicole's lawyer (winning the actress an Oscar). For all the bad that happens though, there is an underlying message of hope that when it really comes to it, there's still love between these two even if it's no longer romantic love. Available: US/UK
Matilda (1996)
While Netflix has the musical version of Matilda available at all times as a Netflix original movie, we can't help but be excited that the Danny DeVito-directed, Mara Wilson-led adaptation of the Roald Dahl classic about a book-loving girl who discovers she has magical abilities is streaming on the platform. Matilda is sure to have a special place in most millennials hearts, but it remains a classic tale for all ages to enjoy. Available: US/UK
*Leaving December 31
Midnight Run (1988)
Robert De Niro has plenty of great comedies on his resume to go alongside his dramatic work, with one example — Midnight Run — available right now on Netflix. De Niro stars as a bounty hunter tasked with bringing a mafia accountant (played by Charles Grodin) back to New York, but the accountant proves a harder target than he thought. De Niro and Grodin are great together and there's plenty of action and laughs along the way to make this a fun watch. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Clint Eastwood's second Best Picture-winner, Million Dollar Baby is a powerful story of the connection between a determined female boxer (Hilary Swank) and the reluctant coach (Eastwood) that finds new purpose in training her. In addition to Best Picture, Million Dollar Baby won Oscars for Best Director (Eastwood), Best Actress (Swank) and Best Supporting Actor (Morgan Freeman). Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
The Mitchells vs the Machines (2021)
Produced by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, though co-written and co-directed by Michael Rianda and Jeff Rowe, The Mitchells vs the Machines definitely fits nicely into the Lord and Miller style of absolutely bonkers narrative (a family road trip goes off the rails when a machine takeover threatens humanity) that is just the icing on the cake for a truly emotional and heartwarming movie about family. Available: US/UK
Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa (2024)
One of the newest Netflix original movies, Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa is a documentary about Lhakpa Sherpa, whose day job is a dishwasher but she is also one of the most accomplished mountain climbers in the world. What to Watch's own Tom Bedford calls it one of his favorite movies of the year and believes it should be in contention for an Oscar nom this year. Check it out for yourself right now. Available: US/UK
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Before Mr. & Mrs. Smith was an Emmy-nominated show, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie turned it into a blast of a summer blockbuster. In case you don't know, they star as a married couple that don't know each other is a spy working for an opposing organization. When the truth comes out, so do the knives. The pair have such chemistry it's easy to understand why they began a long relationship following this movie. Funny action movies are also going to be worth the watch, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith fits the bill. Available: US/UK
Mudbound (2017)
Dee Rees' Mudbound is kind of a forgotten gem on Netflix, as the Netflix original movie was critically acclaimed, was nominated for four Oscars and features outstanding work from its ensemble (Jason Mitchell, Garrett Hedlund, Carey Mulligan, Mary J. Blige and others). The story follows two rural Mississippi families, one white and one black, as they struggle in the aftermath of World War Two. Available: US/UK
My Octopus Teacher (2020)
People fell in love with My Octopus Teacher when it first landed on Netflix, as it tells the incredible story of a diver who forms a special friendship with an octopus and learning incredible lessons from the sea creature. Be warned though, the movie may make you think twice about ordering sea food any time soon. Available: US/UK
Okja (2017)
Bong Joon Ho's Okja is an ambitious story of a young girl who goes on a mission to rescue the genetically altered pig that she has helped raise from the company that created it and wants to turn it into a new kind of food. While that seems dark, and the movie is certainly that at times, it also has a sincere heart amplified by the friendship of the girl and the titular Okja. Available: US/UK
The Old Guard (2020)
Netflix's adaptation of the graphic novel series, The Old Guard follows a group of immortal warriors who perform missions to protect the world. However, when they discover a new immortal their secret is at risk of being exposed by nefarious individuals. Charlize Theron leads the exciting, action-packed movie directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood. Available: US/UK
The Other Guys (2010)
Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg aren't your standard action movie heroes in this movie, their just the other guys. But when they have the chance to tackle the biggest cases of their careers they seize at the opportunity and try not to bungle it. Ferrell and Wahlberg are a great team here, with a strong blend of action and laughs that will leave everyone entertained. Available: US/UK
Outlaw King (2018)
Mel Gibson's Braveheart is not the most accurate movie about the 14th century fight for Scottish independence, particularly when it comes to the character of Robert the Bruce. That's where Outlaw King comes in, putting the Scottish king (played by Chris Pine) at the center of the story as he bravely goes up against a larger forces of England, ready to do anything to claim his country's freedom. Available: US/UK
The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)
An under-the-radar movie from 2019, The Peanut Butter Falcon is quite the enjoyable find on Netflix. The movie centers on Zak (Zack Gottsagen), a young man who has down syndrome but dreams of being a pro wrestler. To pursue this dream he runs away from the nursing home that he has been living in and befriends a traveler (Shia LaBeouf) who decides to help him live out his dream. Dakota Johnson, Bruce Dern and Thomas Haden Church, Jon Bernthal and John Hawkes also star in this charming indie movie. Available: US only
Phantom Thread (2017)
Phantom Thread is such a wonderfully strange movie, as Paul Thomas Anderson tells the story of an obsessive 1950s London fashion designer (played by Daniel Day-Lewis) and the strong-willed woman (Vicky Krieps in her breakout role) who he begins a relationship with. The movie has a surprisingly dark comedy tone to it which is the secret to its success. Also, it must be appreciated that this is the (at least currently) final performance of Day-Lewis magnificent career. Available: US only
The Piano Lesson (2024)
Credit to Netflix for helping to bring August Wilson's plays to wider audiences with movie adaptations. We already talked about Ma Rainey's Black Bottom above, but another is on the streamer in The Piano Lesson, which focuses on a pair of siblings arguing what they should do with a family piano. The feature directing debut for Malcolm Washington (Denzel's son and John David's brother), I feel like this adaptation of Wilson's work offers a few more cinematic tricks and treats, but as always the writing is incredible and the acting strong. Available: US/UK
Pieces of a Woman (2020)
Pieces of a Woman is an emotional drama if you are in need for a good cry, as Vanessa Kirby plays a woman who experiences a tragedy while pregnant and her journey through grief. It's a brilliant (and Oscar-nominated) performance from Kirby that makes the whole experience worthwhile. Available: US/UK
The Power of the Dog (2021)
Director Jane Campion became just the third woman ever to win Best Director at the Oscars for her dark western drama The Power of the Dog. Incredible performances from Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons and Kodi Smit-McPhee anchor this drama about an intimidating rancher who torments his brothers' new wife and stepson, but eventually, long-hidden secrets complicate their relationships. Available: US only
Predestination (2014)
If you've never heard of Predestination, which stars Ethan Hawke and a pre-Succession Sarah Snook, don't worry, you're likely not alone, as this movie slid well under the radar when it was first released in 2014. But now it may be perfect discovery on Netflix. The sci-fi movie sees Hawke star as a time-traveling cop sent back to 1975 New York to stop a bomb, only for the mission to be more complicated to appear. I honestly can't give you much more than that as it is a fascinatingly trippy experience, featuring strong performances from Hawke and Snook. Available: US only
The Prince of Egypt (1998)
Disney has known as the animation powerhouse in the 1990s and DreamWorks the plucky upstart, but that perception began to shift toward the end of the decade and a big contributor to that was The Prince of Egypt. A re-telling of the tale of Moses, The Prince of Egypt is an epic musical featuring that is actually quite adult in how it handles the elements of the story. It's soundtrack is also excellent. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Private Life (2018)
Kathryn Hahn and Paul Giamatti are brilliant together in this dramedy about a couple's struggles to get pregnant. Writer-director Tamara Jenkins and her stars are able to walk the tightrope in showing just how hard it can be going through different fertility options to have a child, but never losing a softer touch that makes us laugh and sympathize for these characters. Available: US/UK
Psycho (196)
Make it a Hitchcock double feature by pairing The Birds with Psycho, arguably the director's most famous movie. Psycho is so engrained into our culture that even if you haven't seen it you probably know many of the most iconic moments or the big twists. But that doesn't matter, it is still a thrilling, jump-out-of-your-seat kind of movie, which is all a testament to Hitchcock's brilliance. It's another entry on WTW's 100 best movies of all time list and so of course we're going to recommend that you watch it now that it is on Netflix. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Roma (2018)
Arguably Netflix's best chance to win the Oscar for Best Picture to date (it did win Best Director and Best Foreign Language Film), Roma is the beautiful story of a year in the life of the housekeeper for a middle-class family in 1970s Mexico City, loosely based on of director Alfonso Cuaron's own experiences. Available: US/UK
Scarface (1983)
Al Pacino has many great roles as a gangster, but his portrayal of Tony Montana in Scarface is right up there with his very best. The Brian de Palma crime epic sees Tony arrive from Cuban and soon build a drug empire. Of course, that kind of career rarely leads to a happily ever after, as Tony makes enemies left and right. You've probably quoted Scarface at least once in your life ("Say hello to my little friend") even if you haven't seen it. If that's the case, remedy that right now. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
Selma (2014)
The march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala., led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the seminal moments of the Civil Rights movement, and was admirably told by Ava DuVernay in this 2014 movie. In addition to DuVernay's excellent direction, David Oyelowo was noted for his performance as Dr. King, though he was surprisingly snubbed for Best Actor that year; the movie was nominated for Best Picture. Available: US only
Set It Up (2018)
Netflix has become one of the main places for romantic comedies to thrive in recent years, with one of the best examples being the fantastic movie Set It Up. Zoey Deutch and Glen Powell are fantastic together as two overtaxed assistants who scheme to make their lives easier by setting up their two bosses (Taye Diggs and Lucy Liu). Of course their antics also bring them closer together as well. Available: US/UK
Sing Street (2016)
John Carney is a master of telling stories about musicians, from Once to Begin Again to Flora and Son, and not least of all Sing Street. Set in Ireland in the 80s, Sing Street follows a young boy named Conor who does what so many young boys do who have a crush on a girl, start a band. The thing is, he's actually a really good musician. The original songs are all fantastic and this story of young love (and a side story focused on sibling love) is sure to hit you in the heartstrings. Available: US only
Shirley (2024)
Regina King gave her first on-screen performance since The Harder They Fall in Shirley, a biopic about Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress who would take history a step further by also taking on a campaign to be president in 1972. Shirley is one of WTW's best-reviewed movies of 2024, with much of the praise going to King's performance and highlighting a US history lesson that may have been skipped in high schools. Available: US/UK
Spaceman (2024)
Spaceman is an ambitious psychological drama where an astronaut (Adam Sandler) on a solo mission investigating a new phenomenon comes in contact with an alien creature that attempts to understand his complicated past. While Sandler and company (including Carey Mulligan and Paul Dano) are all good, this is truly a showcase for director Johan Renck, who crafts an intriguing and thoughtful drama. Available: US/UK
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)
While Spider-Man has been memorably portrayed by the likes of Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland in eight live-action Spider-Man movies, the best iteration of the character honestly may be the animated Spider-Verse movies, including Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Ambitious in animation style and scope, Across the Spider-Verse is a spectacle but never loses track of its emotional heart in the journey of young Miles Morales as he deals with the challenges of being Spider-Man. Available: US only
Stand By Me (1986)
Stephen King is best known for his horror stories (The Shining, Carrie, It), but a more sentimental story from the prolific author that was memorably adapted for the big screen is Stand By Me. This story of childhood adventure and friendship is a classic 80s movie, featuring memorable performances from a young Wil Wheaton, Jerry O'Connell, Corey Feldman and River Phoenix. Available: US/UK
Still Alice (2014)
The movie that finally got Julianne Moore her Oscar is truly a showcase for the actress. She plays a woman who is diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer's, and slowly begins to feel the effects. It's a devastating but powerful performance. But she's not alone, as Kristen Stewart gives one of her career-best performances in then movie as well as one of Moore's daughters. Available: US only
Take Shelter (2011)
I've long been a fan of the work of Jeff Nichols (director of the 2024 movie The Bikeriders) and Take Shelter is one of this most acclaimed movies so far in his career. However, it is also one of his lesser seen ones, as it was a small indie movie that critics championed but never got a wide release. In the movie, Michael Shannon plays a man whose visions of an apocalyptic event lead him to build a shelter for his family, though no one believes him that the end is coming. It's an incredible performance by Shannon and a must see for anyone who has enjoyed other Nichols movies. Available: US only
*Leaving December 31
The Thin Blue Line (1988)
If you love true crime, then you absolutely must watch The Thin Blue Line, one of the most influential documentaries ever made. Not only did Errol Morris' movie investigating a murder conviction in Dallas County, Texas, lead to helping the release of an innocent man, but it served as the blue print for all true crime documentaries (of which there are plenty on Netflix) to come. Available: US only
tick, tick... Boom! (2021)
Who knew Andrew Garfield could sing? Well he does, and quite convincingly, earning a Best Actor nomination for this adaptation of Jonathan Larson's semi-autobiographical musical that was directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda. While Larson's Rent is his most well known work, tick, tick... Boom! is an emotional detailing of the creative process and friendship. Available: US/UK
The Two Popes (2019)
Two acting legends, Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce, play opposite each other as the two most recent popes, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. The movie focuses on what led to the historic decision of Pope Benedict XVI (Hopkins) stepping down from his position, discussing his decision with the future Pope Francis (Pryce) and why he should be the one to take his place. Available: US/UK
The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)
Aaron Sorkin wrote and directed the star-studded ensemble The Trial of the Chicago 7, which recounts the historic case that came after the violence at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Sacha Baron Cohen, Jeremy Strong, Eddie Redmayne, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Mark Rylance, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Frank Langella are just some of the names that star in the courtroom drama. Available: US/UK
Whiplash (2014)
Damien Chazelle's magnificent debut movie Whiplash is officially 10 years old, and you can celebrate it now that it is streaming on Netflix once again. The story of an aspiring jazz drummer (Miles Teller) who is tormented by an abusive and demanding band leader (J.K. Simmons) is a frenetic and riveting watch, with one of the best endings that I have ever seen. Time to give it a watch if you haven't seen it in the last decade. Available: US only
Wicked Little Letters (2024)
One of What to Watch's best-reviewed movies of the year, Wicked Little Letters is based on the true story of a series of vulgar letters that become the talk of small English village. Jessie Buckley and Olivia Colman lead the ensemble of British standouts in this funny, farcical story of repression and gossip. Available: US/UK
Will & Harper (2024)
Will Ferrell is known for his comedies, but his best movie (at least currently his best-reviewed movie) may very well be the Netflix documentary Will & Harper. This doc follows Ferrell as he embarks with his long-time friend Harper Steele, who came out as a trans woman during the pandemic, on a cross-country road trip to discover what this new dynamic means for their friendship and how people around the country deal with Harper as she lives her authentic life. It's an incredibly emotional and moving film that I can't recommend enough. Available: US/UK
Woman of the Hour (2024)
Anna Kendrick made an impressive directorial debut with the thriller Woman of the Hour. The movie is based on the true story of Sheryl Bradshaw, who goes on a 70s dating TV show where she unsuspectingly gets paired with a serial killer. Kendrick, who also stars in the movie, does a great job with her first directorial outing, one that fans of her and true crime should definitely check out. Available: US/UK
Won't You Be My Neighbor? (2018)
Mr. Rogers is one of the most influential people in TV history, with his show teaching valuable lessons to kids for more than 30 years. Won't You Be My Neighbor? is an incredible documentary that explores the life, lessons and legacy Fred Rogers. Available: US only
Zero Dark Thirty (2012)
Kathryn Bigelow's follow-up to her Best Picture-winning The Hurt Locker stayed in the Middle East, with Zero Dark Thirty offering a fictionalized look at the dogged pursuit of Osama bin Laden in the years after 9/11; Jessica Chastain is the physical embodiment of that pursuit. While the movie stirred controversies about military methods, there is no question that Chastain delivered one of her best performances, carrying the weight of the movie on her shoulders. It's a gripping watch. Available: US/UK
Zombieland (2009)
The zombie movie has been a staple in Hollywood since George A. Romero's Night of the Living Dead, but it got a comedic twist with Zombieland. In the movie, Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin play survivors who come together as they try to traverse the zombie-filled dystopia that is America, getting up to some hilarious antics along the way. Available: US/UK
*Leaving December 31
