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.
103 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
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 only
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)
We'd watch Denzel Washington read the phonebook, that is how charismatic and effective the Oscar-winning actor is. And all that talent is on full display in American Gangster, where he plays drug kingpin Frank Lucas in 1970s New York, while Russell Crowe's the cop doggedly trying to bring him down. It's a strong crime drama with a deep supporting cast beyond the two leads (Chiwetel Ejiofor, Josh Brolin, Cuba Gooding Jr., John Hawkes and the legendary Ruby Dee also star), but no surprise Denzel is the main attraction. Available: US only
American Graffiti (1973)
Before Star Wars launched George Lucas into the stratosphere (and subsequently took over the rest of his career), he made a much more down to Earth movie that is also quite acclaimed in American Graffiti. About as far away from Star Wars as you can get (though Harrison Ford does have a supporting role in the movie), American Graffiti takes place in a small California town as a group of teens spend one of their final nights together on the town before starting the next chapters of their lives. American Graffiti was nominated for five Oscars (Best Picture and Best Director included) and is also on the American Film Institute's Top 100 movies of all time list, so it very much is Lucas' other classic. Available: US only
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
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
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
Born on the Fourth of July (1989)
For my money, Born on the Fourth of July is Oliver Stone's superior Vietnam war film, better than his Best Picture winner Platoon. A large part of that is the performance from Tom Cruise, which could have, and possibly should have won Cruise an Oscar. It's a powerful story about the consequences of war and how that there is more than one way to show your patriotism for your country. Available: US only
Burn After Reading (2008)
The Coen Brothers have a duality to them, as they are capable of making incredibly dark and thrilling movies like Blood Simple and No Country for Old Men, but also are quite adept at screwball comedies (Raising Arizona, Hail Caesar!). Burn After Reading is definitely the latter, but this spy comedy featuring just about the dumbest spies you can find (played by the likes of George Clooney, Richard Jenkins, John Malkovich, Frances McDormand, Brad Pitt and Tilda Swinton) actually has a bit more to say when you look past the buffoonery. Available: US only
Captain Philllips (2013)
Captain Phillips sparked a million memes and impressions of the now iconic line from Barkhad Abdi, "I'm the captain now," but the movie directed by Paul Greengrass and starring Tom Hanks has plenty else going for it. Greengrass is an expert at creating intense sequences and does so again with this modern day pirate story, while Hanks and Abdi are great off each other (Abdi's performance was nominated for an Oscar while many believed Hanks should have been). Available: US only
Carry-On (2024)
Die Hard for a new generation is an apt description for Carry-On, a Christmas-set action thriller starring Taron Egerton. The actor plays a TSA agent who is blackmailed into letting a dangerous package through security. But can he figure out how to stop it and save numerous lives? Carry-On is a great Christmas-time alternative for those who are more fond of the action genre. Available: US/UK
Charlie Wilson's War (2007)
We'll probably never see Tom Hanks run for political office, so the closest we'll get is to him portraying real-life Congressman Charlie Wilson, who in the late 70s and early 80s led a charge to arm Afghanistan rebels in their fight against the invading Soviet Union. While the movie has a strong bend toward comedy as Hanks' Wilson is a big personality and Philip Seymour Hoffman's CIA agent is hysterically ornery, but the movie (directed by Mike Nichols) also has a poignant message about the ramifications of these events. Available: US only
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
Clueless (1995)
Amy Heckerling is responsible for not one, but two all time great high school comedies in Fast Times at Ridgemont High (also streaming on Netflix in the US) and Clueless. But as a millennial, Clueless is the one that I have the deeper connection to. This reinterpretation of Jane Austen's Emma sees Alicia Silverstone stars as Cher, a Beverly Hills teen socialite, who attempts to play matchmaker, only for things to get a little out of her control. The movie has become a beloved comedy, so as it celebrates its 30th anniversary this year there's no better time to give it a rewatch. Available: US/UK
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
Dazed and Confused (1993)
Richard Linklater's high school classic keeps getting it older, but it has a quality that continues to stay the same. Set on the last day of school in 1976 Texas, the movie features a who's who cast of then up-and-comers (Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, Joey Lauren Adams, Milla Jovovich, Adam Goldberg, Antony Rapp, Cole Hauser and more) as they hang and look to party. All the while Linklater distills the essence of teenagers, specifically at that time and, as evident by its staying power, beyond its 70s setting. Oh yeah, and the soundtrack is awesome. Available: US Only
The Deer Hunter (1978)
I'm not sure there's a movie that showcases the mental horrors of the Vietnam War more powerfully than The Deer Hunter. Now how historically accurate Michael Cimino's Oscar-winning is up for debate, but the emotional impact and performances from Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, Meryl Streep and others make this movie a classic. Available: US only
The Departed (2006)
The movie that finally won Martin Scorsese his Oscar (for both Best Director and Best Picture), The Departed is an entertaining crime drama full of twists and turns and fun performances, especially from Jack Nicholson and Mark Wahlberg. But the movie has staying power because of the depth of performances from Leonardo DiCaprio and a strong script from William Monahan. Whether or not you think The Departed is the movie that Scorsese should have won his Oscar for, it is another great entry in the legendary director's filmography. Available: US only
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
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)
I have never played Dungeons & Dragons in my life, but I sure had a blast watching this movie based on the popular role-playing game. Chris Pine is another charming rogue alongside a fun ensemble that includes Michelle Rodriguez, Justice Smith, Sophia Lillis, Rege-Jean Page and Hugh Grant in a nice, breezy popcorn flick for those in the mood for some fantasy. Available: US only
*Leaving August 25
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
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
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
Friday Night Lights (2004)
Before it became a hit TV show, the Friday Night Lights movie portrayed the ups and downs of a Texas high school football team that audiences could passionately root for. Based on a true story, the movie Friday Night Lights may not have a quote that has lasted like "clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose," but Billy Bob Thornton's Coach Gaines and his roster of co-stars (including Derek Luke, Lucas Black, Garrett Hedlund, Tim McGraw and Connie Britton) are a winning combo. Available: US only
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
Groundhog Day (1993)
Have we written about Groundhog Day on this list before? Well the Bill Murray classic comedy is worth the inclusion even if we have. The movie follows a selfish weatherman (Murray), who discovers he is stuck in a time loop, repeating the same day over and over again in Punxsutawney, Pa., desperately trying to break the cycle. It's a format that has been used by numerous movies now, with a few that have pulled it off quite well (Palm Springs and Edge of Tomorrow are personal favorites), but none of them have Murray, which is Groundhog Day's key ingredient. Available: US only
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
Happy Gilmore 2 (2025)
I'm not going to try and make the case that Happy Gilmore 2 is an incredible example of "cinema," but as a silly comedy it works exceedingly well. Fans of the original Adam Sandler comedy are sure to enjoy all the callbacks, the endless streak of cameos are fun and, believe it or not, there are some genuine points of emotion. As someone who grew up with the original, nothing was going to top it, but Happy Gilmore 2 is a worthy follow up that will get you laughing. 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
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. Available: US/UK
The Holiday (2006)
We're a ways away from Christmas, but if you're in the need of a pick-me-up there may not be a better movie to go with than The Holiday. This classic rom-com charmer stars Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and Jack Black, all of who are practically perfect together. Available: US only
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
I'm Still Here (2024)
For all the awards that Flow and Emilia Perez racked up last year (and some of the controversy in the case of the latter), I'm Still Here was my favorite non-English language movie from 2024. The movie takes place in 1970s Brazil, recounting the true story of a family that is upended when the military dictatorship in place abducts her husband, drastically changing the course of her and her families live. Star Fernanda Torres is incredible and the movie deals with themes that unfortunately have links to events today. It's a must watch. Available: US only
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)
Steven Spielberg's breakout hit returns to Netflix to close out the summer, and just shortly after the movie celebrated its 50th anniversary. The first true blockbuster, Jaws' place in the culture holds firm in half a century, with things like John Williams iconic and simple score and classic lines like "you're gonna need a bigger boat." And considering beach season is almost coming to an end, you can probably watch Jaws and not be as scared about going into the water afterwards. Available: US/UK
The Jerk (1979)
We all know Steve Martin from Only Murders in the Building, Father of the Bride and Three Amigos!, but if you haven't seen his first ever movie, The Jerk, you need to get on that ASAP. Martin goes for broke with the level of absurdity in this movie (the cat juggling bit is one of the first that comes to mind for me), but it absolutely works as his naive character Navin bumbles his way through life and love. Martin is one of the funniest performers we've ever seen, and The Jerk is further proof of that. Available: US only
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
June 17, 1994 (2010)
The ESPN 30 for 30 documentaries have been incredibly popular for their detailed examinations of iconic sports figures and moments. But my favorite entry from the 30 for 30 series is definitely June 17th, 1994. This documentary features no interviews, no anecdotes from those involved, it simply plays archival footage from the titular day chronologically, as it is one probably one of the most hectic days in sports history. Among the events on that day were the start of the 1994 World Cup in the US, Arnold Palmer's last round at the US Open, the New York Rangers celebrating their first Stanley Cup in 54 years, Ken Griffey Jr. tying Babe Ruth's record of most home runs in a season before June 30 and the NBA Finals game 5 between the Houston Rockets and New York Knicks. However, every one of those events were overtaken by the OJ Simpson highway chase after the death of his wife. It's truly mesmerizing watching the days' events unfold. Available: US only
Jurassic Park (1993)
Make it a Spielberg double feature, as another one of his classic popcorn movies, Jurassic Park, is also streaming on Netflix right now. This franchise has continued for more than 30 years (with the most recent entry Jurassic World Rebirth), but pretty much no one will argue that the original movie remains the best of the bunch. Even after all these years, the dinosaurs in this movie can still mesmerize and scare the pants of you. And just to note, The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Jurassic Park III are also now streaming on Netflix. Available: US only
The Karate Kid (1984)
Outside of the new Karate Kid: Legends movie (which is still only playing in movie theaters), Netflix is the streaming home for all things Karate Kid. That includes all of the first three Karate Kid movies starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, the 2010 reboot with Jackie Chan and TV series Cobra Kai. Though if you have to pick just one, how can you not pick "the best around," the original Karate Kid from 1984. 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
Lion (2016)
If you're ever in need of a good cry, Lion is a movie that has all the ingredients to bring out the tissues. Dev Patel stars the grown adopted child of an Australian couple, who sets out to find his birthplace after he was lost as a small child in India. Patel and Nicole Kidman both earned Oscar nominations for their work, as di the movie for Best Picture. 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
*Leaving August 20
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
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Arguably the greatest action movie of the 21st century and one of the best all time, Mad Max: Fury Road is ready and raring to watch on Netflix right now. George Miller reignited his popular 80s franchise with a new leading man in Tom Hardy and, most importantly, a new character in Furiosa, played by Charlize Theron, that quickly became a fan favorite (and earned her own spinoff movie). The characters are what make Mad Max: Fury Road a great movie, but the action is the main attraction, as the movie is basically a two-hour chase scene with explosions. It's awesome. Available: US only
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
Man on Wire (2008)
An Oscar-winning documentary, Man on Wire recounts the story of Philippe Petit, who in 1974 performed a high-wire act between the two towers of the World Trade Center... all without permission. Part thriller and circus performance, it is an exhiilrating documentary. Available: US only
*Leaving August 6
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
Maria (2024)
I have been a big fan of Pablo Larrain's movies about iconic 20th century women (previous entries include Jackie and Spencer), and the director did not disappoint with his latest, Maria, about famed opera singer Maria Callas. Angelina Jolie gives one of the best performances of her career her, combining with Larrain to beautifully tell her story. 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
Melancholia (2011)
Many movies use a world ending threat as a narrative device, but Lars von Trier fully committed to the idea with his meditative look at depression, Melancholia. The real star of the movie though is the fantastic performance from Kirsten Dunst, which in hindsight seems baffling she didn't get nominated for an Oscar for it. Available: US only
*Leaving August 24
Mission: Impossible (1996)
Like the Karate Kid movies, you have a multitude of Mission: Impossible movies available to you on Netflix right now, as the first five movies of the franchise (Mission: Impossible, Mission: Impossible II, Mission: Impossible III, Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol and Mission: Impossible — Rogue Nation) are all streaming. While Mission: Impossible III is an underrated entry in the franchise (and a more relevant one after some new details in Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning), again I have to go with the original as my top pick, though no one's stopping you from having a Mission: Impossible marathon. Available: US/UK
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
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
Neighbors (2014)
One of my favorite comedies of the last 10-plus years, Neighbors stars Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne as a married couple who get the rude awakening when their new neighbors turn out to be a raucous fraternity led by Zac Efron. It eventually sets off a series of counter attacks against each other that get more and more hilarious. The only thing better would be if Neighbors 2 was also streaming on Netflix right now, but Neighbors is more than a suitable option if you're in need of a good laugh. Available: US only
Nonnas (2025)
Nonnas is a sweet comedy that is as comforting as the Italian food being cooked up on screen. Based on a real New York restaurant, Vince Vaughan stars as a man who decides to start a business to honor his late mother and grandmother — an Italian restaurant where actual grandmothers (nonnas) cook the recipes that they have been serving their families for generations. Legends Susan Sarandon, Talia Shire and Lorraine Bracco join Vaughn in a sweet movie that is hard not to love. 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. The sequel, The Old Guard 2, is also now available to stream, though for me it doesn't quite reach the same level as the original. Available: US/UK
One of Them Days (2025)
Some early 2025 new movies are starting to make their way onto Netflix, including one of my favorite new movies of the year so far, the comedy One of Them Days starring Keke Palmer and SZA. Palmer and SZA are a great duo in this movie as their characters traverse across their Los Angeles neighborhood needing to scrounge up rent to avoid being evicted, getting into plenty of memorable and hilarious situations along the way. Available: US only
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 Outrun (2024)
Saoirse Ronan is still searching for her first Oscar, but she gave another worthy performance in that pursuit with the 2024 movie The Outrun (even if she ultimately got snubbed for a nomination). In this movie she plays a recovering alcoholic who attempts to get her life in order by returning her home on Scotland's Orkney Islands. Available: US/UK
Parasite (2019)
The first non-English language movie to win Best Picture, Parasite definitely earned that honor as it is one of the best movies of the 21st century. Bong Joon Ho's tale of class disparity in Korea is darkly funny, then incredibly tense and thrilling, all culminating in a poignant, gutting ending. Available: US/UK
Past Lives (2023)
A modern classic that absolutely ripped my heart out in the best way possible, Past Lives is utterly amazing. Celine Song's debut movie tells the story of two people who reconnect after years apart and living on opposite sides of the globe. Is their reunion fate, or a small moment in time that they can't hold onto? Without question it's one of the greatest love stories of the 21st century. 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
Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (2016)
Andy Samberg plays a Justin Bieber-type popstar in this hilarious mockumentary that feels like it doesn't get the love it deserves. Made with his Lonely Island collaborators (Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone), Popstar has a great time poking fun at the idea of this kind of teen idol but also just has some completely off the wall bits that will have you rolling on the floor laughing. Available: US only
*Leaving August 16
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/UK
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
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
RRR (2022)
Discover (or rediscover) the sensation that was RRR, a Tollywood musical from India that became a global phenomenon. Loosely based on two historic figures from Indian history, the movie depicts the fight for independence against the British, with action and musical numbers like you've rarely seen before. Available: US/UK
Saturday Night (2024)
With Saturday Night Live celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, go back all the way to the 90 minutes before the legendary show aired its first episode and witness the chaos of getting it on the air. Jason Reitman's retelling of that historical night of TV is funny and exciting as it plays out in rea time, but the young ensemble playing the SNL team (including Gabriel LaBelle, Rachel Sennott, Lamorne Morris, Dylan O'Brien and more) are the biggest takeaway. 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
Sicario (2015)
Before he conquered the world of Dune, director Denis Villeneuve depicted a different kind of desert conflict, as Emily Blunt's federal agent attempts to stop drug trafficking across the US-Mexico border with the help of a dangerous but mysterious ally(?), played by Benicio Del Toro. A taut, brilliantly excellent thriller (written by a pre-Yellowstone Taylor Sheridan) is always worth a watch. Available: US only
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
Spencer (2021)
Kristen Stewart gave an Oscar-nominated performance as Princess Diana in Pablo Larrain's Spencer. Focusing on a few days spending the Christmas holidays with the royal family, Spencer often feels like a horror movie as the pressure and mental health struggles of Diana rise to the surface. Available: US only
A Star Is Born (2018)
There have been four Hollywood adaptations of the story of A Star Is Born, dating all the way back to 1937, but you can watch the most recent and acclaimed edition, starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga right here. Warning, this one may require some tissues, as the story of the love between a rising music star and one whose time in the spotlight is coming to an end is known to draw out some tears, helped by the great performances by Cooper and Gaga. Though you can have your favorite (mine is Judy Garland's 1954 version), there's no questioning that this is another great telling of A Star Is Born. 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
Trainwreck (2015)
I'm always surprised that Trainwreck didn't become a bigger hit, as I found the movie absolutely hilarious. Amy Schumer stars as a woman who doesn't believe in monogamy, only to have that challenged when she meets a sports medicine doctor (Bill Hader). Written by Schumer and directed by Apatow, the movie is stuffed with great jokes, including a surprisingly hilarious performance by LeBron James, but also an effective romance you want to root for. Available: US only
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
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
Us (2019)
While it never reached the acclaim of Get Out, Us is another fantastic entry from Jordan Peele. The plot is a little hard to explain other than it has to do with a family being terrorized by the mysterious appearance of their doppelgangers, but what you really need to know is that it is thrilling and surprisingly humorous, with a great lead performance by Lupita Nyong'o. Available: US/UK
V for Vendetta (2005)
An adaptation of the popular graphic novel, V for Vendetta is a mix of action and political thriller as a future, Orwellian England sees the spark of a revolution from a mysterious man in a Guy Fawkes mask simply known as V. Hugo Weaving, Natalie Portman and John Hurt headline this fan-favorite movie that celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025. Available: US only
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (2024)
Wallace & Gromit are an iconic cinema pair, and they are back for another wacky adventure in the Oscar-nominated animated movie Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. Though their nemesis Feathers McGraw is locked away in prison, he's still finding ways to reek havoc on Wallace & Gromit. Available: US/UK
Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
If you want to hold onto that summer feeling, there's no better way to do that than to recall summer camp, and there may not be a more fun summer camp than Camp Firewood. With counselors that include Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler, Bradley Cooper, Marguerite Moreau, Michael Showalter, Michael Ian Black, Molly Shannon, Ken Marino, Joe Lo Truglio, Elizabeth Banks and more, the laughs never stop in this absolutely absurdist comedy. Netflix also has a couple of spin off series reuniting the cast, and while they're funny, the original remains the best. 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 only
The Wild Robot (2024)
An Oscar nominee for Best Animated Feature Film in 2024, The Wild Robot is a perfect family-friendly option on Netflix. Based on the book by Peter Brown, the story focuses on a service robot that crash lands on an island inhabited only by animals. Programmed to assist in the needs of those around her, the robot (Roz) takes on the job of raising a gosling whose mother died. Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy and an all-star voice cast star in this gorgeously animated and wonderfully told story. Available: US only
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
