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.
100 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/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
The Adjustment Bureau (2011)
An underrated sci-fi thriller from the early 2010s, The Adjustment Bureau stars Matt Damon as an aspiring politician who falls in love with a ballet dancer, played by Emily Blunt. However, their relationship is not meant to be, as deemed by a mysterious organization in charge of people's fates. But the pair attempt to change their fate so they can be together. It's a clever conceit and a fun watch. 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 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 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
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 only
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
Back to the Future (1985)
"Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads." That's because all the Back to the Future movies are now available to stream on Netflix. The classic time travel stories remain beloved and are always worth a watch. The original remains the best, but if you are a completist you can finish the entire trilogy in one go on Netflix this month. Available: US only
*leaving September 30
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.
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
The Breakfast Club (1985)
Arguably the seminal John Hughes movie and one of the best of the 80s, The Breakfast Club is an all-time teen classic. The quintet of Judd Nelson, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy, Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall are fantastic playing off each other in all facets: comedic, dramatic and romantic. But most importantly, the movie doesn't treat the problems and feelings of these teenagers as insignificant, but as monumental as they feel to the kids going through them. Available: US only
Bullet Train (2022)
Bullet Train seems destined to be a movie that didn't get the best critical reception (it's technically "Rotten" on Rotten Tomatoes) but that movie fans love because it's bonkers and fun. Brad Pitt stars as a hitman tasked with a simple retrieval job that becomes anything but as other assassins are on board all with their own agenda. The all-star cast helps sell this movie, including Brian Tyree Henry, Joey King, Bad Bunny, Logan Lerman, Zazie Beetz, Hiroyuki Sanada, Michael Shannon, Sandra Bullock and (reported next James Bond) Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Available: UK only
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/UK
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 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
Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
Crazy Rich Asians, the international best-selling book, became a box office smash in 2018, and now you can rewatch it or discover it for the first time on Netflix. Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh, Awkafina, Gemma Chan and more star in this big love story where an American teacher discovers that her boyfriend is actually a member of one of the wealthiest families in Singapore. 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
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
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
Downton Abbey: The Motion Picture (2019)
After six seasons and building a worldwide fandom, Downton Abbey made the leap to the big screen with Downton Abbey: The Motion Picture. Using royal visit to Downton as inciting incident, the movie was another chance for fans to see how their favorite characters' stories progressed. This is a franchise that continues to have legs, as not only did we get a sequel (Downton Abbey: A New Era), but a third movie is on the (Downton Abbey 3) as is a brand new TV season (Downton Abbey season 7). And if by chance you need to catch up, then you must add Downton Abbey: The Motion Picture to your watchlist. Available: US/UK
Dumb and Dumber (1994)
Jim Carrey is one of the funniest movie stars ever and Dumb and Dumber is one of his funniest movies, so of course it is a must-watch. But what makes this movie standout amongst Carrey's breakout 1994 (which also saw the release of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and The Mask) is that Jeff Daniels is every bit as funny as Carrey, with the two forming one of the most iconic duos in comedy history. Available: US only
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
Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
After a slow start upon its release, the Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt sci-fi movie has thankfully become more widely recognized as a great movie. Basically a sci-fi/action version of Groundhog Day, Cruise plays a hapless soldier who gains the ability to reset the day, a handy tool as they face a horde of difficult to kill aliens. The only problem is to do so he has to die each and every time. Edge of Tomorrow has become so beloved that many are still clamoring for a sequel, though admittedly I'm not one of them, thinking we can let this one stand on its own. Available: US only
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
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
Fatal Attraction (1987)
Paramount Plus tried a new adaptation of the classic 80s movie, but the original Fatal Attraction is not going to be ignored, as it is still the best version of this thriller. Most of the credit to that goes to Glenn Close, who is equal parts brilliant and terrifying as Alex Forrest. Essays can be written about how viewpoints on this movie have changed over the years, but when it comes down to it, Close and Douglas dangerous game remains a thrill to watch. Available: UK only
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
First Man (2018)
I truly believe that Damien Chazelle and Ryan Gosling's First Man is an overlooked masterpiece. Their depiction of Neil Armstrong as he prepares for the dangerous mission of Apollo 11 is not only thrilling in its incredible recreation of flight and space travel sequences (the actual moon landing scene is heart-pounding, even though we know the end), but the personal drama of Armstrong working through grief as this is all going on is powerful and is an underrated performance on Gosling's resume. Available: US only
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
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.
Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Before Taika Waititi became truly mainstream with Thor: Ragnarok and Jojo Rabbit, the Oscar-winning filmmaker made Hunt for the Wilderpeople. The story is about a kid and his reluctant foster uncle traveling through the New Zealand bush and stars Julian Dennison and Sam Neill, with Waititi's trademark humor and heart on full display. A must-watch for all fans of his work. Available: US only
*leaving September 30
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 Impossible (2012)
Telling a story about a tourist family in Thailand when the devastating 2004 Indian Oscan tsunami hit, The Impossible will hit you with so many feels as the family (played by Ewan McGregor, Naomi Watts and a young Tom Holland) attempt to reunite. Available: UK 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)
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/UK
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
Jumanji (1995)
Dwayne Johnson may have taken over the Jumanji franchise, but to paraphrase Nick Jonas in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, this is Robin Williams' house, and the Rock is just living it. Williams was the original star of 1995's Jumanji, along with a young Kirsten Dunst, Bonnie Hunt and Bradley Pierce, who start playing the board game Jumanji, only to discover that its dangers are able to escape the game to become very real. It's a classic adventure movie that definitely has a soft spot among us Millennials. Available: US only
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
La La Land (2017)
Let's ignore Envelope-gate and just remember that La La Land is one of the best movie musicals of this century. Director Damien Chazelle created a magical version of Los Angeles, where the dreams and love of Mia (Emma Stone) and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) are put to the test. The music and choreography are incredible, but it is the performance of the two leads that makes this one to remember (Stone won her first of two Best Actress Oscars for this movie). Best Picture or not, La La Land is one of the best movies of the last 10 years. Available: US only
The Lego Movie ( 2014)
Before Barbie, The Lego Movie proved that you could truly make a great movie based on a toy line. This animated flick is perfect for all ages, as Lego construction worker Emmet goes on a wild adventure with classic characters, voiced by the likes of Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Morgan Freeman, Will Ferrell, Liam Neeson, Alison Brie, Charlie Day and Nick Offerman. Available: US only
*leaving September 30
Leon: The Professional (1994)
If after watching Hit Man you're up for another great movie about a contract killer, then you're in luck, because the classic Leon: The Professional is streaming on Netflix right now. Jean Reno gives the best performance of his career as a skilled hit man whose softer side is revealed when he looks after a young girl (Natalie Portman in her first role) recently made an orphan. Action and heart aplenty in Leon. Available: US only
*leaving September 30
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/UK
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
Magic Mike (2012)
With Logan Lucky you get to see comedic Channing Tatum, but in Magic Mike you get to see him work his dramatic acting chops (and be shirtless a good bit, if that is something that interests you). Loosely based on Tatum's own experiences, the movie is about a male stripper who is enjoying the profession but has other dreams for where he wants his life to go. 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
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
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
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
Moneyball (2011)
A very different kind of baseball story, Moneyball isn't as much about what happens on the field, but the way that Oakland Athletics General Manager Billy Beane went against conventional wisdom to overcome the financial deficit his club had against the likes of the New York Yankees and others. In our opinion, it features the best Brad Pitt performance of his career and is masterfully directed by Bennett Miller. Available: UK only
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
The Monty Python comedy troupe of Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Michael Palin, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam already had made comedy history with their sketch show on UK TV, but then they took their brand of silliness to the big screen for the hysterical Arthurian spoof with Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It's easily one of the funniest movies ever made and a must watch if you haven't yet seen it (or if you haven't seen it in a while). Quick programming note, Monty Python's Life of Brian is also streaming on Netflix right now, if you want to make it a double feature. 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 only
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
Paddington (2014)
There is probably not a more wholesome movie franchise right now than Paddington, based on the beloved children's books by Michael Bond. While Paddington 2 has been called The Godfather Part II of kids movies, lets not overlook the original Paddington, which introduced us to Ben Whishaw's courtesy and curious bear, who quickly wins the heart of the Brown family (Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin) and us viewers. Available: UK only
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
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
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
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
Room (2015)
Room was a bit of a revelation for all involved. It was the first Hollywood-made movie for director Lenny Abrahamson (who'd go on to direct Normal People), it was the first movie ever for Jacob Tremblay, who gives one of the best performances from a child we can think off, and it shot Brie Larson into stardom, eventually winning her an Oscar for Best Actress. The movie is not an easy watch — as it tells the story of a young woman who was kidnapped as a young girl and her eventual escape — but all three of its main players make it an absolutely brilliant movie. Available: US/UK
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
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
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006)
In case you didn't guess, we're big Will Ferrell fans. Talladega Nights is one of the comedians most quotable movies, including "Shake and bake," "If you ain't first, you're last" and other gems. Add John C. Reilly, Sacha Baron Cohen, Gary Cole, Jane Lynch, Michael Clark Duncan, Amy Adams and Leslie Bibb to the mix and Talladega Nights is a winner, plain and simple. Available: UK only
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
James Cameron knows how to make brilliant sequels. After turning Ridley Scott's Alien into an epic action movie with Aliens, he did the same with his own movie Terminator with the arguably superior Terminator 2: Judgment Day. The action pieces are bigger and better looking, including the use of the first heavy-CGI character (Robert Patrick's T-1000) that still looks pretty good even by today's standards. But the real stars of this movie are Linda Hamilton, who's Sarah Connor becomes a complete bada**, and Arnold Schwarzenegger in the role of his career. Available: US only
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
Uncut Gems (2019)
Adam Sandler is best known for his comedies, but when he gets the chance to give a dramatic performance, he's knocked it out of the park more times than not. Perhaps never better than in Uncut Gems, where he plays a gambler who perhaps bits off more than he can chew with his latest round of bets. It's an intense experience directed by the Safdie brothers, but Sandler is the real draw in another A24 gem (forgive the pun). Available: UK 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
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
