The 50 Most Popular Movies Available on Netflix Right Now
If you’re looking for the best movies to watch on Netflix, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ve put together an expertly curated selection of some of the most exciting, compelling, emotional and funny movies currently streaming on Netflix. While it can be daunting thumbing through the streamer’s catalogue to find out what to watch, we’ve taken the guesswork and mindless scrolling out of it. This blog will be updated frequently with new recommendations. It will keep you up-to-date with all Netflix movies you should prioritize.
Enjoy our top ten Netflix movies right now!
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Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio
Guillermo del Toro’s first stop-motion feature film is as emotional as you’d expect, and this is “Pinocchio” like you’ve never seen the story before. This adaptation was co-written by del Toro and directed by him. It features Ewan McGregor’s voices, Cate Blanchett and Finn Wolfhard as well as Ron Perlman and Tilda Swainton. This stunning work of art is both emotionally and awe-inspiring, and it’s set against the backdrop fascist Italy.
Prisoners
If it’s hard-boiled thrillers you’re looking for, “Prisoners” is a pretty taut (and handsomely crafted) entry in the genre. Directed by Denis Villeneuve of “Arrival” and “Dune” fame, the film stars Hugh Jackman as a man whose daughter is abducted and decides to take matters into his own hands when he identifies a suspicious suspect (played by Paul Dano). Jake Gyllenhaal plays the detective trying to crack the case, but this one’s less about plot and more about the toll the case takes on these individuals, with an all-star cast rounded out by Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Terrence Howard and Melissa Leo. It also features stellar cinematography by Roger Deakins and a haunting score by the late Jóhann Jóhannsson.
The Mask of Zorro
Before “The Mummy” or “The Pirates of the Caribbean,” there was “The Mask of Zorro.” The 1998 film is based on the classic TV series of the same name, but director Martin Campbell injects this 19th century-set tale with enough intrigue, adventure and swashbuckling to keep a grin on your face from beginning to end. Anthony Hopkins plays Zorro the original, who has been held in prison for twenty years. Antonio Banderas plays a desperate bandit and he breaks him free. He sets out to train him in Zorro so that he can rescue his daughter Catherine Zeta Jones from the clutches by the man who put him in prison.
Where the Crawdads sing
The highly anticipated Delia Owens adaptation is newly streaming on Netflix this month, in case you didn’t get a chase to see “Where the Crawdads Sing” in theaters when it was initially released this summer. Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as Kya in this murder mystery thriller. She is a North Carolina marshland woman who has made it to adulthood. But when a man ends up dead and questions surround Kya’s involvement, she must face her past in traumatic fashion. The film grossed $140 million on a budget of $24 million. It also stars Taylor John Smith and Harris Dickinson. Bonus: There’s an original Taylor Swift song in it too.
Moneyball
Brad Pitt gives one of his best performances in the 2011 drama “Moneyball,” and you don’t need to know a thing about baseball to enjoy this film. Directed by Bennett Miller and written by Aaron Sorkin and Steven Zaillian, “Moneyball” charts former MLB flameout Billy Beane (Pitt) who’s now general manager of the Oakland Atheltics and recruits a statistician with zero baseball experience (played by Jonah Hill in an Oscar-nominated performance) to help him shake up the team. The film is based on a true and controversial story, and while the sports angle is interesting, Pitt’s turn as a man filled with regret and shame hits you right in the gut.
Star Trek
As thrilling as it was when it was first released in 2009, J.J. Abrams’ “Star Trek” remains one of the most purely entertaining franchise reboots of the modern era. The film introduces younger versions of the iconic characters from the beloved TV and film series – namely Kirk, Spock and Uhura – all while finding a clever way to set them on an uncharted path, unbound by the lore of the previous stories. While the sequels failed to deliver on the promise here, the first film remains a crackling good time with standout performances from Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldaña, Simon Pegg, John Cho and Karl Urban.
Gladiator
If you’re in the mood for something epic and rousing, Ridley Scott’s Best Picture-winning “Gladiator” more than holds up over two decades later. Russell Crowe plays the role of a Roman general who is overthrown by Joaquin Phoenix, his son. His family is murdered and he’s exiled to become a gladiator, fighting to sport. He fights in front of the man who has ruined his life, clawing his way back to Rome. Entertainment – and some incredible acting – ensues. Hans Zimmer’s score also rules.
The Nice Guys
“The Nice Guys” is so good, it will make you mad you didn’t see it in a theater when it first came out. Filmmaker Shane Black’s 1970s noir comedy stars Ryan Gosling, a private investigator, and Russell Crowe, a gruff enforcer, who must work together to solve the disappearance of a teenager girl (played here by Margaret Qualley). Gosling and Crowe’s chemistry is absolutely dynamite, and Black demonstrates his knack for two-handers that he previously perfected on “Lethal Weapon” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.” And not for nothing, but Gosling delivers one of the best comedic performances of the century here. It’s worth a shot. You won’t regret it.
Skyfall
One of the best James Bond movies ever made, 2012’s “Skyfall” deepens the emotional core of Daniel Craig’s 007 without sacrificing spectacle. Sam Mendes creates a thrilling and explosive action film that is both personal and intense. Bond faces a changing world, while fighting an enemy from his past. Roger Deakins, a cinematographer extraordinaire, photographs the emotional finale.
Sorry to bother you
If you’re feeling adventurous, writer/director Boots Riley’s 2018 film “Sorry to Bother You” is a Wild ride that’s well worth the trip. LaKeith Stanfield plays a telemarketer who gets swept up into a corporate conspiracy and then… well this one is best seen knowing as little as possible going in, but trust us, the ending is unforgettable. Tessa Thompson and Jermaine Fowler are joined by Omari Hardwick, Terry Crews, Steven Yeun, and Jermaine Foller.
Sally and Harry: When Harry Met Sally
If you’re in the mood for a great rom-com, fire up the classic “When Harry Met Sally.” Director Rob Reiner and screenwriter Nora Ephron make for a perfect duo in 1989’s “When Harry Met Sally…” which follows two people played by Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal through over a decade of near-misses and friendship in New York City. Everyone can relate to this story of friends who can’t decide if they want to be something more, or can’t get on the same page with how they truly feel about one another. Harry was created by Reiner, who was just coming out of a divorce. Sally was inspired and influenced by Ephron.
Hell or High Water
If you’re a fan of “Yellowstone,” you’ll want to check out creator Taylor Sheridan’s 2016 neo-Western crime film “Hell or High Water.” The film stars Chris Pine and Ben Foster as a pair of brothers who carry out a series of bank robberies in order to save their family ranch, and are put on the radar of two Texas Rangers played by Jeff Bridges and Gil Birmingham. David Mackenzie directed the film. Sheridan wrote the script. The film is a slow-burn thriller about crime with complex characters. It builds tension inch-by-inch until the explosive ending. Oscar nominations were given to the film for Best Picture and Screenplay as well as Supporting Actor in Bridges.
Paddington
Truly a perfect film for all ages, 2014’s “Paddington” is far better than it has any right to be. Based on the Paddington Bear doll, the film tells the story of a mild-mannered bear who moves to London where he’s taken in by a kind yet somewhat cautious family. Shenanigans ensue as Paddington seeks out an explorer who once offered his family an invitation to come to London, all while he’s hunted by an evil taxidermist played by Nicole Kidman. This film is full unbridled kindness and compassion.
Mudbound
The first film to ever earn a woman an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography, 2017’s “Mudbound” is a moving and compelling historical drama. Dee Rees directed the film and Rachel Morrison shot it. The story follows two World War II vets as they return home from war in Mississippi. One is a white veteran and one is a black one. Carey Mulligan stars alongside Jason Mitchell, Garrett Hedlund, Mary J. Blige and Garrett Hedlund. This film examines race relations in America with a direct connection to today’s present. It is full of complex characters, rich and diverse, and features Carey Mulligan, Mary J. Blige, Mary J. Blige, and Garrett Hedlund.
Casino Royale
Arguably the best James Bond movie ever made, 2006’s “Casino Royale” forever changed the franchise and introduced Daniel Craig as a more vulnerable iteration of the character. It’s also a blast and a half. It’s a semi-origin story about 007, as it rebooted series to focus on a younger James Bond. He is tasked by spotting a bankrupt terrorist financier (played Mads Mikkelsen) and he team up with Eva Green, a treasury worker. Although intense, the film is also very humanistic and sensitive. Bond and Vesper consider what it would be like to actually kill another human being. And yet, given that this is a James Bond movie, it’s also suave and thrilling.
Phantom Thread
While “The Master” may be filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson at his most serious, “Phantom Thread” is him at his most playful. This acerbic romance features Daniel Day-Lewis as his last onscreen role before his retirement. It is set in London in 1954. Day-Lewis portrays a fashion designer who takes the meticulous process seriously. When he starts to have a relationship with a waitress his routine changes and he must think about the effects this will have on his work. This is Paul Thomas Anderson’s version of a twisted romantic drama, and the film is surprisingly funny.
The Power of the Dog
Writer/director Jane Campion’s 2021 drama “The Power of the Dog” This film is powerful and fascinating, and focuses on family. Jesse Plemons (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Jesse Plemons (Jesse) play brothers whose relationship is tested when Plemons marries Kirsten Duncan (Kirsten Dunst), a single widower, and brings their son (Kodi Smit McPhee) to stay with them at their ranch. The performances are top-notch all around, as Campion crafts a complex and tension-filled character-centric drama that’s certainly one of 2021’s best films.
tick, tick… BOOM!
“Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda makes his feature directorial debut with the Netflix musical “tick, tick… BOOM!,” based on the autobiographical stage musical by “Rent” creator Jonathan Larson. Andrew Garfield plays Larson who is just 30 years old and has yet to see a Broadway show. As he puts the finishing touches on his sci-fi rock epic, he grapples with his own anxieties, his crumbling relationship with his girlfriend, and the impending AIDS epidemic that’s taking his friends far too quickly. The songs are incredible and the direction is inspired, but Garfield’s electric and soulful performance makes this a must-watch.
Mank
This one might come with a “For Cinephiles Only” warning, but if that describes you there’s much to love in David Fincher’s 2020 film “Mank.” Gary Oldman stars as Hollywood writer Herman J. Mankiewicz as the film chronicles his experience writing the screenplay for “Citizen Kane,” all while flashing back to events from his life that inspired certain characters and themes in what many consider to be the greatest film ever made. Fincher presents it in black and white, winning the Oscar for Best Cinematography. Amanda Seyfried is a great Marion Davies and Trent Reznor and Atticus Ros create an original score.
Stories from the Dark: Scary Stories
If you’ve ever yearned for a scary movie made specifically for pre-teens or early teenagers, then “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark” is for you. The horror film is too scary for children, but mild enough to be enjoyed by younger audiences. It’s based on Alvin Schwartz’s book of short stories. It weaves together images and stories from the source material to create a horror mystery that takes place on Halloween night 1968. It is led by a group teenagers.
Private Life
Kathryn Hahn has made a career out of scene-stealing supporting performances, but she takes center stage in writer/director Tamara Jenkins’ 2018 dramedy “Private Life.” Inspired by Jenkins’ own experience, Hahn and Paul Giamatti star as a middle-aged New York City couple struggling through infertility who decide to try and have a child through IVF. While the film is full of heartbreaking details about infertility, it also contains moments of humor that are true to life. Hahn, Giamatti and their story of how it affects their marriage are both spectacular.
Hail, Caesar
The Coen Brothers are known for their dry sense of humor, but the duo try their hand at screwball comedy (in their own way) with their 2016 film “Hail, Caesar!” The story takes place over the course of one day in the Hollywood film industry in the 1950s, as told through the eyes of a fixer played by Josh Brolin. The film is rooted in historical fact, but as Brolin’s fixer works through his day, various Hollywood-based shenanigans ensue with a robust ensemble cast that includes George Clooney, Scarlett Johansson, Tilda Swinton, Ralph Fiennes, Alden Ehrenreich, Channing Tatum, Jonah Hill and Frances McDormand.
The Ballad about Buster Scruggs
This Western anthology by the Coen brothers is a fun romp and builds to an unexpectedly emotional conclusion. “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs” is made up of six different stories set in the Old West, each featuring different characters. Themes of mortality, morality and justice are prevalent throughout “Buster Scruggs” just as they are through the Coens’ other films, but this time all against a wonderful, slightly exaggerated Western backdrop. Star cast members include Stephen Root, Tim Blake Nelson and Zoe Kazan. Liam Neeson, Brendan Gleeson are also included.
A Story About Marriage
Writer/director Noah Baumbach 2019’s drama “Marriage Story” is, ultimately, a divorce story, but it’s so richly drawn and beautifully acted that you’ll find your own heart breaking as you watch the conscious uncoupling of a pair played by Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver. This film is not mean-spirited, or even sad. Instead, while it does indeed chronicle the dissolution of a relationship (inspired by Baumbach’s own life) and how the divorce impacts their young son, “Marriage Story” smartly always keeps an eye on one very important fact: while these two individuals may be splitting up, that doesn’t mean the love they once had for each other wasn’t real. Driver and Johansson are fantastic, and Laura Dern is an Oscar-winning supporting actor.
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Steve Jobs
2015’s “Steve Jobs” never got the respect it deserved, but now that it’s on Netflix it’s the perfect time to catch up with this underrated gem. The crackerjack screenplay by Aaron Sorkin captures the essence of the Apple founder in three distinct acts – the story plays out in three different time periods and follows backstage events just before the launch of three different products, the Macintosh in 1984, NeXT in 1986, and the MacBook in 1998. Michael Fassbender’s performance is outstanding, as well as his delivery of Sorkin dialogue. The film depicts the conflicting truths about Steve Jobs: a genius and a fighter, a futurist, a revenge-seeker, and a fighter. Seth Rogen, Kate Winslet, and Michael Stuhlbarg give great supporting performances. Danny Boyle captures each section with a unique visual style (Act 1 is in 16mm, Act 2 and Act 3 are in 35mm, and Act 3 in digital).
It will follow
One of the more inventive horror films of the last decade, 2014’s “It Follows” is all the more impressive considering the supernatural presence at the heart of the movie isn’t actually seen onscreen. It goes like this – if you have it, it follows you everywhere until you pass it on to another person through a sexual encounter. Then it’s their problem. Writer/director David Robert Mitchell crafts a terrifying and patient horror film, anchored by a swell performance from Maika Monroe as the latest victim of “it” who is trying to figure out how to shake this supernatural follower.
The Sparks Brothers
You don’t need to know anything about the band Sparks to find “The Sparks Brothers” a tremendously entertaining documentary. This marks the first documentary feature from “Shaun of the Dead” and “Baby Driver” filmmaker Edgar Wright, whose passion for Sparks – “your favorite band’s favorite band” as they’re described – bleeds onto the screen. The film features interviews with celebrities and the Sparks brothers, along with archival footage. It takes viewers on a journey through their remarkable five-decade career. This one is for music documentary lovers.
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The Machines vs. Mitchells
If you’re looking for a movie the whole family can enjoy, the 2021 Netflix original “The Mitchells vs. the Machines” is an emotional crowd-pleaser that’s as funny as it is inventive. The film is directed by Mike Rianda, and produced by Phil Lord, and Chris Miller. It follows a family on a cross-country trip to send their oldest daughter Katie (Abbi Jacobson), to college where she hopes to learn how filmmaker. The family isn’t on the best terms when the road trip begins, which makes things even trickier when a robot uprising occurs, leaving the dysfunctional Mitchells as humanity’s last hope. This is a heartfelt, funny and touching story about the importance communication.
13th
Netflix has a wide variety of documentaries to choose from, but Ava DuVernay’s 2016 film “13th” is a must-watch. Through the lens of the 13th Amendment, the United States Constitution which abolishes slavery, the doc examines mass incarceration in America and how race, injustice, and the issue intersect. DuVernay explores the reasons why Black people are in prison in America and the injustice of the current justice system.
Enola Holmes
One of the great things about Netflix is how it has a little bit of something for everyone, and in that vein, the YA-skewing “Enola Holmes” is a delight for the teenaged crowd (and beyond). The film is based on Nancy Springer’s young adult series. Millie Bobby Brown plays the role of Sherlock Holmes’ younger sister (Henry Cavill). Enola sets out to find her missing mother Helena Bonham Carter and leaves her safety zone in order to explore London. Enola discovers that her mother had many secrets. This is a rollicking mystery-adventure that’s also a sweet and substantial coming-of-age story, all wrapped up in a gorgeous 19th century Victorian package.
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Set it up
If you’re into romantic comedies, you simply must check out “Set It Up.” This Netflix original is a throwback in the best way, as Zoey Deutch and Glen Powell have that Meg Ryan/Tom Hanks chemistry in a story about friends turning into lovers. Lucy Liu and Taye Diggs play the roles of overworked assistants to their bosses and devise a plan to make more time for themselves. Their scheming brings them together in close contact, which is when sparks fly.
Hunt for Wilderpeople
Before Taika Waititi took audiences by storm with “Thor: Ragnarok” and won an Oscar with “Jojo Rabbit,” he crafted a wonderfully whimsical comedy called “Hunt for the Wilderpeople.” The film stars Julian Dennison as a troubled youth who goes on the run with a cantankerous man (played by Sam Neill) when both are being hunted through a remote part of Australia. The film is packed with Waititi’s signature sense of humor and unique style, and Dennison and Neill make for one heck of a dynamic duo.
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga
The Netflix original comedy “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga” is not just an incredibly funny film, it’s a surprisingly emotional one too. Based on an original idea by Will Ferrell, the “Elf” actor stars as one half of an Icelandic duo alongside Rachel McAdams, both of whom are thrust into the spotlight when they’re unexpectedly selected to compete in the international singing competition Eurovision. This film features some truly great songs and is a sweet tale about how to stay true to your roots even in times of tremendous growth.
The Fear Street Trilogy
Everyone loves a good scare, but the “Fear Street” trilogy gives you three times the thrills for the price of one overarching story. These three interconnected films trace the origins of a witch’s curse on a small town, covering events in 1994 in the “Scream”-inspired first film, then heading back to 1978 for the summer camp slasher sequel, before concluding in the year 1666 for the third and final feature that reveals the origin story of the Shadyside witch. Colorful, fun and genuinely scary, the “Fear Street” trilogy tells a truly epic horror story.
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Miss Americana
The Taylor Swift documentary “Miss Americana” is full of surprises. While the film begins by chronicling Swift’s career, complete with the ups and downs it encompassed, it soon morphs into the origin story of a feminist as Swift begins to speak out on socio-political issues important to her. It’s a fascinating window into the management of fame, as some around her caution against making any kinds of political statements for fear of alienating her fanbase. Swift is honest throughout – or as honest as a documentary like this can be – and the film doesn’t shy away from tough moments like Kanye West infamously interrupting her at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards.
The Irishman
Martin Scorsese’s 3-hour-and-40-minute gangster epic “The Irishman” is best viewed in one sitting – trust me. Scorsese chronicles the life of a hitman in the mob, from the 1950s through the present. The film’s genius lies in its production. But unlike the bombast of “Goodfellas,” this is a film where regret and grief hang over nearly every frame, subtly building until the mournful third act hits you like a ton of bricks. Robert De Niro’s Frank Sheeran spends his entire life killing people, and what does it all add up to? Scorsese gets downright philosophical with questions of morality and mortality, crafting a self-reflexive film about what it means to come to the end of your life and look back on what you’ve done, why you did it and whether it was all worth it in the end.
Rush
Chris Hemsworth has proven himself to be a great comedic talent in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but his best dramatic acting chops thus far are exemplified in the 2013 film “Rush.” Directed by Ron Howard, this biographical sports drama stars Hemsworth as British Formula 1 driver James Hunt and chronicles his 1970s rivalry with Austrian driver Niki Lauda (played by Daniel Brühl). The racing scenes are absolutely thrilling, and the story lays bare these drivers’ determination while also delving into what drives each of them to compete.
Crimson Peak
“Crimson Peak” is not a horror movie, but it’s a great watch for Spooky Season (or any time of year) regardless. Guillermo del Toro’s original story is a Gothic romance through and through, as Mia Wasikowska stars as a budding author living in 1900s New York who marries a kind yet mysterious man (Tom Hiddleston) and then moves into the decrepit mansion he shares with his sister (Jessica Chastain). When she arrives at the mansion, however, Wasikowska’s character discovers it’s full of secrets and ghosts. While the film is creepy, it’s not a full-on scare-fest – nor is it trying to be one. This is a sorrowful, ghastly story of love and what happens when our past won’t let go.
Da 5 Bloods
Spike Lee is not known for making bland films, and indeed his 2020 Vietnam veterans drama “Da 5 Bloods” is confrontational in the best way. The story revolves around four aging Vietnam War veterans who return to the Southeast Asian country to search for the remains of their fallen leader — and also a trove of buried treasure. Along the way they confront their own fears and differences, as Lee’s film delves into how America left an entire generation of soldiers behind.
Crip Camp
Netflix is host to a ton of great documentaries, including “Crip Camp.” This Oscar-nominated 2020 film begins by showcasing archival footage from a camp in the 1970s that was created for teens with disabilities, before then following various individuals as they fought for disability rights. It’s a moving portrait of activism that shows just how far we’ve come as a country, and how far we have left to go.
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