51 Must-Watch Netflix Movies to Stream Right Now

Discover the Best Films on Netflix: From Dramas to Comedies and Thrillers

Navigating the vast library of movies on Netflix can feel like a daunting task, but fear not! We’ve curated a list of our top picks across various genres to help you find the perfect film for any mood. Whether you’re in the market for a gripping drama, a side-splitting comedy, or a heart-pounding thriller, we’ve got you covered.

Sci-Fi Sensation: The Wandering Earth

This Chinese blockbuster, which raked in over $700 million at the country’s box office, takes place in a distant future where Earth is threatened by an expanding Sun. As astronauts attempt to steer the planet to safety using 10,000 fire-blowing engines, the remaining humans must adapt to the changing environment. Based on a short story by Cixin Liu, The Wandering Earth serves as an excellent introduction to Netflix’s upcoming adaptation of Liu’s The Three-Body Problem.

Illusion and Rebellion: Maboroshi

In this captivating Japanese fantasy, Masamune’s ordinary teenage life is upended when a local factory explosion traps his entire town in a time bubble where no one ages. As the community grapples with the fear of change, Masamune’s encounter with a mysterious classmate and a feral girl who shouldn’t exist threatens to unravel their bizarre reality. Directed by Mari Okada, whose debut feature Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms garnered global acclaim, Maboroshi is a stunning exploration of youthful rebellion and the prison of familiarity.

Overcoming Childhood Fears: Orion and the Dark

In this charming DreamWorks animated feature, young Orion, who fears everything—especially the dark—embarks on a journey with the embodiments of the night, including Dark, Sweet Dreams, and Insomnia. As they show Orion that the night is nothing to be afraid of, this heartwarming tale, reminiscent of Inside Out, makes for a perfect family movie night.

A Delightfully Dark Fable: The Willoughbys

Adapted from Lois Lowry’s book, The Willoughbys follows four neglected children who hatch a plan to rid themselves of their cruel parents and find a loving family. With a unique animation style and a star-studded voice cast including Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews, and Jane Krakowski, this film blends the dark humor of The Addams Family, A Series of Unfortunate Events, and Roald Dahl’s works to create a mischievous and entertaining tale.

Rekindling Love: Always Be My Maybe

Written by and starring Ali Wong and Randall Park, Always Be My Maybe follows two childhood friends whose lives diverge after a teenage tryst. Years later, fate—and a bizarre cameo from Keanu Reeves—bring the two leads back together in this thoughtful and hilarious romantic comedy.

Apocalyptic Suspense: Leave the World Behind

A family’s luxury vacation rental getaway takes a sinister turn when a mysterious blackout strikes, forcing them to rely on the property’s owners as strange events unfold across the country. With a star-studded cast including Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke, Myha’la, and Kevin Bacon, this adaptation of Rumaan Alam’s novel keeps audiences as uncertain as its characters, leaving questions to ponder long after the credits roll.

Moving On from Tragedy: Good Grief

Written and directed by Dan Levy, this poignant drama explores the complexities of bereavement as Marc (Levy) struggles to grieve his husband’s death after discovering an affair. A weekend in Paris with supportive friends Sophie (Ruth Negga) and Thomas (Himesh Patel) reveals more secrets, leading to an empathetic and life-affirming journey through the difficulties of moving on.

Unsung Civil Rights Hero: Rustin

Directed by George C. Wolfe, this biopic shines a light on Bayard Rustin, the openly gay chief organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. Colman Domingo delivers a spectacular performance as Rustin, capturing the activist’s unapologetic spirit in the face of alienation from his own movement due to his sexuality.

Stop-Motion Sequel: Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget

Nearly a quarter-century after Chicken Run, Aardman Animations delivers a long-awaited sequel packed with wit and charm. When Ginger (Thandiwe Newton) and Rocky’s (Zachary Levi) rebellious daughter Molly (Bella Ramsey) escapes their island sanctuary, the couple must break into a facility to rescue her from a new threat, proving once again that Aardman is the undisputed master of stop-motion animation.

Unexpected Life Lessons: Leo

After 74 years as an underappreciated class pet, Leo the lizard decides to break free during a weekend in a student’s care. However, he discovers a surprising penchant for teaching along the way. With Adam Sandler voicing the cantankerous tuatara and a script that balances humor with poignant moments, Leo defies expectations and delivers a heartwarming tale of self-discovery.

A Cinematic Journey Through Diverse Genres and Cultures

Family-Friendly Thrills in “The Sea Beast”

“The Sea Beast” is an animated adventure that truly caters to the entire family. This heartwarming tale takes viewers on a journey filled with excitement and valuable life lessons, making it a must-watch for all ages.

Haunting Realities in “His House”

In “His House,” Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù and Wunmi Mosaku portray Bol and Rial, a couple who escape war-torn South Sudan only to face new challenges in a dilapidated London home. As they struggle with the loss of their daughter Nyagak and the hostility of the UK asylum process, the line between reality and the supernatural blurs. Director Remi Weekes masterfully weaves together the macabre and the mundane, creating a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that lingers long after the credits roll.

Nollywood Action in “The Black Book”

Richard Mofe-Damijo stars as Paul Edima, a former special agent turned church deacon, in the Nigerian action thriller “The Black Book.” When his son is framed for murder and killed by corrupt police, Edima must rely on his old skills to seek vengeance. With its fresh take on familiar action tropes and impressive budget, director Editi Effiong’s film has become a sensation on streaming platforms, showcasing the growing influence of Nollywood cinema.

Defying the Odds in “Nyad”

In “Nyad,” Annette Bening portrays long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad, who, at the age of 64, set out to swim the treacherous 110-mile stretch between Cuba and Florida. Directors Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, known for their work on “Free Solo,” capture Nyad’s unwavering determination and the support of her friend and coach, Bonnie Stoll, played by Jodie Foster. While the film takes some creative liberties, it serves as an inspiring testament to the power of human resilience and friendship.

Satirical Vampires in “El Conde”

Chilean black comedy “El Conde” reimagines dictator Augusto Pinochet as a centuries-old vampire seeking his own demise. Director Pablo Larraín’s bizarre and daring satire incorporates a cast of eccentric characters, including Pinochet’s children, an exorcist nun, a Russian vampire butler, and even Margaret Thatcher. Shot in black and white and primarily in Spanish, “El Conde” pushes the boundaries of cinema, offering a unique and darkly humorous experience for adventurous viewers.

Wes Anderson’s Roald Dahl Adaptation in “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar”

In “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar,” Wes Anderson returns to adapting Roald Dahl’s work, this time in a live-action short film starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular character. Henry Sugar, a wealthy man who gains a mysterious power, ultimately uses his gift to make the world a better place. With an all-star cast and Anderson’s signature aesthetic, this charming tale is part of a larger project that includes three other Dahl adaptations: “The Rat Catcher,” “The Swan,” and “Poison.”

Cult Horror in “Apostle”

Director Gareth Evans, known for his Indonesian martial arts films “The Raid,” ventures into horror with “Apostle.” Set on a remote Welsh island in the early 1900s, the film follows Dan Stevens as Thomas Richardson, a faithless missionary who infiltrates a cult to rescue his kidnapped sister. As Thomas becomes entangled in the strange practices of the cultists and their leader, played by Michael Sheen, he discovers a terrifying truth. “Apostle” balances gore and scares with a slow-burn tension that will leave viewers unsettled long after the film ends.

Teen Comedy in “You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah”

In “You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah,” Sunny Sandler and Sadie Sandler, daughters of producer Adam Sandler, take center stage in a hilarious and relatable teen comedy. Stacy Friedman (Sunny Sandler) becomes obsessed with throwing the perfect bat mitzvah, while navigating the challenges of school popularity and her crush on the oblivious Andy (Dylan Hoffman). When her best friend Lydia (Samantha Lorraine) starts dating Andy, Stacy’s world spirals out of control. Director Sammi Cohen captures the heightened emotions and melodrama of teenage life, delivering a heartfelt and entertaining film.

LGBTQ+ History in “Eldorado: Everything The Nazis Hate”

Benjamin Cantu’s documentary “Eldorado: Everything The Nazis Hate” explores the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Berlin during the interwar years, focusing on the iconic Eldorado nightclub. Through a combination of archival footage, recreations, and first-hand accounts, the film showcases the vibrant and experimental culture that flourished within the club’s walls, where patrons were free to express their gender and sexuality. As the Nazi regime rises to power, the documentary highlights the contradictions of the era and the devastating impact on the LGBTQ+ community. While emotionally challenging at times, “Everything the Nazis Hate” offers an important glimpse into a pivotal moment in history.

A Thrilling Cinematic Journey: Unveiling the Must-Watch Films of the Year

The Pale Blue Eye: A Gothic Mystery Unraveled

Prepare to be captivated by the haunting tale of The Pale Blue Eye, a cinematic adaptation of Louis Bayard’s novel. Set against the backdrop of West Point Military Academy in 1890, the film follows the enigmatic partnership between a retired detective, Augustus Landor (Christian Bale), and a peculiar cadet named Edgar Allan Poe (Harry Melling). As they delve into the gruesome death and mutilation of a fellow cadet, the duo unearths a web of dark rituals and clandestine societies. With a stellar ensemble cast, including Gillian Anderson, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Toby Jones, and Timothy Spall, The Pale Blue Eye transcends the potential pitfalls of a genre mashup, delivering a mesmerizing and spine-chilling experience.

Marry My Dead Body: A Ghostly Absurdist Comedy

In Marry My Dead Body, director Cheng Wei-hao brings his supernatural flair to a tale of unexpected transformation. Wu Ming-han (Greg Hsu), a homophobic police officer, finds his life turned upside down when he becomes bound to Mao Mao (Austin Lin), a gay man who died under mysterious circumstances, through the ancient custom of “ghost marriage.” Forced to solve his “husband’s” death to regain his freedom, Wu embarks on a journey that challenges his prejudices. This Taiwanese absurdist comedy defies boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on the supernatural genre.

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop: An Effervescent Romance

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop, the directorial debut of Kyōhei Ishiguro, is a delightful slice-of-life romcom that follows the budding connection between Cherry, a haiku-loving introvert, and Smile, a vlogger who hides her braces behind a mask. As they navigate their communication struggles, the two young souls find solace in each other’s company. With its stunning animation, vibrant color palette, and ingenious soundtrack that fuses Cherry’s haiku with hip hop influences, this film is a joyous and uplifting experience that will leave viewers with a renewed sense of hope and happiness.

Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead – A Riotous Zom-Com

Imagine a world where the zombie apocalypse is a welcome escape from the soul-crushing monotony of office life. That’s precisely the premise of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, adapted from the manga by Haro Aso and Kotaro Takata. Akira Tendo (Eiji Akaso) embraces the undead uprising as an opportunity to pursue his wildest dreams, alongside a ragtag group of survivors. Packed with outrageous moments—like a zombie shark fight—and a heartfelt message about living life on one’s own terms, this raucous zom-com is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

They Cloned Tyrone: A Lethally Sharp Satire

In They Cloned Tyrone, writer and debut director Juel Taylor weaves a masterful tapestry of genres, blending elements of 1970s Blaxploitation cinema, sci-fi, and comedy. The story follows drug dealer Fontaine (John Boyega), prostitute Yo-Yo (Teyonah Parris), and pimp Slick Charles (Jamie Foxx) as they uncover a sinister conspiracy in the Black-majority town of The Glen. With powerhouse performances from its central cast and a razor-sharp satirical edge, this film is a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of societal manipulation and control.

Matilda the Musical: A Delightful Family Fable

The beloved tale of Matilda returns to the screen in a dazzling musical adaptation. Alisha Weir stars as the precocious schoolgirl who harnesses her telekinetic powers to stand up against the tyrannical principal, Agatha Trunchbull (played with wicked relish by Emma Thompson). With the support of the kindhearted Miss Honey (Lashana Lynch), Matilda navigates the challenges of her extraordinary life. Featuring catchy tunes by Tim Minchin and stunning choreography, this new iteration of Matilda captures the mischievous spirit of the source material while enchanting a new generation of viewers.

Nimona: A Tale of Outsiders and Acceptance

Adapted from N. D. Stevenson‘s groundbreaking graphic novel, Nimona is a dazzlingly animated fantasy that delves into the lives of outsiders seeking acceptance. Nimona, a shapeshifter ostracized by society, becomes the sidekick of the infamous black knight, Ballister Blackheart. As they work to clear Blackheart’s name and confront his former friend, Ambrosius Goldenloin, the duo discovers the power of finding one’s own community. More than just a fanciful tale, Nimona is a celebration of individuality and the joy of belonging, making it an instant classic.

Pray Away: Exposing the Conversion Therapy Movement

Director Kristine Stolakis shines a light on the harmful practice of “conversion therapy” in her searing documentary, Pray Away. Through interviews with key founders of the movement and survivors of the often brutal treatments, Stolakis offers a compelling exploration of the origins and damage caused by this medically denounced practice. While the subject matter may be difficult for some viewers, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, Pray Away is an important and bold debut that exposes the dark reality of conversion therapy.

The Boys in the Band: A Poignant Snapshot of Queer Life

Set in New York City in 1968, The Boys in the Band offers a glimpse into gay life before the Stonewall uprising brought LGBTQ+ rights to the forefront. When Michael (Jim Parsons) hosts a birthday party for his best frenemy Harold (Zachary Quinto), the gathering of their inner circle takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Michael’s straight college friend, Alan. As the night unfolds, tensions rise, and secrets threaten to surface in director Joe Mantello‘s gripping character study. Adapted for the screen by Mart Crowley, the original playwright, this period piece remains a poignant exploration of queer relationships and identities.

Kill Boksoon: A Korean Action Epic

In Kill Boksoon, Gil Bok-soon (Jeon Do-yeon) leads a double life as a successful events executive and a top assassin at MK Ent. With her unparalleled ability to predict every step in critical situations, Bok-soon boasts a flawless success rate. However, when she considers retiring at the end of her contract, she faces threats from disgruntled enemies and ambitious colleagues alike. Director Byun Sung-hyun takes this Korean action epic to new heights, delivering some of the most impressive fights since Tarantino’s Kill Bill.

Cargo: A Zombie Thriller with Heart

In a world ravaged by a zombie-like plague, Andy Rose (Martin Freeman) navigates the treacherous Australian back roads to keep his family safe. When tragedy strikes, and both Andy and his wife become infected, he must find a way to protect their infant daughter before succumbing to the virus himself. Cargo is a gripping and emotionally charged zombie thriller that explores the lengths a parent will go to ensure their child’s survival in a world gone mad.

Unconventional Zombie Apocalypse in the Australian Outback

Cargo offers a fresh perspective on the zombie genre, trading the typical urban setting for the stunning wilderness of Australia. As a father named Andy races against time to find a safe haven for his baby daughter, Rosie, before he succumbs to the infection himself, he forms an unlikely alliance with Thoomi, an Aboriginal girl determined to protect her own infected father. With only 48 hours left and threats from paranoid survivalists and Aboriginal communities hunting the infected, their journey becomes a desperate battle against the clock. This character-driven approach to the end of the world delivers a unique and captivating twist on the zombie apocalypse.

Guillermo del Toro’s Haunting Reimagining of Pinocchio

Academy Award-winning director Guillermo del Toro breathes new life into the classic tale of Pinocchio with his exquisitely animated stop-motion masterpiece. Set against the backdrop of World War II and the rise of fascism, this adaptation stays truer to Carlo Collodi’s original 1880s story than the sanitized Disney version. With Gepetto mourning the loss of his son, del Toro infuses the narrative with his signature macabre touch, featuring a biblically accurate many-eyed Blue Fairy and a kaiju-like Terrible Dogfish. The film’s complex themes of mortality and morality will linger with audiences long after the credits roll, cementing its status as a modern classic.

Navigating Life’s Upheavals in The Land of Steady Habits

In The Land of Steady Habits, Anders Hill, played by Ben Mendelsohn, grapples with the consequences of his impulsive decision to leave his stifling life in a wealthy Connecticut suburb. Now divorced from his beloved wife Helene (Edie Falco), regretting his early retirement, and struggling to support his son Preston’s (Thomas Mann) battle with drug addiction, Anders finds himself in a downward spiral. Writer and director Nicole Holofcener, adapting Ted Thompson’s novel, steers clear of a maudlin portrayal of a rich man’s midlife crisis, instead holding the lead accountable for his own downfall while infusing the story with dark humor and an unexpected warmth.

Finding Connection and Acceptance in Call Me Chihiro

Call Me Chihiro is a heartwarming slice-of-life film that follows the story of Chihiro, a former sex worker played by Kasumi Arimura, as she starts anew in a seaside town, working at a bento restaurant. Unapologetic and forthright about her past, Chihiro’s warmth and openness begin to transform the lives of those around her. Directed by Rikiya Imaizumi, this intimate character drama explores the importance of even the smallest human connections, alternating between moments of profound loneliness and pure joy.

A Swashbuckling Adventure on the High Seas in The Sea Beast

Imagine Moby Dick meets How to Train Your Dragon, and you’ll have a sense of what The Sea Beast has in store. Set in a fantasy world where giant sea monsters terrorize humanity, the film follows Jacob Holland (voiced by Karl Urban), a celebrated monster hunter and adopted son of the legendary Captain Crowe. Jacob’s journey takes an unexpected turn when he meets Maisie Brumble (Zaris-Angel Hator), a stowaway with her own ambitions to take on the sea beasts. After a disastrous attempt to destroy the colossal Red Bluster, Jacob and Maisie find themselves stranded on an island filled with the creatures, discovering that the monsters may not be as monstrous as they once believed. Directed by Chris Williams (Big Hero 6, Moana), this rollicking sea-bound adventure secured its place as one of Netflix’s finest with an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature.

Troll: A Giant-Monster Movie with a Norwegian Twist

In this entertaining giant-monster movie, director Roar Uthaug (Tomb Raider 2018) brings the action to his native Norway, as a titanic troll awakens from its slumber after a drilling operation and begins its rampage toward Oslo. Troll offers a refreshing change of pace from the typical city-destroying antics set in New York or Tokyo, delivering a thrilling and unique take on the genre.