50 best movies to watch on Netflix right now

Of course, there is plenty on offer in Netflix's library besides Christmas films, and this time of year is perfect for sitting down with family or friends to watch something new.

Recent popular additions to the platform include family hits like Spellbound and Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, as well as the newly released biographical drama film Joy.

Other recent additions include Studio Ghibli's The Boy and the Heron, action thriller John Wick Chapter 4, Todd Field's Tár and the Elizabeth Olsen-starring His Three Daughters, while horror fans looking for scares this December can catch the likes of Ready or Not and Smile.

With so much to sift through, it can be difficult to make that all-important choice of what to watch next. That's where we come in.

Read on for our latest picks of the best films on the streaming service below – updated weekly – or head over to our guides to the best series on Netflix and best comedies on Netflix.

Alternatively, check out our helpful list of Netflix secret codes which help you unlock hidden movies and TV shows.

Updated: 19th December 2024

Best movies to watch on Netflix right now

Nativity! (2009)

While it may have spawned a less-than-stellar franchise, the first Nativity! film has become a Christmas classic since its release in 2009, and it's easy to see why. A joyful and silly watch through and through, with some real earwormy songs, Nativity! is the perfect festive fare to watch with some mulled wine and a mince pie, looking beyond the glaring logic issues (the timeline makes absolutely no sense).

Martin Freeman and Mark Wootton are brilliant in the central roles as two teachers with wildly varying levels of enthusiasm, while Jason Watkins puts in a scene-stealing performance as the head of a rival, posher school. However, the real stars are the kids, who each make their mark with their hilarious audition pieces and their elaborate final routines.

Is it a perfect film? Absolutely not. But perfect for a Yuletide watch, catering for the whole family? Absolutely.

Carol (2015)

One of the finest films released in the last decade, Carol isn't necessarily a Christmas film in the traditional sense, but enough of the plot is set around the festive period for it to make for an excellent viewing experience at this time of year.

Immaculately directed by Todd Haynes and based on Patricia Highsmith's novel The Price of Salt, the film follows the relationship between young shop clerk and aspiring photographer Therese (Rooney Mara) and glamorous soon-to-be-divorcee Carol (Cate Blanchett) after the pair meet at a department store while the latter is Christmas shopping.

This is an elegant and achingly romantic film that wondrously captures the world of 1950s New York, and it won universal acclaim on its release, with the performances of Mara and Blanchett especially singled out for praise.

Sense and Sensibility (1995)

This adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel was written by Emma Thompson – who also stars – and directed by Taiwanese filmmaker Ang Lee, who would of course go on to hell classics such as Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon and Brokeback Mountain.

It tells the story of the Dashwood sisters Elinor and Marianne, brilliantly played by Thompson and Kate Winslet respectively, who display very different temperaments as they embark on romantic entanglements after they are disinherited following the death of their father.

There are also notable supporting turns from a string of beloved British actors including Alan Rickman and Hugh Grant, and that cast alongside Thompson's Oscar-winning script and Lee's classy direction combine to make this one of the finest big screen Austen adaptations.

Ready or Not (2019)

With reports currently circulating that a sequel to this 2019 horror-thriller is in development, it may be a little difficult to understand from a story perspective, but it certainly isn't when you consider the quality of the first film.

Led by a bravura performance from Samara Weaving, Ready or Not sees her character Grace marrying into the wealthy Le Domas family, who insist she play a game of hide or seek on her wedding night. The only hitch is the game turns out to be deadly, as the family believe they must kill Grace by dawn in a ritual sacrifice, or they themselves will all die.

The film manages an impressive balance or taking its premise seriously enough to not let up on the tension, but allowing enough levity and humour to address the absurdity of it all. It's excellently paced, beautifully shot, and just schlocky enough to ensure it's a throughly good time throughout.

Tár (2022)

Without doubt one of the finest films of the 2020s so far, Todd Field's endlessly compelling drama features an exceptional performance from Cate Blanchett as Lydia Tár – a fictional composer, conductor and all-round maestro who instantly exists as a classic cinematic creation.

The film explores both her genius and her failings, highlighting her monstrous ego and the anguish she causes others, particularly her put-upon assistant (Noémie Merlant) and violinist partner (Nina Hoss). We also watch Tár abuse her position as chief conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic to pursue the latest in a line of young female musicians, Sophie Kauer's cellist, while a past indiscretion comes back to haunt her.

Blanchett blazes brightly as Tár, capturing her musical authority alongside her vindictiveness and capacity for self-delusion. Field isn't afraid to go against the grain stylistically - he opens the film with the end credits and some long, uncomfortable scenes - or to dig deep into his protagonist's psyche. The result is a fascinating, fleshed-out portrait of a tremendously troubling woman.

His Three Daughters (2024)

One of the best new films released as a Netflix original in 2024, this low-key drama originally premiered at the 2023 Toronto Film Festival before being acquired by the streamer. It stars a terrific trio of Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen and Natasha Lyonne, all of whom are in fine form as they play bickering sisters reunited in their family home in New York to care for their terminally ill father.

It's a beautiful, painstakingly performed portrait of a family in crisis, as the three sisters struggle to process their grief and hold their tempers while questioning what their connection will be once their father is gone.

Writer/director Azazel Jacobs has created something plausible and insightful, taking an approach to confrontation and confessions reminiscent of the work of John Cassavetes – before a late flight of fancy takes the film in a slightly different but no less rewarding direction.

Eyes Wide Shut (1999)

It might not be traditional festive fare, but when it comes to films set around the Christmas period, there can be few better options that Stanley Kubrick's final film, which starred then-A-list couple Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman – and is now streaming on Netflix.

The film features much of the director's creepiness and grandeur, telling a hypnotic story of a marriage falling apart. Cruise plays a New York doctor, Bill Harford, who's shaken to the core when his wife, Alice (Kidman), reveals that she was once tempted to have an affair, sending him out in search of sexual revenge.

Eyes Wide Shut has an eerie mood that is purely Kubrickian, with his smooth, neon-lit world and its unhappy residents compelling and even addictive. It's hard to look away from.

Mrs Harris Goes to Paris (2022)

If you're looking for something to warm your heart in these cold winter months then you could do a lot worse than this delightfully good-natured adaptation of the novel by Paul Gallico, which boasts a standout, utterly charming turn from Lesley Manville as the titular widow who embarks on a solo trip to the French capital.

The film follows her after she sets her heart on a Christian Dior dress and – after a little financial luck – takes off to the City of Light to realise her dream. Arriving at the famous House of Dior just as the 10th anniversary collection is to be shown, she's brushed off by the salon's gatekeeper (Isabelle Huppert) but invited to the viewing by a wealthy, well-groomed widower (Lambert Wilson).

The film makes no bones about its fairy tale qualities, with its saintly characters who help Ada at every turn. But themes of class, wealth and humanity give the story ample depth as it neatly trades British postwar gloom for a colourful Paris of tourist hotspots and red-carpet premieres. As Mrs Harris herself says, "We need our dreams - now more than ever."

Paddington 2 (2017)

Paddington in Peru is delighting audiences in cinemas right now, but most fans will agree that Paddington 2 is where the franchise has peaked thus far.

A hugely re-watchable, fun and warm movie, it really is perfect comfort viewing as the days get colder and the nights get longer. It features Ben Whishaw reprising his voice role as the loveable bear, who ends up getting framed and sent to prison - but while in there, he sets about making the place a bit more him.

The film also features a scene-stealing turn from Hugh Grant as the devious Phoenix Buchanan, an out of work actor in search of treasure. It's a brightly coloured and visually dazzling film at every turn, with plenty to enjoy for kids and adults alike, which will leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling come its end.

Klaus (2019)

This animated Christmas film from 2019 has already entered many people's annual festive watch-lists, and it's easy to see why. Jason Schwartzman stars Jesper, the slacker son of a postmaster general who is sent to work as a postman on a frozen island above the Arctic Circle. There, he finds a desolate community and feuding locals, but when he meets a mysterious carpenter named Klaus, he comes up with an idea to get his own business booming.

The animation style used here is truly gorgeous, while the story is heartfelt without being mawkish, and the comedy works without being cynical or over the top. The voice performances are also top notch, with the likes of JK Simmons and Rashida Jones joining Schwartzman in the cast.

It's rare that you find a film which really will entertain the whole family, but Klaus succeeds on that front, and will likely leave few without a tear in their eye come the emotional ending.

Long Shot (2019)

The US Presidential election is now over and it would be quite understandable if you wanted to take your mind off it entirely. However, if you're open to a light-hearted take on what could be one of the defining moments of our lifetime, consider this romantic comedy that pairs the ever-loveable Seth Rogen with Academy Award winner Charlize Theron.

The story follows journalist Fred Flarsky (Rogen), who unexpectedly reunites with his childhood crush, Charlotte Field (Theron), as she happens to be running for President. Alas, she's trailing in the polls, prompting her to bring Fred aboard the campaign to be the voice of ordinary people outside of her political bubble – much to the chagrin of Charlotte's long-serving staffers.

It isn't long before sparks begin to fly between the two in a story that broadly follows the typical romcom playbook, but is effectively elevated by the high stakes nature of its premise. Rogen is also an executive producer on the film, which does contain some of the adult humour that the comedy star is known for (fair warning).

He and Theron aren't the only big names in this underrated comedy, with Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul), O'Shea Jackson Jr (Cocaine Bear), Andy Serkis (The Batman), Lisa Kudrow (Friends) and Alexander Skarsgård (Succession) also featuring. It's a feel-good offering that might just restore some hope for a better future – or at least, distract you from the present for 124 minutes.

Smile (2022)

With the sequel currently playing in cinemas – and getting a thumbs-up from critics – there's never been a better time to revisit Paramount's surprise hit horror flick from two years ago. Originally envisioned as a direct-to-streaming release, Smile ultimately got the theatrical treatment instead and wowed audiences with its creepy premise (to the tune of more than $200 million in box office earnings).

Sosie Bacon leads the cast as Dr Rose Cotter, a psychiatrist who encounters a hysterical patient claiming to be stalked by a supernatural entity, who appears as people she knows and reveals itself with a chilling smile. Alas, its only when this curse is passed onto her by the patient – in a most gruesome manner – that she realises this story is not paranoid delusion, but a nightmarish reality.

Writer-director Parker Finn establishes a creeping dread that only grows as the movie continues and Rose's terrifying visions become increasingly extreme. Unnerving camera movements, clever use of background and a visceral score keep the film from leaning too heavily on jumpscares (although they do feature), while Rose's traumatic backstory gives Bacon plenty to sink her teeth into. A must-watch for horror fans!

John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

After growing in popularity with each of the three preceding entries, John Wick was awarded a vastly increased budget for its fourth instalment, allowing the story of Keanu Reeves's embattled assassin to end in blockbuster fashion.

Indeed, if there's one word you can use to describe this film, it would be 'extra' – from the nearly three-hour runtime to the globe-trotting locations and the elaborate action sequences to the dramatic world-building, it's safe to say that John Wick: Chapter 4 does nothing by halves.

This franchise will always be known for having some of the best stunt work in modern day Hollywood – perhaps rivalled only by Tom Cruise's death-defying moments in Mission: Impossible – with director and former stuntman Chad Stahelski bringing his expert knowledge to the table. Reeves himself is no slouch in that department, displaying impressive skill in martial arts, weaponry and stunts from his decades on the action movie circuit.

Together, they craft numerous ingenious scenarios, constantly finding ways to throw new challenges at John – who, of course, just keeps getting back up after every knock. Although admirable in its ambition, it is true that John Wick: Chapter 4 could have benefited from a slightly brisker pace and shorter runtime, but at least you can have a loo/tea break without the fear of missing anything when watching from the comfort of your home.

Talk to Me (2023)

You know you're always in for an interesting ride with an A24 horror film, but 2023's Talk To Me proved to be a real unexpected thrill ride. The supernatural horror comes from YouTubers turned directors Danny and Michael Philippou, and follows Mia, a young woman who gets involved with a group of friends who have found a mystical ceramic hand, which can grant spirits access to your body.

It's an already chilling premise which is only heightened by extremely successful execution. Some of the sequences are so terror inducing and stressful that you'll need a long lie down afterwards, but for those looking for some properly thrilling horror then look no further.

Sophie Wilde is hugely impressive in the central role, while the supporting cast all do stellar work. The film's thematic storytelling also hits home come the end, as it explores topics around grief and addiction more successfully than many a drama.

Femme (2023)

A criminally overlooked independent film that dropped on Netflix earlier this year, following a limited theatrical run. Femme stars Nathan Stewart-Jarrett (Misfits) as Jules, a drag queen who is brutally beaten by a gang of men one night – just around the corner from the club where he's performing. The hate crime leaves him a shell of himself, but Jules finds purpose once more when he encounters the instigator of the attack, Preston (1917's George MacKay), at a gay sauna and begins plotting revenge.

Although the inciting incident is distressing to witness, it's worth enduring if you can for the unpredictable erotic thriller that follows. Femme revolves around the twisted relationship that unexpectedly blooms between Jules and Preston, as the former attempts to keep his true identity and intentions under wraps. But as he's dragged further and further into his target's world, the waters become muddy and things spiral increasingly out of control.

Femme is a truly nail-biting watch from start to finish, with electric chemistry between Stewart-Jarrett and MacKay, who took home the prize for Best Joint Lead Performance at last year's British Independent Film Awards.

The Boy and the Heron (2023)

For the last few years, Netflix has been home to the vast majority of the Studio Ghibli catalogue, and now the latest film from the hugely acclaimed and widely beloved Japanese animation studio has been added to the library.

The Boy and the Heron saw the legendary Hayao Miyazaki come out of retirement, and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature after having praise heaped upon it by critics.

The film opens in Tokyo during the Second World War, and follows a boy named Mahito (voiced by Soma Santoki) who loses his mother in a fire and subsequently moves with his father to the countryside. There, a creepy talking heron (Masaki Suda) lures the grieving boy into a surreal underworld where he embarks on a bizarre adventure and meets a variety of unusual creatures.

Miyazaki's gorgeous hand-painted animation is present and correct, alongside the requisite fearless little girls and cute sprites, while there is also plenty of Princess Mononoke-style blood and guts, plus parakeet soldiers, murderous pelicans and musings on the nature of reality. It's not one to be missed!

Wicked Little Letters (2024)

This black comedy film from earlier this year came and went, but in many ways it's worth your time for the cast alone, which is led by Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley, Timothy Spall and Anjana Vasan.

Loosely based on a true story, it follows an investigation after a woman living in the seaside town of Littlehampton in 1920 starts receiving crude, abusive and insulting letters.

It may not set the world alight, but it's consistently entertaining, the mystery is gripping enough and the comedy – while often puerile – is made funnier by its performers and by the era in which its set, while it's also well contrasted with the film's more dramatic moments.

It makes for the perfect easy watch, is diverting and entertaining for an evening, and features some strong comedic performers by a seriously impressive cast.

Shaun of the Dead (2004)

As Edgar Wright's breakout film celebrates its 20th anniversary, there's never been a better time to return to the horror comedy classic. Starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, the film follows a zombie outbreak in 21st century London, as Shaun and his slacker friend Ed attempt to save themselves, and their loved ones, from the massing hoards.

There's a reason this film has gone down as not just a cult classic, but an absolute favourite of both the horror comedy and the zombie film genres. It's hysterically funny but also knows when to take itself, its characters and the situation they find themselves in seriously. Wright's direction - known for its quick cuts and unique transitions - helps to keep the pace zipping along while giving the project, which could have been deemed a silly parody film, a real credibility.

Like Hot Fuzz and others of Wright's films, it's endlessly re-watchable, with strong central performances, a specificity of tone and a gloriously bittersweet ending.

Boyhood (2014)

Richard Linklater is currently a couple of years into what he sees as being a 20-year intermittent shoot for his adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's musical Merrily We Roll Along – a similar filming pattern he used for this 2014 masterpiece. The extraordinary film tells the story of a young American every-boy (Ellar Coltrane), tracking him up to the age of 18.

The film is told not through births, marriages and deaths but the moments in between, casually punctuated by cultural milestones like midnight Harry Potter book launches, the 2003 invasion of Iraq and the wave of optimism that swept Barack Obama to his historic first presidential term.

Elevated by fantastic performances all round - especially from Patricia Arquette as the boy's quietly heroic single mother - and told with Linklater's trademark generosity and lightness of touch, Boyhood is an epic of the everyday, as uplifting as it is universal.

Stand by Me (1986)

Rob Reiner's nostalgic drama is widely agreed to be one of the most successful adaptations of a story by horror master Stephen King - in this case, a novella called The Body from his primarily non-supernatural collection of stories, Different Seasons.

It's a likeable but hard-centred picaresque set in 1950s Oregon that blends the themes of childhood friendship, parental pressure and the loss of innocence into a Boy Scout-style roving adventure.

The bookish Wil Wheaton leads a gang of friends (subtly played by the likes of Corey Feldman and River Phoenix) on a rural camping odyssey to find the fabled body of a missing boy.

Each of the group is something of a social misfit, and their problems at home are deftly revealed and resolved against some rollicking action sequences (involving an oncoming train, a leech-infested swamp and a vicious junkyard dog) on the way to an eventual showdown with bullies.

Rebel Ridge (2024)

This crime thriller from Blue Ruin and Green Room writer/director Jeremy Saulnier is one of the best Netflix originals of the year – attracting both impressive viewership numbers and near universally positive reviews from critics. Starring Aaron Pierre as a former Marine who discovers a major cop corruption operation while attempting to post bail for his cousin, it delivers some excellent action choreography and a pointed commentary on policing.

Slow-burning but rife with tension, it's a riveting watch that works in large part due to Pierre's excellent presence in the lead role, as his character Terry works firmly but calmly to retrieve his money – using both the skills and philosophy he learned as a close combat expert. There are plenty of impressive supporting turns, too, with Don Johnson excelling as a slimy police chief. It all adds up to an intriguing thriller that carefully builds up to a well-crafted, high-octane finale.

Beetlejuice (1988)

With Tim Burton's new sequel now out in cinemas, there's never been a better time than to revisit the original Beetlejuice from 1988 – and luckily it's on Netflix. The anarchic fantasy comedy follows events in the town of Winter River after the Deetz family move in to a house whose previous occupants the Maitlands had died in a tragic car accident – only for teenager Lydia (Winona Ryder) to learn that they are still there in ghostly form and only she can see them.

All sorts of chaotic hijinks ensue – including a legendary scene scored by Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) – especially when the mischievous bio-exorcist Betelgeuse is hired by the Maitlands to scare the Deetzes away. A huge breakthrough hit for Burton, it established many of the trademarks that would go onto feature in many of his films and has maintained a strong cult following over the years, meaning the sequel has a lot to live up to.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)

Gary Oldman is currently starring on the small screen as the irascible Jackson Lamb in Slow Horses, but around a decade before, he played a very different spy in director Tomas Alfredson's superb Cold War drama.

Adapted from the John le Carré novel of the same name, Oldman plays veteran agent George Smiley – who is called back in by his superior for one last mission to root out a mystery Soviet mole in the British Secret Intelligence Service.

Far from the action-packed shenanigans you might expect in a James Bond movie, Alfredson presents a cold, paranoia-fuelled view of life in the service, and brings the 1970s to life with exceptional attention to period detail.

Meanwhile, the cast list reads like a who's who of the finest British acting talent, with Oldman joined by the likes of Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, John Hurt, Toby Jones, Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch and Kathy Burke in the ensemble. It's a riveting, layered piece of drama.

The End We Start From (2023)

This subdued survival film arrived in UK cinemas earlier in 2024 after a 2023 debut in the States – and works best as an acting showcase for Jodie Comer, in her first leading role on the big screen. She plays a nameless character - referred to in the credits only as Woman - who gives birth to her first child just as London is being submerged by catastrophic floods.

Soon, she and her husband (Joel Fry) decamp to his parents' house in the country, but conditions steadily worsen and a series of traumatic incidents result in mother and baby undertaking a perilous journey for shelter. Director Mahalia Belo largely eschews the big-scale set pieces traditionally associated with the disaster genre for a more considered, low-key approach.

The result is a slow-paced thriller that is engaging enough but never quite builds to a crescendo. However, Comer's exceptional performance makes it well worth a watch – and there are some especially great scenes after her character bonds with a kindred soul, spiritedly played by Katherine Waterston.

Hot Fuzz (2007)

A strong contender for Edgar Wright's best film, and indeed one of the best action comedies of recent times, Hot Fuzz really does have it all. Strong, distinctive direction? Check. Genuinely laugh out loud comedy? You bet. Some ingenious and gory action set pieces? Oh yeah.

The film follows Simon Pegg's Sergeant Angel as he is moved from his policing job in London, where he excels, to the sleepy village of Sandford, Gloucestershire. He is partnered up with bumbling and unenthused local cop Danny (Nick Frost), and together they set about investigating a conspiracy surrounding a number of seemingly accidental deaths.

It's a film many viewers will have seen repeated on terrestrial channels time and time again, and there's reason for that. It's endlessly re-watchable, quotable and enjoyable, with strong performances from Pegg, Frost and the rest of the cast and a distinct, well-told story within the recognisable buddy police genre.

A History of Violence (2005)

Legendary director David Cronenberg and Lord of the Rings star Viggo Mortensen have teamed up for four films over the years – but their first collaboration, A History of Violence, is arguably still the best of the bunch.

The film follows seemingly ordinary family man Tom (Mortensen), who becomes an overnight hero in his local community after fighting off two robbers – only for the incident to mark him out as a target for organised criminals who know a thing or two about his secret and long-forgotten past.

Mortensen is superb in the central role, but it's arguably Ed Harris as the disfigured thug on Tom's trail and William Hurt as Tom's estranged brother who steal the show, and indeed the latter was Oscar-nominated for his turn. Cronenberg's impeccable direction ensures that it's a captivating film from beginning to end, and there are some brutal bursts of barbarity as the director asks compelling questions about the cycle of violence.

Titanic (1997)

Simultaneously one of the highest-grossing films of all time and one of the most awarded, Titanic really was a behemoth when it was released, and its popularity has barely dwindled. James Cameron's film is about as big as historical blockbusters get, with terrific effects and truly tense sequences. However, it really soars because of its heart, which it has in absolute spades.

Following two fictional characters, Jack and Rose, as they board the ill-fated voyaged, the film plays out as a love story for the ages, brought to the screen perfectly by magnetic performances from both Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet.

It may not have the most original story arc or be the most nuanced in examining class structures, but it doesn't matter - when the emotion hits this hard and the visuals are this breathtaking, all you can do is sit back and let Cameron take you on a journey.

1917 (2019)

This epic war film from Sam Mendes may have been pipped to the post at the 2020 Oscars by Bong Joon-ho's Parasite, but don't let that make you think it was unworthy – on the contrary, 1917 is an absolute filmmaking masterclass, featuring some of the most stunningly realised battle sequences ever put to film.

The plot is fairly simple – two soldiers are rushing to get a message to another squadron to warn them that their impending attack is doomed. However, what's not at all simple is the way the film is constructed, made to look like one long tracking shot following them on their journey.

The direction is absolutely seamless and the cinematography is breathtaking – meanwhile, George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman also give two tremendous central performances, particularly given they're surrounded by some true British acting royalty in smaller roles.

Superbad (2007)

A film which is wholly representative of an era of American comedy, Superbad still manages to stand out from the crowd as a terrifically well-structured, warm-hearted film with some sequences which have gone down in history and become utterly iconic.

The film, from Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, stars Michael Cera and Jonah Hill as two teenagers hoping to lose their virginities before moving on from high school and going to college.

While the hijinks, crude humour and gross-out sequences are significant, the film really lives in the friendship between the two central characters – and in the hilarious subplot featuring their friend Fogell, AKA McLovin, and two hugely irresponsible cops.

Fighting with My Family (2019)

A biographical movie about professional wrestler Paige, produced by Dwayne Johnson and WWE Studios? This could have gone so wrong. However, in actuality it turned out to be one of 2019's best, a heartwarming and constantly funny tale of aspiration, family and not only following your dreams, but also knowing when they just aren't going to become a reality for you.

The film follows Saraya Knight, also known by her wrestling name Paige, who was brought up in a family of wrestlers and, along with her brother, dreams of making it big in WWE. When she gets into the training programme but her brother fails, it causes a rift in the family.

So, what made the film go so right? Stephen Merchant. Getting the writer, actor and comedian in to write and direct the film was a stroke of genius, as he found the heart and distinct British specificity in this globe-trotting tale. The casting is also spot on, with the always excellent Florence Pugh leading the way, along with Vince Vaughn, Slow Horses star Jack Lowden, Game of Thrones' Lena Heady and the inimitable Nick Frost.

Hit Man (2024)

The latest film from acclaimed director Richard Linklater, Hit Man is loosely based on the incredible true story of a man named Gary Johnson– a Houston-native who, over a 10 year spell, was hired to kill more than 60 people while posing as a hitman. Little did his prospective clients know, he was working undercover for the police, and their arrests were secured soon after they had handed over cash.

A version of Johnson is played by Glen Powell – who also co-wrote the script with Linklater – with the film using the real tale as a jumping off point to tell a fictional love story that ponders what might have happened if he had become romantically involved with one of the clients. The result is a romcom that sees Gary continue to adopt the fake hitman guise he had used on his first encounter with love interest Maddy (Adria Arjona) – which, unsurprisingly, leads to a couple of issues later down the line.
Equal parts farcical screwball comedy and philosophical musing on the nature of identity, the film asks fascinating questions about the capacity of a person to change while never being anything less than brilliantly entertaining. The chemistry between Powell and Arjona is palpable and there are some superbly executed set pieces, leading up to an enjoyably twisted conclusion.

Godzilla Minus One (2023)

If the increasingly silly tone of Hollywood's monster franchise isn't your cup of tea, then consider trying out this distinct and unrelated Japanese version, which earned acclaim upon release last year. Far from the Saturday morning cartoon-style fisticuffs of Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, this feature is an altogether more sombre affair.

Taking place after the end of the Second World War, when Japan was still in a state of shock and grief from the nuclear bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the country is dealt another devastating blow when Godzilla emerges just off the coast. The story unfolds primarily from the perspective of deserter pilot Kōichi (Ryunosuke Kamiki), who is grappling with PTSD and a desperate desire for redemption.

Not an easy, popcorn-munching watch by any means, but if you like your sci-fi with a philosophical and emotional edge, Godzilla Minus One is for you. The film also looks utterly dazzling, which is why it took home the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects at the 2024 ceremony.

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

The comedy murder-mystery has been enjoying something of a moment in recent years – thanks to everything from British flick See How They Run to hit TV series Only Murders in the Building. But arguably no one has done it better than Rian Johnson, whose two star-studded Knives Out mysteries have both been huge hits, with a third confirmed to follow.

The second film is streaming on Netflix and sees Daniel Craig’s heavily accented sleuth Benoit Blanc attempt to unravel another mysterious case – this time a puzzling death on a private island owned by tech billionaire Miles Bron (Edward Norton). Craig is on terrific form throughout, and the film is as humorous as it is exciting, packed with intriguing twists that keep the audience guessing until the end.

The Death of Stalin (2017)

Armando Iannucci may be best known for his work with Alan Partridge and for crafting excellent British political satire The Thick of It, but his take of this period in Russian political and social history is also well worth your time. A pitch black comedy, the film follows the jockeying and positioning for power which took place following the death of Stalin in Soviet Russia, and stars the likes of Steve Buscemi, Simon Russell Beale, Jeffrey Tambor and Jason Isaacs.

Its sharp turns between the serious subject matter and its razor sharp comedy may not be for everyone, but for the most part they are superbly executed, never forgetting the horrors which are going on beneath but also not letting them overwhelm the comedy. The decision for the stars to use their varying, natural accents is smart, and also gives the film a unique flavour and flair.

The Karate Kid (1984)

If you're a Cobra Kai fan itching to get your hands on the three-part final season, consider going back to where the martial arts saga began with this bona fide classic of the 1980s – now streaming on Netflix.

A young Ralph Macchio and William Zabka, currently starring in the streaming revival, are the stars of the show, playing teen rivals Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence respectively. Meanwhile, Pat Morita earned an Academy Award nomination as the former's mentor, Mr Miyagi, a war veteran who teaches him karate to ward off bullies and compete in a high-profile tournament.

The film remains popular decades on from its release, telling a classic underdog story in an earnest and heartwarming way. It's hardly unpredictable viewing – particularly if you've seen Cobra Kai – but there's still lots of fun to be had from this family flick.

Arrival (2016)

Any Dune fans wanting more thought-provoking science fiction from Denis Villeneuve need look no further than Arrival. This 2016 film sees a mysterious extraterrestrial species land on Earth, with linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) tasked with finding a way of communicating with them.

Don't go in expecting explosions and action sequences – Arrival is a quieter take on alien encounters than we typically see from Hollywood. Nevertheless, it remains thoroughly compelling throughout with knockout performances from Adams as well as co-stars Jeremy Renner and Forest Whitaker.

If you were impressed by the visuals in Dune, you'll be pleased to hear that this offering is also a feast for the eyes, with Villeneuve conjuring up some mesmerising imagery as Banks seeks a connection with her mysterious new acquaintances. Brace yourself for a surprisingly moving finale!

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

If you've seen this action sequel starring Tom Cruise already, then you'll know why it did such gangbusters at the box office when it was first released, and why it was nominated for six Oscars. It a sequel which is far superior to its predecessor, which is thrill-ride throughout but also manages to retain its heart.

Cruise is his usual magnetic self as he reprises his role as Maverick, who has to teach a group of younger Top Gun graduates to pull off a daring but vital mission, including Goose's son, played by Miles Teller.

It's a film which manages to rid you of any cynicism you may have had going in, and simply fill you with awe as you watch the stunts being pulled off and the action sequences being accomplished.

Punch-Drunk Love (2002)

Alongside his outstanding performance in Uncut Gems, Adam Sandler's turn in this excellent Paul Thomas Anderson romantic drama must surely rank as the comedian's finest hour. He plays Barry Egan, a frustrated, lonely and easily agitated bachelor who unexpectedly finds love while also dealing with a blackmail threat from the owner of a phone-sex line.

The film has an offbeat, absurdist humour to it, and there are excellent supporting performances from Emily Watson as Barry's love interest Lena and Phillip Seymour Hoffman as his chief intimidator, while Anderson also makes great use of the song He Needs Me – first heard in Robert Altman's live action Popeye film from 1980.

Far less epic and sprawling than many of the filmmakers other works such as Magnolia and There Will Be Blood, it nonetheless ranks as another triumph for the director – a truly original and often very funny look at mental health and falling in love.

Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood (2019)

Tarantino's most recent film Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood was notable for teaming up two of the world's biggest movie stars, Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio, while also starring Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate, and telling an alternate history version of what, in real life, were the film star's final days.

The writer-director's love for the period exudes from the screen and is truly infectious – while there's little in the way of plot here, it's a joy simply to hang out in this world with these characters. Meanwhile, the finale is one of the goriest, but also funniest and most cathartic climaxes Tarantino has ever put on screen.

Maestro (2023)

Bradley Cooper announced himself as a major new directorial voice with his Oscar-nominated remake of A Star Is Born five years ago, and his second feature Maestro proves that was no fluke. Focusing on one of the most iconic American musicians of the 20th century in Leonard Bernstein (played by Cooper himself), the film shines a light on his sometimes volatile relationship with wife Felicia Montealegre (Carey Mulligan).

Filmed in both black and white and colour, it is a consistently gorgeous film to look at and also includes a brilliant soundtrack full of some of Bernstein's finest work. Meanwhile, the performances are superb – with both Cooper and Mulligan correctly emerging as possible frontrunners for major awards attention.

The film runs the full gamut of emotions and there are several standout scenes: from a joyous dance sequence during a rehearsal for On the Town and a breathtaking six-minute scene of Bernstein conducting Gustav Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony, to a blistering argument between Bernstein and Montealegre at their New York apartment and several heartbreaking moments when the latter falls ill. It's well worth a watch.

Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget (2023)

More than twenty years after the first film became an instant claymation classic, Ginger, Rocky and the rest of the flock return in this joyous sequel, where we find them on a utopian island paradise following their audacious escape from the evil Mrs Tweedy.

But when Ginger (voiced by Thandiwe Newton) and Rocky (Zachary Levi) discover that their intrepid daughter Molly (Bella Ramsey) has set off on her own adventure, old enemies rear their heads and only an expertly orchestrated heist can avert a calamity.

The increased scale compared to the original offers director Sam Fell plenty of opportunities to showcase a number of highly innovative and intricately designed set pieces. And, as ever with Aardman, there's also a terrific assortment of verbal and visual gags to delight audiences, while the film crucially retains the handcrafted, eccentric charm that has become synonymous with the studio.

Parasite (2019)

When Parasite was announced as the first non-English-language Best Picture winner at the 2020 Oscars, few film fans had any complaints. Bong Joon-ho's masterpiece functions equally well as a suspenseful Hitchcockian thriller, a pitch-perfect black comedy and a biting class satire – complete with some extraordinary performances from its cast.

The film follows events after four members of a working-class family sneakily take it in turns to find work at the plush home of a more well-to-do family, before their elaborate ploy eventually leads to a nail-biting showdown in the latter stages. Tense, intelligent and extremely entertaining, it's unquestionably one of the finest films of the 21st century.

Nimona (2023)

This animated adventure started its life at Blue Sky Studios only to be shelved following Disney's acquisition of 21st Century Fox in 2021, eventually being picked up by Netflix for release in 2023. And it's a good job it was rescued: it's a rollicking, inventive, and amusing fairytale that deftly touches on LGBTQ+ themes, with some impressive voice performances from the likes of Chloë Grace Moretz and Riz Ahmed.

The film tells the story of Knight Ballister Boldheart (Ahmed) who has to turn to the titular shape-shifting teen (Moretz) for help when he is falsely accused of murdering the Queen. Nimona is the only person willing to help him prove his innocence, but things are somewhat confused by the fact she is also the monster he has sworn to kill. Cue an enjoyable adventure that features all sorts of havoc and makes for top-tier entertainment for the whole family.

RRR (2022)

The latest work from legendary Telegu filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli, RRR became a major international hit upon its release – enrapturing viewers all around the globe. It’s not difficult to see why it resonated so much – across its epic three-hour running time the film packs in all manner of superbly executed action scenes (sometimes involving CGI animals) and splendidly choreographed dance scenes, including one to Oscar-winning song Naatu Naatu.

Set against the backdrop of the brutal British Raj, RRR is a thrilling tale of revenge. The film chronicles a charming fictional friendship between real-life revolutionaries Komaram Bheem (NT Rama Rao Jr) and Alluri Sitarama Raju (Ram Charan) as they seek to rid the nation of British rule.

Guillermo Del Toro's Pinocchio (2022)

Guillermo Del Toro’s first foray into stop-motion animation – alongside co-director Mark Gustafson – is one of many new takes on the tale of the wooden boy to have been released in recent years. It also happens to be by some margin the best of the bunch, ingeniously transposing Carlo Collodi’s classic tale to Benito Mussolini’s Italy.

Many of the story beats are, of course, familiar: Geppetto makes a puppet that comes to life, with the pair then getting tangled up in adventures alongside a talking cricket. But, this new version also laces its narrative with profound meditations on grief, death, religion, and authoritarianism, adding up to a truly beautiful and visually sumptuous piece of work.

Marriage Story (2019)

Writer/director Noah Baumbach has teamed up with Adam Driver on a number of occasions, but this divorce drama is arguably the peak of their collaboration. The film earned six nominations at the 92nd Academy Awards – winning one – and proved every bit as popular with audiences as it did with critics.

Based in part on Baumbach’s own divorce, Driver and Scarlett Johansson star as a director and actor couple whose marriage has reached its end, but things only get more bitter when lawyers are called in to begin divorce proceedings. By turns funny and tear-jerking, this film is a real winner – worth it for a scene that sees Driver singing Stephen Sondheim’s Being Alive alone.

The Irishman (2019)

There was a time a few years ago when Netflix was gladly giving a number of acclaimed big-name auteurs big budgets and free rein to make their passion projects, and the greatest result of that era was Martin Scorsese’s superb gangster epic.

Of course, the great director has famously dabbled in the gangster genre many times before, but what marks The Irishman out from the likes of Goodfellas and Casino is the more sombre, elegiac tone. The film follows Frank "The Irishman" Sheeran (Robert De Niro), as he recalls his involvement in the disappearance of his longtime friend Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino), whilst also reflecting on a number of relationships, including that with his daughter, Peggy (Anna Paquin).

13th (2016)

The title of Ava DuVernay’s searing documentary refers to the 13th Amendment in the US Constitution, which declares: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States.”

The film goes on to draw parallels between slavery and the major flaws in America’s modern-day criminal judgment system, examining the prison-industrial complex and the ways in which the system disproportionately affects Black Americans and other minority communities. The film won huge acclaim on release and secured Netflix its first BAFTA – while it found an audience again following the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

Uncut Gems (2020)

Most of the Adam Sandler films you’ll find on Netflix are of rather dubious quality, but every so often the actor picks a project that shows just how good he can be – and there’s never been a better example of that than Uncut Gems. This unbearably tense, blackly comic offering from the Safdie Brothers was a huge critical hit when it debuted in 2020, with many feeling that Sandler was unfortunate not to nab an Oscar nomination.

He stars as a New York City jeweller with a gambling problem, who must risk everything to banish his debts and escape the collectors after him – whilst also balancing his role as a father, a crumbling marriage with his soon-to-be-ex-wife (Idina Menzel) and an affair with an employee (Julia Fox).

My Neighbour Totoro (1988)

Pretty much the whole Studio Ghibli oeuvre is available to stream on Netflix, giving subscribers a huge range of wonderful animated flicks to enjoy including Spirited Away, Kiki’s Delivery Service and Whisper of the Heart. And there can be no doubt that this delightfully charming little film – just their third feature – is one of the greatest.

It follows two girls who move with their father to the countryside while their mother is ill, where they find themselves having a number of magical encounters with the titular friendly monster and other surreal beings. The story itself is fairly minimalist, but the gorgeous animation and the way the film captures a youthful sense of wonderment make it a must-watch.

Looking for something else to watch? Check out our best series on Netflix, best Netflix comedies and best Netflix horror movies.

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