Netflix has revolutionized the entertainment industry with its diverse range of original films, spanning various genres and styles. Here are 50 must-watch films available on Netflix right now, each offering something special. From breathtaking biographical dramas to hilarious comedies and intense thrillers, Netflix has it all.
1. Maestro (2023)
- Why Watch: This Academy Award-nominated film allows viewers a look into the life of the proficient conductor Leonard Bernstein and his rocky relationship with his wife, the poet Felicia Montealegre. The perfect combination of authentic performances and an amazing visual reputation brings it forward on the must-watch list for all the film buffs.
- Cast: Bradley Cooper, Carey Mulligan, Jeremy Strong
- Director: Bradley Cooper
- Runtime: 158 minutes
2. Rebel Ridge (2024)
- Why Watch: This fast-paced mystery is based on elements such as murder, corruption, and a thrilling mystery. Our former Marine here is trying to understand the nitty-gritty of local law enforcement and tries to bring out the dark secrets of conspiracies at the same time while dodging deadly conspiracy himself.
- Cast: John Boyega, James Landry Hébert, Don Johnson
- Director: Jeremy Saulnier
- Runtime: 100 minutes
3. Godzilla Minus One (2023)
- Why Watch: A fresh take on the classic kaiju monster, Godzilla Minus One tells the story of a PTSD-stricken war pilot facing a Godzilla attack after surviving the creature’s first assault on Japan.
- Cast: Akira Takarada, Renji Ishibashi, Kōichi Shikishima
- Director: Takashi Yamazaki
- Runtime: 115 minutes
4. Society of the Snow (2023)
- Why Watch: Based on true events, this survival thriller explores the harrowing aftermath of a plane crash in the Andes and the choices survivors made to stay alive against all odds.
- Cast: Javier Gutiérrez, Mario Casas, Pol Monen
- Director: J.A. Bayona
- Runtime: 120 minutes
5. The Greatest Night in Pop (2024)
- Why Watch: A documentary that brings to life the historic 1985 recording session of “We Are the World,” featuring an all-star ensemble of music legends. It’s a heartfelt journey into the music world’s most iconic charity single.
- Cast: Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Bob Dylan
- Director: Quincy Jones
- Runtime: 95 minutes
6. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
- Why Watch: This mystery-comedy film is a perfect blend of humor, twists, and suspense, featuring an all-star cast and a fantastic whodunit story with detective Benoit Blanc unraveling a rich tech mogul’s murder mystery.
- Cast: Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe
- Director: Rian Johnson
- Runtime: 139 minutes
7. Leave the World Behind (2023)
- Why Watch: This psychological thriller explores the fear of the unknown when a family’s peaceful vacation is interrupted by mysterious strangers amid an escalating global catastrophe.
- Cast: Julia Roberts, Ethan Hawke, Kevin Bacon
- Director: Sam Esmail
- Runtime: 113 minutes
8. Emilia Pérez (2024)
- Why Watch: A crime-comedy-musical with elements of high drama and humor, this film earned multiple Golden Globe nominations and follows a cartel leader’s desperate attempt to fake her death and start a new life.
- Cast: Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón
- Director: Sebastián Lelio
- Runtime: 110 minutes
9. Nimona (2023)
- Why Watch: A heartwarming animated feature that blends adventure, humor, and action as a shapeshifting teenager helps a knight clear his name in a futuristic medieval world. It’s a fun and emotional ride.
- Cast: Riz Ahmed, Chloë Grace Moretz, Eugene Lee Yang
- Director: Nick Bruno, Troy Quane
- Runtime: 102 minutes
10. The Swimmers (2022)
- Why Watch: Based on the true story of two sisters who escape war-torn Syria and pursue a dream of Olympic glory, it’s a deeply moving tale of hope and resilience amid unimaginable challenges.
- Cast: Nathalie Issa, Manal Issa, Matthias Schweighöfer
- Director: Sally El Hosaini
- Runtime: 134 minutes
11. All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)
- Why Watch: This adaptation of the classic anti-war novel provides a haunting look at the brutal realities of World War I, offering a poignant reflection on the horrors of war through the eyes of young soldiers.
- Cast: Felix Kammerer, Albrecht Schuch, Daniel Brühl
- Director: Edward Berger
- Runtime: 147 minutes
12. NYAD (2023)
- Why Watch: An inspiring true story of marathon swimmer Diana Nyad’s determination to swim from Cuba to Florida at the age of 60, despite insurmountable odds and personal challenges. A tribute to perseverance and friendship.
- Cast: Annette Bening, Jodie Foster, Rhys Ifans
- Director: Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin
- Runtime: 117 minutes
13. Hot Frosty (2024)
- Why Watch: A charming holiday film with a unique twist, featuring a magical snowman who comes to life, sparking joy and romance in a small town. It’s fun, lighthearted, and perfect for the holiday season.
- Cast: Lacey Chabert, Dustin Milligan, Alexandra Daddario
- Director: Michael J. Shultz
- Runtime: 89 minutes
14. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)
- Why Watch: This visually stunning and action-packed animated superhero film features multiple versions of Spider-Man coming together to defeat a new villain. It’s an epic adventure and one of the best animated films of the year.
- Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac
- Director: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson
- Runtime: 140 minutes
15. The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)
- Why Watch: A gripping historical drama that dramatizes the trial of seven defendants charged with conspiracy and inciting riots during the 1968 Democratic National Convention. It’s a powerful look at politics, protest, and justice.
- Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, Mark Rylance
- Director: Aaron Sorkin
- Runtime: 130 minutes
16. The Irishman (2019)
- Why Watch: A crime drama that spans decades, it chronicles the life of mob hitman Frank Sheeran. Directed by Martin Scorsese, it’s a masterclass in filmmaking and acting, with a stellar ensemble cast.
- Cast: Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Runtime: 209 minutes
17. Uncut Gems (2019)
- Why Watch: A heart-pounding thriller about a jewelry dealer who’s constantly on the brink of losing everything. The film’s intensity and Adam Sandler’s career-defining performance make it unforgettable.
- Cast: Adam Sandler, Julia Fox, Kevin Garnett
- Director: Josh Safdie, Benny Safdie
- Runtime: 135 minutes
18. The Power of the Dog (2021)
- Why Watch: A slow-burn Western drama about toxic masculinity, jealousy, and obsession, directed by Jane Campion. It’s a beautifully shot film with incredible performances.
- Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons
- Director: Jane Campion
- Runtime: 128 minutes
19. Marriage Story (2019)
- Why Watch: A heart-wrenching and emotionally raw portrayal of a couple’s divorce. With a phenomenal cast and directorial finesse by Noah Baumbach, it’s an exploration of love, pain, and the complexities of relationships.
- Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver, Laura Dern
- Director: Noah Baumbach
- Runtime: 137 minutes
20. Bird Box (2018)
- Why Watch: A psychological horror-thriller that has the world in a state of chaos, where people must avoid seeing terrifying creatures to survive. Its suspense and intense moments keep you on the edge of your seat.
- Cast: Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes, John Malkovich
- Director: Susanne Bier
- Runtime: 124 minutes
21. The Old Guard (2020)
- Why Watch: A thrilling action-packed film about a group of immortal warriors who fight to protect the world’s secrets. It’s a gripping story with excellent fight choreography.
- Cast: Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Chiwetel Ejiofor
- Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
- Runtime: 118 minutes
22. Enola Holmes (2020)
- Why Watch: A fresh take on the Sherlock Holmes stories, focusing on his younger sister, Enola, who embarks on a mystery-solving adventure of her own. It’s fun, charming, and empowering.
- Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, Helena Bonham Carter
- Director: Harry Bradbeer
- Runtime: 123 minutes
23. Roma (2018)
- Why Watch: A deeply personal and visually stunning film by Alfonso Cuarón, Roma paints a beautiful, emotional portrait of a domestic worker’s life in 1970s Mexico City. It’s poignant and full of heart.
- Cast: Yalitza Aparicio, Marina de Tavira, Diego Cortina Autrey
- Director: Alfonso Cuarón
- Runtime: 135 minutes
24. The Mitchells vs. The Machines (2021)
- Why Watch: An animated family comedy with humor and heart, it follows a dysfunctional family as they try to save the world from a robot apocalypse. A colorful, creative, and fun-filled ride for all ages.
- Cast: Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph
- Director: Michael Rianda, Jeff Rowe
- Runtime: 113 minutes
25. Lupin (2021)
- Why Watch: A captivating French series inspired by the adventures of Arsène Lupin, a gentleman thief. It’s a thrilling, clever, and stylish show full of twists and turns.
- Cast: Omar Sy, Ludivine Sagnier, Clotilde Hesme
- Director: Louis Leterrier
- Runtime: 35-50 minutes per episode
26. The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)
- Why Watch: Based on the true story of the Chicago 7, a group of anti-Vietnam War protesters charged with inciting riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention, this film is both timely and historical.
- Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, Mark Rylance
- Director: Aaron Sorkin
- Runtime: 130 minutes
27. The Social Dilemma (2020)
- Why Watch: A powerful documentary that explores the dangers of social media and the ways it manipulates its users. It’s thought-provoking and essential viewing for anyone curious about tech’s impact on society.
- Cast: Tristan Harris, Chamath Palihapitiya, Jeff Orlowski
- Director: Jeff Orlowski
- Runtime: 94 minutes
28. Shutter Island (2010)
- Why Watch: A psychological thriller with twists and turns, this Martin Scorsese-directed film follows two U.S. Marshals investigating a psychiatric facility with mysterious disappearances.
- Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Runtime: 138 minutes
29. Mank (2020)
- Why Watch: A biographical drama about screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz and the making of Citizen Kane. The film is a deep dive into Hollywood history with a stunning performance by Gary Oldman.
- Cast: Gary Oldman, Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins
- Director: David Fincher
- Runtime: 131 minutes
30. Extraction (2020)
- Why Watch: An adrenaline-pumping action film starring Chris Hemsworth as a mercenary on a mission to rescue the kidnapped son of an international crime lord. The action scenes are intense and well-choreographed.
- Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal, Randeep Hooda
- Director: Sam Hargrave
- Runtime: 117 minutes
31. Okja (2017)
- Why Watch: A heartwarming yet dark tale about a girl trying to save her genetically modified pet from the clutches of a powerful corporation. It’s an emotional rollercoaster with social commentary on animal rights.
- Cast: Tilda Swinton, Jake Gyllenhaal, Ahn Seo-hyun
- Director: Bong Joon-ho
- Runtime: 118 minutes
32. Dolemite Is My Name (2019)
- Why Watch: A biographical comedy about the life of comedian Rudy Ray Moore and his rise to fame in the 1970s with his blaxploitation films. Eddie Murphy gives a standout performance.
- Cast: Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Keegan-Michael Key
- Director: Craig Brewer
- Runtime: 118 minutes
33. The Kissing Booth (2018)
- Why Watch: A high school rom-com filled with fun, youthful energy, and a bit of drama, following a girl who develops a secret crush on her best friend’s older brother.
- Cast: Joey King, Jacob Elordi, Molly Ringwald
- Director: Vince Marcello
- Runtime: 105 minutes
34. Baking Impossible (2021)
- Why Watch: A delightful competition reality series where bakers and engineers team up to create edible, functional creations. It’s a sweet combination of innovation and fun.
- Cast: Justin Willman, expert engineers and bakers
- Director: Not specified
- Runtime: 45 minutes per episode
35. The King (2019)
- Why Watch: A gritty and visually stunning adaptation of Shakespeare’s Henry V, which stars Timothée Chalamet in the lead role as the young king of England. It’s epic and captivating.
- Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Joel Edgerton, Robert Pattinson
- Director: David Michôd
- Runtime: 140 minutes
36. The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
- Why Watch: A compelling drama about a young orphan girl who becomes a chess prodigy. With stunning performances and beautiful direction, it’s an inspiring tale of talent, struggle, and ambition.
- Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Marielle Heller
- Director: Scott Frank
- Runtime: 7 episodes (approximately 50 minutes each)
37. Don’t Look Up (2021)
- Why Watch: A dark satirical comedy about two astronomers trying to warn humanity about an impending comet that will destroy Earth. The film offers sharp commentary on media and politics.
- Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep
- Director: Adam McKay
- Runtime: 138 minutes
38. A Ghost Story (2017)
- Why Watch: A slow, meditative film about a recently deceased ghost who observes his loved ones from a white sheet. It’s poignant and beautifully haunting.
- Cast: Casey Affleck, Rooney Mara
- Director: David Lowery
- Runtime: 92 minutes
39. The Platform (2019)
- Why Watch: A dystopian thriller set in a vertical prison where food is distributed from top to bottom, reflecting stark social hierarchies. It’s thought-provoking and full of suspense.
- Cast: Ivan Massagué, Zorion Eguileor, Antonia San Juan
- Director: Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia
- Runtime: 94 minutes
40. The Witcher (2019)
- Why Watch: A fantasy epic filled with magic, beasts, and moral complexity, following Geralt of Rivia. The series delivers action-packed scenes, rich storytelling, and strong performances.
- Cast: Henry Cavill, Freya Allan, Anya Chalotra
- Director: Alik Sakharov, Charlotte Brändström
- Runtime: 8 episodes (approximately 60 minutes each)
41. Parasite (2019)
- Why Watch: A genre-bending masterpiece about class division, directed by Bong Joon-ho. This dark comedy-thriller explores social stratification and greed with sharp wit and intense emotion.
- Cast: Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong
- Director: Bong Joon-ho
- Runtime: 132 minutes
42. Into the Wild (2007)
- Why Watch: A profound adventure drama about Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandons his possessions and savings to travel across the U.S. and live in the Alaskan wilderness.
- Cast: Emile Hirsch, Vince Vaughn, Catherine Keener
- Director: Sean Penn
- Runtime: 148 minutes
43. The Midnight Sky (2020)
- Why Watch: A post-apocalyptic science fiction drama directed by and starring George Clooney. The film explores survival, hope, and redemption in a world on the brink of collapse.
- Cast: George Clooney, Felicity Jones, David Oyelowo
- Director: George Clooney
- Runtime: 118 minutes
44. Her (2013)
- Why Watch: A thought-provoking, futuristic love story about a man who falls in love with an AI operating system. It explores loneliness, relationships, and the complexities of human emotion.
- Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johansson (voice), Amy Adams
- Director: Spike Jonze
- Runtime: 126 minutes
45. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)
- Why Watch: A Coen Brothers anthology film with six segments, each exploring different aspects of the American West. It’s dark, quirky, and full of unexpected humor.
- Cast: Tim Blake Nelson, Liam Neeson, James Franco
- Directors: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
- Runtime: 132 minutes
46. The Revenant (2015)
- Why Watch: A brutal survival drama based on true events, where Leonardo DiCaprio plays a frontiersman seeking revenge after being left for dead. It’s visually stunning and emotionally intense.
- Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Will Poulter
- Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu
- Runtime: 156 minutes
47. The Truman Show (1998)
- Why Watch: A thought-provoking, genre-defining film about a man who discovers his entire life has been a televised reality show. It’s both a commentary on media and a touching tale of self-awareness.
- Cast: Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, Ed Harris
- Director: Peter Weir
- Runtime: 103 minutes
48. Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) (2017)
- Why Watch: A high-octane Spanish crime drama about a criminal mastermind and his team of robbers as they attempt to carry out the biggest heist in history. It’s thrilling, emotional, and filled with unexpected twists.
- Cast: Álvaro Morte, Úrsula Corberó, Itziar Ituño
- Director: Álex Pina
- Runtime: 22 episodes (approximately 50 minutes each)
49. The Imitation Game (2014)
- Why Watch: A biographical drama about the life of Alan Turing, a mathematician who cracked the Nazi enigma code during WWII, only to face persecution for his sexuality. Benedict Cumberbatch’s performance is exceptional.
- Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode
- Director: Morten Tyldum
- Runtime: 113 minutes
50. Cloud Atlas (2012)
- Why Watch: A visually stunning and mind-bending film that intertwines multiple stories spanning centuries. It’s a grand exploration of time, reincarnation, and the impact of human actions.
- Cast: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant
- Directors: Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski, Tom Tykwer
- Runtime: 172 minutes
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