Entertainment & Culture

Author: anonymDate: 2024-11-29 10:53:07

Top 40 Netflix Films: A Current Selection

Seeking superb films available on Netflix? Your search concludes here. Below, we present a meticulously chosen array of captivating, enthralling, moving, and humorous movies currently accessible for streaming.

Navigating the streaming service's extensive library can be overwhelming. We've eliminated the guesswork and endless scrolling. This compilation will be regularly updated with fresh recommendations, ensuring you're always abreast of the best Netflix movies to prioritize.

Explore our curated list of exceptional Netflix films below, and enjoy the viewing experience!

21 Jump Street and 22 Jump Street

For comedy enthusiasts, a double feature of Phil Lord and Chris Miller's "21 Jump Street" and its sequel, "22 Jump Street," is recommended. The initial film offers a meta commentary on the television series, featuring Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum as undercover officers in a high school, highlighting the reversal of fortune as Hill's character, initially struggling to fit in, gains acceptance among the popular students, while Tatum's athletic persona clashes with contemporary notions of 'cool.' "22 Jump Street," set in a college setting, stands out as one of the most cleverly self-aware sequels, directly addressing the tendency of sequels to merely reiterate the original film's themes. Both films are uproariously funny.

The Hateful Eight

Quentin Tarantino's eighth cinematic venture is his most acerbic yet one of his most structurally innovative. "The Hateful Eight," a Western unfolding after the Civil War, primarily takes place within Minnie's Haberdashery during a blizzard, where eight strangers seek shelter. However, each harbors a secret, and each demonstrates an extraordinary capacity for violence (or do they?). The exceptional cast includes Samuel L. Jackson, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Walton Goggins, Kurt Russell, and more.

Scream (2022)

The "Scream" franchise experienced a revival in 2022 courtesy of "Ready or Not" filmmakers Radio Silence. While this latest installment doesn't quite match the excellence of Wes Craven's first two entries in the iconic slasher series, it's a sharp and satisfying return. The narrative alternates between established characters portrayed by Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, and David Arquette, and new characters played by Melissa Barrera, Jack Quaid, and Jenna Ortega. With Ghostface's return to Woodsboro, both groups become entangled as unexpected twists unfold, showcasing Radio Silence's profound homage to the original "Scream" in terms of both style and structure.

You’re Next

For a frightening and surprising cinematic experience, seek out "You're Next." This 2011 slasher film from director Adam Wingard – who later helmed the "Godzilla vs. Kong" movies – offers a unique take on both slasher and home invasion subgenres. Following an opening scene featuring a shocking murder, the film develops its central premise: a family reunion is disrupted by a series of attacks, resulting in the deaths of family members at the hands of masked assailants. We won't spoil the further plot developments, but this movie is a thrilling ride.

A Simple Favor

Few films provide such continuous surprises as "A Simple Favor." Indeed, at any given moment, anything can occur within this sugary-coated thriller/dark comedy. Anna Kendrick portrays a vlogging single mother who unexpectedly finds herself in the spotlight when her friend, a fashion company's PR executive (played by Blake Lively), disappears. Henry Golding and Andrew Rannells co-star in this Hitchcockian delight, surprisingly directed by Paul Feig, the filmmaker behind "Bridesmaids" and "Spy."

Will & Harper

"Will & Harper" is extraordinary. The documentary, premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, chronicles the journey of Will Ferrell and his long-time friend and collaborator, Harper Steele, on a cross-country road trip. Steele, a former "SNL" writer who collaborated with Ferrell on his more eccentric projects (such as the Lifetime film with Kristen Wiig), transitioned during the pandemic. Ferrell suggested a road trip across the United States, providing Steele with an opportunity to discuss her transition with Ferrell. It's heartwarming and emotionally resonant, but also profoundly meaningful and potentially life-altering for many.

Rebel Ridge

"Rebel Ridge" will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. This original thriller from writer/director Jeremy Saulnier stars Aaron Pierre as a man urgently attempting to secure his cousin's release from prison, the reasons for which soon become clear. However, when local law enforcement confiscates the bail money, he finds himself in a race against time, navigating a web of corruption. The ensuing events combine elements of "Jack Reacher," "First Blood," and "The Pelican Brief," featuring sharp dialogue, a superb performance by Don Johnson, and a breakout role for Pierre.

Sing Street

"Sing Street" epitomizes feel-good cinema. Set in 1985 Dublin, this 2016 film follows a young boy's yearning for more, leading him to form a band with his classmates. Inspired by his older brother's (Jack Reynor) passion for Duran Duran and similar bands, he and his friends work together to establish their band amidst the typical challenges of adolescence, including romantic interests, fractured friendships, and difficult home lives. The film's original songs are incredibly catchy (unsurprising, given that it's written and directed by "Once" filmmaker John Carney), culminating in a powerfully emotional finale.

Hit Man

This film is a phenomenal experience. Inspired by a true story, "Hit Man" stars Glen Powell as an unassuming man who undertakes contract work for the local police, posing as a hitman to capture individuals planning murders on camera. However, when he falls for one of his intended targets (a woman played by Adria Arjona), he finds himself torn between two identities – the "hit man" persona she loves and his true self. Richard Linklater, the acclaimed director of "School of Rock," "Boyhood," and the "Before" series, directs with a profound understanding of human nature, presenting the story as a screwball comedy. Powell co-wrote the screenplay and delivers a captivating lead performance, showcasing exceptional chemistry with Arjona.

Call Me by Your Name

The film that launched Timothee Chalamet to prominence, "Call Me by Your Name" is one of the most deeply felt love stories ever captured on film. Director Luca Guadagnino transports the viewer to a specific time and place, while evoking feelings of desire, love, and possibility. Chalamet portrays a 17-year-old vacationing with his family in Italy in 1983, who develops a romantic relationship with a 24-year-old graduate student (played by Armie Hammer). The soundtrack features two original songs by Sufjan Stevens, and Michael Stuhlbarg's supporting performance is outstanding. Fans of Guadagnino's "Challengers" will appreciate this director's more subdued romantic take on a love story.

Easy A

A delightful romantic comedy with a teenage twist, "Easy A" is also a fantastic showcase for Emma Stone's talent and charm. The eventual Academy Award winner stars in this 2010 film as Olive, a high school student who, to assist a friend who's being bullied for being gay, pretends to be sexually active with him. Olive soon develops a reputation, leading her schoolmates to shower her with gifts in exchange for spreading false claims of their romantic involvement. "The Scarlet Letter" serves as a backdrop to this witty and insightful teen story, which boasts a superb ensemble cast including Penn Badgley, Thomas Hayden Church, Lisa Kudrow, Stanley Tucci, and Patricia Clarkson.

1917

Sam Mendes' World War I film, shot in a single take, garnered numerous Academy Awards, and deservedly so. Presented as one continuous shot (for which cinematographer Roger Deakins won an Academy Award), the film follows a soldier, played by George MacKay, through a single day on the battlefield in April 1917. This remarkable achievement is best experienced with undivided attention. Andrew Scott, Benedict Cumberbatch, Richard Madden, and Mark Strong all have memorable, though brief, appearances as MacKay's character navigates the harrowing conditions.

Tangerine

Before "The Florida Project" or "Red Rocket," filmmaker Sean Baker emerged with his 2015 comedy "Tangerine" – filmed entirely on an iPhone. Kitana Kiki Rodriguez stars as a transgender sex worker in Los Angeles who discovers her boyfriend and pimp has been unfaithful. While possessing an independent film aesthetic and tackling weighty themes, the film maintains a boisterous comedic tone and pacing, enhancing its impact. It's especially recommended to revisit Baker's breakthrough film before viewing his new movie, "Anora," which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes this year.

Baby Driver

"Shaun of the Dead" and "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" director Edgar Wright combined his passion for music and action filmmaking in 2017's "Baby Driver," a film overflowing with music. Ansel Elgort portrays a getaway driver with tinnitus who constantly listens to music to alleviate the ringing in his ears. Wright masterfully synchronizes the film's action sequences with the accompanying songs, creating a unique action musical experience. Lily James is the object of Baby's affection, and the ensemble cast includes Jamie Foxx, Jon Hamm, Eiza Gonzalez, and, notably, Kevin Spacey.

Anyone but You

This romantic comedy captivated audiences after its Netflix release, although it initially premiered in theaters under Sony in December. Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney play strangers who engage in a brief encounter before abruptly parting ways due to a misunderstanding. Their paths converge when a mutual acquaintance invites them to a wedding in Australia, unexpectedly leading to a blossoming romance. Powell demonstrates his leading-man potential in this enjoyable, classic rom-com.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Incredibly, "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" may even surpass "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse," which itself is a near-masterpiece. The sequel – once again produced and written by Phil Lord and Chris Miller – finds Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) grappling with the multiverse of Spider-People, traversing various universes and confronting a unique antagonist known as The Spot (Jason Schwartzman), who can move between universes. The film culminates in a climax comparable to "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back," a significant achievement.

The Killer

David Fincher's "The Killer" offers a refreshingly unique perspective on the hitman genre. Written by "Seven" writer Andrew Kevin Walker, the film is structured in chapters and follows an assassin, played by Michael Fassbender, after a failed mission. Unlike most films, "The Killer" subverts expectations. Fassbender's character speaks minimally, with his inner thoughts revealed through lengthy voiceovers. Fincher immerses us in the assassin's psyche as his world gradually unravels.

Glass Onion

You absolutely must see "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery" if you appreciate humor and entertainment. This "Knives Out" sequel (again written and directed by Rian Johnson) features a new mystery, with Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc as the sole returning character. This time, he's invited to a secluded island by a tech mogul (played by Edward Norton), who has gathered a group of close friends – including Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr., and Janelle Monae – in Greece for an elaborate murder mystery game. Further details would spoil the surprises, but suffice it to say that this film is as thrilling, hilarious, and unexpected as the first "Knives Out," and will leave you wanting an immediate rewatch.

Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio

Guillermo del Toro's first stop-motion feature film is as emotionally resonant as expected, presenting a reimagining of "Pinocchio." Co-written and directed by del Toro, this adaptation features the voices of Ewan McGregor, David Bradley, Burn Gorman, Cate Blanchett, Finn Wolfhard, Ron Perlman, and Tilda Swinton, offering a fantastical take on the classic Carlo Collodi Italian tale. Emotionally powerful and awe-inspiring, set against the backdrop of fascist Italy, this film is a stunning work of art.

Mudbound

The first film to earn a woman an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography, 2017's "Mudbound" is a moving and captivating historical drama. Directed by Dee Rees and shot by Rachel Morrison, the film follows two World War II veterans returning home to Mississippi, one white and one Black. Carey Mulligan, Jason Mitchell, Garrett Hedlund, and Mary J. Blige lead the exceptional ensemble cast as the film confronts racial relations of the past with direct relevance to the present, presenting richly complex characters.

Phantom Thread

While "The Master" may represent filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson's most serious work, "Phantom Thread" showcases his playful side. This sharp romance stars Daniel Day-Lewis in his final on-screen role before retirement, set in 1954 London. Day-Lewis portrays a renowned fashion designer who takes his meticulous process seriously. His routine is disrupted by a relationship with a waitress, forcing him to consider the impact on his work. This is Paul Thomas Anderson's take on a twisted romantic drama, and surprisingly humorous.

The Power of the Dog

Writer/director Jane Campion's 2021 drama "The Power of the Dog" is a potent and surprising film exploring family dynamics, among other themes. Set in 1925 Montana, Benedict Cumberbatch and Jesse Plemons portray brothers whose strained relationship is further tested when Plemons marries a widowed single mother (played by Kirsten Dunst) and brings her son (played by Kodi Smit-McPhee) to live with them on their ranch. The performances are exceptional, with Campion crafting a complex and tense character-driven drama, undoubtedly 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 portrays Larson, nearing his 30th birthday, who is yet to achieve a Broadway breakthrough. As he completes his sci-fi rock opera, he grapples with anxiety, his failing relationship, and the looming AIDS epidemic affecting his friends. The songs are outstanding, the direction inspired, but Garfield's electrifying and soulful performance makes this a must-see.

Mank

This film carries a 'For Cinephiles Only' caveat, but dedicated film enthusiasts will find much to admire in David Fincher's 2020 film "Mank." Gary Oldman stars as Hollywood screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz, chronicling his involvement in writing the screenplay for "Citizen Kane," interweaving flashbacks from his life that inspired certain characters and themes in what many consider the greatest film ever made. Fincher presents the film entirely in black-and-white (it won the Oscar for Best Cinematography), with Amanda Seyfried delivering a stellar performance as Marion Davies and Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross composing a surprising original score.

Private Life

Kathryn Hahn, known for her scene-stealing supporting roles, takes center stage in writer/director Tamara Jenkins' 2018 dramedy "Private Life." Inspired by Jenkins' personal experiences, Hahn and Paul Giamatti portray a middle-aged New York City couple struggling with infertility who attempt in-vitro fertilization. The film poignantly depicts the emotional rollercoaster of infertility, while also capturing realistic moments of humor. Hahn and Giamatti are remarkable together, showcasing the strain on their marriage during this journey.

The Ballad of Buster Scruggs

This Western anthology from the Coen Brothers is a delightful adventure culminating in a surprisingly emotional conclusion. "The Ballad of Buster Scruggs" comprises six distinct stories set in the Old West, each featuring unique characters. Themes of mortality, morality, and justice permeate "Buster Scruggs," similar to the Coens' other films, set against a vibrant, slightly exaggerated Western backdrop. The outstanding cast includes Tim Blake Nelson, Stephen Root, Zoe Kazan, Bill Heck, Liam Neeson, and Brendan Gleeson.

Marriage Story

Writer/director Noah Baumbach's 2019 drama "Marriage Story" is fundamentally a divorce story, yet it's so richly crafted and beautifully acted that it will move viewers as they witness the conscious separation of a couple played by Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver. This is far from a spiteful or depressing film. While it depicts the dissolution of a relationship (inspired by Baumbach's own life) and the impact on their young son, "Marriage Story" cleverly maintains a crucial perspective: despite their separation, the couple's past love was genuine. Driver and Johansson are outstanding, with Laura Dern stealing scenes in her Oscar-winning supporting role.

The Mitchells vs. the Machines

For a family-friendly film, the 2021 Netflix original "The Mitchells vs. the Machines" is an emotionally engaging and inventive comedy. Directed by Mike Rianda and produced by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, the film follows a family embarking on a cross-country road trip to send their eldest daughter Katie (Abbi Jacobson) to college, where she aims to pursue filmmaking. The family's strained relationships complicate matters when a robot uprising threatens humanity, leaving the dysfunctional Mitchells as humanity's last hope. This is a hilarious, colorful, and heartfelt story about the significance of communication.

13th

Netflix boasts a diverse array of documentaries, but Ava DuVernay's 2016 film "13th" is a must-see. The documentary explores mass incarceration in the United States and the intersection of race and injustice, through the lens of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery except as punishment for a crime. Through interviews, DuVernay examines the disproportionate incarceration of Black people in the U.S. and how the current justice system perpetuates this inequality.

Enola Holmes

One of Netflix's strengths lies in its diverse offerings. In that spirit, the YA-skewing "Enola Holmes" is a delight for teenagers (and beyond). Based on the young adult series of the same name by Nancy Springer, the film stars Millie Bobby Brown as Sherlock Holmes' younger sister. When her mother (Helena Bonham Carter) vanishes, Enola leaves her safe haven and embarks on a London adventure to solve the mystery. Along the way, Enola discovers that her mother harbored many secrets. This is a thrilling mystery-adventure that's also a sweet and substantial coming-of-age story, set in a beautifully rendered 19th-century Victorian setting.

Set It Up

Fans of romantic comedies must watch "Set It Up." This Netflix original is a delightful throwback, featuring Zoey Deutch and Glen Powell with Meg Ryan/Tom Hanks-esque chemistry in a story about friends becoming lovers. They portray overworked assistants to demanding bosses (played by Lucy Liu and Taye Diggs), devising a plan to get their bosses together in hopes of gaining more free time. Their scheme leads to frequent close encounters, sparking a romantic connection.

Hunt for the Wilderpeople

Before Taika Waititi captivated audiences with "Thor: Ragnarok" and won an Oscar with "Jojo Rabbit," he created 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 gruff man (played by Sam Neill) while being pursued in a remote area of Australia. The film is imbued with Waititi's signature humor and distinctive style, and Dennison and Neill create a captivating duo.

Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga

The Netflix original comedy "Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga" is not only incredibly funny, but also surprisingly emotional. Based on an original idea by Will Ferrell, the "Elf" actor stars as one half of an Icelandic singing duo alongside Rachel McAdams, who find themselves thrust into the spotlight when unexpectedly selected to compete in the Eurovision international singing competition. The film features several genuinely outstanding songs and a heartwarming story about staying true to one's roots despite significant growth.

The Fear Street Trilogy

Horror enthusiasts appreciate a good scare, but the "Fear Street" trilogy delivers triple the thrills in a single overarching narrative. These three interconnected films trace the origins of a witch's curse on a small town, beginning with events in 1994 in the "Scream'-inspired first film, then returning to 1978 for the summer camp slasher sequel, before concluding in 1666 for the final film, revealing the origin story of the Shadyside witch. Colorful, engaging, and genuinely frightening, the "Fear Street" trilogy tells a truly epic horror story.

Miss Americana

The Taylor Swift documentary "Miss Americana" is filled with surprising moments. While the film initially chronicles Swift's career, including its highs and lows, it transforms into the origin story of a feminist as Swift begins to advocate for socio-political issues she cares about. It's a captivating look at navigating fame, as those around her advise against making political statements to avoid alienating fans. Swift is honest – as candid as a documentary can allow – and the film doesn't shy away from difficult moments, including Kanye West's infamous interruption at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards.

The Irishman

Martin Scorsese's 3-hour-and-40-minute gangster epic "The Irishman" is best experienced in one sitting. The film's brilliance lies in its structure, charting a hitman's career for the mob from the 1950s to the present day. However, unlike the bombast of "Goodfellas," regret and sorrow permeate nearly every scene, subtly building to a heartbreaking third act. Robert De Niro's Frank Sheeran spends his life killing people, and the film explores the consequences. Scorsese delves into philosophical questions of morality and mortality, creating a self-reflexive film examining the end of life and reflecting on past actions.

Da 5 Bloods

Spike Lee is not known for making subtle films, and his 2020 Vietnam War veterans drama "Da 5 Bloods" is confrontational in the best possible way. The story centers on four aging Vietnam War veterans who return to Southeast Asia to search for the remains of their fallen leader – and a cache of buried treasure. Along the way, they confront their fears and differences, as Lee's film examines America's abandonment of a generation of soldiers.

Crip Camp

Netflix hosts a wealth of exceptional documentaries, including "Crip Camp." This Oscar-nominated 2020 film features archival footage from a 1970s camp created for teenagers with disabilities, before following various individuals as they fought for disability rights. It's a moving depiction of activism that illustrates how far the country has progressed, and how far it still needs to go.

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