How often do you find yourself scrolling through Netflix for an hour trying to find something to watch? The next time that happens, put down the remote for a second and bring up this list.

We’ll be updating this guide to the best movies on Netflix monthly, so all of you aspiring filmmakers out there can keep up with what you need to watch next.

From horror to comedy and everything in between, it’s all gathered right here. We’ll rank each film based on its acting, filmmaking, writing, and overall entertainment value for people bored on Friday night.

Of all the top Netflix movies available to stream, who knows? One of them may well inspire your next project.

Movies to Watch on Netflix

The Dark Knight (2008)

The Dark Knight Interrogation Scene | Script to Scene

To this day, The Dark Knight remains the pinnacle of superhero films. It works within the confines of the Batman mythos to deliver an insanely satisfying crime story, and star Heath Ledger delivers a Joker performance to end all Joker performances. 

For better and worse, The Dark Knight influenced a decade of superhero movies. While other superhero films tend to fade from memory shortly after their post-credits scenes roll, The Dark Knight demands revisitation. Each rewatch of the film reveals previously unnoticed details and deepens one’s appreciation for such a layered work of art.
85%
Acting
90%
Filmmaking
90%
Writing
100%
Watch-Ability
91%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Heath Ledger
  • The Finale
  • Lofty Ideas
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

The Dark Knight remains a prime example of top-form superhero storytelling. Over a decade after its release, the film and its themes would undoubtedly still make waves even if it had just hit theaters today.

List of the Top Netflix Movies

The Evil Dead (1981)

The Making of Evil Dead | The Gore the Merrier

The 1980s spawned plenty of classic horror films, but none have aged quite as well as Sam Raimi’s The Evil Dead. Its sequels may have darted in more comedic directions, but the original remains a masterclass in blending pitch black humor with full-blown horror.

The premise is simple: A group of friends escape to a cabin in the woods and come face to face with demonic spirits. But The Evil Dead unfolds at a kinetic pace that’s rarely been matched, with each shot meticulously composed and carefully placed. It’s a rollercoaster ride of terror, and one that’s still scarier than most horror movies being released today.
85%
ACting
95%
Filmmaking
90%
WRiting
100%
Watch-Ability
93%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Scares
  • Energetic
  • Atmospheric
  • Light on Plot
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

The Evil Dead is called a horror classic for a reason. Plus, its sequels are far better than most follow-ups in horror franchise could ever hope to be.

Netflix Streaming Movies

American Honey (2016)

Sasha Lane Interview | American Honey

American Honey proves one thing: Shia LaBeouf is one hell of an actor. LaBeouf starred in a stint of popcorn films that rarely gave him much room to showcase his talent, but his range has been on full display for several years now, and that renaissance began with American Honey

American Honey is a different kind of coming-of-age film, set against a backdrop of partying and debauchery. It’s a challenging film for sure, but if you can make it through its nearly three-hour runtime, you’ll be rewarded in the end.
80%
Acting
95%
Filmmaking
80%
Writing
85%
Watch-Ability
85%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Lead Performance
  • The Soundtrack
  • Complex Narrative
  • Loose Plot Threads
  • Overly Long
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

American Honey offers an earnest depiction of a carefree life and all that it entails, both good and bad.

Netflix Original Movies

Atlantics (2019)

Mati Diop on Her Cinematic Inheritance | TIFF Originals

Atlantics is one of the most rewarding cinematic experiences of 2019. It almost feels as if the film created its own genre: Just when you think you know where its plot is headed, it changes direction on you. 

That misdirection—that sense of gradual discovery with new narrative development—isn’t frustrating. It’s rewarding.

95%
Acting
100%
Filmmaking
95%
Writing
90%
Watch-Ability
95%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Blending of Genres
  • Beautiful Visuals
  • Imaginative Plot
  • Slow at First
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Atlantics may not have received the recognition other Netflix originals have, but it deserves to be seen all the same. The film announces the arrival of emerging auteur in director Mati Diop, and it’ll get you excited to see what she does next.

Original Netflix Movies

Klaus (2019)

The Story Behind Klaus | Netflix

Klaus is a strange little film. Though it’s less than a year old, its gorgeous animation and unexpected take on the story of Santa Claus make it feel like it’s been a part of Christmas programming for years.

It’s also the kind of film that reminds of Netflix’s important role in the modern distribution landscape. It’s hard to imagine Klaus getting a wide theatrical release, so it’s reassuring that its accessibility via streaming will allow generations of kids to experience its charms.
90%
Acting
95%
 Filmmaking
90%
Writing
95%
Watch-Ability
93%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Animation
  • Voice Acting
  • Heartwarming
  • Complicated in Parts
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Klaus’ beautiful hand-drawn animation will captivate audiences of all ages.

Top Rated Movies on Netflix

End of Watch (2012)

Deleted Scene | End of Watch

The found footage sub-genre is typically associated with horror movies, but End of Watch applied some of its stylistic techniques to the buddy cop movie. While there are action and thrills by the handful, this film is first and foremost a bromance and an awesome one at that. 

There are memes out there that suggest men have cried at the finale of End of Watch, and, well... they’re not lying. Cop movies set in Los Angeles have been done to death, but in 2012, End of Watch breathed new life into that formula to deliver something truly special.
85%
Acting
90%
Filmmaking
80%
Writing
90%
Watch-Ability
86%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Two Leads
  • Great Pace
  • That Climax
  • Some Confusing Shots
  • Meandering Plot
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

End of Watch is a rarity: a “guy’s movie” with emotional heft. And its story has a lot more to say than other movies in this particular genre.

Best Movies on Netflix now

Tremors (1990)

The Making of Tremors | Behind the Scenes

You didn’t expect to find Tremors on this list, did you? When you want plain good B-movie fun on a Friday night, Tremors is where it’s at. The film pokes fun at the tropes of creature features without ever tipping over into self-parody. And not only does it establish a serious set of rules—it actually follows them.

All of this results in one of the best monster movies of the 1990s. And if you like what you see, you’ll be happy to learn it has a plethora of sequels, each one more insane than the last.

70%
Acting
90%
Filmmaking
90%
Writing
100%
Watch-Ability
88%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Humor
  • Clever Twist
  • Great Horror Comedy
  • A Tad Cheesy
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Don’t sleep on Tremors. You can watch the entire franchise on Netflix right now.

Cool Netflix Movies

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)

Terry Gilliam Interview | Empire Magazine

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is noteworthy for being the last film the late Heath Ledger starred in. (Ledger passed away before the crew finished filming, so director Terry Gilliam had to bring on Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell to finish his parts.) Considering all that went on behind the scenes, it’s impressive to see how all these moving parts mostly came together. 

Though slightly disjointed, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is visually stunning. Discovering this overlooked gem is a great way to pay tribute to one of the finest actors of the 2000s.
65%
Acting
75%
Filmmaking
60%
Writing
70%
Watch-Ability
68%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Acting
  • The Visuals
  • World Building
  • Disjointed Narrative
  • Lack of Substance
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus may leave you scratching your head, but the film will at least give you one more ride with the incredible Heath Ledger.

Popular Movies on Netflix

Horns (2014)

Daniel Radcliffe Talks Horns | Interview

You have to give credit to Horns for really shooting for the moon. Daniel Radcliffe stars as a man wanted for the murder of his girlfriend. He inexplicably grows horns, which compels him to admit to his greatest sins and submit to his basest impulses. 

Horns’ bizarre premise gives Radcliffe free reign to ramp up the insanity of his performance. Part mystery, part romance, Horns truly breaks the mold of every subgenre to which it belongs, and is well worth the watch.
60%
Acting
55%
Filmmaking
45%
Writing
70%
Watch-Ability
58%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Daniel Radcliffe
  • Pushes Boundaries
  • Dark Humor
  • Uneven Tones
  • Overly Long
  • One Note

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Horns’ greatest flaw is that it bites off more than it can chew. However, as a meditation on morality, the film is fairly engrossing and it might even spark a spirited debate between you and your friends.

Best Movies to Watch on Netflix

Dirty Harry (1971)

Eight Men Out Trailer

Dirty Harry was insanely influential in the 1970s: The film paved the way for how the action genre would evolve during the era. And it all started with a bad cop out to do anything to bring the bad guy to justice. 

How Dirty Harry reflects the time in which it was made is a subject of near-endless debate. Is the film a satire of vigilante justice, or a call to action that sincerely celebrates “the power of one”? Regardless of how you interpret its ideology, Dirty Harry is never boring and will leave you pondering over its message for a long while.
75%
Acting
60%
Filmmaking
80%
Writing
70%
Watch-Ability
71%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Great Pacing
  • The Editing
  • Influential
  • Convoluted Messaging
  • One-Dimensional Lead
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Dirty Harry will give you a lot to chew on. And it may be best to watch this one with your dad.

Great Movies on Netflix

Blade Runner: The Final Cut (1982)

Eight Men Out Trailer

Blade Runner is required viewing for any science-fiction fan. With director Ridley Scott’s Final Cut now on Netflix, you can see the film the way it was intended to be seen, with an ending that greatly improves upon the theatrical version.

Blade Runner exceeds on so many fronts. As you take in the film’s weighty ideas about the human condition and its fascinating approach to world-building, you’ll be reminded of just how many other sci-fi features it’s influenced.
90%
Acting
95%
Filmmaking
95%
Writing
90%
Watch-Ability
93%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Themes
  • The World
  • The Visuals
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Blade Runner is one of the few films truly deserving of the designation “profound.” Its brilliantly concieved themes and visual style continue to influence generations of sci-fi-minded cinematic storytellers.

Must Watch Movies on Netflix

Frances Ha (2013)

Sarah Polley and Greta Gerwig on Frances Ha | VICE

Frances Ha is content to move at its own pace. While the film’s narrative may wander, you never really mind because Greta Gerwig is utterly charming as the titular character. Frances moves along trying to make something out of life, before discovering what she needs to do to actually have a life in the first place. 

It’s one indie comedy that has grown better with age. As millennials like Frances get over and grow discontent with drifting through life, they may also need to make some concessions. Frances Ha is at times funny and others heartbreaking.
85%
Acting
80%
Filmmaking
90%
Writing
80%
Watch-Ability
84%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Acting
  • Dinner Party Scene
  • Immensely Likable
  • Narrative Drifts
  • Pretentious at Times
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Director Noah Baumbach and Gerwig made a great slice of life film. Frances Ha essential viewing for those also trying to figure out their place in life.

Top Rated Netflix Movies

The Other Guys (2010)

Bloopers & Gag Reel | The Other Guys

Hot Fuzz may be one of the best action parodies ever made, but when you want a bit more Americanized slapstick, you opt for The Other Guys. Director Adam McKay’s film has some terrific jokes and seriously impressive action set pieces. 

While The Other Guys can feel at times like an overly long comedy sketch, stars Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg are enjoyable to watch together and have plenty of buddy cop chemistry to burn.
75%
Acting
70%
Filmmaking
80%
Writing
85%
Watch-Ability
78%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Jokes
  • Chemistry Between Leads
  • Good Action
  • Gets Sidetracked
  • Story Lacking
  • Editing

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

When you want a good laugh, put on The Other Guys. While it may not be top-tier McKay/Ferrell comedy, it gets the job done and is bound to bust you up more than once.

Best Movies on Netflix Right Now

The Bling Ring (2013)

Interview With Sofia Coppola | The Bling Ring

Moneyball is based on true events, and follows the creation of sabermetrics and the Oakland Athletics as they compete with teams that have larger budgets for acquiring players and “buying playoff spots”. 

70%
ACting
65%
Filmmaking
70%
Writing
80%
Watch-Ability
71%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Smart Writing
  • Celebrity Critiques
  • Fun to Watch
  • Cold
  • Repetitious
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Some stretches of The Bling Ring miss their intended marks. Still, it’s a thoroughly entertaining watch.

Good Movies to Watch on Netflix

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Designs for a Demon Barber | Behind the Scenes

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is one of Tim Burton’s best films. The macabre subject matter of this musical is brilliantly filmed and its surreal qualities are ideally suited to the director’s uncanny sensibility. 

Burton blends musical performance and horror tropes splendidly. Instead of adopting the style of other musicals, Burton takes creative license wherever possible to align Sweeney Todd’s source material with his own singular vision.
70%
Acting
75%
Filmmaking
80%
Writing
80%
Watch-Ability
76%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Stylistic Flourishes
  • The Staging
  • The Horror
  • Poor Singing in Parts
  • Jokes Fall Flat
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Sweeney Todd can be gruesome. But anyone who’s a fan of Stephen Sondheim will enjoy seeing his beloved musical come to life.

Best New Movies on Netflix

Taylor Swift: Miss Americana (2020)

All the Details | Shared News

The great thing about Taylor Swift’s documentary is that you don’t have to be a die-hard Swiftie to enjoy it. That’s because it focuses less on the pop star’s rise to fame than on her complicated relationship with fame and her struggle to form some kind of political identity. 

Taylor Swift: Miss Americana is a fascinating look at the disposability of women in the pop music industry, where self-reinvention is constantly required for a star to avoid being replaced by the next bright shiny object. The film may not convert you into a Taylor Swift fan, but you’ll at least gain an appreciation of what she and many other women in her business have to endure.
N/A
Acting
80%
Filmmaking
N/A
Writing
90%
Watch-Ability
85%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Interesting Insights
  • Witness Growth
  • Humanizes Swift
  • A Bit Opaque
  • Swift Remains Distant
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Taylor Swift: Miss Americana doesn’t offer an in-depth look into Swift’s psyche. But it does paint an intriguing portrait of a female pop star and the plight of women who live their lives in the public eye.

Netflix Movie List

Coraline (2009)

Behind the Scenes | LAIKA

Coraline picked up the torch from The Nightmare Before Christmas and delivered an entertaining, albeit sometimes frightening, stop-motion animation film. It’s visually stunning, complemented by frames of utter beauty and significant terror. 

You don’t need to have a kid to cue up Coraline on Netflix one night. The film has enough emotional weight to ring true with any audience. It’ll remind you of the horrors of childhood while also filling you with hope for the future.
90%
acting
100%
Filmmaking
90%
Writing
100%
Watch-Ability
95%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Stop Motion
  • Engaging Story
  • Voice Acting
  • 3D Effects
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Coraline is a visually arresting film. Its beauty has universal resonance and its genuinely creepier moments will satisfy horror fans, too.

What Movies Are on Netflix?

The Master (2012)

How Scientology Works | The Nerdwriter

Out of all of PT Anderson’s films, The Master might be the most engrossing. That’s in part due to a trio of incredible performances from Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Amy Adams. 

While the film’s critique of cults of personality may have its sights set on Scientology, The Master is more broadly about humans’ need for belonging and stability. It’s PT Anderson’s masterpiece and about as perfect as a film can get.
100%
Acting
95%
Filmmaking
95%
Writing
95%
Watch-Ability
96%
OVERALL SCORE
  • The Acting
  • Thematic Weight
  • Rewarding Watch
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Every film student should watch The Master at least once. Whether you want to learn more about acting, directing, or developing themes across a theme, The Master shows you how to do it all.

Good Movies on Netflix

Inception (2010)

The Brilliant Deception of Inception | Wisecrack

If you haven’t already seen Inception, then you’ve likely been confused by the debate that’s surrounded it over the past decade. Director Christopher Nolan’s film follows a band of thieves who set out to implant an idea within a wealthy business owner’s mind. It’s discombobulating. It’s sneaky. It’s brilliant. And it remains one of Nolan’s very best films. 

Don’t let the people who bemoan how confusing Inception is stop you from seeing it. The film’s plot is actually more straightforward than it would have you believe.
90%
Acting
100%
Filmmaking
100%
Writing
100%
Watch-Ability
98%
OVERALL SCORE
  • Mind-Bending Plot
  • The Score
  • The Hallway Scene
  • Some Flat Characters
  • N/A
  • N/A

BEST MOVIES ON NETFLIX

Conclusion

Inception is one of the best action films of the last decade. It’s among the new movies on Netflix, so give it a watch (or rewatch) when you have the chance.

Up Next

20 Best Movies of the Decade

Just a few more Netflix binges and your inner film encyclopedia should be up to date (until it’s time to update it all over again). Then, after you’ve seen everything on this list, take your streaming adventures a step further by consulting our list of the best films of the 2010s. 

Up Next: 20 Best Movies of the Decade →
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  • Brent Dunham earned his B.A. from USC and an M.A. from Chapman University in Film Studies. He has taught various film courses to students from 7th grade to undergraduates.

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