Every night, millions of Netflix subscribers around the world ask the same question: "What do we want to watch?" The king of streaming services does not make that an easy answer. With well over six thousand titles available at any one time, and new titles being added daily, there's always something for everyone. With multiple Netflix categories available to browse, the choices can be dizzying at times, and most viewers may miss some fantastic films and classic movies that are available on the service right now.
With Netflix's shift to producing more original content, and competing studio-owned streaming services making their marquee titles exclusive to their platforms, many of the greatest films ever made are no longer available on Netflix. That doesn't mean there aren't fantastic films on the streamer to enjoy; on the contrary, there are plenty of classic films, Oscar winners, and crowd-leasing blockbusters available to watch right now. We've ranked a few of the best films currently available on Netflix below. We've included selections from most genres, as well as some hidden gems and Netflix Original films.
Updated on August 11th, 2023, by Soniya Hinduja: This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
30 Don’t Look Up (2021)
What better time to make a movie that focuses on the climate crisis and pandemic than 2021? Don’t Look Up is an absurd and satirical movie directed by Adam McKay. It takes a biting look at modern media and politics through the eyes of its two protagonists, Kate Dibiasky and Dr. Randall Mindy, who are two low-level astronomers trying to warn the world about a massive comet. Apparently, it is about to enter the Earth’s orbit and may have a high chance of colliding with the surface and destroying literally everything.
However, even the world’s smartest people, the wealthy people, or the media refuse to take these two scientists seriously. The movie has a dry comedic tone but it offers a fresh perspective on mankind and how we live in a society that does not care about self-destruction and is deaf to all warnings.
29 Dolemite Is My Name (2018)
A very uplifting biographical drama starring the one and only Eddie Murphy, Dolemite Is My Name is set in the 1970s. It tells the story of Rudy Ray Moore, a struggling comedy singer who forges an outrageous character, a foul-mouthed man named Dolemite. Moore was a hustler working at a record store in Hollywood and like every person trying to “make it,” his arsenal had nothing but unwavering will and an outlandish persona. He gathers a few others like him and decides to make an underground album, the success of which grants him Blaxploitation fame.
Murphy fills his character with both passion and insults. As Dolemite, Murphy could even topple mountains. The remaining cast members, Da'Vine Joy Randolph as Lady Reed and Wesley Snipes as D'Urville Martin also helped fill spirit and joy into the film.
28 Titanic (1997)
Titanic is a timeless romance; there is no denying the fact. Directed by James Cameron, the film is nothing short of an epic in its depiction of an ill-fated romance between young Jack Dawson, a lowly artist, and Rose DeWitt Bukater, a privileged socialite. It is not just the impeccable performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet but the stunning visuals and the captivating emotional storyline of the film that takes you gently by the hand and guides you around the lavish decks of the seemingly “unsinkable” ship that set sail in 1912.
Jack and Rose’s new love blooms under the moonlight as the star-crossed lovers from two very different worlds unite against all odds. But only for so long. While there has been some controversy about how Titanic ended and whether or not Jack’s death was justified, the movie still remains a cinematic masterpiece.
27 Prisoners (2013)
In his career as a director, Denis Villeneuve has delivered several masterpieces. Villeneuve is known for creating a subtle atmosphere of darkness, constant fear, and fast-paced intrigue. He does the same with Prisoners, which is a complex thriller about how far a parent would go to save their child. Keller Dover is a desperate father who has done everything to get the police to investigate the sudden disappearance of his young daughter and her friend.
Time is running out, and the police have a suspect in custody, but every person he approaches refuses to take any action. That’s when Dover decides to find the truth on his own; even at the cost of his own morality. Hugh Jackman plays the father and Jake Gyllenhaal plays the one detective who is not scared of tangling himself to the case. The direction is on point and the momentum is sharp. Overall, Prisoners is an intelligent thriller worth a watch.
26 Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)
Who is your favorite fearless hero? Well, ours is definitely Puss in Boots. This spin-off to an incredible Shrek movie may have come 11 years too late, but who are we to complain? Puss in Boots: The Last Wish follows the hilarious animated adventures of the titular hero who finds that his ridiculous escapades might be affecting his life as a cat because he’s spent eight of them and he’s on his last one. With nothing to gain and a lot to lose, Puss is determined to find the mythical Last Wish and restore all his life with the help of an unlikely companion.
But along the way, Puss will have to mend old relationships with Kitty Softpaws, save the world from the evil antics of Big Jack Horner, outwit Goldilocks and the Bears, as well as escape the claws of the devilish Wolf. The movie, in summary, is absolutely delightful.
25 Extraction 2 (2023)
Extraction 2 is, without a doubt, one of the most anticipated Netflix sequels, and while it is a stretch to deem it perfect, it was an unforgettable action film with Chris Hemsworth acting out his role beyond our imaginations. There are a lot of variations compared to the first film in terms of action sequences and the setting, but somehow it managed to elicit constant goosebumps — at least for the incredible first hour.
Following on from the prequel, Tyler Rake (Chris Hemsworth), who barely survived his mission in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is trying to cope with the aftermath, but a desperate request from his ex-wife forces him into yet another perilous rescue mission against a criminal empire.
24 Bullet Train (2022)
Bullet Train perfectly fits that category of 'relax, sit back, and enjoy the show.' After finishing it, it's hard to believe that the movie is actually two hours long, as it keeps you hooked within the first 10 minutes and gets outrageously entertaining with its terrific blend of humor, action, likable characters, and not to mention celebrity cameos.
Ladybug (Brad Pitt), once a professional assassin, has retired and is enjoying his life with newfound spiritual enlightenment, but after hearing about a straightforward mission of snatching a briefcase in a moving train, he gets back in the game. However, there’s always a catch to good-sounding deals, and Ladybug is now up against five other vicious assassins who have their own purposes.
23 Dunkirk (2017)
You would expect a war film to be loaded with gore and blood, but Dunkirk contradicts that opinion, yet can still get increasingly tough to watch at times. The story is a retelling of a historical event that takes place in 1940 during World War II when the British and French allied forces were trapped in the port town of Dunkirk.
With the Germans having aerial control and intent on wiping out the besieged soldiers, the situation turns dire, and Britain sends civilian ships to rescue the Allied forces. Contrary to popular belief, Dunkirk can be enjoyed by anyone who loves movies filled with intense situations that capture everything flawlessly, and that’s what makes this film a masterpiece that you must watch.
22 Zombieland (2009)
It’s always fun to watch some intense zombie horror films like Dawn of the Dead or Night of the Living Dead, but you know what’s even better, at least for most people? Parodies are done right. Zombieland is a hilarious zombie flick that pays homage to many classic films, and its humor is spot-on, with the script hitting the right notes throughout. The combined standout performances of the cast further make the film so much better than it already sounds.
If you’re a fan of zombie apocalypse settings, you’re in for a wild ride while catching up on one of Netflix's best zombie movies. In the film, a shy college student has been surviving the zombie apocalypse in the hopes of finding his family and teams up with a savage zombie killer and a couple of girls to increase the chances. However, when they’re faced with unprecedented situations along the route, the group finds it increasingly harder to reach their destination.
21 RRR (2022)
Some films are simply destined to create history, and RRR achieved an immense feat that hasn’t been seen in Indian Cinema before. S.S. Rajamouli, the brilliant director, took five years to create this revolutionary story. RRR turned out to be spectacular thanks to its high production values and the main cast, who gave their career-best performances. It is mostly over the top and never lets you take a breather, but thanks to its masterful storytelling, you’ll feel every minute was well spent.
RRR is loosely inspired by the historical events before Indian independence and follows two characters: Ram, a strict police officer who is revered and feared by the British, and Bheem, a tribal man who is on a mission to rescue a young girl named Malli, who was taken away by the British. As the story unfolds, we witness these individuals rise, revolt, and roar as they take their first step toward freedom and brotherhood.
20 Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020)
Adapted from August Wilson's 1982 play of the same name, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a phenomenal movie that chronicles a fateful recording session in 1920s Chicago. The movie mainly soars due to its powerhouse performances. Viola Davis anchors the story as Ma Rainey, a trailblazing blues singer facing nasty and exploitative recording executives. Chadwick Boseman shines as an ambitious trumpeter whose opinions clash with Ma.
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom elevates the tension as the musicians wait for Ma’s late arrival, during which issues around race, art, and control all simmer. George C. Wolfe creates an incredible vibe of the music in the era while also being careful about sensitive issues. Davis and Boseman both bring an electrifying depth and volatility to their characters, which alone merits a viewing of his musical drama.
19 Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a cult comedy that is more than just a series of sketches; it is a bizarre and hilarious adventure. To put it very simply, the film follows King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table in their quest for the Holy Grail. But nothing about the movie is simple. Silliness and absurdity begin from the opening scene itself, like the quest for a shrubbery.
There are wacky characters and ridiculous plot devices that keep the laughs coming in. Whether it is the invincible Black Knight, the dangerous perilous Castle Anthrax, or the rude Frenchmen, every element is an outstanding source of humor. While Monty Python’s absurd humor is not for everyone, fans of British comedy will find immense pleasure in this endlessly quotable flick.
18 Life of Brian (1979)
Another Monty Python film on the list, because why not? Life of Brian is one of the finest comedy films ever made. It follows Brian Cohen, an ordinary Jewish man who is constantly mistaken for the Messiah because of two reasons: he was born on the same night as Jesus, one stable down, and a crowd once heard him relay the same preachings as Jesus. The plot is literally paper thin, and nothing about it makes any sense beyond the religious satire, but it serves as a vehicle for some of Python’s most hilarious scenes.
Brian’s run-in with Pontius Pilate, the People's Front of Judea, and his own mother, who means well but is adorably dim-witted, are probably the best parts of the movie because of the laughter they evoke. The movie did receive some controversy for its irreverent take on religion, Life of Brian actually champions reason and tolerance. The timeless comedy is a must-watch for fans of satire.
17 Carol (2015)
There is something truly transportive about movies set in a certain period of time. As for Carol, it is an exquisite romantic drama that tells a forbidden love story set in 1950s New York. Cate Blanchett stars as the titular heroine, an elegant woman trapped in a loveless marriage on the verge of separating, who finds herself drawn to Therese, a young department store clerk played by Rooney Mara. As their friendship deepens, it gives rise to more intense feelings, and they must now navigate the prejudices of society at a time when homosexuality was taboo.
Perhaps the best part of the movie is the portrayal of suppressed longing between these two women – the lingering gazes, the raised eyebrows, the faintest touches of hands, and saying so much without saying a thing. Todd Haynes’ direction is a visual feast because he takes the viewer and bathes them in the swoon-worthy scenes of restraint and heartache and still makes them feel wholesome and in love.
16 La La Land (2016)
Musicals are always heartwarming to watch, and there has hardly been a modern one as fun as this. La La Land follows the tumultuous romance between an aspiring actress and a dedicated jazz pianist. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling dazzle the screens with their infectious charm as Mia and Sebastian, two dreamers struggling to make it in Los Angeles. Mia waits tables while auditioning for roles; Sebastian plays music at any venue that will have him.
The musical numbers are ever-so-joyful, celebrating the city of stars and the passion for art. However, like any love story, theirs also has obstacles. As their ambitions collide with cold realities, they must make a compromise. Damien Chazelle's confident direction earned the movie the Academy Award for Best Picture. And as La La Land sings and dances with heartfelt emotions, it also delivers colorful nostalgia and harsh truths about chasing your dreams.
15 Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Hunt for the Wilderpeople, an underrated comedy from director Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarök), is a film that has somehow managed to fly under the radar, but is ready to be discovered and enjoyed.
The film stars Julian Dennison (Deadpool 2) as a troubled orphan who doesn't get along with his foster parent Hector (Sam Neill), until tragic circumstances bring them together. It's full of that quirky humor that's now a Waititi signature, and Sam Neill gives a hilariously touching performance.
14 #Alive (2020)
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The South Korean film #Alive, directed by Cho Il, proves the zombie genre can offer original stories without resorting to the same tired clichés over and over. A Netflix original film, #Alive tells the story of a social media-obsessed gamer (Yoo Ah-in) trapped in his Seoul apartment when the zombie apocalypse hits.
He's the only survivor around, it seems, but as the days pass, he discovers a neighbor is also alive as well. While the film has some intense zombie action, it also touches on the need for companionship and the effects of isolation. But mostly, it has great zombie action, and it's a refreshing original watch.
13 Facing Nolan (2022)
Even if you aren't a baseball fan, you'll enjoy Facing Nolan, an entertaining, insightful documentary about pitching legend Nolan Ryan. The film, like Nolan himself, is a laid-back, aw-shucks look at life and baseball, and it's a joy to watch.
At its core, the film tells the story of a kid from Alvin, Texas, and his high school sweetheart, who stood by him as he rose from obscurity to baseball immortality. The interviews from legends of the game, including George Brett, Dave Winfield, and Pete Rose, give the film an iconic tone.
12 Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
Rian Johnson may have given us the franchise-killer The Last Jedi, but he also gave us the Knives Out movies, so as Luke Skywalker once said, "There's still good in him." Netflix won a bidding war for the sequels to Johnson's 2019 Oscar-nominated whodunnit, and he certainly delivered with Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.
The film featured the return of Daniel Craig's southern-fried detective, Benoit Blanc. He's got a new murder mystery and a whole new roster of suspects, including Edward Norton and Kate Hudson. It may not be as good as Knives Out, but Glass Onion is still a heck of a lot of fun.
11 The Hateful Eight (2015)
It's amazing to think The Hateful Eight was almost never made. After Quentin Tarantino's script for his first western leaked onto the internet, the director decided to shelve the project. He later changed his mind, thankfully, giving us a claustrophobic thriller with some great performances. Kurt Russell plays bounty hunter John Ruth, who is transporting his prisoner, the outlaw Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh) to justice.
When the pair are snowed in at a remote cabin with a variety of shady characters, a deadly game unfolds as Ruth suspects one of them is in league with Daisy. Stuffed wall-to-wall with Tarantino's sharp dialogue and bloody violence, the film is a must for fans of the Pulp Fiction director. Better yet, Netflix offers an extended version of the film, recut by Tarantino himself, which adds about a half hour of new footage and turns the film into a four-part series.