The 96 best Netflix movies to stream in January

Before Netflix was the home of some of the biggest and best shows on TV, Netflix was more associated with movies. It all started with its red envelopes, sending DVDs directly to people's homes. It soon became one of the most popular platforms to stream movies in the world (now streaming is the only option as the Netflix DVD service has ended). And it doesn't disappoint, as the amount of Netflix movies to stream is vast.

Of course, such a big library is a positive and a negative. It's a positive because there are seemingly endless options to choose from, but that amount of choice can lead to a lot of scrolling an in decision on what to settle on watching. Allow us to help with that by assembling on official ranking of the best Netflix movies to stream right now.

The list we've put together below (not ranked, just in alphabetical order) includes both the best of the ever expanding slate of Netflix original movies, which are always going to be available on Netflix, and movies that rotate in and out of the service each month; so be sure to check back with this post to see what's new on the service that you should be watching. (FYI, we're only doing feature length movies, so not including shorts, even the Oscar-winning The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.)

Let's not waste any more time and dive right into WTW's picks for the best Netflix movies to watch right now.

98 best Netflix movies to stream right now

13th (2016)

Netflix has plenty of amazing documentaries in its library that challenge and inform viewers, perhaps none more so than the Oscar-nominated 13th, directed by Ava DuVernay. The movie reexamines the 13th amendment to the US Constitution, which officially ended slavery but, as the movie posits, also may have led to the racial inequality of the current US prison system. Available: US/UK

22 Jump Street (2014)

Who knew how much we needed a movie adaptation of the 80s TV show 21 Jump Street? Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum star in 21 Jump Street and 22 Jump Street, which see their baby-faced policemen sent undercover in high school then college to try and bust up drug rings. Part of what makes these movies so funny is their meta commentary on Hollywood's penchant in the 2010s to try and reboot old 80s IP, but what makes them classics is that while doing that they also told a compelling story with great characters brought to life by Hill and Tatum. Picking between the two, we'll take 22 Jump Street, but you can watch either (or both) on Netflix right now. Available: US only

(Leaving January 31)

1917 (2019)

Sam Mendes put viewers into the middle of World War One action with his movie 1917. Following two British soldiers (Dean-Charles Champman and George MacKay) as they attempt to deliver a message that could save the lives of 1,600 men is made to look like it is done in one take, which ratchets up the intensity as the audience (like its two main characters) get very little time to breathe. Available: US/UK

All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)

1930's All Quiet on the Western Front, an anti-war story depicting a young German soldier's harrowing experiences during World War One, was among the first Best Picture winners, but Netflix's remake of All Quiet of the Western Front from German director Edward Berger maybe even better than the original. With today's technology they can masterfully reconstruct the intense battle sequences of the story, but at its heart are still the characters who are forced to endure the worst. Available: US/UK

Always Be My Maybe (2019)

The rom-com has found new life on Netflix, with Always Be My Maybe as one of the streamer's best original movies in the genre. Ali Wong and Randall Park star as childhood friends we reconnect as adults wondering with the question hanging over their heads: why did they never end up together? An excellent script, Wong and Park's great chemistry and a memorable Keanu Reeves cameo make Always Be My Maybe a movie you'll love in love with. Available: US/UK

American Factory (2019)

One of Netflix's Oscar-winning documentaries, American Factory focuses on an Ohio factory that was set to close when it is rescued by a Chinese billionaire. The documentary focuses on the struggles of how the Chinese and American work cultures mix. Available: US/UK

Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood (2022)

Richard Linklater is a singular American filmmaker with such classics as Dazed and Confused, the Before trilogy and Boyhood. With Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood, he manages to capture the awe of the Moon Race era as he imagines what it would be like if a child from a small town in Texas was recruited to help NASA as they work on the Apollo missions. Available: US/UK

Apollo 13 (1995)

From a fictional Apollo mission to one of the most harrowing true stories from the NASA space program. Apollo 13 depicts the events of where the mission to the moon went wrong ("Houston, we've had a problem") and the incredible scramble to both on earth and on the space shuttle to ensure the astronauts returned home safely. Tom Hanks leads a great ensemble in this thrilling retelling of determination and ingenuity. Available: US only

Awakenings (1990)

Surprising that a movie starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro that was also nominated for Best Picture can be overlooked, but that is the case a bit with the 1990 drama Awakenings. It's worth a watch though as Williams plays a neurologist who finds a medication that can help patients who have been in catatonic states for years "wake up." Available: US only

The Babadook (2014)

Hard to believe that Jennifer Kent's horror masterpiece is 10 years old, but even The Babadook remains one of the prime examples of the 21st century trend of "elevated horror." What gives it that title is that Kent hid a story about grief in this monster's tale. Even so, the scares in it rank right up there with other classic horror movies, making this a great pick for spooky season. Available: US/UK

(leaving January 25)

Baby Driver (2017)

People love Edgar Wright's Cornetto trilogy (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, World's End) and rightly so, but the director has done some great work beyond that, including the heist movie Baby Driver. The story centers on a young getaway driver, Baby (Ansel Elgort), who is always listening to music, but that doesn’t stop him from being the best in the business. Attempting to get out of the game though proves quite difficult for him. The movie is edited to fit perfectly with the soundtrack, which just adds to the overall excitement. Available: US/UK

Barbie (2023)

The biggest movie of 2023 is now on Netflix. Margot Robbie, Greta Gerwig, Ryan Gosling and more combine to make one of the most entertaining and surprising movies of the last few years, all based on the Barbie doll (and Ken). Available: US only

Beasts of No Nation (2015)

One of the first Netflix original movies remains one of its best. Beasts of No Nation, directed by Cary J. Fukunaga and featuring Idris Elba in an acclaimed supporting performance, is a drama based on the experiences of a child soldier fighting in Africa. Available: US/UK

The Book of Clarence (2024)

Jeyems Samuel previously offered his take on the western (which we have included on this list), and now he took on the biblical epic with The Book of Clarence, one of WTW's best-reviewed movies of the year. LaKeith Stanfield stars as man down on his luck when he decides to change his fate by emulating Jesus of Nazareth and proclaiming himself a new prophet. The movie is expertly made, with a killer soundtrack and is funny, though not at the expense of religion. It's well worth checking out. Available: US only

Boyz n the Hood (1991)

John Singleton's memorable debut movie Boyz n the Hood depicts three teens (Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut and Ice Cube) growing up in South Central Los Angeles, where drugs, violence and even the police make life exceedingly dangerous for young Black men. More than 30 years later the movie's legacy still resonates, so much so that WTW included it in our 100 best movies of all time list. Available: US only

Carol (2015)

Cate Blanchett gave one of her finest performances in the Todd Haynes' movie Carol. In the 1950s set story, Blanchett stars as the titular housewife for begins an intimate relationship with a young store clerk, played by the equally magnificent Rooney Mara. But as their connection grows, so does the complications in keeping their relationship a secret. Carol is as well made as it is emotionally powerful. Available: US/UK

Carry-On (2024)

Die Hard for a new generation is an apt description for Carry-On, a Christmas-set action thriller starring Taron Egerton. The actor plays a TSA agent who is blackmailed into letting a dangerous package through security. But can he figure out how to stop it and save numerous lives? Carry-On is a great Christmas-time alternative for those who are more fond of the action genre. Available: US/UK

The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

If you ever need the Christmas spirit, Netflix has plenty of holiday-themed movies to pick from. A fun one is The Christmas Chronicles, which sees Kurt Russell play Santa Claus, whose delivery of presents is interrupted by a sister and brother who attempt to capture him on camera. There is also a sequel, The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two, if you're interested. Available: US/UK

Cinderella Man (2005)

Based on the inspiring true story of 1930s boxer, Russell Crowe stars in Cinderella Man as James J. Braddock. His family devastated by the Great Depression, Braddock resurrects his career and his family's situation with a string of improbable wins in the boxing ring that lead to him getting a chance to fight for the heavyweight championship of the world. Ron Howard directs the movie that also stars Paul Giammati and Renée Zellweger. Available: US/UK

Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Spike Lee took on the Vietnam War in this tale of four African-American vets who return to Vietnam seeking the treasure that they buried and to bring back the remains of their fallen squad leader. Lee was on a hot streak with Da 5 Bloods and BlackKlansman, and we're still shocked that Da 5 Bloods didn't earn more than its one Oscar nomination for Best Original Score. Available: US/UK

Dallas Buyers Club (2013)

The McConaissance was a fun time. After seeing his star dim after a slew of less than acclaimed rom coms and box office flops, Matthew McConaughey went on a hot-streak like few other, with perhaps his crowning achievement being his Oscar-winning performance in Dallas Buyers Club. In the movie he plays a straight man diagnosed with AIDS in the early days of the disease who finds he can procure more effective medicine outside of the normal health care channels. Jared Leto also earned an Oscar for his supporting performance. Available: US only

Dolemite Is My Name (2019)

Eddie Murphy gives one of his most critically acclaimed performances as he honors a beloved figure of the 1970s Blaxploitation movies, Rudy Ray Moore, who created and starred as the character Dolemite in various movies. Dolemite Is My Name tells Moore's story and features a fantastic cast that includes Keegan-Michael Key, Mike Epps, Craig Robinson, Titus Burgess, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Snoop Dogg, Ron Cephas Jones, Luenell, Chris Rock and Wesley Snipes. Available: US/UK

Dumb Money (2023)

Retelling the story of the GameStock revolution during the pandemic, Dumb Money is a fun, underdog story about a group of small time investors taking on the major hedge funds and disrupting Wall Street like never before. Paul Dano leads a great ensemble that includes America Ferrera, Seth Rogen, Nick Offerman, Shailene Woodley, Pete Davidson and more in what WTW called the "Rocky of Wall Street movies" in our Dumb Money review. Available: US only

Dune: Part Two (2024)

Dune: Part Two is already widely seen as one of the best sci-fi movies ever made, and it's really hard to argue with that stance. Denis Villeneuve's ambitious adaptation of Frank Herbert's iconic books are a stunning achievement. And at least for a little bit, you can watch both Dune and Dune: Part Two on Netflix (the former is slated to leave at the end of January). Available: US only

Emilia Perez (2024)

Movie fans got a fantastic, traditional adaptation of a Broadway musical in 2024 with Wicked, but meanwhile Netflix delivered a fresh jolt of energy to the genre with Emilia Perez. From French auteur Jacques Audiard, Emilia Perez tells the story of a drug cartel leader who with the help of a lawyer manages to begin anew and live her authentic life as a woman. The music is as unique as the story, all resulting in an incredible movie with a number of stellar performances, though Zoe Saldana is the stand out for my money. Available: US/UK

Enola Holmes (2020)

Millie Bobby Brown has practically become the de-factor queen of Netflix between Stranger Things and her number of Netflix original movies, the best of which is definitely Enola Holmes. Brown stars as the titular younger sister of famed detective Sherlock Holmes (played by Henry Cavill), who takes on her own case involving a young lord in trouble. Available: US/UK

Erin Brockovich (2000)

Julia Roberts has two of her best movies ever on Netflix right now. We'll get to the other in a bit, but the first is her Oscar-winning turn in Erin Brockovich. In this based on a true story movie, Roberts plays a secretary at a law firm who's tough demeanor and determination helps bring a big case against a chemical company that is contaminating the water outside a small town. Available: US only

Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020)

The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the most popular and wonderfully bonkers events in the world, so Will Ferrell's movie on the singing competition is no less joyfully insane. Starring alongside Rachel McAdams, the pair star as Icelandic musicians who may not be the most talented, but are desperate to live their dreams and compete in Eurovision. Funny and with some great musical moments, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga is one of the better Will Ferrell movies we've had of late. Available: US/UK

Extraction (2020)

Chris Hemsworth may have traded in his hammer but he is still nearly superhuman in Extraction, an action movie that sees him play a black market mercenary hired to rescue a kidnapped son of an international crime lord. Extraction features multiple incredible action set pieces that will wow viewers, but the movie may also be among Hemsworth's better performances. Available: US/UK

Fair Play (2023)

A modern-day take on the erotic thriller genre that was popular in the 1990s, Fair Play stars Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich as a young couple whose relationship is pushed to the brink when an unexpected promotion shifts the dynamics in their relationship. Both young stars give good performances and first-time feature director Chloe Domont crafts a taut viewing experience. Available: US/UK

The Forty-Year-Old Version (2020)

Playwright, rapper, comedian and filmmaker Radha Black pulled triple duty on The Forty-Year-Old Version: directing, writing and starring in the dramedy loosely based on her own experiences as a playwright attempting to make her career breakthrough before she turns 40. Black is great in all three aspects, delivering a funny and inspiring story of artistic persistence. Available: US/UK

The Gentlemen (2019)

If you've watched the TV series The Gentlemen on Netflix, you can now watch the movie that inspired it on the streaming service as well. Guy Ritchie's 2019 movie was star-studded, with Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Michelle Dockery, Jeremy Strong, Colin Farrell, Henry Golding, Eddie Marsan and Hugh Grant among the cast, telling a classic Ritchie crime story of violence, drugs and wit. Available: US only

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc is back on the case in Glass Onion, the second movie in the Knives Out mystery franchise from Rian Johnson. The second installment is just as funny and twisty as the original Knives Out, with just as (and perhaps even more) star-studded cast that included Edward Norton, Janelle Monae, Kate Hudson, Leslie Odom Jr., Kathryn Hahn, Dave Bautista, Jessica Henwick and Madelyn Cline alongside Craig. Available: US/UK

Godzilla Minus One (2023)

Hollywood has been making big bucks with its new version of Godzilla that has been at the center of movies like Godzilla x Kong and Monarch, but the iconic movie monster's original country, Japan, put forth the best Godzilla movies in years with Godzilla Minus One. It did so by not only employing Oscar-winning visual effects to depict Godzilla and his path of destruction, but by actually investing time in its human characters to create a compelling and touching story for all the time Godzilla is not on screen. Its black-and-white version, Godzilla Minus One Minus Color, is also now streaming on Netflix. Available: US/UK

The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)

An underrated Netflix original movie, The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society stars Lily James as a British author who discovers a group of people on a small British Isle that created this unique club as a type of salvation while they were under Nazi occupation during World War 2 and finds herself falling for the group as a whole and one of its member in particular. It's a charming movie with a great performance by Lily James and a yet-to-breakout Glen Powell. Available: US/UK

The Harder They Fall (2021)

Writer-director Jeymes Samuel put his own spin on the western with the magnificent The Harder They Fall. Thrilling and funny, it brought a fresh spin to a classic Hollywood genre (something Samuel did again with the 2024 movie The Book of Clarence). We'll ride with this movie any time and highly recommend checking it out for yourself. Available: US/UK

Hit Man (2024)

One of my favorite movies of 2024 so far, Richard Linklater and Glen Powell's Hit Man is a hilarious, sexy and all-around fun watch. The movie is based on the real-life of Gary Johnson, a college professor who moonlighted as a fake hit man to help capture individuals looking to commit murder. However, things take a turn when Gary forms a connection with one of the suspects and begins to have a relationship with her.

Hustle (2022)

One of the best new movies coming from then Adam Sandler/Netflix partnership of the last few years is the basketball drama Hustle. Sandler plays a pro scout who risks it all when he discovers an unknown prospect in Spain. Sandler is probably still best known for his comedies, but he has proven time and time again (and again in a movie further down) that he is a more than capable dramatic actor as well. Available: US/UK

Icarus (2017)

This is a great example of how a documentary can start out being one thing and then take on a life of its own. Documentarian Bryan Fogel was an avid cyclist who wanted to see if his results would truly be better using a doping program that often clouds the sport. He works with a Russian scientist to create the plan, only for things to come out that snowball into a global scandal and turn the documentary into a geopolitical thriller. Icarus would wind up winning the Oscar for Best Documentary. Available: US/UK

Inception (2010)

Get ready for a Christopher Nolan marathon on Netflix this month. Start it off with Inception, the director's star-studded action, crime, thriller set in the worlds of dreams. Then continue that with...

Available: US only

Interstellar (2014)

Interstellar, Nolan's sci-fi epic that just celebrated its 10th anniversary. Interstellar was a little derided at the time of its release, but the movie is still an incredible feat of creativity and filmmaking, with a couple of sequences that stand right up with the very best that Nolan has ever done. Available: US only

The Irishman (2019)

Before making Killers of the Flower Moon for Apple TV Plus, Martin Scorsese worked with Netflix on his epic crime drama The Irishman, which featured Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci and Harvey Keitel, among others. De Niro stars Frank Sheeran, a mafia hitman who allegedly assassinated union leader Jimmy Hoffa (Pacino). It's a three-hour plus movie, but a masterful one in the hands of Scorsese and these legendary actors. Available: US/UK

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)

Another entry to get you in the holiday spirit any time of year is Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey. In the movie, Forest Whitaker is a master toy maker whose latest invention is stolen from him. It takes his adventurous granddaughter to get him out of his funk and save the day in time for Christmas. It's a charming musical that is perfect for the whole family. Available: US/UK

The Karate Kid (1984)

Cobra Kai is a big hit on Netflix (Cobra Kai season 6 returns this fall), but it all started with the 80s classic The Karate Kid. Ralph Macchio stars in this movie as a new kid in town who after being bullied is taught karate by the unsuspecting groundskeeper at his apartment complex, Mr. Miyagi (the great Pat Morita), helping him stand up for himself and participate in a regional karate tournament. It's a classic for a reason. Available: US/UK

The King (2019)

Before Timothée Chalamet was a messianic figure in Dune, he played the king of England in Netflix's The King. This historical epic depicts young Henry V as he rises to the throne and wage war against a strong French army. It's a showcase of how Chalamet became one of the biggest young actors in Hollywood. Available: US/UK

Klaus (2019)

A different take on the Santa story, Klaus is a gorgeously animated movie featuring the voice work of Jason Schwartzman, J.K Simmons, Rashida Jones, Norm MacDonald and Joan Cusack. Once you watch it good luck not making it a part of your annual Christmas movie rotation. Available: US/UK

Kneecap (2024)

One of the wildest and most entertaining movies of 2024 is now streaming on Netflix in Kneecap. Based on a real-life Irish hip hop band of the same name, the movie offers a fictionalized version of how the band got its start and became a symbol in the fight to preserve the native Irish language. Available: US only

Logan Lucky (2017)

Fans of the Ocean's Eleven movies are going to love Steven Soderbergh's other star-studded heist comedy, Logan Lucky. Channing Tatum gives one of his best performances in the movie as one half of a pair of brothers that decide to try and change their fate by staging a robbery of a NASCAR race. Riley Keough, Daniel Craig, Hilary Swank, Katie Holmes, Seth Macfarlane, Sebastian Stan and more star in the movie. Available: US only

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020)

While Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is probably most known for being the last movie that Chadwick Boseman starred in, the adaptation of the August Wilson play is a showcase for Boseman as well as the great Viola Davis, with strong supporting turns from Colman Domingo and Glynn Turman as members of a 1920s band going through a contentious recording session. Available: US/UK

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

For my money, Mad Max: Fury Road is one of the greatest action movies ever made. George Miller conducts a symphony of exhilarating carnage as the movie is basically one long chase sequence. I never tire of watching it. You can also stream Miller's follow up, Furiousa: A Mad Max Saga on Netflix right now as well. Available: US only

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. is a criminally underrated action movie from Guy Ritchie and starring Henry Cavill, Armie hammer and Alicia Vikander. An adaptation of an old TV series, this 1960s set spy drama is sauve, thrilling and overall damn entertaining. It's a real shame it didn't get the reception it deserved initially, but you can remedy that now on Netflix. Available: US only

Mank (2020)

A movie about the writing of what is widely considered the greatest movie of all time (Citizen Kane), David Fincher's Mank is pretty great in its own right. While it definitely helps if you have some base knowledge of Hollywood history ahead of time, the story of screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz using his first-hand experience to criticize some of the most powerful political and media players of the day is enthralling to watch. Available: US/UK

Maria

I have been a big fan of Pablo Larrain's movies about iconic 20th century women (previous entries include Jackie and Spencer), and the director did not disappoint with his latest, Maria, about famed opera singer Maria Callas. Angelina Jolie gives one of the best performances of her career her, combining with Larrain to beautifully tell her story. Available: US/UK

Marriage Story (2019)

The opposite of a romance movie, Marriage Story takes a look at the ending of a relationship, specifically the divorce between Adam Driver's Charlies and Scarlett Johansson's Nicole. The two stars are brilliant as the story doesn't shy away from all facets of a messy divorce, as is Laura Dern as Nicole's lawyer (winning the actress an Oscar). For all the bad that happens though, there is an underlying message of hope that when it really comes to it, there's still love between these two even if it's no longer romantic love. Available: US/UK

Meet the Parents (2000)

We all know how awkward it is to go and meet your significant others' parents for the first time, but Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller made us all feel better about our own experiences with the comedy of errors that is Meet the Parents. Though it spawned a number of sequels (and potentially another soon), the original remains the best. Available: US only

Melancholia (2011)

Many movies use a world ending threat as a narrative device, but Lars von Trier fully committed to the idea with his meditative look at depression, Melancholia. The real star of the movie though is the fantastic performance from Kirsten Dunst, which in hindsight seems baffling she didn't get nominated for an Oscar for it. Available: US only

The Mitchells vs the Machines (2021)

Produced by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, though co-written and co-directed by Michael Rianda and Jeff Rowe, The Mitchells vs the Machines definitely fits nicely into the Lord and Miller style of absolutely bonkers narrative (a family road trip goes off the rails when a machine takeover threatens humanity) that is just the icing on the cake for a truly emotional and heartwarming movie about family. Available: US/UK

Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa (2024)

One of the newest Netflix original movies, Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa is a documentary about Lhakpa Sherpa, whose day job is a dishwasher but she is also one of the most accomplished mountain climbers in the world. What to Watch's own Tom Bedford calls it one of his favorite movies of the year and believes it should be in contention for an Oscar nom this year. Check it out for yourself right now. Available: US/UK

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)

Before Mr. & Mrs. Smith was an Emmy-nominated show, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie turned it into a blast of a summer blockbuster. In case you don't know, they star as a married couple that don't know each other is a spy working for an opposing organization. When the truth comes out, so do the knives. The pair have such chemistry it's easy to understand why they began a long relationship following this movie. Funny action movies are also going to be worth the watch, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith fits the bill. Available: US/UK

(leaving January 31)

Mudbound (2017)

Dee Rees' Mudbound is kind of a forgotten gem on Netflix, as the Netflix original movie was critically acclaimed, was nominated for four Oscars and features outstanding work from its ensemble (Jason Mitchell, Garrett Hedlund, Carey Mulligan, Mary J. Blige and others). The story follows two rural Mississippi families, one white and one black, as they struggle in the aftermath of World War Two. Available: US/UK

My Octopus Teacher (2020)

People fell in love with My Octopus Teacher when it first landed on Netflix, as it tells the incredible story of a diver who forms a special friendship with an octopus and learning incredible lessons from the sea creature. Be warned though, the movie may make you think twice about ordering sea food any time soon. Available: US/UK

Notting Hill (1999)

The second Julia Roberts classic to watch on Netflix this month, Notting Hill is one of her iconic rom-coms. This time she stars as a movie star who falls in love with the charming book store owner, played by Hugh Grant. Penned by Richard Curtis, it's little wonder that people fall in love with this movie. Available: US/UK

Okja (2017)

Bong Joon Ho's Okja is an ambitious story of a young girl who goes on a mission to rescue the genetically altered pig that she has helped raise from the company that created it and wants to turn it into a new kind of food. While that seems dark, and the movie is certainly that at times, it also has a sincere heart amplified by the friendship of the girl and the titular Okja. Available: US/UK

The Old Guard (2020)

Netflix's adaptation of the graphic novel series, The Old Guard follows a group of immortal warriors who perform missions to protect the world. However, when they discover a new immortal their secret is at risk of being exposed by nefarious individuals. Charlize Theron leads the exciting, action-packed movie directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood. Available: US/UK

The Other Guys (2010)

Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg aren't your standard action movie heroes in this movie, their just the other guys. But when they have the chance to tackle the biggest cases of their careers they seize at the opportunity and try not to bungle it. Ferrell and Wahlberg are a great team here, with a strong blend of action and laughs that will leave everyone entertained. Available: US/UK

Outlaw King (2018)

Mel Gibson's Braveheart is not the most accurate movie about the 14th century fight for Scottish independence, particularly when it comes to the character of Robert the Bruce. That's where Outlaw King comes in, putting the Scottish king (played by Chris Pine) at the center of the story as he bravely goes up against a larger forces of England, ready to do anything to claim his country's freedom. Available: US/UK

The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)

An under-the-radar movie from 2019, The Peanut Butter Falcon is quite the enjoyable find on Netflix. The movie centers on Zak (Zack Gottsagen), a young man who has down syndrome but dreams of being a pro wrestler. To pursue this dream he runs away from the nursing home that he has been living in and befriends a traveler (Shia LaBeouf) who decides to help him live out his dream. Dakota Johnson, Bruce Dern and Thomas Haden Church, Jon Bernthal and John Hawkes also star in this charming indie movie. Available: US only

Phantom Thread (2017)

Phantom Thread is such a wonderfully strange movie, as Paul Thomas Anderson tells the story of an obsessive 1950s London fashion designer (played by Daniel Day-Lewis) and the strong-willed woman (Vicky Krieps in her breakout role) who he begins a relationship with. The movie has a surprisingly dark comedy tone to it which is the secret to its success. Also, it must be appreciated that this is the (at least currently) final performance of Day-Lewis magnificent career. Available: US only

The Piano Lesson (2024)

Credit to Netflix for helping to bring August Wilson's plays to wider audiences with movie adaptations. We already talked about Ma Rainey's Black Bottom above, but another is on the streamer in The Piano Lesson, which focuses on a pair of siblings arguing what they should do with a family piano. The feature directing debut for Malcolm Washington (Denzel's son and John David's brother), I feel like this adaptation of Wilson's work offers a few more cinematic tricks and treats, but as always the writing is incredible and the acting strong. Available: US/UK

Pieces of a Woman (2020)

Pieces of a Woman is an emotional drama if you are in need for a good cry, as Vanessa Kirby plays a woman who experiences a tragedy while pregnant and her journey through grief. It's a brilliant (and Oscar-nominated) performance from Kirby that makes the whole experience worthwhile. Available: US/UK

The Power of the Dog (2021)

Director Jane Campion became just the third woman ever to win Best Director at the Oscars for her dark western drama The Power of the Dog. Incredible performances from Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons and Kodi Smit-McPhee anchor this drama about an intimidating rancher who torments his brothers' new wife and stepson, but eventually, long-hidden secrets complicate their relationships. Available: US only

Private Life (2018)

Kathryn Hahn and Paul Giamatti are brilliant together in this dramedy about a couple's struggles to get pregnant. Writer-director Tamara Jenkins and her stars are able to walk the tightrope in showing just how hard it can be going through different fertility options to have a child, but never losing a softer touch that makes us laugh and sympathize for these characters. Available: US/UK

Roma (2018)

Arguably Netflix's best chance to win the Oscar for Best Picture to date (it did win Best Director and Best Foreign Language Film), Roma is the beautiful story of a year in the life of the housekeeper for a middle-class family in 1970s Mexico City, loosely based on of director Alfonso Cuaron's own experiences. Available: US/UK

RRR (2022)

Discover (or rediscover) the sensation that was RRR, a Tollywood musical from India that became a global phenomenon. Loosely based on two historic figures from Indian history, the movie depicts the fight for independence against the British, with action and musical numbers like you've rarely seen before. Available: US/UK

Rush Hour (1998)

Who doesn't love a good buddy cop movie? Well Rush Hour is one of the best, as Jackie Chan's martial arts master meets Christ Tucker's master of talk in this great 90s movies. The original is the perfect blend of action and comedy, though if you're also interested you can watch the sequels on Netflix as well. Available: US only

Rust and Bone (2012)

Jacques Audiard is earning raves and awards for his latest movie Emilia Perez, but another one of his fantastic movies is available to watch on Netflix, Rust and Bone. The movie stars Marion Cotillard as a whale trainer who loses her legs after an accident, and then forms a relationship with a bare knuckles boxer, played by Matthias Schoenarts. Available: US only

Schindler's List (1993)

Steven Spielberg may best be known for his action-packed, fantastical blockbusters like Jaws, Raiders of the Lost Ark, ET and Jurassic Park, but it is entirely fair to say that Schindler’s List is the director’s best work (all of those movies listed are on WTW’s 100 best movies of all time list). The director’s Best Picture-winning ode for those lost during the Holocaust and the great act of humanity by Oskar Schindler to help save the lives of a few thousand Jewish people is one of the most profound movies ever made. It’s not an easy watch, but it is an important and worthwhile one. Available: US only

Selma (2014)

The march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala., led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the seminal moments of the Civil Rights movement, and was admirably told by Ava DuVernay in this 2014 movie. In addition to DuVernay's excellent direction, David Oyelowo was noted for his performance as Dr. King, though he was surprisingly snubbed for Best Actor that year; the movie was nominated for Best Picture. Available: US only

(leaving January 15)

Set It Up (2018)

Netflix has become one of the main places for romantic comedies to thrive in recent years, with one of the best examples being the fantastic movie Set It Up. Zoey Deutch and Glen Powell are fantastic together as two overtaxed assistants who scheme to make their lives easier by setting up their two bosses (Taye Diggs and Lucy Liu). Of course their antics also bring them closer together as well. Available: US/UK

Sing Street (2016)

John Carney is a master of telling stories about musicians, from Once to Begin Again to Flora and Son, and not least of all Sing Street. Set in Ireland in the 80s, Sing Street follows a young boy named Conor who does what so many young boys do who have a crush on a girl, start a band. The thing is, he's actually a really good musician. The original songs are all fantastic and this story of young love (and a side story focused on sibling love) is sure to hit you in the heartstrings. Available: US only

Shirley (2024)

Regina King gave her first on-screen performance since The Harder They Fall in Shirley, a biopic about Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress who would take history a step further by also taking on a campaign to be president in 1972. Shirley is one of WTW's best-reviewed movies of 2024, with much of the praise going to King's performance and highlighting a US history lesson that may have been skipped in high schools. Available: US/UK

Spaceman (2024)

Spaceman is an ambitious psychological drama where an astronaut (Adam Sandler) on a solo mission investigating a new phenomenon comes in contact with an alien creature that attempts to understand his complicated past. While Sandler and company (including Carey Mulligan and Paul Dano) are all good, this is truly a showcase for director Johan Renck, who crafts an intriguing and thoughtful drama. Available: US/UK

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)

While Spider-Man has been memorably portrayed by the likes of Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland in eight live-action Spider-Man movies, the best iteration of the character honestly may be the animated Spider-Verse movies, including Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Ambitious in animation style and scope, Across the Spider-Verse is a spectacle but never loses track of its emotional heart in the journey of young Miles Morales as he deals with the challenges of being Spider-Man. Available: US only

Stand By Me (1986)

Stephen King is best known for his horror stories (The Shining, Carrie, It), but a more sentimental story from the prolific author that was memorably adapted for the big screen is Stand By Me. This story of childhood adventure and friendship is a classic 80s movie, featuring memorable performances from a young Wil Wheaton, Jerry O'Connell, Corey Feldman and River Phoenix. Available: US/UK

Still Alice (2014)

The movie that finally got Julianne Moore her Oscar is truly a showcase for the actress. She plays a woman who is diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer's, and slowly begins to feel the effects. It's a devastating but powerful performance. But she's not alone, as Kristen Stewart gives one of her career-best performances in then movie as well as one of Moore's daughters. Available: US only

The Sting (1973)

Best Picture-winner The Sting returns to Netflix and instantly becomes a must watch. Paul Newman and Robert Redford star as a pair of conmen who gather a team to pull off a big heist of a seedy individual while he's one a train; think Ocean's Eleven but set during the Great Depression. Available: US only

The Thin Blue Line (1988)

If you love true crime, then you absolutely must watch The Thin Blue Line, one of the most influential documentaries ever made. Not only did Errol Morris' movie investigating a murder conviction in Dallas County, Texas, lead to helping the release of an innocent man, but it served as the blue print for all true crime documentaries (of which there are plenty on Netflix) to come. Available: US only

tick, tick... Boom! (2021)

Who knew Andrew Garfield could sing? Well he does, and quite convincingly, earning a Best Actor nomination for this adaptation of Jonathan Larson's semi-autobiographical musical that was directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda. While Larson's Rent is his most well known work, tick, tick... Boom! is an emotional detailing of the creative process and friendship. Available: US/UK

The Two Popes (2019)

Two acting legends, Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce, play opposite each other as the two most recent popes, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. The movie focuses on what led to the historic decision of Pope Benedict XVI (Hopkins) stepping down from his position, discussing his decision with the future Pope Francis (Pryce) and why he should be the one to take his place. Available: US/UK

The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)

Aaron Sorkin wrote and directed the star-studded ensemble The Trial of the Chicago 7, which recounts the historic case that came after the violence at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Sacha Baron Cohen, Jeremy Strong, Eddie Redmayne, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Mark Rylance, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Frank Langella are just some of the names that star in the courtroom drama. Available: US/UK

Whiplash (2014)

Damien Chazelle's magnificent debut movie Whiplash is officially 10 years old, and you can celebrate it now that it is streaming on Netflix once again. The story of an aspiring jazz drummer (Miles Teller) who is tormented by an abusive and demanding band leader (J.K. Simmons) is a frenetic and riveting watch, with one of the best endings that I have ever seen. Time to give it a watch if you haven't seen it in the last decade. Available: US only

Wicked Little Letters (2024)

One of What to Watch's best-reviewed movies of the year, Wicked Little Letters is based on the true story of a series of vulgar letters that become the talk of small English village. Jessie Buckley and Olivia Colman lead the ensemble of British standouts in this funny, farcical story of repression and gossip. Available: US/UK

Will & Harper (2024)

Will Ferrell is known for his comedies, but his best movie (at least currently his best-reviewed movie) may very well be the Netflix documentary Will & Harper. This doc follows Ferrell as he embarks with his long-time friend Harper Steele, who came out as a trans woman during the pandemic, on a cross-country road trip to discover what this new dynamic means for their friendship and how people around the country deal with Harper as she lives her authentic life. It's an incredibly emotional and moving film that I can't recommend enough. Available: US/UK

Woman of the Hour (2024)

Anna Kendrick made an impressive directorial debut with the thriller Woman of the Hour. The movie is based on the true story of Sheryl Bradshaw, who goes on a 70s dating TV show where she unsuspectingly gets paired with a serial killer. Kendrick, who also stars in the movie, does a great job with her first directorial outing, one that fans of her and true crime should definitely check out. Available: US/UK

Won't You Be My Neighbor? (2018)

Mr. Rogers is one of the most influential people in TV history, with his show teaching valuable lessons to kids for more than 30 years. Won't You Be My Neighbor? is an incredible documentary that explores the life, lessons and legacy Fred Rogers. Available: US only

Zero Dark Thirty (2012)

Kathryn Bigelow's follow-up to her Best Picture-winning The Hurt Locker stayed in the Middle East, with Zero Dark Thirty offering a fictionalized look at the dogged pursuit of Osama bin Laden in the years after 9/11; Jessica Chastain is the physical embodiment of that pursuit. While the movie stirred controversies about military methods, there is no question that Chastain delivered one of her best performances, carrying the weight of the movie on her shoulders. It's a gripping watch. Available: US/UK

(leaving January 31)