3 Best Movies To Watch On Netflix This Weekend (#1 Is A New Intense Sci-Fi Thriller)

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If you’re looking for something to watch this weekend, Netflix has a lot of interesting new movies. Last weekend, I checked out Roommates, The Requin, and Apex. Apex is currently the most popular movie on Netflix in the US, and Roommates is also doing well, ranking third.

Both of these films are Netflix Originals. I usually aim to feature at least one Netflix Original in my weekend recommendations, but with so many great licensed movies becoming available each week, it doesn’t always work out. This week’s list includes two licensed films and one Netflix Original.

These films each represent a different genre, making them ideal for individual viewing on Netflix this weekend. Unlike some of my previous recommendations that were best watched together, these movies all stand perfectly well on their own. In fact, a few of them could even become some of the top-rated films available on Netflix.

We’re starting with a heartwarming new animated film from Netflix. Next up is a thrilling sci-fi movie full of surprises, and finally, a timeless coming-of-age story that everyone knows and loves.

3. Swapped (2026)

I recently watched Swapped, and it’s a really charming film! It’s about Ollie, a woodland creature voiced by Michael B. Jordan, and Ivy, a gorgeous green bird played by Juno Temple, who magically switch bodies. The movie follows their adventure as they try to survive in this new situation, and it’s full of both funny and surprisingly touching moments. What really stood out to me was the animation – it’s so bright, smooth, and lively, it’s definitely a movie the whole family can enjoy together.

The new Netflix movie premiered on Friday, May 1st. While it’s not yet showing up on Netflix’s top 10 list, it’s expected to climb the charts soon. The film features a cast including Cedric the Entertainer, Tracy Morgan, and Ambika Mod.

2. The Breakfast Club (1985)

Everyone should see The Breakfast Club at least once. It’s a classic coming-of-age movie about five very different high school students—like athletes, academics, and rebels—who find they have more in common than they thought when they’re stuck in Saturday detention. It’s highly rated, with an 87% score from critics and a remarkable 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

The film stars Emilio Estevez, Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson, Molly Ringwald, and Ally Sheedy. Despite changes in high school life since the 1980s, the movie remains relevant today because of its relatable characters – five very different people who connect with each other by challenging expectations. Ultimately, the film shows that some universal experiences stay the same.

1. Bugonia (2025)

Rounding out our list is the only movie currently popular on Netflix in the U.S. As of today, Bugonia is the 4th most-watched movie across the country, making it a great pick if you haven’t seen it yet. This sci-fi thriller reunites Emma Stone, a two-time Oscar winner, with director Yorgos Lanthimos, who also directed Poor Things.

If you’re looking for a thrilling way to finish your weekend, check out Bugonia on Netflix. The movie centers around Teddy Gatz (Jesse Plemons) and Don (Aidan Delbis) who kidnap Michelle Fuller (Stone), the CEO of a major pharmaceutical company, believing she might be an alien. Bugonia is a captivating watch that keeps you guessing about the characters’ true identities until the very end. It premiered on Netflix on April 26th and is quickly becoming a must-see.

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2026-05-01 23:10