The Best Movies on Netflix to Watch Right Now

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Every evening, millions of Netflix users face the same dilemma: deciding what to watch. While Netflix boasts an enormous library of over six thousand shows and movies – with more added daily – finding something can be surprisingly difficult. The sheer number of options and categories means viewers often overlook hidden gems and classic films currently available on the platform.

Because Netflix is now making its own shows and movies, and other streaming services are keeping their best titles to themselves, many classic films have been removed from Netflix. However, there’s still a great selection available, including beloved classics, Oscar-winning films, and popular blockbusters.

Here are some of the top movies you can watch on Netflix right now. We’ve picked a variety of genres, including popular choices, lesser-known favorites, and original films made by Netflix.

‘Train Dreams’ (2025)


Netflix

Train Dreams tells the story of Robert Grainier (Joel Edgerton), a man working on the railroads and as a lumberjack, as he lives through a period of significant change in early 1900s America. The film also depicts the personal struggles Robert faces when tragedy strikes his family, whom he builds a life with in the forests of the Pacific Northwest alongside his wife, Gladys (Felicity Jones).

I was completely captivated by this film. It takes what seems like a simple, everyday story and elevates it to something truly special, largely thanks to Edgerton’s incredible performance and Clint Bentley’s beautifully nuanced direction and writing. It’s a deeply poetic and thoughtful piece, really capturing the essence of a particular time and place – the good and the bad. Honestly, the ending of Train Dreams is a bit ambiguous, and you might find yourself discussing its meaning long after the credits roll, but if you connect with the film’s quiet power, it’s going to stay with you.

‘Best in Show’ (2000)


Warner Bros. Pictures

Christopher Guest’s film, Best in Show, has become a beloved comedy since it came out. It playfully explores the world of competitive dog shows, specifically at the made-up Mayflower Kennel Club Dog Show. The movie covers all types of dog owners, from those who lavish their pets with everything to those who see their dogs as true partners and companions.

With its hilarious improv from comedy greats like Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara, Best in Show is a truly enjoyable movie, especially if you love dogs! It’s a charming and funny film with a perfect mix of adorable pups and clever humor, making it a standout cult classic available on Netflix.

‘Havoc’ (2025)


Netflix

Gareth Evans directs Havoc, an action-packed film featuring Tom Hardy. Hardy plays Walker, a tough detective who gets tangled in a dangerous conflict between rival gangs and crooked cops when he’s offered a large sum of money to help the son of a corrupt politician. The film delivers on its title with intense fight scenes and shootouts.

Honestly, the action in this movie is non-stop – it’s intense and really gets your heart racing! It barely gives you a chance to breathe, which is exactly what I want in this kind of film. The story is good enough to keep me hooked, and Tom Hardy is just fantastic. He really brings this cool, tough energy to the role – it’s up there with some of his best, most raw performances.

‘Stand By Me’ (1986)


Columbia Pictures

The classic film Stand By Me tells the story of four young friends – Gordie, Chris, Teddy, and Vern – who go on an adventure one summer. They venture into the woods near their town to find the body of a boy who has gone missing. During their journey, they face tough situations and learn to support each other as they deal with difficult experiences.

Rob Reiner’s Stand By Me, adapted from a story by Stephen King, is a classic coming-of-age movie that still resonates with audiences today because of its honest and relatable portrayal of childhood and growing up. Its blend of funny moments, heartwarming nostalgia, and excellent acting by the young stars make it a must-see or re-watch for fans of 80s cinema.

‘Klaus’ (2019)


Netflix

Jesper, voiced by Jason Schwartzman, is a mail carrier who always seems to mess things up. As a sort of punishment, he’s sent to the faraway Arctic town of Smeerensburg, where two families have been feuding for years. Nobody cares about getting mail, but Jesper meets a sweet, quiet toymaker and comes up with a plan to get children writing letters requesting presents.

It’s true this is a Christmas movie, and those are often only watched during the holidays. But Klaus is a stunningly animated and genuinely touching story that offers a fresh take on the Santa Claus legend, making it worth highlighting. Many consider it the best Christmas film in years, so if you haven’t seen it, be sure to add it to your list!

‘Hell or High Water’ (2016)


Lionsgate

Brothers Toby and Tanner Howard turn to robbing banks in a last-ditch effort to save the family farm. As they commit these crimes, a Texas Ranger named Marcus Hamilton begins chasing them, and the pursuit forces him to grapple with difficult questions about right and wrong, and the struggles faced by people in small towns.

Hell or High Water is a critically praised film that skillfully combines crime, drama, and insightful social observations. It’s beautifully made, with a fantastic score that creates a strong atmosphere. The acting is also exceptional, featuring career-best performances from both Chris Pine and Ben Foster. While it’s a movie about bank robberies, it’s surprisingly deep and will likely surprise viewers with its thoughtful approach.

‘Society of the Snow’ (2023)


Netflix

The critically acclaimed film, Society of the Snow, recounts the harrowing true story of a Uruguayan rugby team whose plane crashed in the Andes Mountains while en route to a game in Chile. The film follows the team’s desperate weeks-long struggle for survival against starvation, illness, and avalanches, as they never give up hope of rescue. The survivors are portrayed by actors from Uruguay and Argentina.

The movie is a deeply moving and compassionate story told through the eyes of those who lived it. Director J.A. Bayona skillfully balances the dramatic events with the emotional experiences of the survivors, offering a raw and honest portrayal of life and death. The snowy landscape isn’t just a setting; it’s a powerful presence, beautiful yet dangerous. Bayona handles this incredible story of survival with sensitivity, turning a potentially overly dramatic event into a truly remarkable film.

‘Three of Us’ (2023)


Karmic Films

If you enjoyed the film Past Lives, you’ll likely love Three of Us, a beautiful and moving Hindi drama. The film centers on Shailaja, a woman in her fifties who is recently diagnosed with dementia. After leaving her job, she decides to visit her hometown and reconnect with her husband, but unexpectedly runs into her first love, who is also married. This reunion brings back memories and allows her to rediscover happiness, learn to forgive, and find a sense of freedom.

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Okay, so I just finished watching Three of Us, and wow. It’s directed by Avinash Arun, and it’s one of those films that really gets under your skin. What struck me most was how real the relationships felt. Shefali Shah, Swanand Kirkire, and Jaideep Ahlawat all give incredible performances, and the script is just beautifully written. It’s about three people with complicated histories, but they manage to build this incredibly honest and healthy connection – it’s surprisingly moving. Critics have called it ‘unhurried and intimate,’ and honestly, I agree. It’s an indie film that seriously deserves to be seen by more people.

‘Maestro’ (2023)


Netflix

Maestro, directed by and starring Bradley Cooper (who also co-wrote the script with Josh Singer), tells the story of legendary conductor Leonard Bernstein. The film jumps between different points in his life, particularly focusing on his early career as a 25-year-old aspiring conductor and later, during an interview when he was 70 years old. It explores his successes with the New York Philharmonic, his complex 25-year marriage to Felicia Montealegre, and a significant love affair with a younger man.

Bradley Cooper, similar to his work in A Star Is Born, delivers a remarkably genuine portrayal of Leonard Bernstein. He captures both Bernstein’s vibrant public persona and his intimate, more vulnerable side, offering a nuanced look at the legendary composer. Carey Mulligan is equally captivating as Felicia Montealegre, portraying her strength and journey to self-discovery with grace. Directed by Cooper and featuring a beautiful score, Maestro is a unique and powerfully moving biopic.

‘May December’ (2023)


Netflix

As a movie lover, I was really intrigued by Todd Haynes’ latest, May December. He’s a director who always digs deep into what makes people tick, and this film is no different. It’s set twenty years after a huge scandal in Savannah, Georgia, and centers around a woman named Gracie Atherton-Yoo. Natalie Portman plays an actress who’s fascinated by Gracie’s story – years ago, Gracie had a relationship with a 13-year-old student, served time, and then actually built a life and family with him. Portman’s character is trying to understand what happened and who Gracie really is.

May December is a thoughtful look at three people: one who struggles with their feelings, another who is unaware of what’s happening around them, and a third who quietly controls situations. Natalie Portman delivers a graceful performance, but it’s Charles Melton who truly stands out. His portrayal of a man who missed out on a normal childhood is both powerful and unsettling, even overshadowing Julianne Moore’s brilliant performance as Gracie.

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2026-02-18 21:41