Netflix currently offers around 1,000 original films, but these are the absolute best you can stream right now.

Some incredible movies fly under the radar, and often the most-watched Netflix originals aren’t the best ones they’ve ever made. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top Netflix original films you can watch today.

Our picks are based on viewer ratings from the trusted IMDb score. Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more recommendations.

1922 (2017)

• Genre: Drama, Thriller, Horror
• Age: 18+
• Runtime: 1h 42m
• IMDb: 6.2

Directed by Zak Hilditch and based on Stephen King’s 2010 novella, 1922 follows farmer Wilfred Wilf. When his wife decides to sell her share of the farm and move to the city, Wilf’s thoughts take a dark, deadly turn. Trapped in a maze of his own fears and guilt, he manipulates his teenage son Henry, using the boy’s feelings for a neighbor girl as a weapon. Their twisted scheme sets off a horrific crime and unleashes chaos.

Exploring the line between reason and monstrous acts, 1922 slowly sinks from claustrophobic tension into full-blown madness. With standout performances by Thomas Jane, Dylan Schmid, and Molly Parker, the film firmly secures its place in Stephen King’s dark universe. Brace yourself for a chilling journey into the darkest corners of the human soul.

Tick, Tick… Boom! (2021)

• Genre: Music, Drama, Biography
• Age: 12+
• Runtime: 2h 1m
• IMDb: 7.5

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical gem, Tick, Tick… Boom! is a heartfelt love letter to classic music, inspired by the life of composer, playwright, and lyricist Jonathan Larson. This film celebrates the trials and triumphs of a creative life with energy, emotion, and passion.

The story follows John (Andrew Garfield), a gifted artist on the cusp of turning 30. This milestone forces him to reflect on his career, his relationships, and everything he’s experienced so far.

Ending on a bittersweet note, the film plunges viewers into the world of show business, revealing the struggles and joys of artistic life. Tick, Tick… Boom! is a vibrant, inspiring dive into music and creativity that reminds us why the artistic journey is always worth it.

Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)

• Genre: Drama, History, Biography
• Age: 16+
• Runtime: 2h 9m
• IMDb: 7.7

Trial of the Chicago 7 brings to life the real events of the 1968 anti-Vietnam War protests that shook America’s legal and political systems. What started as peaceful demonstrations spiraled into chaos, resulting in violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement.

Directed by Aaron Sorkin, the film combines sharp dialogue with moments of genuine camaraderie between protest leaders Abbie Hoffman (Sacha Baron Cohen) and Jerry Rubin (Jeremy Strong). This tense, smart courtroom drama explores human rights, the nature of violence, and the cost of standing up for what’s right.

Army of the Dead (2021)

• Genre: Horror, Action, Crime
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 2h 28m
• IMDb: 5.8

In Zack Snyder’s wild mash-up of zombie chaos and heist thrills, Dave Bautista leads a team on a reckless mission into a zombie-infested Las Vegas to rob a casino.

Even with a star-studded Hollywood cast, the real stars are the zombies — evolving under the rule of a zombie king and queen, and yes, there’s even a zombie tiger. Army of the Dead delivers fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled action while giving a fresh spin on both the zombie and heist genres.

Malcolm & Marie (2021)

• Genre: Drama, Romance
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 1h 46m
• IMDb: 6.6

For filmmaker Malcolm Elliott (John David Washington), a day meant for celebration spirals into a tense, emotional battle with his girlfriend Marie (Zendaya). Packed with dialogue-driven drama, Malcolm & Marie grips viewers with its raw, intimate storytelling.

Shot in striking black-and-white during isolation, Sam Levinson crafts a visually rich experience that heightens every moment of emotional intensity. The film captures the claustrophobic tension of relationships so powerfully that it lingers long after the credits roll.

Extraction (2020)

• Genre: Action, Thriller, Adventure
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 1h 57m
• IMDb: 6.8

Extraction became a Netflix phenomenon, pulling in nearly 100 million viewers in its first month. Chris Hemsworth steps away from his MCU heroics to play Tyler Rake, a former Australian special forces operative haunted by personal tragedy, including the loss of his son to cancer.

Tyler takes on deadly missions as a way to confront his pain, and his latest job sends him to Bangladesh to rescue the son of an Indian drug lord from a ruthless rival. Packed with breathtaking combat, stunning visuals, and a gripping storyline, Extraction is a non-stop thrill ride that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Murder Mystery — 2019

• Genre: Comedy, Mystery
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 1h 37m
• IMDb: 6.0

Murder Mystery is a light, hilarious ride where Adam Sandler shines in full comedic glory. The story follows New York cop Nick Spitz and his wife Audrey, who accidentally find themselves at the center of a real-life whodunit while vacationing in Europe.

Combining Nick’s street-smart instincts with Audrey’s newfound sleuthing skills, the couple tackles one obstacle after another, proving surprisingly effective along the way. Jennifer Aniston brings Audrey to life with charm and wit, making this duo endlessly entertaining. Perfect for a fun movie night with friends, and the film’s success even led to a sequel in 2023.

Bird Box — 2018

• Genre: Horror, Thriller
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 2h 4m
• IMDb: 6.6

Bird Box is a gripping post-apocalyptic thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Sandra Bullock stars as a mother trying to protect her children from a mysterious force that wipes out anyone who sees it.

The unseen menace creates relentless suspense, giving the film a chilling atmosphere. Bullock delivers a stellar performance, making every moment tense and thought-provoking. You’ll find yourself wondering what you’d do to safeguard your loved ones in such a nightmare. The story was popular enough to inspire the spin-off Bird Box Barcelona.

Don’t Look Up — 2021

• Genre: Comedy, Drama, Satire
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 2h 18m
• IMDb: 7.2

In 2021, Netflix stunned audiences with original films, and Don’t Look Up stood out as a sharp, satirical comedy. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett, and Timothée Chalamet, the film delivers a biting political message wrapped in clever humor.

It lampoons climate change deniers and society’s inaction in the face of an impending crisis, sparking heated debates among viewers. Whatever your viewpoint, the movie’s wit and smart social commentary hit hard, making it impossible to stay indifferent in today’s digital age.

The Good Nurse (2022)

• Genre: Thriller, Drama
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 1h 53m
• IMDb: 6.8

The Good Nurse is a chilling psychological thriller that grips you with real-life horror. The story follows nurse Amy Loughren, who slowly uncovers that her colleague Charles Cullen is murdering patients. Cullen blends seamlessly into the hospital where Loughren works, forming a friendship with her, while patients start dying under mysterious circumstances.

Based on true events, the real Charles Cullen was convicted of killing 29 patients. Even more terrifying, hospitals kept transferring him to new facilities, letting his crimes go unchecked. The film captures this horrifying reality perfectly, brought to life by riveting performances from Eddie Redmayne and Jessica Chastain.

Always Be My Maybe (2019)

• Genre: Romantic Comedy
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 1h 42m
• IMDb: 6.8

Always Be My Maybe is a heartfelt romantic comedy that hits the sweet spot between humor and honesty. It follows two childhood friends reconnecting as adults, with their cultural clashes, hilarious moments, and mouthwatering food scenes making every scene a delight. Randall Park steps into the spotlight as a leading man, while Keanu Reeves steals the show with a laugh-out-loud cameo as himself, fangirling over Ali Wong’s stand-up.

Ali Wong and Randall Park, friends since the ’90s, bring their unique chemistry to the screen, delivering a modern twist on classics like When Harry Met Sally. Netflix’s support helped turn their vision into this charming film, complete with original music by Randall Park inspired by his ’90s hip-hop group Ill Again, plus a score by Dan Automaton that adds extra flair.

The Old Guard (2020)

• Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 2h 5m
• IMDb: 6.7

Among Netflix’s original action films, The Old Guard stands out for its fresh concept and adrenaline-pumping fight scenes, masterfully directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (Woman King).

Charlize Theron shines as Andy, a member of a secret group of immortal warriors. When a new threat emerges, they are forced to reveal their powers to the world. The script, penned by Greg Rucka — the creator of the original comic — blends epic action with compelling character drama, making this film a thrilling ride from start to finish.

Gerald’s Game (2017)

• Genre: Thriller, Horror
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 1h 43m
• IMDb: 6.5

Gerald’s Game, adapted from Stephen King’s novel, brings Carla Gugino and Bruce Greenwood to the screen in a gripping, tension-filled story. A couple retreats to a secluded cabin in the woods, hoping to rekindle their relationship. But things take a dark turn when Gerald (Bruce Greenwood) suffers a fatal heart attack during a romantic game, leaving Jessie (Carla Gugino) handcuffed to the bed.

What follows is a desperate fight for survival. Jessie, haunted by past trauma, must face her inner demons in a battle that is both physical and psychological. The film plunges viewers into a chilling nightmare, and Carla Gugino delivers a performance that is nothing short of phenomenal.

The Wonder (2022)

• Genre: Drama, Mystery
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 1h 57m
• IMDb: 6.6

The Wonder slowly unfolds a haunting tale under the direction of Sebastián Lelio. Florence Pugh stars as an English nurse sent to 19th-century Ireland to investigate a girl who claims she hasn’t eaten for months.

The story draws on the Victorian phenomenon of fasting girls and society’s reaction to famine. The Wonder explores faith and how it can be twisted in extreme circumstances. Florence Pugh gives a stunning performance, making us confront deep moral questions about belief and human endurance.

Okja (2017)

• Genre: Fantasy, Social Commentary
• Age: 12+
• Duration: 2h 1m
• IMDb: 7.3

Okja, directed by Bong Joon Ho of Parasite fame, blends a fantastical tale with sharp social commentary. It follows Okja, a genetically modified super pig, who has lived peacefully with her owner Mia (An Seo Hyun) for ten years. But when a powerful corporation tries to seize Okja, Mia teams up with animal rights activists to launch a daring rescue mission.

With a star-studded cast including Tilda Swinton and Jake Gyllenhaal, Okja delivers unforgettable characters. Though it has the charm of a children’s story, the film doesn’t shy away from dark and thought-provoking moments, making it a powerful watch for adults too.

Private Life (2018)

• Genre: Drama, Family
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 2h 3m
• IMDb: 7.2

Private Life dives deep into the struggles of a couple chasing the dream of parenthood. After facing multiple failed IVF attempts, exploring adoption, and finally turning to an egg donor, their journey is anything but smooth. Unexpected family visits and unforeseen events pile on, testing their patience, love, and resilience, and bringing new twists to their complicated path.

Catherine Hahn and Paul Giamatti deliver performances so gripping they earned Independent Spirit Awards nominations. Critics loved it too — Rotten Tomatoes scores it at 94% and Metacritic gives it 83/100, proving it’s a story that resonates with audiences.

The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)

• Genre: Animation, Comedy, Adventure
• Age: 6+
• Duration: 1h 53m
• IMDb: 7.6

The Mitchells vs. the Machines is a riot of color, humor, and heart. Nominated for the 2022 Oscar for Best Animated Feature, this film tells the story of a quirky, mismatched family caught in a robot uprising that threatens the world. Created by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the directors behind Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, it’s packed with smart jokes, social commentary, and emotional moments that celebrate family bonds.

Even though Encanto took home the Oscar, many argue that the Mitchells deserved the crown. It’s both a laugh-out-loud adventure and a touching reminder of why family matters most.

The Dig (2021)

• Genre: Drama, History, Biography
• Age: 12+
• Duration: 1h 52m
• IMDb: 7.1

The Dig blends history with intimate human drama, bringing to life the excavation of mysterious burial mounds that became one of the 20th century’s most important archaeological discoveries. Ralph Fiennes shines as a humble digger whose insight and dedication outshine the professional archaeologists around him.

Carey Mulligan, playing the estate owner who initiates the excavation, and the talented supporting cast including Lily James and Johnny Flynn, add depth and charm, making The Dig both a fascinating historical journey and a story about ambition, curiosity, and quiet heroism.

The Meyerowitz Stories (2017)

• Genre: Drama, Comedy
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 1h 52m
• IMDb: 6.9

With powerhouse performances from Dustin Hoffman, Ben Stiller, and especially Adam Sandler, The Meyerowitz Stories instantly stands out in Noah Baumbach’s filmography. The movie dives into three generations of a family, all touched by a musical gift, while adult children wrestle with unresolved childhood issues. It’s a story about the clash between expectations and reality, messy, heartfelt, and surprisingly funny.

The family gathers to honor their father’s artistic achievements, even as he stews over a grudge against a colleague and refuses to attend the college celebration where he once taught. True to Baumbach’s style, the film captures the awkward, strange, and sometimes hilarious dynamics of family life. Nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, it didn’t win — though the family dog, Einstein, did snag a special award.

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

• Genre: Mystery, Comedy
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 2h 19m
• IMDb: 7.1

Writer-director Rian Johnson assembled almost an entirely new cast (Daniel Craig remains as the lead) to continue the story from the Oscar-nominated Knives Out, and it works brilliantly. In Glass Onion, detective Benoit Blanc finds himself on billionaire Edward Norton’s private island following an unexpected murder at a lavish party.

Everyone has secrets, and the story gradually peels back each layer, revealing motives and hidden tensions. While it may not quite eclipse its predecessor, the stellar cast and clever twists make this a truly engaging mystery you won’t want to put down.

Dolemite Is My Name (2019)

• Genre: Biopic, Comedy
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 1h 58m
• IMDb: 7.2

Dolemite Is My Name! tells the outrageous, inspiring story of Rudy Ray Moore, the man behind the legendary Dolemite character who shook the Blaxploitation scene of the 1970s.

Eddie Murphy delivers a career-defining performance, blending his classic 80s and 90s comedy magic with surprising emotional depth. He nails Moore’s voice, charisma, and larger-than-life personality. The supporting cast, including Keegan-Michael Key, Craig Robinson, Mike Epps, Titus Burgess, and Chris Rock, shine as well. Critics loved it, with a stellar 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Mudbound (2017)

• Genre: Drama, War
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 2h 14m
• IMDb: 7.4

Mudbound, directed by the talented Dee Rees, dives into the harsh realities of racism and post-war trauma in the American Midwest after World War II. The story grips with its delicate yet powerful narrative, brought to life by a stellar cast, with Mary J. Blige delivering a particularly unforgettable performance.

At the 90th Academy Awards, Mudbound earned multiple nominations: Best Supporting Actress (Mary J. Blige), Best Original Song (also Mary J. Blige), Best Adapted Screenplay (Dee Rees became the first Black woman nominated in this category), and Best Cinematography (Rachel Morrison, the first woman nominated). Mary J. Blige achieved a remarkable feat, earning Oscar nods for both acting and songwriting in the same year.

Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022)

• Genre: Fantasy, Animation
• Age: 12+
• Duration: 2h 10m
• IMDb: 7.6

Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio breaks away from the Disney mold. Forget cheerful sidekicks and catchy tunes — this is a darker, more mystical take on Carlo Collodi’s original story, echoing Tim Burton’s eerie charm. Created with stunning stop-motion animation, this 2022 masterpiece won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. Be warned: it contains violence and mature themes, making it unsuitable for the very young.

The story kicks off with the tragic death of Geppetto’s son in a church explosion, setting a tone far from any fairy tale you might expect. For older kids and adults, it’s a captivating, emotionally rich journey through a world of imagination.

Beasts of No Nation (2015)

• Genre: Drama, War
• Age: 18+
• Duration: 2h 17m
• IMDb: 7.7

Beasts of No Nation, Netflix’s first original film, remains a gripping, unforgettable drama. It follows Agu, a child soldier caught in the chaos of a brutal civil war in Africa, brought to life with stunning intensity by Abraham Attah. The film doesn’t shy away from the horrors he faces, forcing viewers to confront the unimaginable choices children are pushed to make.

Idris Elba plays the ruthless Commandant, a man who kills soldiers and civilians alike, justifying his brutality in the name of freedom. Directed and written by Cary Joji Fukunaga (True Detective, No Time to Die), the film delivers an unflinching look at a crisis often overlooked by Western media.

The Two Popes (2019)

• Genre: Drama, Biography
• Age: 12+
• Duration: 2h 5m
• IMDb: 7.6

The Two Popes dives into the fascinating encounter between two powerful spiritual leaders — Pope Benedict and Cardinal Mario Bergoglio, the future Pope Francis. What starts as a conversation quickly turns into a debate that could reshape the modern Catholic Church.

Directed by Fernando Meirelles, known for City of God, the film might not scream “chatty drama,” but thanks to the magnetic performances of Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce, it becomes a captivating work of art. It earned three Oscar nominations: Best Actor (Pryce), Best Supporting Actor (Hopkins), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Anthony McCarten).

Marriage Story (2019)

• Genre: Drama, Romance
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 2h 17m
• IMDb: 7.9

Marriage Story tells one of the most honest and modern tales about love, marriage, and heartbreak. Against a backdrop of conflicts and harsh words, we follow a couple navigating the painful process of divorce. The film shows how two people fight for the last traces of love between them, from custody battles over their son to moments of romance and family drama.

Charlie (Adam Driver) and Nicole (Scarlett Johansson) hire ruthless lawyers, unaware of the emotional storm ahead. Their fight over their son Henry spirals into intense confrontations. Directed by Noah Baumbach, Marriage Story earned six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Original Screenplay, Best Actor, and Best Actress.

The Irishman (2019)

• Genre: Crime, Drama, Biography
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 3h 29m
• IMDb: 7.8

Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman sparked debate with its nearly three-and-a-half-hour runtime. But if any director can pull off a “slow burn,” it’s Scorsese.

This film tells the story of real-life mobster Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro) with more depth and nuance than any of Scorsese’s earlier mafia films. There’s no glamorization of criminal life here — just a haunting tale of regret and loss. While digital effects subtly de-age the actors at times, the performances transport you straight into the gritty world of decades past.

Narvik (2022)

• Genre: War, Historical, Drama
• Age: 12+
• Duration: 1h 45m
• IMDb: 6.6

In 1940, long before the US entered World War II, Germany tried to seize the port of Narvik in neutral Norway. This port was crucial for supplying iron to the war machine, and despite overwhelming odds, Norwegian forces fought fiercely against the invaders. Narvik, directed by Erik Skjoldbjærg, shines a light on a lesser-known chapter of World War II, grippingly portraying the lives of soldiers and civilians trapped in a besieged city.

Kristine Hartgen delivers a standout performance as a mother fighting to protect her children from the occupying forces. With a mostly Norwegian cast, this film slipped under the radar on Netflix, and critics largely ignored it. On Rotten Tomatoes, it has fewer than ten critic reviews, but those who watched it gave it a perfect score.

Roma (2018)

• Genre: Drama, Biography
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 2h 15m
• IMDb: 7.7

Alfonso Cuarón, known for Gravity, drew on his own childhood memories to create Roma, the Oscar-winning masterpiece about a maid’s life in 1970s Mexico. Shot in stunning black-and-white, the film follows Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio), a young maid working for an upper-middle-class family in Mexico City.

At first, Roma feels like a collage of everyday moments, but each scene weaves together an unforgettable story of loyalty, responsibility, and the true meaning of family. Yalitza Aparicio earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actress, and the film scored ten nominations in total, including Best Picture, ultimately winning three Oscars for Best Foreign Film, Best Director, and more.

All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)

• Genre: War, Drama, Historical
• Age: 16+
• Duration: 2h 20m
• IMDb: 7.8

All Quiet on the Western Front has been adapted multiple times, including the 1930 version that won the Oscar for Best Picture. Netflix’s 2022 adaptation, directed by Edward Berger (Terror), not only honors the tradition but elevates it, delivering one of the most realistic depictions of World War I seen on screen.

Felix Kammerer shines as a patriotic German soldier disillusioned by the horrors of war. The film closes with a darkly ironic finale that leaves a lasting impact. Nominated for nine Oscars, including Best Picture, it won four, including Best International Feature Film (Germany), Best Cinematography, and Best Original Score.

Friends, your thoughts matter. Do you have a personal list of must-watch films that shouldn’t be missed? Share your favorites in the comments.