16 Best Movies on Netflix in 2024 - A Must-Watch List

Finding the best movie on Netflix can be tough, especially when you want to watch the top but don't know where to start. The endless choices can be tiring. To help you out, we've made a list of the best movies on Netflix right now.

Our picks include popular hits, well-reviewed films, and great lesser-known movies. Whether you're looking for classic favorites or new releases, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.

1. Emily the Criminal (2022)

In Emily the Criminal, Aubrey Plaza plays Emily, a young woman who is struggling with a lot of debt and a criminal record. She is having a hard time finding a good job. Then, she meets Youcef, played by Theo Rossi, who introduces her to credit card fraud.

As Emily gets more involved in this dangerous world, she has to face the tough and often violent side of crime. The movie shows how people might make desperate choices when they are in financial trouble.

2. Atlantics (2019)

Set in Dakar, "Atlantics" tells the moving story of Ada, a young woman torn between duty and love. She is engaged to a rich man but loves Souleiman, a construction worker who disappears after he and his friends don't get paid.

As the story unfolds, a supernatural twist occurs with Souleiman's ghost appearing in Ada's life. The film beautifully combines romance and mystery, exploring themes of economic struggles, migration, and forbidden love.

3. The Gift (2015)

Simon and Robyn move to California for a new beginning, but their plans are interrupted when they meet Gordo, a strange person from Simon's past. What starts as a friendly meeting soon becomes unsettling as Gordo shows a troubling obsession.

"The Gift" explains the complex human relationships and uncovers dark secrets. As Gordo's behavior becomes more threatening, Simon and Robyn must face old secrets and rethink their values.

4. Aftersun (2022)

"Aftersun," tells the touching story of a vacation in Turkey that Calum and his daughter Sophie shared. The film unfolds through Sophie's memories as an adult, looking back on this special time with her father.

Calum is a caring yet troubled man who struggles with his own issues while trying to make the trip enjoyable for Sophie. The movie skillfully contrasts young Sophie's innocent curiosity with her growing understanding of her father's struggles. It delicately explores how memories and unspoken emotions shape their relationship, offering a heartfelt look at love and loss.

5. Tangerine (2015)

"Tangerine" is set in the lively streets of Los Angeles and follows Sin-Dee Rella, who, just out of jail, finds out her boyfriend and pimp has been unfaithful. With her loyal friend Alexandra, she goes on a quest to find him and confront his new lover.

The film also tells the story of Razmik, an Armenian cab driver with a secret life. "Tangerine" is known for its creative use of iPhone 5S cameras, giving it a gritty and energetic feel. The film is praised for its honest and bold depiction of transgender sex workers and is a notable example of independent filmmaking.

6. The Pope's Exorcist (2023)

Father Gabriele Amorth, the Vatican's Chief Exorcist, fights against demonic forces in Rome. When a young boy and his family are threatened by a frightening possession, Father Amorth faces his toughest challenge.

Directed by Julius Avery, the film explores a tense battle between good and evil. Russell Crowe plays Father Amorth with strong faith and bravery, which are central to the story.

"The Pope's Exorcist" is a gripping film that showcases the power of belief and the courage needed to confront our deepest fears.

7. Red Notice (2021)

In "Red Notice," FBI agent John Hartley teams up with a top art thief to catch a mysterious villain known as The Bishop. This film takes you on an exciting global adventure with many surprises.

Directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber, it skillfully mixes action and comedy. The story focuses on trust and betrayal as the characters form an unexpected partnership. It's a fun watch with many thrilling moments and engaging interactions between the characters.

8. Don't Look Up (2021)

In "Don't Look Up," astronomers discover a comet heading towards Earth and try to warn the public and the government about the danger. Directed by Adam McKay, the film uses satire to comment on how society handles big threats.

It critiques political indifference and media sensationalism with a mix of dark humor and sharp insights. The movie is entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a unique blend of comedy and social critique.

9. The Adam Project (2022)

In "The Adam Project," a pilot from the future, Adam Reed, travels back to 2022 to get help from his younger self to fix a big problem in time. They need to confront their father's past and stop a powerful company that could ruin their future.

Directed by Shawn Levy, the film mixes themes of family, regret, and personal growth. It shows how important it is to reconcile and understand oneself to create a better future.

10. The Irishman (2019)

In "The Irishman," Frank Sheeran, a veteran hitman, reflects on his life and his role in the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa, a powerful Teamsters leader.

The film features strong performances from Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Al Pacino. Directed by Martin Scorsese, it explores themes of power, betrayal, and the personal cost of a life in crime.

The movie uses special effects to show Sheeran's life over many years, highlighting the heavy price of his choices.

11. Call Me by Your Name (2017)

In "Call Me by Your Name," set in 1983 Italy, a young man named Elio falls in love with a visiting scholar, Oliver. Oliver stays at Elio's family villa, and their relationship grows into a deep and meaningful romance.

Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the film explores themes of first love and self-discovery. Timothée Chalamet gives a powerful performance as Elio, capturing the emotions of young love. The movie's beautiful scenery and touching story show how special moments can have a lasting impact.

12. Mudbound (2017)

"Mudbound" is set in post-World War II Mississippi and follows two families, the Jacksons and the Whiteheads. The Jacksons struggle with racism and poverty, while the Whiteheads face difficulties on their failing farm.

Directed by Dee Rees, the film shows how racial and social tensions affect both families. Jamie Whitehead and Ronsel Jackson, two soldiers returning from the war, confront the harsh realities of their divided community.

The movie explores themes of prejudice, resilience, and hardship, offering a moving look at life in the Deep South during this time.

13. His House (2020)

In "His House," Rial and Bol, who are from Sudan, move into an old, spooky house in England after escaping their war-torn country. They hope to start a new life, but strange and frightening things happen in their new home.

The film combines horror with a deep look at their struggles and past traumas. The House becomes a symbol of their unresolved issues, and the scary elements highlight their emotional and mental burdens. "His House" provides a fresh view of the refugee experience, blending real-life challenges with supernatural thrills.

14. Miss Juneteenth (2020)

"Miss Juneteenth" tells the story of Turquoise Jones, a former beauty queen who is now a single mother in Texas. She is determined to help her teenage daughter, Kai, compete in the local Juneteenth pageant.

The film explores family, identity, and dreams that didn't fully come true. Nicole Beharie plays Turquoise with great skill, and Alexis Chikaeze portrays Kai with warmth.

Directed by Channing Godfrey Peoples, the movie contrasts Turquoise's past dreams with her current struggles, showing the balance between personal goals and family life. It offers a thoughtful view of heritage and the challenges of pursuing one's dreams.

15. Hit Man (2023)

"Hit Man" follows Chris, a professional assassin whose life changes dramatically when tasked with a high-profile hit. Glen Powell delivers a powerful performance as Chris, exploring the personal and moral challenges of his dangerous job.

Directed by Richard Linklater, the film mixes thriller and drama to examine the psychological effects of a life in crime. It looks at themes of identity, morality, and redemption, showing the intense struggle between Chris's professional duties and his personal values.

16. It Follows (2014)

"It Follows" centers on Jay Height, who is cursed by a menacing entity after a date with Hugh. This curse is transmitted through sexual intercourse, and the entity takes various terrifying forms as it relentlessly pursues Jay.

With the help of her friends, including Paul and Yara, Jay tries to uncover the curse's mystery and escape the constant threat. Directed by David Robert Mitchell, the film combines psychological tension with a unique horror concept, exploring themes of fear, paranoia, and responsibility.