It’s the Autumn. Normally we’d recommend some spooky films, but with the news full of scary stuff, there’s no need. Instead, given that we’re all likely to be inside and in need of something to watch in the long, dark nights, why not turn to a bunch of films? Given that Netflix is one the most popular streaming platforms and has a huge catalogue of original films that can’t be seen anywhere else, here’s a collection of some of the best, some of the most underwhelming and some you might have missed, but should catch.
REBEL RIDGE
We begin with the newest film on the list, and what a film it is too. A taut thriller directed by Jeremy Saulnier, Rebel Ridge blends sharp social commentary with heart-pounding action. A star-making turn here from Aaron Pierre, which sees his character Terry delve into systemic injustice and personal vengeance, as Pierre’s protagonist takes on a corrupt system. Known for his tense, atmospheric style in films like Green Room and Blue Ruin (and for occasionally super-violent moments) Saulnier once again delivers a hard-hitting, suspenseful story with plenty of action. If you’re into gritty, intense thrillers, Rebel Ridge should be on your list.
THE IRISHMAN
Perhaps the most famous film on Netflix, Martin Scorsese’s epic crime drama is a meditation on loyalty, betrayal, and the passage of time. Starring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, The Irishman follows Frank Sheeran, a truck driver who gets involved with the mob. As decades pass, we witness the violent rise and tragic fall of the criminal underworld. De Niro delivers an obviously brilliant performance, even if he is miscast, but Scorsese reminds us why he’s one of the greatest directors of all time. A long, slow burn, but one that’s absolutely worth it.
ROMA
Oscar winner Alfonso Cuarón’s semi-autobiographical masterpiece is a visual marvel. Set in 1970s Mexico City, Roma tells the story of Cleo, a domestic worker for a middle-class family, during a time of political and social turmoil. Shot in stunning black and white, Cuarón’s cinematography creates a dreamlike atmosphere that pulls you into the heart of the story. With themes of love, loss, and resilience, this is a film that leaves a lasting impact.
THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7
This terrific courtroom drama, written and directed by Aaron Sorkin (West Wing, The Social Network, A Few Good Men) brings to life the infamous 1969 trial of seven defendants charged with conspiracy and inciting riots at the Democratic National Convention. With its snappy dialogue, standout performances, and sharp political commentary, The Trial of the Chicago 7 feels as relevant today as ever. The tension builds to a thrilling climax, and the ensemble cast (including Sacha Baron Cohen and Eddie Redmayne) delivers scene after scene of powerhouse acting.
RED NOTICE
Looking for a fun, action-packed caper with big stars? You’ll occasionally find that here. Red Notice stars Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot, and clearly cost an absolute fortune to make. As heist comedies go, it’s perfectly fine and many will enjoy as the perfect film to watch when “two screening” on a Friday night. The film follows an FBI profiler who reluctantly teams up with a notorious art thief to catch an even more infamous criminal. It’s slick, fast-paced, and with great chemistry between the three stars, making Red Notice an entertaining, globe-trotting adventure that’s perfect for a popcorn movie night.
DA 5 BLOODS
Spike Lee is a living legend. Everything he turns his hand to is worth a watch. Da 5 Bloods is no different. We follow a group of African-American veterans who return to Vietnam decades after the war to retrieve the remains of their fallen squad leader — and a stash of buried gold. The film masterfully blends war, history, and a heist, with Lee’s trademark social commentary woven throughout. Delroy Lindo delivers an award-worthy performance as a troubled vet grappling with his past. This is a powerful, thought-provoking film that’s both thrilling and poignant.
TO ALL THE BOYS I’VE LOVED BEFORE
Sometimes, you just need a light, feel-good rom-com. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is exactly that. Based on Jenny Han’s best-selling novel, the story follows Lara Jean Covey, a high schooler whose secret love letters accidentally get sent to her past crushes. What follows is a sweet, charming, and funny exploration of young love. It’s a film that’s easy to watch but hard to forget, thanks to its relatable characters and heart-warming moments.
WE HAVE A GHOST
And talking of heart-warming, We Have a Ghost mixes comedy and supernatural spookiness for an all-around family-friendly watch. When a family moves into a house and discovers it’s haunted by a friendly ghost named Ernest, they become internet sensations. But things take a dark turn when the CIA gets involved. David Harbour stars as the ghost, delivering a surprisingly touching performance without saying a word. With a mix of humour, action, and emotional depth, this one will leave you laughing and maybe even a little teary-eyed by the end.
#ALIVE
For fans of zombie thrillers, #Alive brings a fresh take on the genre. Set in South Korea, the film follows a young gamer named Oh Joon-woo who is trapped in his apartment during a sudden zombie outbreak. Isolated and cut off from the world, his desperation grows until he discovers another survivor in a neighbouring building. What sets #Alive apart is its modern, tech-savvy approach to survival horror, as the characters use drones, social media, and technology to outsmart the zombies. With a gripping pace and relatable tension, #Alive offers both nail-biting suspense and an emotional story of survival and connection.
Ian Moreno-Melgar is an educational consultant to the British Film Institute, a published author of film education textbooks, and is currently obsessed with the New York Times word games.
