Every Tuesday, Netflix unveils its global Top 10 lists for films and TV, segmented into four categories: Film (English), TV (English), Film (Non-English), and TV (Non-English). These rankings are based on the number of views each title garners from Monday to Sunday of the preceding week. A view is calculated by dividing the total hours watched by the runtime of the title, with values rounded to the nearest 100,000. Each season of a series and each film is considered individually, so it’s not uncommon to see multiple seasons of a show like “Stranger Things” in the Top 10 simultaneously.
To provide a comprehensive view of global viewing habits, Netflix also publishes Top 10 lists for nearly 100 countries and territories. These country-specific lists are similarly ranked by views. Additionally, Netflix offers a list of the Top 10 most popular films and TV shows overall, based on views within the first 91 days of release. For TV shows with staggered premiere dates, the total runtime increases over time, and the views are calculated based on the total hours watched by the end of the week. For the Most Popular List, views are tallied after all episodes have premiered, ensuring the entire season is accounted for. Titles branded as Netflix Originals in some countries but not others are still included in the total hours viewed.
The data on the site starts from June 28, 2021, and any lists published before June 20, 2023, are ranked by hours viewed.
With an ever-evolving catalog, Netflix’s Top 10 lists are updated regularly as new titles enter and old ones exit. This dynamic nature makes it challenging to decide what to watch. To help you navigate this vast selection, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 must-watch movies on Netflix right now, focusing on three standout titles that you shouldn’t miss.
First up is “La La Land,” a 2016 musical directed by Damien Chazelle. This film, often remembered as the one that lost the Best Picture Oscar to “Moonlight,” is a delightful exploration of love and dreams in Los Angeles. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone deliver their best performances to date, making this movie a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good musical.
Next, we have “Dark Waters,” a 2019 drama directed by Todd Haynes. This film, based on a New York Times article, tells the true story of a lawyer’s battle against the DuPont corporation for contaminating a small town’s drinking water. Mark Ruffalo stars alongside Anne Hathaway, Tim Robbins, and Bill Camp, delivering a powerful performance that will leave you both angry and inspired.
Finally, “Devil in a Blue Dress,” a 1995 film directed by Carl Franklin, is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. Denzel Washington stars as Easy Rawlins, a World War II veteran who gets entangled in a complex mystery in 1948 Los Angeles. This film is a perfect blend of charm and suspense, making it a must-watch for fans of classic noir.
These three films are just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of content available on Netflix. Each week, seasoned movie critics dive into Netflix’s catalog to surface acclaimed, surprising, or otherwise noteworthy titles. They use their expertise and a lifetime of cinema study to curate lists that go beyond the algorithm, highlighting films that present interesting ideas, have made an impact on cinema, and have changed our culture.
For instance, “Inside Man,” a 2006 heist film directed by Spike Lee, showcases the director’s versatility. Denzel Washington stars as an NYPD hostage negotiator in this tight and effective thriller. Another standout is “The Killer,” a 2023 film directed by David Fincher. Michael Fassbender delivers a stellar performance as an assassin whose job goes awry, making this one of the best films of the year.
“The Killing Fields,” a 1984 film directed by Roland Joffé, is a harrowing yet essential watch. It tells the story of the Khmer Rouge’s atrocities in Cambodia, featuring powerful performances by Sam Waterston and Haing S. Ngor. On a lighter note, “May December,” a 2023 film directed by Todd Haynes, offers a stunning character study featuring Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman.
For sports enthusiasts, “Moneyball,” a 2011 film directed by Bennett Miller, is a must-watch. Brad Pitt stars as Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics, who revolutionizes baseball management through analytics. This film is particularly relevant given the current state of the Oakland franchise.
“The Nest,” a 2020 film directed by Sean Durkin, is another hidden gem. Starring Carrie Coon and Jude Law, this domestic drama explores the widening divides in a marriage set against the backdrop of 1980s London. It’s a fantastic character study that deserves more recognition.
“The Power of the Dog,” a 2021 film directed by Jane Campion, is one of Netflix’s most acclaimed titles. Benedict Cumberbatch stars as a vicious landowner who torments his brother’s new wife, played by Kirsten Dunst. This period piece unpacks themes of toxic masculinity and manipulation, making it impossible to turn away.
“Traffic,” a 2000 film directed by Steven Soderbergh, offers an epic examination of the illegal drug trade. Featuring an ensemble cast, including Benicio del Toro, this film tackles the entire structure of drugs in North America, intertwining stories of users, politicians, traffickers, and lawmen.
These films represent the best of what Netflix has to offer right now. Whether you’re in the mood for a musical, a gripping drama, or a classic noir, these top 10 movies are sure to provide an unforgettable viewing experience. So, fire up your Netflix and dive into these must-watch titles today.
