Netflix Original Movies That Are So Good You Have to Watch Them Twice

Netflix has transformed the landscape of modern cinema by producing high quality original films that rival traditional studio releases. These movies span various genres including intense dramas and groundbreaking animations that often require multiple viewings to fully appreciate. Critics and audiences alike recognize these productions for their exceptional storytelling and technical achievements during major award seasons. This collection highlights some of the most impactful Netflix original films that offer deep layers of meaning for viewers.

‘The Irishman’ (2019)

Martin Scorsese directs this epic crime drama exploring the life of Frank Sheeran as he works for the Bufalino crime family. The narrative follows Sheeran’s involvement in the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa across several decades of American history. Robert De Niro and Al Pacino lead a cast that utilizes advanced de aging technology to portray their characters at various stages of life. This film provides a somber reflection on loyalty and the consequences of a life spent within organized crime.

‘Roma’ (2018)

Alfonso Cuarón offers a deeply personal look at the life of a domestic worker in 1970s Mexico City. The black and white cinematography captures the daily routines and emotional struggles of a family navigating social and political upheaval. This film won three Academy Awards including Best Director and Best Foreign Language Film for its artistic vision. The story emphasizes the resilience of women in the face of domestic and societal challenges.

‘Marriage Story’ (2019)

Noah Baumbach presents a raw and compassionate look at a bicoastal divorce between a stage director and an actress. Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson deliver powerful performances that capture the complexity of ending a relationship while coparenting a son. The script balances moments of intense conflict with genuine tenderness as the characters navigate the legal and emotional hurdles of separation. It remains a critically acclaimed study of human connection and the pain of moving on.

‘The Power of the Dog’ (2021)

Jane Campion directs this psychological Western about a charismatic rancher who reacts with cruelty when his brother brings home a new wife and her son. The film explores themes of repressed masculinity and isolation set against the stark beauty of the Montana wilderness. Benedict Cumberbatch provides a haunting performance as the complex protagonist whose motivations remain enigmatic throughout the story. The slow burning narrative leads to a surprising and meticulously crafted conclusion.

‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2022)

Director Rian Johnson returns with a new whodunit featuring the eccentric detective Benoit Blanc as he visits a private island in Greece. The plot centers on a tech billionaire who invites a group of friends for a murder mystery party that turns deadly. The ensemble cast includes Edward Norton and Janelle Monáe who help bring the satirical and twist filled story to life. Viewers often find that a second watch reveals subtle clues hidden within the elaborate production design.

‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ (2022)

This stop motion animation reimagines the classic tale of a wooden puppet brought to life in 1930s Italy. Guillermo del Toro infuses the story with darker themes regarding war and the true meaning of being human. The film features stunning visual craftsmanship and a unique musical score that differentiates it from previous adaptations. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature for its innovative approach to a familiar narrative.

‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ (2022)

This German language adaptation of the famous novel depicts the harrowing experiences of a young soldier during World War One. The film focuses on the physical and psychological toll of trench warfare as the initial enthusiasm for battle turns into despair. Edward Berger directs the production with a focus on gritty realism and the senselessness of the conflict. The technical achievements in sound and cinematography provide an immersive and sobering viewing experience.

‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ (2020)

Aaron Sorkin writes and directs this legal drama based on the 1969 trial of protesters charged with inciting riots at the Democratic National Convention. The film utilizes fast paced dialogue and an ensemble cast to explore the political tensions of the era. Sacha Baron Cohen and Eddie Redmayne portray key figures in a legal battle that challenged the American justice system. This historical drama highlights the intersection of activism and law during a turbulent period in United States history.

‘Da 5 Bloods’ (2020)

Spike Lee directs this story about four African American veterans who return to Vietnam decades after the war to find the remains of their fallen leader. The journey also involves a search for buried treasure that they hid during their service. Delroy Lindo gives a critically acclaimed performance as a veteran struggling with severe trauma and shifting political beliefs. The film blends historical footage with a modern narrative to address the lasting impact of war on Black soldiers.

‘Society of the Snow’ (2023)

This biographical survival thriller recounts the 1972 Andes flight disaster where survivors were forced to take extreme measures to stay alive. Director J.A. Bayona focuses on the human spirit and the bonds formed between the passengers during their seventy two days in the mountains. The film utilizes a cast of largely unknown actors to enhance the sense of realism and authenticity. It received praise for its respectful treatment of the historical events and its technical execution.

‘Mank’ (2020)

David Fincher explores the life of screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz as he develops the script for the cinematic masterpiece ‘Citizen Kane’. The film is shot in black and white to evoke the golden age of Hollywood while examining the political climate of the 1930s. Gary Oldman portrays the witty and troubled writer who clashes with industry titans and his own personal demons. This production offers a detailed look at the creative process and the complex reality of film authorship.

‘Beasts of No Nation’ (2015)

Cary Joji Fukunaga directs this intense drama about a young boy forced to become a child soldier in a West African civil war. Idris Elba plays the charismatic but terrifying Commandant who recruits and brainwashes the youth. The film portrays the brutal realities of conflict and the loss of innocence with unflinching honesty. It was the first major feature film produced by Netflix and set a high standard for their future original content.

‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’ (2021)

This animated adventure follows a dysfunctional family whose road trip is interrupted by a global robot uprising. The film uses a unique visual style that blends traditional animation with 3D elements to reflect the protagonist’s artistic perspective. It explores themes of family connection and the impact of technology on modern communication. The fast paced humor and creative action sequences make it an engaging experience for audiences of all ages.

‘Klaus’ (2019)

A selfish postman is sent to a frozen town in the North where he discovers a reclusive toymaker named Klaus. The two form an unlikely partnership that brings joy back to a community divided by an ancient feud. This film features a distinctive hand drawn animation style that gives it a timeless and artisanal quality. It serves as an alternative origin story for the legend of Santa Claus and emphasizes the power of kindness.

‘The Lost Daughter’ (2021)

Maggie Gyllenhaal makes her directorial debut with this psychological drama based on the novel by Elena Ferrante. Olivia Colman stars as a woman on vacation who becomes obsessed with a young mother and her daughter on the same beach. The story delves into the complexities of motherhood and the lingering effects of past choices. The nuanced performances and atmospheric tension create a compelling study of female identity and regret.

‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ (2021)

Lin-Manuel Miranda directs this biographical musical about Jonathan Larson as he nears his thirtieth birthday and struggles to write a successful show. Andrew Garfield portrays the aspiring composer with high energy and emotional depth as he navigates the pressures of the New York theater scene. The film captures the creative anxiety of an artist trying to leave a mark on the world before time runs out. It features many of Larson’s original songs and serves as a tribute to his enduring legacy.

‘Extraction’ (2020)

Chris Hemsworth stars as a black market mercenary tasked with rescuing the kidnapped son of an international crime lord in Bangladesh. The film is known for its high octane action sequences and a notable twelve minute long shot that follows a complex chase. Director Sam Hargrave brings his experience as a stunt coordinator to create visceral and technically impressive fight scenes. The narrative provides a relentless pace that has made it one of the most watched original movies on the platform.

‘Dolemite Is My Name’ (2019)

Eddie Murphy stars as Rudy Ray Moore who was a real life performer who created the iconic Dolemite character to achieve stardom. The film follows Moore as he produces his own low budget blaxploitation movie against all odds in the 1970s. It celebrates the DIY spirit of filmmaking and the importance of community support in achieving one’s dreams. This role marked a significant comeback for Murphy and earned him widespread critical acclaim.

‘Mudbound’ (2017)

Dee Rees directs this powerful drama about two families in the Jim Crow South who are connected by the land they work and the trauma of war. The film examines racial tensions and the shared struggles of returning veterans in rural Mississippi. Carey Mulligan and Mary J. Blige lead a talented cast that portrays the harsh realities of poverty and prejudice. This production received multiple Academy Award nominations for its storytelling and cinematic excellence.

‘The Old Guard’ (2020)

Charlize Theron leads a team of immortal mercenaries who have protected humanity in secret for centuries. The plot follows the group as they discover a new immortal and face a threat from an organization seeking to exploit their genetic code. The film blends traditional action tropes with deeper philosophical questions about the burden of eternal life. It was praised for its diverse cast and its fresh take on the superhero and fantasy genres.

‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ (2020)

Based on the play by August Wilson this film captures a tense recording session in 1920s Chicago. Viola Davis plays the legendary Mother of the Blues while Chadwick Boseman delivers his final film performance as an ambitious trumpet player. The story explores the exploitation of Black musicians and the clashes between artistic vision and commercial interests. The powerful dialogue and central performances make it a standout theatrical adaptation on the small screen.

‘Hustle’ (2022)

Adam Sandler plays a down on his luck basketball scout who discovers a talented player with a difficult past in Spain. The film follows their journey as they prepare for the NBA draft and face various personal and professional obstacles. It features many real life basketball stars and provides an authentic look at the inner workings of professional sports. This drama showcases Sandler’s range as a dramatic actor and serves as an inspiring underdog story.

‘I’m Thinking of Ending Things’ (2020)

Charlie Kaufman directs this surreal psychological thriller about a young woman who travels with her boyfriend to visit his parents on a secluded farm. The narrative becomes increasingly dreamlike and disjointed as the characters’ identities and realities begin to blur. It is based on the novel by Iain Reid and explores themes of memory and the nature of human relationships. Viewers often find that the dense symbolism and non linear structure require multiple viewings to decipher.

‘Always Be My Maybe’ (2019)

Ali Wong and Randall Park star as childhood friends who reconnect as adults in San Francisco after many years apart. The film is a charming romantic comedy that subverts common tropes while celebrating Asian American culture. It features a memorable cameo by Keanu Reeves that became a viral sensation upon the movie release. The story balances humor with genuine heart as the characters navigate their different career paths and romantic history.

‘The Two Popes’ (2019)

Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce portray Pope Benedict XVI and the future Pope Francis during a pivotal turning point for the Catholic Church. The film imagines the private conversations between these two men as they discuss faith and the future of their institution. Fernando Meirelles directs the production with a focus on the personal vulnerabilities of these powerful figures. The chemistry between the lead actors drives the narrative through complex theological and personal debates.

‘Enola Holmes’ (2020)

Millie Bobby Brown stars as the teenage sister of Sherlock Holmes who embarks on a journey to find her missing mother. The film is a fast paced mystery that breaks the fourth wall and offers a feminist perspective on the Victorian era. Henry Cavill and Sam Claflin play her older brothers who attempt to mold her into a traditional young lady. Its success led to a sequel and established a new franchise centered on the young detective.

‘The Killer’ (2023)

David Fincher returns to the thriller genre with this meticulous study of a professional assassin who finds himself targeted after a botched job. Michael Fassbender plays the nameless protagonist who follows a strict set of personal rules to maintain his cold efficiency. The film utilizes a minimalist style and a rhythmic score to build tension throughout the international pursuit. It provides a unique look at the psychological discipline required for a life of professional violence.

‘Okja’ (2017)

Bong Joon ho directs this adventure about a young girl who risks everything to prevent a powerful corporation from kidnapping her best friend who is a massive genetically modified animal. The film travels from the mountains of South Korea to the streets of New York City in a critique of the global food industry. It features an international cast including Tilda Swinton and Paul Dano who portray the eccentric characters involved in the conflict. This story blends heart with social commentary and visual spectacle in a way that is characteristic of the director’s work.

‘The Ballad of Buster Scruggs’ (2018)

The Coen Brothers present an anthology of six short stories set in the American West during the nineteenth century. Each segment offers a different tone ranging from dark comedy to somber drama while exploring themes of mortality and fate. The film features a wide array of talent including Tim Blake Nelson and Liam Neeson in various roles. Its episodic nature and sharp writing provide a unique perspective on the myths of the frontier.

‘Pieces of a Woman’ (2020)

Vanessa Kirby stars as a woman dealing with the emotional aftermath of a tragic home birth. The film begins with a harrowing and continuous twenty four minute sequence that captures the intensity of the delivery. The subsequent narrative explores the breakdown of her relationship and her journey through grief and legal proceedings. Kirby received an Academy Award nomination for her raw and evocative portrayal of a mother in mourning.

‘The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected)’ (2017)

Noah Baumbach directs this ensemble comedy drama about adult siblings who gather in New York to celebrate their father’s artistic career. Adam Sandler and Ben Stiller play brothers who struggle with their father’s demanding personality and their own unresolved resentments. The film utilizes sharp dialogue to examine the dysfunctional dynamics of a family shaped by artistic ego. It was praised for its insightful look at middle age and the complexities of sibling relationships.

‘The Wonder’ (2022)

Florence Pugh stars as an English nurse sent to a remote Irish village in 1862 to observe a young girl who claims to have not eaten for months. The story explores the conflict between faith and science in a community gripped by religious fervor. Sebastian Lelio directs the film with a focus on atmospheric tension and the subjective nature of truth. The mystery deepens as the nurse uncovers the dark secrets behind the supposed miracle.

‘Nimona’ (2023)

This animated fantasy follows a knight who is framed for a crime and a shapeshifting teenager who joins him to clear his name. The film is set in a unique world that combines medieval aesthetics with futuristic technology. It explores themes of identity and acceptance while challenging traditional notions of heroism and villainy. After being canceled by another studio the project was revived by Netflix to critical acclaim for its visual style and narrative depth.

‘The Platform’ (2019)

This Spanish social science fiction horror film takes place in a vertical prison where food is lowered on a platform from the top floor to the bottom. Inhabitants on the upper levels eat their fill while those below are left to starve which leads to desperate and violent behavior. The story serves as a stark allegory for social inequality and the failure of resource distribution. Its provocative concept and gruesome imagery made it a global sensation upon its release.

‘Passing’ (2021)

Rebecca Hall directs this drama shot in black and white about two Black women in 1920s New York who can pass as white but choose different paths. Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga deliver nuanced performances as childhood friends whose lives intersect again with complicated results. The film examines themes of racial identity and the social pressures of the Harlem Renaissance era. It is based on the novel by Nella Larsen and provides a sophisticated look at the performance of identity.

‘Apollo 10½: A Space Age Childhood’ (2022)

Richard Linklater utilizes a rotoscoped animation style to tell the story of a young boy in 1969 Houston who dreams of going to the moon. The film serves as a nostalgic look at the space race era and the daily life of a child during a transformative time in history. It blends personal memories with the grand spectacle of the ‘Apollo 11’ mission. The unique visual approach and gentle storytelling capture the wonder of childhood imagination.

‘His House’ (2020)

A refugee couple from South Sudan struggles to adjust to their new life in an English town while being haunted by a sinister presence in their home. The film combines social commentary on the immigrant experience with effective supernatural horror elements. Remi Weekes directs the story with a focus on the trauma of displacement and the ghosts of the past. It received praise for its original premise and the strong performances of its lead actors.

‘May December’ (2023)

Todd Haynes directs this psychological drama about an actress who travels to Georgia to research a woman whose scandalous relationship dominated headlines decades earlier. Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore engage in a complex power struggle as the line between professional research and personal manipulation blurs. The film examines the nature of tabloid fame and the lasting impact of moral transgressions. Its dark humor and unsettling atmosphere provide a critical look at human behavior and the stories people tell themselves.

‘El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie’ (2019)

This film serves as a direct sequel to the acclaimed television series and follows Jesse Pinkman as he attempts to flee his past. Aaron Paul returns to the role of Jesse as he navigates the immediate aftermath of his escape from captivity. Creator Vince Gilligan writes and directs the project to provide closure for one of the show’s most beloved characters. It features several cameos and callbacks that reward longtime fans of the original series.

‘Fair Play’ (2023)

A young couple working at a high stakes hedge fund finds their relationship threatened when one of them receives an unexpected promotion. The film explores power dynamics and gender roles within a cutthroat corporate environment. Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich portray the escalating tension and resentment that develops between the two protagonists. It is a sharp thriller that examines how ambition can corrode personal intimacy.

‘Nyad’ (2023)

Annette Bening stars as Diana Nyad who at the age of sixty four attempts to become the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. Jodie Foster plays her best friend and coach who supports her through the grueling and dangerous journey. The film portrays the physical and mental stamina required for long distance swimming while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit. It is based on the autobiography of Nyad and highlights her record breaking achievement.

‘Hit Man’ (2024)

Richard Linklater directs this action comedy about a professor who discovers he has a talent for posing as a contract killer for the police. Glen Powell stars as the mild mannered man who becomes entangled in a dangerous situation when he tries to help a woman in need. The film is based on a true story and explores themes of identity and the roles people play in their daily lives. It combines sharp writing with a charismatic lead performance to create an entertaining and thoughtful narrative.

‘Private Life’ (2018)

Tamara Jenkins directs this realistic look at a couple in middle age as they navigate the world of assisted reproduction and adoption. Kathryn Hahn and Paul Giamatti portray the emotional and financial strain of their quest to have a child. The film balances humor and heartbreak while providing an honest depiction of the biological clock and modern family building. It was praised for its authentic dialogue and the grounded performances of its cast.

‘The Hand of God’ (2021)

Paolo Sorrentino offers a semi autobiographical coming of age story set in 1980s Naples. The narrative follows a young boy named Fabietto as he experiences family joy and tragedy against the backdrop of Diego Maradona’s arrival at the local soccer club. The film captures the vibrant atmosphere of the city and the personal awakening of a future filmmaker. It is a visually lush and emotional exploration of youth and the power of art.

‘Atlantics’ (2019)

Mati Diop directs this supernatural romantic drama set in Dakar where a group of young men disappears at sea and later returns to haunt their former lovers. The story focuses on Ada who is forced into an arranged marriage while grieving for the man she truly loves. The film blends social realism with ghost story elements to comment on migration and female empowerment. It made history when Diop became the first Black woman to compete for the Palme d’Or at Cannes.

‘The Devil All the Time’ (2020)

This psychological thriller features an ensemble cast in a story that spans decades in rural Ohio and West Virginia. The plot follows several interconnected characters who struggle with the influence of religious extremism and generational trauma. Tom Holland and Robert Pattinson lead the cast in a narrative that is dark and often violent. It is based on the novel by Donald Ray Pollock and explores the darker side of human faith and morality.

‘Don’t Look Up’ (2021)

Adam McKay directs this satirical comedy about two astronomers who discover a comet heading toward Earth and struggle to convince the world of the impending danger. The film features a massive cast including Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence who portray the frustrated scientists. It serves as an allegory for the global response to climate change and the influence of media and politics on public perception. The dark humor and star power made it a significant cultural talking point upon its release.

‘Icarus’ (2017)

This Academy Award winning documentary begins as an investigation into performance enhancing drugs in cycling and evolves into a massive geopolitical thriller. Filmmaker Bryan Fogel uncovers a state sponsored doping program in Russia with the help of a scientist whistleblower. The film documents the real life consequences of the scandal including the suspension of Russian athletes from international competition. It provides a gripping look at the intersection of sports and politics.

‘1922’ (2017)

Based on the novella by Stephen King this film tells the story of a farmer who conspires to murder his wife for financial gain. The narrative explores the psychological decay and guilt that consumes the man and his son following the crime. Thomas Jane provides a haunting performance as the protagonist whose life unravels in increasingly grisly ways. It is a slow burning character study that emphasizes the atmospheric dread typical of the work of King.

‘I Am Mother’ (2019)

In a post apocalyptic bunker a teenage girl is raised by a robot designed to repopulate the earth after a mass extinction. Her world is challenged when an injured stranger arrives with news that contradicts everything she has been taught by her mechanical mother. The film is a sleek science fiction thriller that raises questions about ethics and the definition of humanity. It features a standout performance by Clara Rugaard and the voice work of Rose Byrne as the titular robot.

Tell us which Netflix original movie you have watched the most times in the comments.