The Best Hulu Movies of 2025 Ranked

Hulu has established itself as a premier destination for high quality cinema by offering a robust collection of Searchlight Pictures and 20th Century Studios releases alongside its original films. The 2025 streaming calendar featured a mix of prestigious award contenders and blockbuster hits that catered to diverse audiences. These films represent the pinnacle of storytelling on the platform providing viewers with exceptional performances and innovative direction. The following list identifies the best movies available on the service during the year based on critical reception and cultural impact.

‘Self Reliance’ (2024)

A man receives an invitation to win one million dollars by taking part in a reality television game where hunters attempt to kill him. The catch is that he can only be attacked when he is alone so he must find companions to stay with him at all times. This dark comedy explores themes of isolation and the human need for connection in the modern age. Jake Johnson stars in and directs this unique project that blends suspense with eccentric humor.

‘The Mill’ (2023)

A businessman wakes up in an open air prison cell with no memory of how he arrived there and only an ancient grist mill to keep him occupied. He is forced to work the mill under the watchful eye of an oppressive artificial intelligence that demands constant productivity. The film serves as a metaphor for corporate culture and the grueling nature of modern labor expectations. It relies on a strong central performance to maintain tension within its single location setting.

‘Clock’ (2023)

A woman enrolls in a clinical trial to fix her seemingly broken biological clock as she faces intense societal pressure to have children. The experimental treatment leads to terrifying hallucinations and psychological distress that blur the line between reality and anxiety. This horror film tackles the specific fears associated with reproductive expectations and bodily autonomy. The narrative uses supernatural elements to represent the internal struggle of choosing one’s own path in life.

‘Quasi’ (2023)

A hapless hunchback yearns for love but finds himself caught in the middle of a murderous feud between the Pope and the King of France. Each leader commands the protagonist to assassinate the other which creates a series of absurd and dangerous situations. Created by the Broken Lizard comedy troupe the film offers a satirical take on historical epics and religious institutions. It features the signature irreverent humor that fans of the group have come to expect.

‘The Greatest Hits’ (2024)

A young woman discovers that certain songs have the literal power to transport her back in time to specific moments with her late boyfriend. She uses this phenomenon to try and prevent the accident that took his life while navigating a new romance in the present day. The story examines the relationship between music and memory and how grief can keep a person stuck in the past. It balances elements of fantasy with a grounded emotional exploration of moving forward after loss.

‘Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge’ (2024)

This documentary provides an intimate look at the life and career of the legendary fashion designer who redefined female empowerment through her iconic wrap dress. It covers her journey from being a young princess to becoming a global fashion mogul and philanthropist. The film includes interviews with colleagues and family members to paint a comprehensive portrait of her influence on the industry. It highlights her resilience and determination to remain an independent force in a competitive world.

‘Brats’ (2024)

Director Andrew McCarthy explores the cultural phenomenon of the Brat Pack by reuniting with former co stars and examining the legacy of their 1980s films. The documentary looks at how the media label impacted the careers and personal lives of the young actors involved. It features archival footage and modern interviews to provide context on the era of coming of age cinema. The film serves as a nostalgic yet critical reflection on fame and the lasting power of teen movies.

‘Child Star’ (2024)

Demi Lovato makes her directorial debut with this documentary that examines the highs and lows of growing up in the spotlight of the entertainment industry. The film features conversations with other former child performers who share their personal experiences with fame and the transition to adulthood. It addresses the systemic issues and pressures faced by young celebrities while working for major networks. The narrative emphasizes the importance of mental health and support systems for those navigating the industry at a young age.

‘The Beach Boys’ (2024)

This documentary chronicles the legendary band from their humble family beginnings to their status as icons of the California sound. It features never before seen footage and new interviews with the surviving members and other influential musicians. The film explores the creative genius of Brian Wilson and the internal dynamics that shaped their most famous albums. It celebrates the enduring harmony and complex arrangements that defined their contribution to popular music history.

‘Jim Henson Idea Man’ (2024)

Ron Howard directs this comprehensive look at the life of the visionary creator behind the Muppets and other beloved characters. The film tracks his early experiments in puppetry and television through his massive success with global franchises. It utilizes private home movies and behind the scenes footage to show the tireless work ethic of the artist. The documentary illustrates how his imagination and kindness left an indelible mark on children and adults alike.

‘Boston Strangler’ (2023)

A reporter named Loretta McLaughlin becomes the first person to connect the dots and break the story of the notorious serial killer in the 1960s. She and her colleague Jean Cole brave the rampant sexism of the era to keep the public informed about the ongoing danger. The film focuses on the investigative process and the challenges faced by female journalists in a male dominated field. It provides a gritty and grounded look at a true crime story that gripped the city of Boston.

‘Next Goal Wins’ (2023)

A down on his luck football coach is sent to lead the American Samoa national team which is famous for a historic thirty to zero loss. He must adapt to the local culture and find a way to inspire the players to score just one goal in international competition. Directed by Taika Waititi the film uses humor and heart to tell an underdog story based on actual events. It emphasizes the importance of community and the joy of the game over traditional concepts of winning.

‘Chevalier’ (2023)

The film follows the incredible true story of Joseph Bologne who was the illegitimate son of an African slave and a French plantation owner. He rises through French society as a champion fencer and a virtuoso violinist before becoming a celebrated composer. His talent leads him into the inner circle of Marie Antoinette until a forbidden romance and racial tensions spark a personal revolution. This historical drama highlights a forgotten figure in classical music history through a lavish production.

‘Empire of Light’ (2022)

Set in an English seaside town during the early 1980s the story revolves around the employees of a grand old cinema. A woman struggling with her mental health finds an unexpected connection with a new coworker who is facing racial prejudice in the community. The film explores the healing power of movies and the importance of finding light in dark times. Sam Mendes directs this atmospheric drama that features a powerful lead performance by Olivia Colman.

‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’ (2021)

The legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday becomes a target of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics as they attempt to stop her from singing the protest song Strange Fruit. An undercover agent is assigned to infiltrate her life which leads to a complicated and tragic relationship. The film depicts her struggles with addiction and the systemic racism of the mid twentieth century. Andra Day delivers an Academy Award nominated performance that captures the strength and vulnerability of the musical icon.

‘Run’ (2020)

A homeschooled teenager who uses a wheelchair begins to suspect that her mother is keeping dark secrets about her medical condition and upbringing. Her quest for the truth turns into a high stakes game of survival as she tries to escape the confines of her home. The film is a tense psychological thriller that explores the terrifying side of maternal obsession. It features suspenseful sequences that highlight the resourcefulness of the young protagonist.

‘Happiest Season’ (2020)

A young woman plans to propose to her girlfriend at her family annual holiday party but discovers that her partner has not yet come out to her conservative parents. The couple must pretend to be roommates for the duration of the visit leading to awkward situations and emotional strain. The film is a romantic comedy that balances festive cheer with the real world challenges of identity and acceptance. It features a talented ensemble cast that brings both humor and sincerity to the holiday setting.

‘Big Time Adolescence’ (2019)

A teenage boy navigates the difficult years of high school while being heavily influenced by his older best friend who is a charismatic college dropout. The relationship leads to various misadventures and questionable choices that impact the boy growth and future. The film provides a realistic and often humorous look at the complexities of mentorship and peer pressure. It explores the transition into adulthood and the realization that childhood idols are often flawed individuals.

‘Suncoast’ (2024)

A teenager living with her strong willed mother must care for her seriously ill brother while also trying to navigate the social challenges of high school. During this difficult time she forms an unlikely friendship with an eccentric activist who is protesting a landmark medical case nearby. The story is a semi autobiographical drama that deals with themes of grief and the search for normalcy in a crisis. It captures the emotional weight of family responsibility during a formative period of life.

‘Rye Lane’ (2023)

Two strangers who are both reeling from bad breakups spend an eventful day together wandering through South London. They share stories and help each other confront their former partners while discovering a deep connection with one another. The film is a vibrant and colorful romantic comedy that celebrates the streets of Brixton and Peckham. It utilizes a playful visual style and sharp dialogue to breathe new life into the walking and talking subgenre.

‘Good Luck to You, Leo Grande’ (2022)

A retired teacher who has never experienced sexual satisfaction hires a young sex worker to help her explore her desires and body. Over the course of several meetings the two form a bond that goes beyond the professional arrangement as they share personal truths. The film is an intimate and honest exploration of pleasure and self acceptance in later life. It relies on the chemistry between the two leads to carry the narrative forward in a single hotel room setting.

‘Theater Camp’ (2023)

The eccentric staff of a scrappy theater camp in upstate New York must band together to save their beloved institution from financial ruin. They attempt to stage an ambitious original musical while managing a group of talented and demanding child performers. The film is a mockumentary style comedy that parodies the quirks and passions of the theater community. It features a high energy cast and musical numbers that celebrate the spirit of creative expression.

‘Not Okay’ (2022)

An ambitious young woman fakes a trip to Paris on social media to gain followers and influence but her lie spirals out of control when a real tragedy occurs in the city. She becomes a national hero for surviving an event she never attended and must maintain the deception as her fame grows. The film is a satire of influencer culture and the lengths people will go for online validation. It examines the ethical consequences of exploiting trauma for personal gain in the digital age.

‘Fresh’ (2022)

A woman who is frustrated with dating apps meets a charming man at a grocery store and decides to go on a weekend getaway with him. She soon discovers that her new suitor has unusual and horrifying appetites that put her life in immediate danger. The film is a stylized thriller that subverts traditional romantic comedy tropes with a dark and gory twist. It explores the modern anxieties of dating and the hidden dangers behind a perfect facade.

‘No One Will Save You’ (2023)

An exiled young woman living alone in her childhood home must fight for survival when extraterrestrial beings begin to invade her house. The film is unique for its almost total lack of spoken dialogue and focuses instead on physical storytelling and sound design. It blends home invasion tropes with classic science fiction elements to create a relentless atmosphere of dread. The narrative also delves into the protagonist past and the reasons for her isolation in the small town.

‘A Haunting in Venice’ (2023)

The retired detective Hercule Poirot attends a seance at a decaying palazzo in post World War Two Venice where one of the guests is murdered. He must come out of retirement to find the killer while questioning if the events have a supernatural origin. Directed by Kenneth Branagh the film is a dark and atmospheric adaptation of an Agatha Christie novel. It emphasizes a spooky and gothic tone that distinguishes it from previous entries in the series.

‘Palm Springs’ (2020)

Two wedding guests find themselves stuck in a mysterious time loop where they are forced to relive the same day over and over again. While one has been trapped for a long time and has given up hope the other is determined to find a way out of the cycle. They develop a unique bond as they experiment with the possibilities and consequences of a life without a future. The film is a clever and nihilistic take on the romantic comedy genre with a science fiction twist.

‘Fire Island’ (2022)

A group of best friends sets out for their annual week of vacation at a famous gay destination where they encounter social hierarchies and romantic drama. The story is a modern reimagining of Pride and Prejudice that explores themes of class and identity within the queer community. It balances raunchy humor with sincere moments of friendship and emotional growth. The film celebrates the importance of chosen family and the joy of being unapologetically oneself.

‘The Creator’ (2023)

In a future where humanity is at war with artificial intelligence a former special forces agent is recruited to hunt down and kill the architect of a new advanced weapon. He discovers that the weapon is actually an AI in the form of a young child and begins to question his mission and the nature of his enemy. The film features stunning visual effects and explores deep philosophical questions about consciousness and survival. It offers an original take on the science fiction epic with a grounded emotional core.

‘Prey’ (2022)

Set in the Comanche Nation three hundred years ago a young woman named Naru must protect her tribe against a highly evolved alien predator. She uses her tracking skills and ingenuity to hunt the creature that is hunting her people across the wilderness. The film serves as a prequel to the Predator franchise and focuses on a more primal and tactical form of combat. It was praised for its cultural authenticity and the strong physical performance of its lead actress.

‘Quiz Lady’ (2023)

Two estranged sisters must work together to pay off their mother gambling debts by helping the obsessed younger sister become a game show champion. Their journey involves a cross country road trip and a series of chaotic events that force them to reconcile their differences. The film is a comedy about family dynamics and the unexpected ways that people find their confidence. It features a comedic pairing of Awkwafina and Sandra Oh who bring contrasting energy to the story.

‘Flamin Hot’ (2023)

The film tells the inspirational true story of Richard Montañez who worked as a janitor at Frito Lay before coming up with the idea for Flamin Hot Cheetos. He used his Mexican American heritage and flavors to create a product that revolutionized the snack industry and saved the company. The narrative focuses on the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one’s roots. It serves as a classic success story about an underdog who changed the world through creativity.

‘Hold Your Breath’ (2024)

A mother in 1930s Oklahoma becomes convinced that a mysterious presence in the dust storms is threatening her family as they struggle to survive the Dust Bowl. The psychological horror film uses the harsh environmental conditions of the era to mirror the protagonist deteriorating mental state. As the storms worsen the line between physical danger and supernatural threat begins to disappear. It provides a haunting look at the intersection of historical tragedy and personal trauma.

‘Mr. Crocket’ (2024)

In the early 1990s a mother discovers that a demonic children show host is kidnapping kids through their television sets. She must embark on a terrifying journey to rescue her son from the warped world of the show before he is lost forever. The film combines nostalgic aesthetics with gruesome horror elements to create a unique viewing experience. it explores the anxieties of parenting and the hidden influences of media on young minds.

‘The First Omen’ (2024)

A young American woman is sent to Rome to begin a life of service to the church but she encounters a darkness that causes her to question her faith. She uncovers a terrifying conspiracy aimed at bringing about the birth of evil incarnate. This prequel to the classic horror franchise provides new context for the origins of the Antichrist. The film utilizes a slow burn psychological approach to build tension and deliver shocking revelations.

‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ (2024)

Many generations after the reign of Caesar a young ape embarks on a journey that will lead him to question everything he has been taught about the past. He must make choices that will define the future for both apes and humans as a new tyrannical leader begins to build an empire. The film continues the epic saga with impressive motion capture technology and a story that explores the legacy of leadership. It examines themes of freedom and the survival of the fittest in a changing world.

‘Alien: Romulus’ (2024)

A group of young space colonists scavenging a derelict space station comes face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. They must use their limited resources and wits to survive the relentless pursuit of the creature in the dark corridors of the ship. The film returns the franchise to its horror roots with a focus on claustrophobia and suspense. It was noted for its use of practical effects and its respect for the established lore of the series.

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (2024)

The Merc with a Mouth finds himself teaming up with a reluctant Wolverine on a mission that spans across the multiverse. They must navigate a series of chaotic encounters with familiar faces while trying to save the timeline from a major threat. The film features the signature fourth wall breaking humor and high octane action that fans expect from the characters. It serves as a landmark crossover event that brings together two of the most popular figures in superhero cinema.

‘Kinds of Kindness’ (2024)

Director Yorgos Lanthimos presents a triptych of stories that explore themes of power and control and the absurd nature of human relationships. The film features a recurring cast playing different roles across three distinct and increasingly strange narratives. It utilizes a deadpan comedic style and unsettling imagery to challenge the expectations of the audience. The stories examine the lengths to which individuals will go to please others or find a sense of belonging.

‘Nickel Boys’ (2024)

Based on the acclaimed novel the story follows two Black teenagers at a reform school in Florida during the 1960s. They form a close bond as they endure the systemic abuse and horrific conditions of the institution. The film is a powerful examination of the lasting impact of racial injustice and the strength of the human spirit. It uses a unique visual perspective to immerse the viewer in the daily struggles and hopes of the young protagonists.

‘Small Things Like These’ (2024)

A devoted father and coal merchant in a small Irish town discovers disturbing secrets kept by the local convent during the Christmas season of 1985. His discovery forces him to confront his own past and the complicity of the community in the face of institutional wrongdoing. The film is a quiet and reflective drama that focuses on the moral weight of a single individual choice. Cillian Murphy delivers a nuanced performance as a man grappling with his conscience in a repressed society.

‘The Last Showgirl’ (2024)

A veteran showgirl in Las Vegas must plan for her future after her long running show abruptly closes after thirty years. As she struggles to reconcile her identity with the changing times she attempts to repair her relationship with her estranged daughter. The film provides a poignant look at the fleeting nature of fame and the dignity of those who work behind the scenes of the entertainment capital. It features a career defining performance that captures the resilience of a performer at a crossroads.

‘Conclave’ (2024)

Following the sudden death of the Pope the Cardinals of the Catholic Church gather in seclusion to elect a new leader. The process is quickly overshadowed by secrets and scandals that threaten to tear the institution apart from within. The film is a high stakes political thriller set within the ancient traditions of the Vatican. It explores the conflict between faith and ambition as different factions vie for the future of the church.

‘Anora’ (2024)

A young sex worker from Brooklyn gets a chance at a Cinderella story when she meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Her dream is quickly threatened when the news reaches Russia and the groom parents head to New York to annul the marriage. The film is a high energy odyssey that blends comedy and drama with a frantic pace. It examines the realities of class and the transactional nature of modern romance through the eyes of its fierce protagonist.

‘A Complete Unknown’ (2024)

The film chronicles the early years of Bob Dylan as he arrives in New York City with nothing but his guitar and his talent. It follows his rapid rise in the folk music scene and the controversy that erupted when he decided to go electric. The story explores the pressure of being the voice of a generation and the restless spirit of a true artist. Timothée Chalamet portrays the legendary musician in a performance that captures his enigmatic personality and creative drive.

‘Nightbitch’ (2024)

A woman who pauses her career to be a stay at home mother begins to suspect that she is physically transforming into a dog. This surreal dark comedy examines the primal and often isolating nature of motherhood in the modern world. The narrative uses body horror elements to represent the protagonist internal struggle with her identity and desires. It offers a unique and visceral perspective on the domestic experience and the wildness that lies beneath the surface of daily life.

‘All of Us Strangers’ (2023)

A screenwriter living in a nearly empty London apartment building develops a relationship with a mysterious neighbor while being drawn back to his childhood home. He discovers that his parents appear to be living exactly as they were on the day they died thirty years ago. The film is a deeply emotional exploration of grief and love and the things we leave unsaid to those we lost. It features heartbreaking performances that resonate with anyone who has experienced the longing for more time with family.

‘Poor Things’ (2023)

A young woman is brought back to life by an unorthodox scientist and embarks on a whirlwind journey of self discovery across continents. Free from the prejudices of her times she grows increasingly firm in her purpose to stand for equality and liberation. The film is a visually stunning and provocative reimagining of the Frankenstein story with a feminist twist. Emma Stone stars in a bold performance that explores the complexities of human nature and social evolution.

‘A Real Pain’ (2024)

Two cousins with very different personalities travel to Poland to visit their grandmother birthplace and join a Holocaust tour. Their journey through the historical sites of their heritage forces them to confront their own personal failings and their strained relationship. The film balances sharp humor with profound sadness as it examines how people process collective and individual trauma. It is a masterful character study that highlights the importance of empathy and the weight of history in the present day.

Please share your thoughts on these Hulu favorites in the comments.