‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ and Every Other Movie Coming to and Leaving Netflix This Week

Netflix updates its streaming catalog this week with a diverse lineup of international originals and blockbuster hits between December 8 and December 14. Subscribers can anticipate the premiere of the third Benoit Blanc mystery alongside a new comedy from Indonesian filmmaker Ernest Prakasa. The schedule also features a Saudi Arabian satirical film and a heartwarming documentary about a Ugandan dance troupe. Several popular comedies are set to depart the service mid-week to make space for these new additions.

‘Elmo and Mark Rober’s Merry Giftmas’ (2025)

This holiday special arrives on the platform on December 8 to entertain families with science experiments and festive cheer. Sesame Street favorite Elmo teams up with former NASA engineer Mark Rober to explore the mechanics behind gift giving. They work together to create gadgets that help Santa Claus deliver presents more efficiently. The program combines educational STEM concepts with traditional holiday themes to engage younger audiences.

‘Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within’ (2025)

Viewers can stream this uplifting music documentary starting December 9. The film follows the Masaka Kids Africana dance troupe from Uganda as they share their personal stories of resilience and hope through dance. It highlights how music serves as a healing tool for these talented children who have overcome significant adversity. The production showcases vibrant performances and offers an intimate look at their daily lives and global impact.

‘The Fakenapping’ (2025)

This Saudi Arabian comedy lands on the streaming service on December 11 and centers on a chaotic scheme gone wrong. The plot follows a failed entrepreneur named Sattam who stages his own kidnapping to solve his financial troubles. Complications arise when he involves his friends and attempts to extort money from his wealthy but stingy father. The film explores the humorous consequences of deceit and the unpredictable nature of family dynamics.

‘Lost in the Spotlight’ (2025)

Ernest Prakasa directs this Indonesian comedy drama that premieres on December 11. The story follows a celebrated actor who inexplicably loses his ability to act just as he lands a prestigious role playing the President. He must embark on a journey of self-discovery to understand his identity beyond his public persona and accolades. The film stars Vino G. Bastian and examines the immense pressure of living under the constant gaze of fame.

‘The Fanatic’ (2020)

John Travolta stars in this psychological thriller becoming available on December 12. The story concerns an obsessed film fan named Moose who stalks his favorite action hero Hunter Dunbar. Moose turns to stalking after he feels slighted during a chance encounter and his admiration turns into a dangerous fixation. The narrative explores the dark side of celebrity worship and the instability of a man living on the edge of reality.

‘House of Gucci’ (2021)

Ridley Scott directs this biographical crime drama that joins the platform on December 12. Lady Gaga and Adam Driver star as Patrizia Reggiani and Maurizio Gucci in a story about the unraveling of a fashion dynasty. The film depicts the events leading up to the shocking murder of the head of the Gucci fashion house. It explores themes of greed and betrayal within one of the most famous families in Italy.

‘The Hustle’ (2019)

Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson team up in this comedy arriving on December 12. The two actresses play con artists from very different backgrounds who compete to swindle a tech billionaire. It serves as a gender flipped remake of the classic film ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ set in the French Riviera. Their rivalry escalates into a series of elaborate schemes that test their skills and patience.

‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2025)

Benoit Blanc returns to solve another complex case in this original film premiering on December 12. Rian Johnson writes and directs this third installment which features a new ensemble cast including Josh O’Connor and Josh Brolin. The detective finds himself investigating a murder that exposes deep secrets and dangerous lies within a small parish community. This release marks one of the most significant additions to the streaming library this year.

‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ (1999)

Matt Damon delivers a chilling performance in this psychological thriller arriving on December 13. The film follows Tom Ripley as he travels to Italy to retrieve a wealthy playboy named Dickie Greenleaf. Ripley becomes obsessed with Dickie’s lavish lifestyle and takes extreme measures to assume his identity. Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow co star in this adaptation of the Patricia Highsmith novel.

‘PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie’ (2023)

Young viewers can watch the Adventure City pups gain superpowers on December 14. A magical meteor crash lands in the city and grants the team new abilities to fight their arch rival Humdinger. Skye faces her insecurities while leading the team against a mad scientist who wants to steal their powers. The animated adventure emphasizes teamwork and the importance of believing in oneself.

‘Daddy’s Home 2’ (2017)

This holiday comedy sequel is scheduled to leave Netflix on December 10. Dusty and Brad join forces to provide their children with the perfect Christmas until their own fathers arrive to cause chaos. Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell reprise their roles alongside Mel Gibson and John Lithgow. The movie focuses on the generational clashes that threaten to ruin their holiday plans.

‘Daddy’s Home’ (2015)

Subscribers have until December 10 to watch the original installment of this comedy franchise. A mild mannered stepfather competes for the affection of his stepchildren when their biological father returns. The rivalry between the two men escalates into outrageous stunts and embarrassing situations. It establishes the comedic dynamic between the co parenting protagonists.

Please share your thoughts on which new release you are most excited to watch in the comments.