Given how many addictive TV shows Netflix releases each month, I know watching a movie on the service almost sounds like a novel idea at this point.
Make no mistake though, Netflix is still the premiere destination for instant movie-streaming bliss. The service doesn’t seem to traffic in as many blockbusters as it used to, but that’s a good thing for movie lovers, because you get to discover captivating, small films you likely missed on the big screen. Netflix is full of underrated movies just waiting for you to fall in love with them.
From indie darlings to quirky comedies and spooky treats, there is at least one underappreciated movie on Netflix to please everyone.
The next time you find yourself staring down a search spiral that will inevitably end in you giving up and watching Love Actually again, treat yourself to one of the movies on this handy-dandy list I have crafted for you. I know it’s not quite the same as watching Colin Firth rock his fuzzy sweater of ennui, but these 17 movies are all delightful in their own way.
The best part is, you probably haven’t seen them yet, which is just what you need when you are trying to break out of a movie-night rut.
1. Big Eyes
This true story of artist Margaret Keane reclaiming ownership of her work is outstanding. Amy Adams gives one of her best performances to date as Keane, and thanks to director Tim Burton adding a small dash of his trademark whimsy, the movie has a dreamlike quality despite its very real roots.
2. A Royal Night Out
3. In Your Eyes
Perhaps the most underrated of all Joss Whedon’s works is this supernatural romance. The concept is odd, but if you allow yourself to accept the possibility that two people who had never met could share a profound psychic bond, then you fall hard for this evocative story of unconventional love.
4. Dope
5. Difret
There is nothing easy about Difret. Based on the true story of a 14-year-old Ethiopian girl who shot the man who tried to force her into marriage, the film is full of courageous women determined to enact change. It is a heavy film, but one you will never forget.
6. Batkid Begins
7. Trollhunter
If you like found footage horror movies like Paranormal Activity and The Blair Witch Project, then you are going to flip for Trollhunter. The Norwegian film is completely outlandish and way too entertaining for its own good, and, yes, you will see lots of the troll.
8. Jenny’s Wedding
9. The Invitation
10. Cairo Time
11. The Overnight
Another dinner party movie, but this one goes in a vastly different direction than The Invitation. If you need more reassurance that you are in for a good time, it stars Adam Scott and Taylor Schilling.
12. Chef
A cross-country road trip, the most beautiful shots of food you can imagine, and lots of father-son bonding — this movie has it all.
13. Instructions Not Included
When a bachelor finds out he is a father, he gives up everything to give his daughter the most beautiful life possible. Fair warning, this movie is designed to sucker punch you when you least expect it.
14. Secrets of War
War threatens the friendship of three children, but watching the bond between the young stars blossom is worth the heartache you know is coming.
15. Boy Meets Girl
A trans woman and her best friend slowly realize they are in love with each other in this sweet, funny, and groundbreaking film.
16. Ain’t Them Bodies Saints
17. Moonwalkers
Rupert Grint fakes the moon landing and it is so much fun.
You now have 17 good reasons to plan a movie night, so go forth and start popping the popcorn now.
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