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The best movies on Max right now

A closeup of Christopher Reeve as Clark Kent in promo art for Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story.
Warner Bros. Pictures, DC Studios

Max’s library consistently adds some of the best content available, making it an excellent place to stream the best movies. The streaming platform is more than just the sheer size of its library, as it offers countless hours’ worth of quality entertainment for subscribers.

Max has movies to suit anyone’s tastes, including fantasy, sci-fi, superhero adventures, comedy, and everything in between. Even so, that variety can make it tough for new subscribers to narrow their choices. Thankfully, we do the hard work for you, as this monthly updated guide focuses on recent additions to highlight some of the best movies on Max right now.

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In need of some more streaming recommendations? We also have guides to the best new movies to stream, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, and the best movies on Disney+ that are worth looking through. 

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (2024)

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
104m
Genre
Documentary, Drama
Stars
Christopher Reeve, Dana Reeve, Matthew Reeve
Directed by
Ian Bonhôte, Peter Ettedgui
Watch on max

Creature Commandos on Max may have soft-launched James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Universe, but Warner Bros.’ superhero division already has a powerful documentary film to its name. Co-directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story chronicles the eponymous Superman actor’s rise to fame, tragic injury, and compassionate activism. 

Aside from playing one of the most aspirational characters in pop culture, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story does a superb job of recounting the late actor’s heroics off the silver screen. From his loving family to social activism for disability health care research and rights, Super/Man is one of the most sincere documentaries of 2024.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024)

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
105m
Genre
Comedy, Fantasy, Horror
Stars
Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara
Directed by
Tim Burton
Watch on max

Sequels to decades-old movies are far from novel at this point, but Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is worth the watch. On top of Tim Burton returning to the director’s chair, this sequel sees Winona Ryder’s Lydia Deetz, now grown and a mother, struggle to keep her family together in the aftermath of a tragedy. 

The story takes a zanier turn when her daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega) accidentally opens a portal to the afterlife — all while Michael Keaton’s Beetlejuice still haunts Lydia. It would have been easy for a movie like Beetlejuice Beetlejuice to become nothing more than nostalgia pandering, but this sequel feels like a welcome comeback. Burton’s eye for ghoulish, practical visuals and larger-than-life characters shines even 30-plus years after the original.

The Goonies (1985)

The Goonies
62%
7.7/10
114m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Family
Stars
Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen
Directed by
Richard Donner
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While not the most acclaimed movie from the 1980s, The Goonies received a positive reception and has since become a cult classic. Directed by Richard Donner and co-written by Steven Spielberg and Chris Columbus, the story follows seven kids (Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Corey Feldman, Jeff Cohen, Kerri Green, Ke Huy Quan, and Martha Plimpton) in an Astoria, Oregon, neighborhood.

While attempting to rescue their homes from foreclosure, the kids’ initial plans evolve into a treasure hunt for a 17th-century pirate’s fabled fortune. The Goonies holds up as a crowd-pleaser for all ages thanks to its brand of adventure. The movie’s whimsy, sense of humor, and charming characters are all well-balanced by Donner’s direction. Additionally, they showcase the hallmarks of a classic Spielberg adventure story.

Dune: Part Two (2024)

Dune: Part Two
167m
Genre
Science Fiction, Adventure
Stars
Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson
Directed by
Denis Villeneuve
Watch on max

Following director Denis Villeneuve’s successful first adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi novel, he raises the bar with Dune: Part Two. Adapting roughly the second half of Herbert’s book, this sequel sees Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) and his mother, Lady Jessica, become more intertwined with the Fremen people of Arrakis. Together, they mount an offensive against the incursions of the ruthless House Harkonnen.

Dune: Part Two elevates everything that made the first movie successful, from its breathtaking scope, visuals, drama, and stellar ensemble performances. Villeneuve continues to demonstrate his intimate knowledge of the acclaimed source material, vividly giving this gritty sci-fi world life.

Jurassic Park (1993)

Jurassic Park
127m
Genre
Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum
Directed by
Steven Spielberg
Watch on max

Steven Spielberg is a legendary name in Hollywood, and Jurassic Park easily ranks among the director’s top 10 films. An adaptation of Michael Crichton’s novel, the movie sees Dr. Alan Grant, Dr. Ellie Sattler, and Dr. Ian Malcolm tour a prehistoric theme park that’s done the impossible. 

Spearheaded by John Hammond, Jurassic Park brings dinosaurs back to life in wondrous fashion, only for behind-the-scenes scheming to turn it into a nightmare. Even after 31 years, Jurassic Park holds up as one of the most awe-inspiring sci-fi blockbusters ever. On top of a riveting story and spectacular action, the blend of CGI and animatronic technology gives the dinosaurs a timeless quality.

GoodFellas (1990)

GoodFellas
145m
Genre
Drama, Crime
Stars
Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci
Directed by
Martin Scorsese
Watch on max

Director Martin Scorsese is responsible for some of the best mobster crime dramas ever, and Goodfellas makes a strong case as being his best work. The biographical movie chronicles Henry Hill’s (Ray Liotta) rise through the mobster ranks and his disastrous fall. 

In addition to Hill, it follows his friends — including Robert De Niro’s Jimmy Conway and Joe Pesci’s Tommy DeVito — from 1955 to 1980. A cinematic classic, Goodfellas is an engrossing experience through the cutthroat nature of the criminal underworld. Liotta’s performance elevates the plot, dynamically portraying every key stage in the mobster’s life.

Unstoppable (2010)

Unstoppable
98m
Genre
Action, Thriller
Stars
Denzel Washington, Chris Pine, Rosario Dawson
Directed by
Tony Scott
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For some high-octane action, 2010’s Unstoppable is a must-watch highlight from that decade. Starring Chris Pine as train conductor Will Colson and Denzel Washington as railroad engineer Frank Barnes, it follows the pair’s attempts to stop a runaway freight train. 

Unstoppable is a great example of a movie that excels in its simplicity. The straightforward premise offers plenty of high-stakes thrills, and it’s led by the magnetic performances of its co-leads. Unstoppable knows exactly what it wants to be — a loud, nerve-wracking thriller — which is always an admirable quality in an action movie.

Elf (2003)

Elf
97m
Genre
Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Stars
Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart
Directed by
Jon Favreau
Watch on max

Since November is upon us and Thanksgiving has yet to arrive, that can only mean early Christmas celebrations are in order. That makes Jon Favreau’s Elf a must-watch. The movie follows Buddy (Ferrell), a human raised by Santa Claus’ elves who travels to New York City to discover his biological dad.

Holiday-themed or otherwise, Elf is easily one of the best comedies of the 2000s. It cemented itself as a modern Christmas classic thanks to Farrell’s most endearing performance and and its earnest brand of comedy.

It (2017)

It
135m
Genre
Horror
Stars
Jaeden Martell, Sophia Lillis, Jack Dylan Grazer
Directed by
Andy Muschietti
Watch on max

Looking for more Stephen King-inspired movies for the Halloween season? Wedl, 2017’s It adaptation is a fitting choice. Directed by Andy Muschietti (The Flash, Mama), the story follows seven kids stalked by the horrific titular entity (Bill Skarsgård) that takes the form of “Pennywise the Clown.” 

On top of the supernatural terror the children endure, they’ll also be forced to do some serious introspection. Muschietti’s, It is praised as one of the best Stephen King adaptations, with the visuals and Skarsgård’s chilling performance being the highlights. In addition, the movie’s young ensemble does a great job of being the story’s emotional core.

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

Everything Everywhere All at Once
140m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan
Directed by
Daniel Scheinert, Daniel Kwan
Watch on max

Everything Everywhere All at Once was another hit for A24. Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, EEAAO focuses on Evelyn Quan Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a Chinese-American immigrant being audited by the IRS. That sets the stage for something far more absurd, as Evelyn delves into the multiverse, meeting her alternate selves and saving the world from an imposing being.

Everything Everywhere All at Once was universally lauded, winning seven of the 11 Academy Awards it was nominated for, including Best Picture, Best Actress (Yeoh), Supporting Actress (Jamie Lee Curtis), and Supporting Actor (Ke Huy Quan). It’s a frenetic combination of genres, including surreal sci-fi elements, martial arts, and outlandish comedy. However, it also poignantly touches on themes of familial trauma that make this bizarre concept feel intimate.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
161m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy
Stars
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
Directed by
Chris Columbus
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The Harry Potter franchise remains a blockbuster property, and the film series holds up. Director Chris Columbus’ sophomore entry, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, chronicles the young protagonist’s (Daniel Radcliffe) second year at Hogwarts. 

With Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) by his side, Harry faces a monstrosity unleashed from the chamber by the Heir of Salazar Slytherin. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets was well-received for its tasteful adaptation of the book and the young cast’s endearing performances. The story is notably darker than its predecessor, but thanks to the aforementioned cast, Columbus’ deft direction, and stunning visuals, Chamber of Secrets remains accessible to all audiences.

The Martian (2015)

The Martian
141m
Genre
Drama, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig
Directed by
Ridley Scott
Watch on max

Bizarre comedy-centric accolades aside, The Martian is a compelling sci-fi movie. The Ridley Scott movie stars Matt Damon as astronaut Dr. Mark Watney as he struggles to survive amid Mars’ grueling environment. The astronaut and botanist is left behind to fend for himself and is presumed dead for a time by NASA. 

The Martian is one of director Ridley Scott’s best movies of the modern era, lauded for its breathtaking visuals and gripping plot. Even with a solid premise, it’s hard to imagine this sci-fi drama without Damon’s tension-filled performance, which sells Watney’s dire situation.

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

Sherlock Holmes
129m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Crime, Mystery
Stars
Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams
Directed by
Guy Ritchie
Watch on max

Between his Oscar-winning performance in Oppenheimer and his upcoming MCU return as Dr. Doom, Robert Downey Jr. remains among the biggest names in Hollywood. Outside of historical figures and comic book icons, he also played Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective in 2009’s Sherlock Holmes. Directed by Guy Ritchie, Sherlock Holmes follows the eccentric detective and his companion Dr. John Watson (Jude Law) as they attempt to stop a seemingly supernatural conspiracy. 

Serial killer Lord Henry Blackwood (Mark Strong) attempts to use occult magic to control all of Britain. Sherlock Holmes’ character invites countless revisions, and Ritchie’s take balances the right amount of action, mystery, and humor to stand out. It’s the perfect combination for Downey Jr., which is why it’s no surprise this is one of his most memorable roles.

Amélie (2001)

Amélie
122m
Genre
Comedy, Romance
Stars
Audrey Tautou, Mathieu Kassovitz, Rufus
Directed by
Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Watch on max

Fans of romance and comedy will be well-served with 2001’s Amélie. Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, the story is set in Paris and follows the quirky and shy waitress Amélie Poulain (Audrey Tautou) as she sets out to make some lifestyle changes. 

She aspires to brighten the lives of those around her while grappling with her own sense of loneliness. Amélie received widespread praise for its whimsical plot, vibrant art direction, and Tautou’s spirited performance. The movie will satisfy audiences looking for an upbeat romantic comedy and artistic film buffs alike.

How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

How to Train Your Dragon
98m
Genre
Fantasy, Adventure, Animation, Family
Stars
Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson
Directed by
Dean DeBlois, Chris Sanders
Watch on max

While DreamWorks doesn’t quite have the same prestige status as Pixar, movies like How to Train Your Dragon prove it’s still a big name in animation. Directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, and based on Cressida Cowell’s children’s book, the movie is set in a fantasy world where Vikings have a hostile dynamic with dragons. 

That changes when the teenage Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), in trying to become a dragon slayer, befriends one he names Toothless. How to Train Your Dragon earns its acclaim and is one of DreamWorks’ best movies to date. The film’s animation quality holds up remarkably, and its story is surprisingly dramatic and insightful thanks to its theme of humanity’s relationship with wildlife.

Beetlejuice (1988)

Beetlejuice
70%
7.5/10
92m
Genre
Fantasy, Comedy
Stars
Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Winona Ryder
Directed by
Tim Burton
Watch on max

Tim Burton is well-known for his gothic-inspired style, and Beetlejuice is one of the best examples of this. The plot follows the recently deceased married couple Barbara and Adam Maitland (Geena Davis, Alec Baldwin), who become trapped in their own house as ghosts. To scare away their house’s new inhabitants, the pair hires the freelance bio-exorcist Betelgeuse (Michael Keaton). 

Beetlejuice received positive reviews and holds up as a 1980s classic that deftly blends horror and comedy. The delightfully bizarre mix of humor, fantasy, and horror is a Burton trademark. It’s the perfect time for new audiences to watch it too, as the sequel premieres this September.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
158m
Genre
Thriller, Crime, Mystery
Stars
Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer
Directed by
David Fincher
Watch on max

David Fincher is one of the most celebrated auteur directors, known for intense crime movies like Seven and Zodiac. In 2011, Fincher did his take on author Stieg Larsson’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. The plot revolves around journalist Mikael Blomkvist’s (Daniel Craig) investigation into the disappearance of a girl from a wealthy family 40 years ago. 

To help uncover this mystery, Blomkvist enlists the help of computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara). The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo earned an excellent critical reception for its unraveling plot and standout performances by co-leads Craig and Mara. Fans of David Fincher’s earlier work will enjoy this movie, as it has all the hallmarks of the director’s style from cinematography to grim atmosphere.

Raging Bull (1980)

Raging Bull
129m
Genre
Drama
Stars
Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty, Joe Pesci
Directed by
Martin Scorsese
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Killers of the Flower Moon director Martin Scorsese leads an incredible legacy in Hollywood, and his classic Raging Bull is a testament to this. The 1980 movie tells the story of former athlete Jake LaMotta’s (Robert De Niro) rise and fall from grace as a middleweight boxer. 

After leading a life fraught with violence, anger, and jealousy, LaMotta sees his personal and professional life crumble around him. Adapted from the boxer’s 1970 memoir, Scorsese’s Raging Bull stands as one of the most compelling sports dramas ever. Backed by De Niro’s visceral performance, Raging Bull is a brutal yet captivating watch.

Gattaca (1997)

Gattaca
106m
Genre
Thriller, Science Fiction, Mystery, Romance
Stars
Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Jude Law
Directed by
Andrew Niccol
Watch on max

Director Andrew Niccol’s Gattaca is a sci-fi cult classic from the ’90s. The movie is set in a dystopic yet not-so-distant future where reproduction is governed by eugenics technologies. Meanwhile, Vincent Freeman (Ethan Hawke), a man conceived outside of this disturbing eugenics program, faces genetic discrimination keeping him from realizing his ambitions of space exploration.

Gattaca was an ambitious sci-fi movie for its time for how it tackled ethical dilemmas of humanity “playing god” as technology evolved without checks in place. The dystopic movie’s art direction earned it an Academy Award nomination in 1997, and its visuals remain impressive today.

Lady Bird (2017)

Lady Bird
94m
Genre
Drama, Comedy
Stars
Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts
Directed by
Greta Gerwig
Watch on max

Greta Gerwig earned mainstream success with last year’s summer blockbuster Barbie, but her earlier catalog has other terrific movies like Lady Bird. Directed and written by Gerwig, the story follows a high school senior named Christine McPherson (Saoirse Ronan) who has a dysfunctional relationship with her mother, Marion (Laurie Metcalf).

The strong-willed and artistic Christine sees her dynamic with her mother further strained as she prepares to attend college. Lady Bird received critical acclaim for its deeply resonating plot. Gerwig’s direction and writing combined with Ronan and Metcalf’s charged performances make this an impactful coming-of-age drama.

Wanted (2008)

Wanted
110m
Genre
Action, Thriller, Crime
Stars
James McAvoy, Angelina Jolie, Morgan Freeman
Directed by
Timur Bekmambetov
Watch on max

An adaptation of Mark Millar and J. G. Jones’ comic book series, Wanted is a fast-paced action thriller. Directed by Timur Bekmambetov, the story sees Wesley Gibson (James McAvoy) try to join a secret society of elite assassins called the Fraternity.

He meets Fox (Angelina Jolie), an accomplished member of this organization, who recruits him to work under its leader Mr. Sloan (Morgan Freeman). Like Mark Millar’s source material, Wanted succeeds in its bombastic and action-first approach. The movie was critically well-received for the story’s quick pacing and the heavily stylized action set pieces, which must be seen to be believed.

The Iron Claw (2023)

The Iron Claw
132m
Genre
Drama, History
Stars
Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson
Directed by
Sean Durkin
Watch on max

A24’s The Iron Claw is a tense biographical sports drama. Directed by Sean Durkin, it depicts the successes and tragedies of the Von Erich family in their pursuit of glory in professional wrestling. Starring Zac Efron as Kevin, The Bear‘s Jeremy Allen White as Kerry, Harris Dickinson as David, and Stanley Simons as Mike, the movie portrays the brothers’ collective suffering from their father Fritz’s (Holt McCallany) grooming for the sport.

The Iron Claw earned immense praise for its emotionally raw storytelling and tasteful dramatization of the Von Erich family’s heart-wrenching story. Zac Efron’s performance was particularly lauded, cited as his career-best role and one of the most passionately played in the movie.

The Lighthouse (2019)

The Lighthouse
109m
Genre
Drama, Fantasy, Thriller
Stars
Robert Pattinson, Willem Dafoe, Valeriia Karaman
Directed by
Robert Eggers
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Director Robert Eggers’ The Lighthouse is one of the most inventive dramas in recent years. The plot follows 19th-century lighthouse keepers Ephraim Winslow (The Batman 2′s Robert Pattinson) and Thomas Wake (Poor Things‘ Willem Dafoe). The two find themselves stranded on a remote New England outpost after a devastating storm, with their mental faculties deteriorating from the isolation.

The Lighthouse earned widespread acclaim for its brutally tense atmosphere and commanding co-leading performances from Pattinson and Dafoe. The movie is an inspired mash-up of various genres, ranging from drama and thriller to psychological horror.

Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)

Hellboy II: The Golden Army
120m
Genre
Fantasy, Adventure, Action
Stars
Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones
Directed by
Guillermo del Toro
Watch on max

While the 2000s were understandably dominated by Spider-Man, the X-Men, and Batman, the Hellboy duology deserves more praise. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, Hellboy II: The Golden Army sees the titular superhero (Ron Perlman) and his team at the Bureau of Paranormal Research and Defense fight against the resurgent forces of a mythical underworld prince who is amassing the Golden Army to reclaim Earth from humanity.

Though it didn’t take the box office by storm, Hellboy II: The Golden Army garnered a strong critical reception for its imaginative take on this comic book universe. Del Toro is a well-known auteur director, and his eye for fantasy and horror combines perfectly with creator Mike Mignola’s weird world.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)

The Killing of a Sacred Deer
121m
Genre
Drama, Thriller, Mystery
Stars
Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, Barry Keoghan
Directed by
Yorgos Lanthimos
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From Poor Things director Yorgos Lanthimos, The Killing of a Sacred Deer is another thoughtfully made thriller. Famed cardiac surgeon Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell) lives a picturesque suburban life with his wife, Anna (Nicole Kidman). However, this idealized lifestyle of his is disrupted in eerie ways by Martin Lang (Saltburn‘s Barry Keoghan), a fatherless teenager with a connection to Steven’s past.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer received a positive critical reception for Lanthimos’ uncompromising approach to his surreal directing style. Complemented by an impressive main cast, the movie is an exciting horror-thriller with an unforgettable aesthetic.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
152m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy
Stars
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
Directed by
Chris Columbus
Watch on max

The Harry Potter franchise’s global juggernaut status is partly due to the film series’ critical success. Directed by Chris Columbus, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone — or Philosopher’s Stone, alternatively — adapts the first book in author J.K. Rowling’s acclaimed series. After living in his abusive uncle and aunt’s house, young Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) discovers he’s a powerful wizard and embarks on his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

He meets various characters, including his endearing friends Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint). Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was praised for its tasteful balance of faithfulness to the book and condensing it to fit into a satisfying feature-length runtime. More than that, its main cast was lauded for their charm and heartfelt performances.

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
113m
Genre
Action, Comedy, Romance
Stars
Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Ellen Wong
Directed by
Edgar Wright
Watch on max

While it was a box-office bomb when it released in 2010, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World developed into a cult classic thanks to its strong critical reception. Director Edgar Wright’s take on this universe does justice to Bryan Lee O’Malley’s comic book series, telling the story of musician Scott Pilgrim’s (Michael Cera) efforts to win a music competition and a record deal.

At the same time, Scott has to fend off the seven evil exes of his girlfriend, Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). Though it has a straightforward plot, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World elevates it with colorful comic book-like imagery and lively performances. The movie leans into its larger-than-life nature and is complemented by its quirky humor.

Black Swan (2010)

Black Swan
108m
Genre
Drama, Thriller, Horror
Stars
Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel
Directed by
Darren Aronofsky
Watch on max

Director Darren Aronofsky is famed for his frighteningly surreal brand of horror and thrills, with Black Swan being his highlight from the 2010s. Based on an original story by co-writer Andres Heinz, the plot centers around two ballet dancers, Nina Sayers (May December‘s Natalie Portman) and Lily (Mila Kunis), cast as the White and Black Swans, respectively, for a production of Swan Lake.

This premise unravels into something far bleaker when Nina succumbs to the relentless pressure of competition, leading to her struggling to separate fiction from reality and Lily becoming far more than her on-stage counterpart. Black Swan earned critical acclaim for its unsettlingly clever spin on Swan Lake and for using its premise to explore the concept of looming doppelgangers. Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis’ chemistry earned the strongest plaudits, as the former won the Academy Award for Best Actress.

Good Time (2017)

Good Time
102m
Genre
Crime, Thriller
Stars
Robert Pattinson, Benny Safdie, Buddy Duress
Directed by
Josh Safdie, Benny Safdie
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After the financially lucrative Twilight franchise came to an end theatrically, Robert Pattinson tested his acting mettle in a series of unique indie movies. Josh and Benny Safdie’s Good Time was among the greatest standouts, following the story of a petty criminal (Pattinson) who tries to free his developmentally disabled brother (Benny Safdie) from prison after an attempted robbery goes wrong.

Good Time is an excellent small-scale crime drama and keeps a frenetic energy throughout this story. It also further proves how much of a chameleon Pattinson is as an actor, with his character Connie Nikas being palpably hateable in the role and notably different than other characters he’s played.

The Revenant (2015)

The Revenant
157m
Genre
Western, Drama, Adventure
Stars
Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Domhnall Gleeson
Directed by
Alejandro González Iñárritu
Watch on max

Director Alejandro González Iñárritu’s The Revenant will always be at least partly known for getting Leonardo DiCaprio his first acting Oscar Award, but it’s compelling in its own right as well.

Loosely based on author Michael Punke’s novel of the same name, the movie is centered around a revenge story, as frontiersman Hugh Glass survives a brutal bear attack and hunts down the men who left him to die. The Revenant is filled with striking camera shots and bolstered by DiCaprio’s visceral performance, with Tom Hardy playing a convincing antagonist alongside him. The movie’s runtime and pacing can occasionally feel drawn out, but overall, it’s a gripping tale of vengeance.

RoboCop (1987)

RoboCop
102m
Genre
Action, Thriller, Science Fiction
Stars
Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, Dan O'Herlihy
Directed by
Paul Verhoeven
Watch on max

Arguably actor Peter Weller’s most iconic theatrical role, 1987’s RoboCop is a classic sci-fi action movie of the era. The Paul Verhoeven-directed story follows police officer Alex Murphy (played by Weller) in a crime-infested Detroit set in a dystopic sci-fi future. The officer is murdered in a gang attack but is later revived by the corporation Omni Consumer Products to experiment with their titular “RoboCop” initiative.

Together with Ridley Scott’s 1982 film Blade Runner, RoboCop helped bolster the cyberpunk subgenre, with the movie having an impressive level of nuance. While the cartoonishly over-the-top action certainly draws appeal on its own, RoboCop uses its titular cyborg protagonist to explore themes of what it means to lose one’s humanity, as well as a bold critique of corporate corruption and the real-world economic policies driving the U.S. at the time.

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Mad Max: Fury Road
121m
Genre
Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Stars
Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult
Directed by
George Miller
Watch on max

The long-awaited prequel Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga finally has a trailer out and a release date set, making director George Miller’s Mad Max: Fury Road the perfect watch for the uninitiated. A reboot of the classic film series starring Mel Gibson, Fury Road sees Tom Hardy (Bronson, Warrior, The Dark Knight Rises) as the titular protagonist teaming up with Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) in a rebellion against the brutal cult leader Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne).

The movie proved to be an excellent reboot of the franchise, bolstered by a tense story, jaw-dropping action set pieces, and impressive cinematography. Mad Max: Fury Road stands as one of the most impressive dystopian sci-fi movies of the modern era.

Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989)

Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure
90m
Genre
Adventure, Comedy, Science Fiction
Stars
Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, George Carlin
Directed by
Stephen Herek
Watch on max

Director Stephen Herek’s Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure is a cult-classic romp from the ’80s that’s fondly remembered today. The sci-fi comedy stars Keanu Reeves as Ted Logan and Alex Winter as Bill Preston, two high-school slackers who embark on a time-traveling journey to pass their history class and fulfill their future of becoming utopian paragons.

Accompanied by the time-traveler Rufus (George Carlin), the movie boasts an endearing cast of characters that help make for a charming sci-fi comedy. Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure remains a delightfully goofy adventure today that will satisfy those looking for some ’80s nostalgia. This movie is also responsible for breaking Keanu Reeves’ career into the mainstream.

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

The Devil Wears Prada
109m
Genre
Comedy, Drama, Romance
Stars
Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt
Directed by
David Frankel
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Adapted from the novel of the same name by Lauren Weisberger, director David Frankel’s The Devil Wears Prada became a mid-2000s classic. The movie revolves around recent college graduate Andy Sachs (played by Anne Hathaway) as she lands a job in New York as prolific fashion magazine editor Miranda Priestly’s (played by Meryl Streep) co-assistant.

Effortlessly blending comedy, drama, and witty commentary on the ruthlessness of the fashion industry, The Devil Wears Prada is an incredibly entertaining romp. It earned Streep another feather in her cap with a Golden Globe award win, with Hathaway getting noteworthy praise as well.

The Lego Batman Movie (2017)

The Lego Batman Movie
104m
Genre
Animation, Action, Comedy, Family
Stars
Will Arnett, Zach Galifianakis, Michael Cera
Directed by
Chris McKay
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Many of Batman’s best outing across DC Comics media has been exploring the gritty, street-level ventures. However, that’s not to say there isn’t any room for lighthearted campiness in the modern age, with Chris McKay’s The Lego Batman Movie being a strong testament to this. The movie focuses on Batman (played by Murderville‘s Will Arnett) as he attempts to overcome his fear and thwart the Joker’s latest scheme (played by Zach Galifianakis). The Lego Batman Movie is packed with witty humor, wildly entertaining performances, and a colorful revolving cast of characters.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
179m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy, Action
Stars
Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler
Directed by
Peter Jackson
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Regarded as the father of the genre, J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings books are seen as the benchmark of high fantasy. Thankfully, director Peter Jackson made beautiful work of adapting his epic to the screen, with The Fellowship of the Ring being a sweeping opening for the trilogy. This installment sets the stage with the Dark Lord Sauron seeking the One Ring to return his power before jumping forward in time to follow Frodo Baggins (played by Elijah Wood) and eight companions as they begin their journey to Mount Doom. Complete with a stunning ensemble cast including Ian McKellen, Sean Bean, and Viggo Mortensen, Fellowship was acclaimed for its rich story, superb performances, and show-stopping cinematography.

Parasite (2019)

Parasite
133m
Genre
Comedy, Thriller, Drama
Stars
Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong
Directed by
Bong Joon-ho
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Director Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite was a breakout hit in 2019, earning an Academy Award for Best Picture. The Korean dark comedy/thriller hybrid focuses on the desperate exploits of a poor family that schemes their way into working for a wealthy family.

The family poses as qualified for the tasks at hand, but the more they involve themselves in the wealthy Park family’s lives, the deeper they get tangled in a shocking incident. Parasite earned widespread critical acclaim for its smart humor combined with equally poignant social commentary on class dynamics.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
201m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy, Action
Stars
Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler
Directed by
Peter Jackson
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Cementing the series’ status as one of the most outstanding film trilogies ever made, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is a triumphant finish for Peter Jackson’s tenure in Middle-earth. The film continues with Bilbo Baggins (Elijah Wood) and Samwise Gamgee (Sean Astin) journeying to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom.

Meanwhile, the remaining heroes, including Gandalf (Ian McKellen), Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen), and Legolas (Orlando Bloom), amass an army to battle with Sauron. Winning an astonishing 11 Academy Awards out of 11 nominations, The Return of the King was emphatically acclaimed for its faithfulness to Tolkien’s source material, stunning visuals, and powerfully emotional payoff.

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

The Dark Knight Rises
78%
8.4/10
165m
Genre
Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller
Stars
Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman
Directed by
Christopher Nolan
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Following up on what’s widely considered to be the greatest live-action Batman movie is a tall order, but Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises earns its victory lap. Taking place nearly a decade later, a Dark Knight Returns-esque Bruce Wayne comes out of retirement when the mysterious Bane leads a resurgent League of Shadows against Gotham City to finish what Ra’s al Ghul started in Batman Begins. Tom Hardy does an excellent job at putting together this imposing rendition of the hulking mastermind, and The Dark Knight Rises ultimately serves as a satisfying finish to Bruce Wayne’s character arc and Nolan’s celebrated Batman trilogy.

The Dark Knight (2008)

The Dark Knight
152m
Genre
Drama, Action, Crime, Thriller
Stars
Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Michael Caine
Directed by
Christopher Nolan
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The movie that effectively became the gold standard for live-action Batman ventures, Christopher Nolan’s sophomore effort in the revered Dark Knight trilogy became the most acclaimed. The Dark Knight takes place in the titular superhero’s second year of cleaning up the streets of Gotham City, which has seen organized crime take a stranglehold over it for decades. However, the Clown Prince of Crime makes his presence known to attempt to upend that progress through sheer chaos. In part thanks to the dynamic between Christan Bale’s take on the brooding hero and Heath Ledger’s mesmerizing rendition of the Joker, The Dark Knight succeeds as one of the best superhero movies to date, as well as a compelling Michael Mann-like crime thriller.

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
179m
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy, Action
Stars
Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler
Directed by
Peter Jackson
Watch on max
Following up on the widespread critical acclaim of director Peter Jackson’s adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers successfully builds upon its predecessor’s strengths. This epic fantasy adventure is masterfully structured into three parallel storylines: Frodo and Sam continue their trek across Middle-earth to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mordor; Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and the revived Gandalf arrive at the war-ravaged nation of Rohan to help defeat the invading army of Sauron; and Pippin and Merry escape the orcs’ imprisonment and, with the help of Treebeard, coordinate the attack on Sauron’s fortress at Isengard. Bolstered by a talented ensemble cast, The Two Towers is as riveting a watch now as it was in 2002.

Batman Begins (2005)

Batman Begins
140m
Genre
Action, Crime, Drama
Stars
Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Liam Neeson
Directed by
Christopher Nolan
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Christopher Nolan revitalized the DC Comics icon for the big screen with this origin story. Going back to the more grounded, street-level roots of the character, Batman Begins stands as one of the most triumphant Hollywood reboots. Christian Bale brings forth a darker, grittier take on the Dark Knight in a story that’s truer to the source material. Nor does it stray far from the inherent fantastical nature of the comic book medium, with Liam Neeson giving a convincing portrayal of international terrorist Ra’s al Ghul and Cillian Murphy in tow as the mad doctor known as the Scarecrow. Batman Begins paved the way for arguably one of the best modern movie trilogies.

The Batman (2022)

The Batman
72%
8.2/10
pg-13
176m
Genre
Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Stars
Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano
Directed by
Matt Reeves
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Let the era of Battinson begin! The Batman is a complete reboot of the Dark Knight, with Robert Pattinson in the title role. In director Matt Reeves’ vision for Gotham City, Batman is still early in his career when he goes up against Riddler (Paul Dano), a madman who may bring down the entire city. While Batman trusts Jim Gordon (Jeffrey Wright), he isn’t so sure about Selina Kyle (Zoë Kravitz), a cat burglar who has her own agenda. But if Batman wants to save Gotham, he will have to become more than just a vigilante.

Dune (2021)

Dune
74%
8.1/10
155m
Genre
Science Fiction, Adventure
Stars
Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac
Directed by
Denis Villeneuve
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Director Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune was one of the few true hits of the pandemic era. And now that the film is back on Max, viewers can see why it received several Oscar nominations as well. Timothée Chalamet portrays Paul Atreides, the heir of House Atreides and seemingly a figure of destiny. The universe is in Paul’s hands, or at least it was until his house was betrayed by the emperor and attacked by House Harkonnen. Now, Paul and his mother, Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), must find a way to survive on the desert planet, Arrakis/Dune, and reclaim the power that was once theirs.
Movie images and data from:
Guillermo Kurten
Freelance Writer, Entertainment

A University of Houston graduate in Print Media Journalism, Guillermo has covered sports entertainment and practically all forms of geek culture as a freelance writer.

His young career so far has seen him write about soccer through websites including Read Bundesliga and Bayern Strikes, specializing in FC Bayern Munich. From there he moved on to Comic Book Resources, Game Rant, The Gamer, and Screen Rant to indulge his inner nerd, with over 2 years and counting as a senior writer at the latter.

Guillermo's interests span video games, movies, TV series, comic books, anime, and manga -- and if you're not careful, will talk your ear off specifically about the last 40-plus years of Batman lore.

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Guillermo studied at Lone Star College in Texas before ultimately completing his Bachelor's degree.

Blair Marnell

Blair Marnell has been an entertainment journalist for over 15 years. His bylines have appeared in Wizard Magazine, Geek Monthly, SYFY Wire, Superhero Hype, Collider, DC Universe, and the official sites for Star Trek and Marvel. He also lends his pop culture expertise to Digital Trends on a variety of TV, movie, and streaming features.

The best feel-good movies on Netflix right now
Stephan James runs as Jesse Owens in Race.

There probably isn't a certified doctor who would prescribe a feel-good movie to lift your spirits, but sometimes it really helps. Feel-good movies are a subgenre that ranges from comedies to dramas. The secret to their success is that the main characters overcome their anxieties, their personal roadblocks, and all other obstacles to achieve their goals. Who doesn't want to follow that example?

Netflix doesn't have a very robust selection of feel-good movies, but it does have some very good ones. As it happens, this month's new additions, Race and The World's Fastest Indian, are both true stories that share some common elements with each other. Neither film was made for Netflix, so they may not stick around for long. But for now, they have a prime place among the best feel-good movies on Netflix.
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The best fantasy movies on Netflix right now
Kate Beckinsale and Hugh Jackman in Van Helsing.

Finding great fantasy movies on Netflix is a bit of a fantasy in and of itself. The king of the streamers neglects this category, and it also relies heavily on Universal Pictures' catalog to bail out its shortcomings. That's why it's The Scorpion King and Van Helsing's turn to be on this list while Conan the Barbarian waits for yet another Netflix return.

The Scorpion King and Van Helsing aren't bad movies, but fantasy fans deserve a better selection from Netflix than films that are two decades old. Even this month's third addition, The Covenant, is closing in on 20 years. Netflix has made some original fantasy movies of its own, but not lately. For the most part, the best fantasy movies on Netflix are pretty stagnant. But when something new arrives, we'll be here to add it to the list.
Need more recommendations? Then check out the best new movies to stream this week, the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max, and the best movies on Disney+.

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The best kids movies on Netflix right now
SpongeBob SquarePants and Sandy Cheeks in Saving Bikini Bottom.

Whether you're just trying to make it through the next few weeks or you're already thinking about Thanksgiving, it's good to know the best kids movies on Netflix right now. Whether you need a distraction or you're hosting friends and family, Netflix offers a host of quality kid-friendly flicks. Of course, you want to know that your kid isn't watching garbage, which is why we made this Cliff Notes-esque list for you. Every month, we scan the collection and highlight the most worthwhile kids' movies.

Although it's a slow month, Netflix does add new family-friendly originals in Spellbound, as well as Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie. Read on for our picks of the best kids movies on Netflix now.

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