Unnoticed by audiences and critics alike, these Netflix movies are diamonds in the rough. It’s time to give them the recognition they truly deserve!
Discover the hidden gems waiting to be explored on Netflix! Our selection of the most underrated movies spans various genres and origins, showcasing lesser-known films deserving of greater recognition. While some have earned critical acclaim, they remain undiscovered by many viewers. In our 2024 roundup, we’ve curated a mix of big-screen releases and Netflix originals, ranging from thrilling suspense to chilling horror, captivating sci-fi to compelling drama, and delightful comedies to family-friendly favorites. Dive into a world of cinematic treasures awaiting your discovery!
Here are recommended, overlooked movies you can watch on Netflix right now. This list is regularly updated as titles come and go from the streamer.
Underrated Movies on Netflix (PART 2)
- “Dolemite Is My Name” (2019)
In 2019, Eddie Murphy staged a remarkable comeback, earning accolades across film, television, and stand-up comedy. His triumphant return included an Emmy win for hosting “SNL” and a Golden Globe nomination for his role in Craig Brewer’s acclaimed biopic, “Dolemite Is My Name,” portraying blaxploitation and comedy icon Rudy Ray Moore. Despite widespread acclaim and fervent praise for Murphy’s performance, many critics and fans lamented his omission from the Oscar nominations, considering it a notable snub in light of his exceptional portrayal.
- “I Am Jonas” (2018)
With its mesmerizing visuals and the captivating presence of star Félix Maritaud, “I Am Jonas” delivers a poignant and acclaimed coming-of-age tale. The film intricately weaves themes of young gay love and profound tragedy into its narrative, creating a story that is as heartbreaking as it is beautiful. Told in a non-linear fashion, the plot unfolds with elements of suspense and surprise, keeping audiences engaged until the very end. To spoil the experience would be unjust—simply put, it’s a film that demands to be seen.
- “Do Revenge” (2022)
In the delightful high-school comedy “Do Revenge,” Riverdale’s Camila Mendes and Stranger Things’s Maya Hawke shine as a duo seeking vengeance against a group of snobbish mean girls who’ve wronged them. What starts as a lighthearted quest for justice takes a twist when they begin to question the limits of their revenge and the trust between them. Adding to the excitement is a standout cameo by Game of Thrones’ Sophie Turner, whose brief appearance involves being hilariously framed for cocaine possession and dragged off to rehab amidst an epic tantrum. With its mix of humor and unexpected turns, “Do Revenge” is a must-watch for fans of witty and entertaining comedies.
- “Crimson Peak” (2015)
Guillermo Del Toro’s “Crimson Peak” is a visually stunning Gothic romance infused with eerie period chills, often overlooked but deserving of acclaim. Set in Victorian-era England, Mia Wasikowska leads as a newlywed uncovering dark family secrets within a foreboding mansion. Alongside her, Tom Hiddleston and Jessica Chastain deliver compelling performances that heighten the atmospheric tension.
The film revels in its Gothic aesthetics, from the exaggerated nightgown sleeves to the hauntingly beautiful candelabras, creating a sumptuous visual feast for audiences. While “Crimson Peak” embraces its genre conventions wholeheartedly, it does so with flair and confidence, never attempting to transcend its Gothic trappings. Particularly noteworthy is Chastain’s portrayal of the villainous character, injecting the story with a potent mix of camp, terror, and black humor. In essence, “Crimson Peak” delivers a deliciously atmospheric experience that captivates from start to finish.
- “All Quiet on the Western Front” (2022)
Despite receiving nine Oscar nominations and four wins, the 2022 adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque’s timeless novel remains somewhat of a hidden gem. This 2.5-hour-long German epic delves into the harrowing realities of trench combat during World War I. Featuring a predominantly newcomer cast, the film follows a young German soldier, initially filled with patriotism, as he confronts the brutal truth of war.
With impeccable screenplay and cinematography, the film captures the essence of Remarque’s narrative with stunning precision. Edward Berger’s direction stands out as deserving of an Oscar nomination in its own right. Moreover, “All Quiet on the Western Front” serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of war, resonating long after the credits roll. And yes, it might dissuade you from any farm-stealing plans you may have had.
- “Passing” (2021)
In her directorial debut, actress Rebecca Hall brings to life the complex narrative of “Passing,” set in 1920s New York. Tessa Thompson portrays a Black woman living openly in Harlem, whose chance encounter with a childhood friend, played by Ruth Negga, unveils a startling revelation—her friend is “passing” as white, married to a racist white man. As their rekindled friendship deepens, they confront the starkly different paths they’ve chosen, a connection that threatens to unravel their carefully constructed lives and expose them to danger. Through nuanced performances and poignant storytelling, “Passing” explores themes of identity, race, and societal expectations with profound depth and sensitivity.
- “Work It” (2020)
A hidden gem tucked away on Netflix, “Work It” offers a refreshing take on the underdog narrative, reminiscent of “Pitch Perfect” but with dancers instead of singers. The film follows a group of high school misfits as they band together to compete in the prestigious Work It dance competition. Led by Sabrina Carpenter and Liza Koshy, the ensemble delivers a lively performance, injecting the film with energy and charm. While “Work It” may lean into its share of clichés, its infectious spirit and impressive dance sequences ensure that it’s a thoroughly enjoyable ride from start to finish.
- “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (2020)
This powerful screen adaptation of an August Wilson play will forever be remembered as the film for which Chadwick Boseman’s remarkable talent should have been recognized with an Oscar. Part of Wilson’s “Pittsburgh Cycle,” produced for film by Denzel Washington, the story unfolds over a single day in a recording studio, where real-life blues singer Ma Rainey clashes with her musicians and white music executives. While Viola Davis delivers a tremendous performance as Ma Rainey, it’s Boseman, who tragically passed away shortly before the film’s release, who shines brightest as a young trumpet-player. “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” stands as a masterclass in acting, showcasing Boseman’s exceptional skill and leaving an indelible mark as one of his finest performances.
- “Sr.” (2023)
In this heartfelt documentary, viewers are invited into the intimate world of Robert Downey Jr. and his father, the lesser-known but influential experimental filmmaker Robert Downey Sr. Delving into their shared experiences and the legacy of their unconventional family dynamic, the film offers a poignant reflection on life, aging, and the passage of time. As Downey Sr. navigates the challenges of growing older, Downey Jr. grapples with his father’s lasting impact on both his personal and professional life. With candid interviews and touching moments, “Sr.” serves as a touching tribute to the bond between father and son, leaving audiences emotionally moved and reaching for the tissues by the film’s conclusion.
- “Homecoming” (2019)
Beyoncé’s talent is undeniable, and while she’s far from underrated, her documentary “Homecoming” may still be flying under the radar for some film enthusiasts. Beyond capturing her legendary Coachella set in its entirety, the film provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the meticulous preparation and creative process behind the performance. Even for those who aren’t part of the Bey-Hive, “Homecoming” offers a captivating and insightful exploration of artistic brilliance and dedication, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates excellence in entertainment.
HERE WE GO FOR BONUS MOVIES
“Dick Johnson Is Dead” (2020)
In an unconventional approach to father-daughter bonding, acclaimed documentarian Kristen Johnson embarks on a unique journey with her aging father in “Dick Johnson Is Dead.” Seeking to spend meaningful time together and immortalize her father’s legacy, Kristen decides to collaborate on a film project with him. While the documentary includes traditional elements like interviews and candid moments, it also ventures into imaginative territory, with the pair crafting scenarios—some whimsical, some absurd—depicting her father’s potential demise. The culmination of their efforts is a staged funeral for her father, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. What may seem initially lighthearted reveals itself to be profoundly moving, leaving viewers emotionally stirred and undoubtedly shedding a tear by the film’s conclusion.
“The Wonder” (2022)
While Florence Pugh’s talent shone brightly in 2022’s “Don’t Worry Darling,” her performance in “The Wonder” is a standout, often overlooked gem. Adapted from Emma Donoghue’s bestselling novel (also known for “Room”), the film centers on Lib, a nurse dispatched to remote Ireland to investigate a perplexing case: a young girl who claims to survive without eating, sustained solely by divine intervention. As Lib grapples with isolation in the desolate wilderness and contends with fervent religious beliefs, she begins to question her own sanity amidst the eerie circumstances. With atmospheric tension and Pugh’s captivating portrayal at its core, “The Wonder” offers a gripping exploration of faith, doubt, and the limits of rationality.
“Boy Erased” (2018)
In “Boy Erased,” writer/director Joel Edgerton brings Garrard Conley’s poignant memoir to the screen, shedding light on the harrowing journey of surviving gay conversion therapy. This touching family drama is elevated by sensational performances, particularly from Oscar nominee Lucas Hedges (“Manchester by the Sea”), who portrays Jared Eamons. Jared, a 19-year-old from small-town America, finds himself outed in distressing circumstances to his shocked parents: pastor-father Marshall (Russell Crowe) and mother Nancy (Nicole Kidman). Against their son’s wishes, and influenced by Marshall’s religious mentors, the parents enroll Jared in a conversion therapy program called Love in Action. As the story unfolds, “Boy Erased” navigates themes of identity, acceptance, and the resilience of the human spirit with sensitivity and depth, offering a powerful portrayal of one young man’s struggle for self-acceptance in the face of adversity.
“Hunt for the Wilderpeople” (2016)
Curious about Taika Waititi’s meteoric rise in Hollywood? Look no further than “Hunt for the Wilderpeople.” This uproariously funny comedy adventure stars Julian Dennison and Sam Neill as an unlikely duo—a troubled foster child and his grumpy foster father—who find themselves on the run in the New Zealand bush, pursued by authorities. With Waititi’s trademark wit and charm, the film delivers a delightful blend of humor, heart, and adventure suitable for the whole family. “Hunt for the Wilderpeople” is an absolute gem that shouldn’t be missed.
“Atlantics” (2019)
“Atlantics” made waves in 2019 as the first film directed by a Black woman to compete at the Cannes Film Festival. Directed by French-Senegalese filmmaker Mati Diop, this supernatural romance received widespread acclaim, earning Senegal’s Oscar submission and securing a spot on Barack Obama’s list of favorite movies that year. Despite not being prominently featured on the Netflix homepage, “Atlantics” stands as one of the platform’s finest offerings. With its mesmerizing storytelling and evocative visuals, the film offers a captivating cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll.
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