The 20 Best Netflix Original Films, Ranked
It has been 10 years since Netflix released its first original series — the Steve Van Zandt-fronted Lilyhammer — in 2012. Today, the streaming giant spends billions of dollars on original content each year, releasing hundreds of its own feature films, documentaries, specials, and TV series annually.
In many ways, Netflix’s investment in original content has paid off. The company’s movies have earned accolades from all of the major awarding bodies, including at the Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards, Emmys, Golden Globes, Grammys, SAG Awards, and more. It’s also the biggest streaming service on the globe, boasting more than 221 million users worldwide.
It should be no surprise, then, that Netflix has released some highly-regarded films. In the following list, we’ve highlighted the service's 20 best original movies, ranging from crime thrillers to psychological dramas to period pieces to animated flicks.
Many of these movies have been nominated for or received major awards, feature performances from hugely popular actors, and have been created by accomplished directors, writers, and producers. For instance, last year’s Western drama The Power of the Dog is the latest film to win Best Director at the Oscars (from a total of 12 nominations).
All of the titles have Metascores of 80 and higher, indicating generally favorable reviews or universal acclaim. No matter what type of films you like to watch, you’ll almost certainly find one (or more) movies on the list that appeal to you.
Here, Metacritic highlights Netflix’s best-reviewed original films, ranked by Metascore. Documentaries and films with fewer than 7 reviews from professional critics are excluded.
All photos courtesy of Netflix.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is set during a studio recording session in 1920s Chicago, where blues singer Ma Rainey (Viola Davis) is locked in a disagreement with her production team over the direction of her new music. Meanwhile, the members of her band also end up fighting with each other, arguing over repeated takes, malfunctioning equipment, and opposing religious views. At the center of much of the frustration is trumpeter Levee Green (Chadwick Boseman), who is distracted by Ma Rainey’s friend Dussie Mae (Taylour Paige). The 2020 film won Oscars for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling, from five total nominations.
“A stately jewel box that houses an extraordinary ensemble of performances.” —Alonso Duralde, The Wrap
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