Are you looking for some great movies in the huge library of Netflix? Here are the recommendations for some of the best movies available on the platform right now.
There is no doubt that Netflix is a gigantic curation for movies, and the curation is constantly increasing with new movies getting featured on the platform. With the heat rising outside in summer, May offers the best opportunity to enjoy some movie nights with frozen desserts and summer cocktails. If you are a movie buff but do not have much time to go through curation and look for good movies, here are the top recommendations on the platform that you can enjoy this May. This recommendation list includes movies from all eras.
- The Jerk
This movie was released in 1979, and just like its name suggests, the movie offers wacky comedic development. This is also one of the breakthrough movies for Steve Martin, who could be found playing the character of Navin R. Johnson. Navin is a clueless optimist who has zero navigation sense in life, and the story has bizarre elements. The strong physical comedy in this movie has a classic and hearty approach that is enjoyable and not racist at some point.
- Ocean’s Eleven, Twelve, and Thirteen
People love heist movies as there is something quite appealing about fooling the system. That is why this movie came with two more sequels after its first release. This heist trilogy is one of the slickest stories with some of the best cast, including George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon. Starting from cinematography, character development, and the immersive twists, this trilogy is quite engaging, and you will enjoy the complete continuation of the story.
- Eat, Pray, Love
This fantastic movie is adapted from the novel by Elizabeth Gilbert with the same name. The movie, released in 2010, is considered to be one of the best movies made on self-discovery with a feminine angle to it. The central character is played by Julia Roberts, who goes through a rough divorce and embarks on a journey of finding her true self. She travels through Italy, India, and Indonesia, and each country offers her new experiences through people, food, and shared emotions. This movie feels like a journal that we all want to write someday!
- Paul
There are plenty of sci-fi movies based on aliens, but very few could reach the level of entertainment that ‘Paul’ offered. This movie was released in 2011 and made people laugh out loud with the iconic performance by Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. On their geeky road trip, they meet an alien who seems to be pretty chill, as it is voiced over by Seth Rogen. This is a super fun movie that everyone can enjoy, and trust us, you will not be bored even for a moment.
- Constantine
Keanu Reeves has done some epic movies, and one role that he always wants to go back to is John Constantine. This graphic novel hero is a part of DC, but 2005’s Constantine was inspired by the Hellblazer. Regardless of the source, he is still a hero who demolishes demons and keeps balance between hell, heaven, and earth. He is a supernatural detective in LA who smokes cigarettes and kills demons with a shotgun and holy water. The movie is quite quirky, satisfying, and offers an interesting take on the Biblical concepts.
- American Gangster
This movie was released in 2007, and it can be considered as one of the most underrated crime movies of all time that deserves more appreciation. The movie is directed by the very famous Ridley Scott, who did a great job with the story that deals with the American crime scene in 1970. The movie also has the best cast, as it includes Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, and Josh Brolin. The big three offered a great onscreen experience, and it is further enhanced by the presence of Idris Elba. This movie offered a cinematic representation of gangster life like ‘The Godfather’.
- Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
‘Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit’ was released in 2005, and its stop-motion clay animation feels fresh as ever. This is a story about the cheese-loving pair of Wallace and Gromit, who go out on an adventure to capture a monster before the vegetable competition takes place in the village. Although it might seem like a Children’s movie, there are many clever gags in the movie that make it quite appealing even for adults. It is a fine piece of British humor that is hard to find in this era.
- The Lego Movie
It feels like every movie might feel better in the Lego version, as that happened for ‘The Lego Movie’ as well. Fairly dependent on the DC comic universe, this movie became popular with the Lego rather than the story itself. This fast-paced action animation movie feels livelier than the live action with the incredible contribution by the animators and editor who could do wonders without the need for AI. This movie, released in 2014, offered a fun experience with refreshment. Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, and many others offered their voices for this movie with perfect comedic essence.
- Crazy, Stupid, Love
Having Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Emma Stone in the same frame is surely going to cook something crazy, which is what happened in the case of this movie. Released in 2011, this movie instantly became a comfort flick for everyone, which is romantic, fun, and highly dramatic. The smart storytelling and acting skills of each of the cast members made this story more impactful. This movie showcases the craziest and stupidest things that people do when they are in love. This film is definitely a summer movie that you should enjoy with your loved ones.
- Twilight Saga Series
The Twilight Saga is a phenomenon in the movie and pop industry that inspired generations of people, even though it was cringeworthy at some point. While we may laugh it off in this era, the series appealed to people who loved it, especially the teenagers. After all, who would not like movies based on vampires, werewolves, and humans becoming part of the supernatural community? It was the early point of their careers for both Edward and Bella, i.e., Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart. This is perhaps not the best recommendation, but guess what, you will still enjoy it!
- Ali
Will Smith has done a lot of wrong things, but he has also done a few good movies, such as ‘Ali’. This movie was released in 2001 and offered the biography of the best and fastest boxer of the era, Muhammad Ali. Smith also received an Oscar nomination for playing the role of the heavyweight champion who is respected by global fans. The movie not only focuses on the fights but also showcases the unwavering personality of Ali and how carefully he handled politics and his personal issues. Ali was a true American immigrant who made the nation great again.
- Burn After Reading
Some evidence should be burnt before it gets into the wrong hands, and that is what is portrayed through the story of this classic Coen Brothers comedy movie that was released in 2008. This film is one of the wittiest films where a trainer finds a CD full of info about the CIA and thinks he’s struck gold. He plans multiple strategies, blackmail, and other ways to exploit the evidence. The ludicrous essence of the story is further enhanced by the amazing performances of Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Frances McDormand, and John Malkovich.
- America Graffiti
Sometimes you need to watch some movies that offer you the ‘slice of life’ that you are missing, and ‘American Graffiti’ could be one of them. This movie was released in 1973, and it was directed by George Lucas, long before he signed on for the Star Wars universe. The story takes place in the old American life, a night in 1962, where all the young people could be seen out in the streets, revving their cars and doing some enjoyable banter. You can also catch young Harrison Ford in a cowboy hat, and that is definitely a treat to watch. Perhaps, he was planning for Indiana Jones for a long time.
- The Walk
A lot of people might not know that Philippe Petit was the first man to walk a high wire between the Twin Towers in 1974. This movie is based on that epic stunt that blew everyone’s mind. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, this movie deserves more appreciation than it received when it was released in 2015. Joseph Gordon-Levitt has done a great job in playing the role of Petit and showcasing his madness in doing what he wants. The story also showcases that the epic feat was not supported by the government, but it was done based on one sole wish.
- Airport
There are many kinds of disaster movies, and the ones with the airplanes feel quite resonating, perhaps because people are quite familiar with flights. This movie gave inspiration to thousands of spoofs, but the original movie was quite a treat to watch, with many elements like hijackings, bombs, mid-air emergencies, and others. Whether it is the true story or the presence of Dean Martin, this classic cult movie surely paved the way for disaster movies in Hollywood.
- Starship Troopers
Although this classic sci-fi movie was initially a flop, later on, people realized that this movie is actually good, and there are many satiric angles of power dynamics that make it more fun to watch. Released in 1997, this movie can be considered much ahead of its time when it comes to editing, action, and cinematography. The space marines fighting with bugs on a different planet is not something that you get to see these days. This is a clever and visually compelling movie that inspired the directors of the next generation.
- Hanna
Saoirse Ronan is globally popular for her beautiful selection of characters and movies that can intrigue you. Something similar can be felt with ‘Hanna’ in 2011, where she played the role of the lead protagonist. Hanna is a teenage assassin trained in the Arctic by her dad, Eric Bana. She hunts down the real evil in the whole conspiracy regarding her dad, and the movie comes with a satisfying ending. It is definitely a thrill of its own kind, where it also feels like a fairytale at some point. The director has done a great job creating the atmosphere for the plot, which makes this modern classic a masterpiece.
- Flushed Away
‘Flushed Away’ was released in 2006, and it showcased a greater picture of urban life through rats living in London. The movie showcases a great rodent adventure that is truly inspiring, with some great character development. A posh pet rat gets flushed into the London sewers and meets a whole underground world of rodents that help open his mind. This is a collaborative project between Aardman and DreamWorks, where stars like Hugh Jackman, Kate Winslet, Sir Ian McKellen, and others have provided their voices. The animation style is quite appealing, and you would love the rodent characters.
- Train to Busan
There is something about zombie movies that makes them a preferred genre for many movie buffs. It is a kind of genre that can be a part of action, horror, adventure, sci-fi, and drama as well. Train to Busan is a fan favorite zombie movie made in Korea that redefined the meaning of zombie flicks, along with a running plot of a train. While this movie comes with intense action and survival instincts, it is also surprisingly an emotional movie that can also make you cry at the end. This movie is highly recommended for everyone, even those who do not like those mindless zombies.
- Heart Eyes
People seem to enjoy slasher movies on the day of romance, and that is the reason why ‘My Bloody Valentine’ gained much attention. Maybe it is fun to watch a couple getting brutally murdered while they display their affection. Just kidding! ‘Heart Eyes’ is a modern Valentine’s Day slasher movie that was released in 2025, and quite typically, here you can find a serial killer who kills couples. Apparently, it is a kink that the killer likes to kill people who are in love. Watch the movie to find out more.
- Nonnas
Netflix has a ton of original productions under its label, and some of them are really great, such as ‘Nonnas’, which was released in 2025. This new Netflix Original is all about a chef who rediscovers his roots and ends up working with a gang of tough, lovable Italian grandmas. Vince Vaughn, Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, and Talia Shire are involved. Expect pasta, life lessons, and a lot of shouting and gesticulating. This is a wholesome movie for everyone.
- Smile
A smile is always associated with happiness and positivity, but not in this movie! ‘Smile’ is a creepy horror movie that was released in 2022 and offered a very uneasy feeling for the audience, as smiling is used as the main horror element in this case. The movie soon became a viral hit with the grinning characters, and people loved it so much that a sequel, ‘Smile 2’, was also released in 2024. This is a bizarre and weird horror movie that will make you not trust anyone who smiles at you.
- Instant family
Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne adopt three siblings and immediately find themselves out of their depth. It’s funnier and warmer than it sounds. Based on the director’s real-life experiences with adoption, you expect a two-star nothing comedy, and you get a surprisingly touching four-star tale. We didn’t cry a little bit watching it, and you can’t prove that we did.
- Fear Street: Prom Queen
Netflix’s successful Fear Street horror saga continues with this new prom-themed horror set back in 1988. If you dig slasher kills and retro tunes, you’re in luck. There’s a new cast, but still plenty of R. L. Stine’s murderousness. This movie is fun to watch, and you can easily enjoy it with friends or family.
- The Wild Robot
No matter what people say, live-action movies can never imitate the emotions that animated movies can. One of the best examples is ‘The Wild Robot’. Dreamworks has worked really hard on this movie, which showcases a robot surviving in the wilderness while learning the ways of nature from the animals. It ends up becoming a parent to a wild goose whose parents were killed in an accident caused by the robot. Besides the concepts of a robot interacting with animals, the movie showcases the deeper meanings of life with small and immersive references, along with some great philosophies.
- Pig
Nicolas Cage is one of those actors who always opt for stories that are a little different than the mainstream commercial, and ‘Pig’ is one of them. This movie was released in 2021 and is considered a masterpiece in the modern era. The story follows John Wick-style action, but this time, it is not about a dog but a precious pig that helps to find truffles. The adventure of tracking down his truffle pig and going to any extent for that is the baseline for this movie, and that is what makes it unique.
- Atonement
There will be no other rom-com movie that can show the meaning of yearning like Atonement. This masterpiece was released in 2007, and people still crave this fantastic romantic story. Based on Ian McEwan’s hugely heralded novel, the film follows a tragic love story set against World War II, with a lie told by a child leading to devastating consequences. Over the course of several time-jumping chapters, James McAvoy’s and Keira Knightley’s class-divided lovers are torn apart and brought together again in metatextual narrative leaps that make this film more than it meets the eye.
- Blue Moon
Blue Moon is a modern movie released in 2025, and the story is set on a night in Oklahoma. It sounds like something for theatre nerds only, but in Linklater’s hands, Blue Moon is a hilarious examination of a genius artist who is also his own worst enemy. The midcentury theatre world environs here prove that the Texas native director can make a perfect hangout movie in any setting and with any characters. Starting from the cast to the story, everything seems perfect with Richard Linklater’s vision.
- Bugonia
Yargos Lathimos and Emma Stone are the duo that can rule over the industry with some bizarre stories and great acting skills. Apparently, this is a sci-fi movie that was released in 2025, but there are many underlying concepts that need to be explored. Here, Stone stars as a jargon-speaking CEO who gets kidnapped by a character played by Jesse Plemons, who believes her to be an alien. Stone getting her head shaved onscreen is just the tip of the film’s gonzo iceberg, with dialogue-heavy scenes drenched in modern paranoia and morbidly funny turns of phrase. It is funny and satiric, which makes this movie an enjoyable watch for everyone.
- Frances Ha
Long before Greta Gerwig became a successful female director, she tried out her acting skills in this movie, which was released in 2013. It is a well-made black-and-white movie that deals with many vulnerable layers of human emotions. A gorgeous and sardonic fable about a screwup who stumbles her way toward getting her life together, Frances Ha remains the most essential collaboration between Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig. This movie is a must-watch for everyone, as every individual can relate to it. This is also a revolutionary movie that breaks all the social norms.
- Fried Green Tomatoes
This is a classic that was released in 1991 and offered a deeply emotive and wild narrative. There are a few weepies that take the wild narrative turns this film does on the road to earning your sobs. An intergenerational tale of female connection in the American South, the film follows the story of a small-town café run by Idgie and Ruth, as told by a nursing home resident. Adapted from Fannie Flagg’s novel and de-gayed for the masses, Fried Green Tomatoes delivers on delicious, pearl-clutching melodrama in ways that only Shonda Rhimes and Ryan Murphy dare to try today.
- Jennifer’s Body
Megan Fox is not in her prime anymore, but if you want to witness her in her prime, this movie is a must-watch that terrified generations of people. Released in 2009, Jennifer’s Body is a true cult classic that became popular with the appealing presence of Megan. Megan Fox stars as the titular Jennifer, a possessed, murderous teenager who can only be stopped by her best friend, Anita. Marketed to oversexualize Fox, the actual movie is hilarious and smart in equal measure, more astute about sexual violence and female friendship than audiences understood in its time.
- Anatomy of a Fall
Sandra Hüller, recently in theaters in Project Hail Mary, earned an Oscar nomination for her performance in Justine Triet’s Anatomy of a Fall as a German author accused of murdering her French husband. It’s a simple premise that is nevertheless gripping for all of its myriad complications: artistic license, the intricacies of language, and a sometimes intentionally inscrutable suspect. The movie was released in 2023 and is considered to be a masterpiece in the modern era.
- Atlantic
‘Atlantic’ is a drama-based movie directed by Mati Diop that was released in 2019. Achingly romantic and fiercely original, Atlantics is a shape-shifting ghost story of sorts that defies simple categorization. Mati Diop’s first feature follows a young woman set to marry a man she does not love, while her lover flees their native Senegal by sea in search of work. Overnight, spirits begin to possess the townsfolk, seeking revenge against an exploitative corporation. This is one of the best original movies by Netflix that captivated a large number of viewers around the world.
- Bendetta
If you thought nuns were timid, this movie will show you the rebellious side of them. Thanks to director Paul Verhoeven for bringing the salacious story of Benedetta Carlini to the screen. Set in the 17th century, Benedetta casts Virginie Efira as a famed nun who saw prophetic religious visions while engaging in a lesbian relationship with a fellow nun. The film pushes a lot of buttons with Verhoeven-standard frank sexuality, bodily functions, and graphic violence, but the cheeky delight he takes in bringing a hammer to taboos has maybe never been more fun. It seems like the European filmmakers do not fear anyone, not even God. Get it?
- Happy as Lazzaro
This movie is directed by Alice Rohrwacher and was released in 2018. Another foray into symbolic magical realism, the story of frozen-in-time sweetheart farmhand Lazzaro is used by Rohwacher to weave a magical examination of class and exploitation. Around its midpoint, the film takes a daring leap that recontextualizes everything we have seen as more than meets the eye, setting the tender Lazzaro on a course for tragedy to come. This movie is a visual wonder, and everyone should witness the magic!
