Netflix may be best known for its wide array of original TV series, but the streaming service also debuts new movies every single week. With such a constant flow of fresh titles being added to Netflix, it can be hard to keep up and find the diamonds in the rough.

That’s where this comprehensive review guide comes in! We’ve dug through the latest offerings on Netflix to highlight the absolute best new movies available to stream right now. From action blockbusters to critically acclaimed indies, hilarious comedies to chilling horror flicks, you’ll discover the hottest new movie releases that should be on every Netflix subscriber’s must-watch list.

An Engaging Overview of the Best New Netflix Movies

With thousands of titles in the Netflix movie library, narrowing down the best new additions is no easy task. To make the process easier, we’ve broken down our recommendations into helpful categories so you can zero in on the types of films you love:

Blockbuster New Releases

Big-budget spectacles full of A-list stars, stunning special effects, and thrilling action.

Critically Acclaimed Dramas

Emotionally resonant films praised by reviewers and earning nominations during awards season.

Laugh-Out-Loud Comedies

Hilarious new comedies filled with inspired humor and quotable one-liners.

Chilling Horror Movies

Nightmare-inducing horror films perfect for fright fans seeking fresh scares.

Family-Friendly Animated Films

Colorful and delightful animated movies the whole family can enjoy together.

Fascinating Documentaries

Eye-opening docs covering everything from true crime to pop culture to history.

Independent Hidden Gems

Lesser-known indie films worthy of discovery from exciting up-and-coming directors.

Romantic Date Night Movies

Swoon-worthy romantic films across every genre from rom-coms to dramas.

Adrenaline-Pumping Action Movies

Pulse-pounding tales packed with intense fight sequences and edge-of-your-seat stunts.

Thought-Provoking Dramas

Moving, thought-provoking films centered on complex characters dealing with compelling conflicts.

Feel-Good Crowd-Pleasers

Joyful and uplifting films with inspirational messages sure to put a smile on your face.

This diverse selection of new Netflix movie releases guarantees that all tastes are covered. Keep reading for an in-depth breakdown of the absolute best recent additions across all genres that you simply can’t miss!

Blockbuster New Releases

1. The Gray Man

• Directed by: Anthony & Joe Russo
• Starring: Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Action Thriller

The Gray Man sees Avengers: Endgame directors Anthony and Joe Russo re-team with Captain America himself, Chris Evans, for this big-budget spy thriller based on the novel by Mark Greaney. Ryan Gosling stars as CIA operative Court Gentry, aka, Sierra Six—an anonymous agent who accidentally uncovers dark agency secrets. When a psychopathic former colleague (Evans) puts a bounty on Six’s head, an international game of cat-and-mouse ensues. The Gray Man packs in spectacular action sequences across exotic global locales. It’s a globe-trotting blockbuster perfect for fans of James Bond and Jason Bourne.

2. The Adam Project

• Directed by: Shawn Levy
• Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Walker Scobell, Jennifer Garner
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Sci-Fi Action Comedy

Ryan Reynolds headlines this time-traveling sci-fi adventure from Free Guy director Shawn Levy. Reynolds plays Adam Reed, a pilot who accidentally crash lands in 2022 and teams up with his 12-year-old self (Walker Scobell) on a mission to save the future. Packed with quick-witted humor and visually thrilling time travel sequences, The Adam Project is a family-friendly effects extravaganza. Mark Ruffalo and Jennifer Garner round out the cast as Adam’s parents in this nostalgic crowd-pleaser executive produced by Reynolds and David Ellison.

3. The Sea Beast

• Directed by: Chris Williams
• Starring: Zaris-Angel Hator, Karl Urban, Jared Harris
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Fantasy Adventure Animation

From the filmmakers behind Moana and Big Hero 6 comes Netflix’s latest animated epic, The Sea Beast. Set in a era when sea monsters threatened seafaring voyages, it follows young stowaway Maisie Brumble (Zaris-Angel Hator) and legendary sea monster hunter Jacob Holland (Karl Urban). Their thrilling odyssey across uncharted waters is brought to life by gorgeously vivid animation. The stellar voice cast also includes Jared Harris and Dan Stevens. With breathtaking action and touching heart, The Sea Beast is a must-see for audiences of all ages.

FAQ – Blockbuster New Netflix Releases

What big budget movies has Netflix released recently?

Some of the biggest blockbusters Netflix has debuted in 2022 include The Gray Man starring Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans, sci-fi comedy The Adam Project with Ryan Reynolds, and animated epic The Sea Beast from the directors of Moana.

Are the new Netflix original movies just as good as ones in theaters?

Many recent Netflix original movies are just as impressive in scope, star power, and production values as major theatrical studio releases. With A-list stars like Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, Ryan Reynolds, and directors like The Russo Brothers, Netflix is attracting top-tier blockbuster talent.

Why has Netflix focused on releasing big budget movies?

Netflix has invested heavily in exclusive original movies to compete with streaming rivals and give subscribers a reason to stay subscribed. By backing expensive blockbusters, Netflix can draw subscribers in with star power and spectacle usually reserved for the big screen.

Critically Acclaimed Dramas

1. Passing

• Directed by: Rebecca Hall
• Starring: Tessa Thompson, Ruth Negga, Andre Holland
• Release Year: 2021
• Genre: Psychological Drama

Based on the novel by Nella Larsen, Passing stars Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga as two mixed-race childhood friends who reunite as adults. Though Irene (Thompson) lives as a Black woman in 1920s New York, Clare (Negga) has been secretly “passing” as white. Rebecca Hall makes an impressive directorial debut exploring complex themes of racial identity and societal double standards. Both Thompson and Negga deliver nuanced performances rightfully earning widespread critical acclaim.

2. The Power of the Dog

• Directed by: Jane Campion
• Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons
• Release Year: 2021
• Genre: Western Psychodrama

Jane Campion made history as the first female director to earn two Oscar nominations for Best Director with this brooding 1920s Western based on the novel by Thomas Savage. Benedict Cumberbatch sheds his superhero image to play Phil Burbank, a domineering rancher who wreaks psychological warfare on his new sister-in-law (Kirsten Dunst) and her artistic son (Kodi Smit-McPhee). The Power of the Dog is a slow burn filled with tension that builds to a truly unforgettable climax.

3. The Lost Daughter

• Directed by: Maggie Gyllenhaal
• Starring: Olivia Colman, Dakota Johnson, Peter Sarsgaard
• Release Year: 2021
• Genre: Psychological Drama

Maggie Gyllenhaal’s directing debut earned her an Oscar nom for adapting the novel by Elena Ferrante. Olivia Colman delivers a tour-de-force performance as Leda, a vacationing professor haunted by memories of her own early motherhood while becoming obsessed with another woman (Dakota Johnson) and her daughter. The Lost Daughter uses the prism of a tense psychological thriller to explore complex themes of regret, guilt, and the sacrifices women make for motherhood.

FAQ – Acclaimed New Netflix Dramas

What prestigious awards have recent Netflix dramas been nominated for?

Netflix dramas like The Power of the Dog, Passing, and The Lost Daughter have earned prestigious Oscar, Golden Globe, and Critics Choice nominations proving Netflix’s ability to produce award-worthy films.

Do Netflix dramas attract talented directors and actors?

Yes, Netflix has attracted extremely talented directors like Jane Campion, Rebecca Hall, and Maggie Gyllenhaal and actors at the top of their craft like Benedict Cumberbatch, Tessa Thompson, Olivia Colman and Ruth Negga.

Why has Netflix focused on releasing dramas acclaimed by critics?

Releasing prestige dramas aimed at adult audiences helps Netflix garner critical praise and awards consideration which raises the streaming service’s profile as a home for quality cinema.

Laugh-Out-Loud Comedies

1. Senior Year

• Directed by: Alex Hardcastle
• Starring: Rebel Wilson, Angourie Rice, Sam Richardson
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: High School Comedy

After a cheerleading accident puts her in a 20-year coma, 37-year-old Stephanie (Rebel Wilson) wakes up determined to return to high school and regain her popularity crown. Wilson is uproariously funny as the clueless former mean girl whose ’90s fashion and slang don’t quite fit in with Gen Z. The witty script packed with one-liners also earned raves for screenwriter Brandon Scott Jones. For a hilarious hot take on the high school comedy, don’t miss Senior Year.

2. The Bubble

• Directed by: Judd Apatow
• Starring: Karen Gillan, Iris Apatow, Pedro Pascal
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Comedy Satire

Director Judd Apatow turns his witty eye toward pandemic film productions with this sharp Hollywood satire. Karen Gillan leads an ensemble of hapless actors stuck inside a pandemic bubble at a hotel attempting to complete a fictional franchise blockbuster. Pedro Pascal, Iris Apatow and David Duchovny round out the cast sending up self-important actors and ridiculous blockbuster tropes. For meta movie fans, The Bubble hits the spot.

3. Tall Girl 2

• Directed by: Emily Ting
• Starring: Ava Michelle, Griffin Gluck, Sabrina Carpenter
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Teen Rom-Com

The sequel to Netflix’s most popular rom-com returns with star Ava Michelle as high schooler Jodi, no longer struggling with her 6’1″ height after finding basketball stardom and boyfriend Dunkleman (Griffin Gluck). But as she prepares to head to college early, Jodi realizes she may need to rethink what she wants. Cheerful and fun-hearted, Tall Girl 2 brings back the charm of the first film with a sweet story about being true to yourself.

FAQ – New Comedic Netflix Movies

What comedic genres have recent Netflix comedies covered?

Netflix has released new comedies spanning genres from raunchy R-rated satires like The Bubble, to heartfelt PG-13 rom-coms like Tall Girl 2, and even high school set laughers like Senior Year.

Do Netflix comedies attract well-known comedic talent?

Yes, Netflix comedies have featured established talents like Judd Apatow directing and Rebel Wilson starring while also highlighting fresh voices like Senior Year screenwriter Brandon Scott Jones.

Why are lighthearted comedies a focus for Netflix original movies?

Releasing escapist comedies attracts subscribers looking for laughs and lighter fare. Comedies also tend to be highly rewatchable comfort food movies, which helps increase viewing hours.

Chilling Horror Movies

1. Texas Chainsaw Massacre

• Directed by: David Blue Garcia
• Starring: Elsie Fisher, Sarah Yarkin, Mark Burnham
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Horror Slasher

In this direct sequel to the 1974 horror classic picks up decades after the events of the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre with a new generation facing off against Leatherface. When a group of idealistic twenty-somethings arrive at the ghost town of Harlow, they soon become hunted prey for the deranged cannibal killer. Gorehounds will rejoice at the brutal kills in this chilling reintroduction to Leatherface that stays true to the bone-chilling spirit of the original.

2. Choose or Die

• Directed by: Toby Meakins
• Starring: Iola Evans, Asa Butterfield, Eddie Marsan
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Horror Thriller

In this twisted, high-concept horror thriller, a broke student (Iola Evans) rebooting an obscure 1980s survival computer game must play to win an unclaimed $100k prize. But in this sadistic game, losing comes with a lethal price. Also starring Asa Butterfield and Eddie Marsan, Choose or Die delivers on its daring premise thanks to wickedly inventive death traps and an invigorating lead performance from Evans. This electrifying cautionary tale will make gamers think twice before accepting any shady downloads.

3. The Curse of Bridge Hollow

• Directed by: Jeff Wadlow
• Starring: Marlon Wayans, Kelly Rowland, Priah Ferguson
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Horror Comedy

Stranger Things scene-stealer Priah Ferguson stars in this spirited family horror comedy as a teen who teams up with her father (Marlon Wayans) against an ancient and mischievous spirit bringing Halloween decorations to life in their town. The Curse of Bridge Hollow puts a fresh spin on both haunted house movies and the father-daughter dynamic with hilarious jump scares and curses that will leave audiences of all ages howling. It’s the perfect flick for spooky season family fright nights.

FAQ – New Scary Netflix Movies

What horror subgenres have recent Netflix movies covered?

Netflix has released new horror films spanning from gory slasher sequels like Texas Chainsaw Massacre, to creepy gaming-inspired thrills in Choose or Die, and even the family-friendly haunted hijinks of The Curse of Bridge Hollow.

Has Netflix attracted established horror directors and stars?

Yes, Netflix horror films have featured horror veterans like Texas Chainsaw Massacre director David Blue Garcia, as well as rising indie talents like Choose or Die’s Toby Meakins, plus stars like Priah Ferguson and Marlon Wayans.

Why has Netflix focused on releasing scary movies?

Horror movies have a passionate built-in audience always seeking the next frightening film. New horror releases also help drive subscriber engagement, especially around Halloween.

Family-Friendly Animated Films

1. Apollo 101⁄2: A Space Age Adventure

• Directed by: Richard Linklater
• Starring: Jack Black, Zachary Levi, Glen Powell
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Animated Coming-of-Age Drama

Oscar nominee Richard Linklater writes and directs this beautifully animated, nostalgic snapshot of the 1969 moon landing as seen through the eyes of 10-year-old Stan. Set amidst the wonders of the space race era, it blends Linklater’s lively imagination with his own childhood memories. This warm-hearted family film is filled with whimsy and humor as it conjures the universal experience of gazing at the stars and dreaming big. With charming voice work from Jack Black, Zachary Levi and Glen Powell as the astronauts, Apollo 10 1/2 is atender ode to childhood dreams taking flight.

2. The Sea Beast

• Directed by: Chris Williams
• Starring: Zaris-Angel Hator, Karl Urban, Jared Harris
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Fantasy Adventure Animation

From the filmmakers behind Moana and Big Hero 6 comes Netflix’s latest animated epic, The Sea Beast. Set in a era when sea monsters threatened seafaring voyages, it follows young stowaway Maisie Brumble (Zaris-Angel Hator) and legendary sea monster hunter Jacob Holland (Karl Urban). Their thrilling odyssey across uncharted waters is brought to life by gorgeously vivid animation. The stellar voice cast also includes Jared Harris and Dan Stevens. With breathtaking action and touching heart, The Sea Beast is a must-see for audiences of all ages.

3. My Father’s Dragon

• Directed by: Nora Twomey
• Starring: Jacob Tremblay, Gaten Matarazzo, Golshifteh Farahani
• Release Year: 2022
  * Genre: 2D Animated Adventure

Based on the children’s book by Ruth Stiles Gannett, this gorgeously hand-drawn 2D animated tale follows Elmer Elevator (Jacob Tremblay), a young boy who journeys to a mysterious island to rescue a baby Dragon. Helping bring this charming story to life is Stranger Things’ Gaten Matarazzo as Elmer’s pal Boris and Golshifteh Farahani as a cat who aids Elmer’s quest. With imaginative creatures and positive messages about bravery and friendship, director Nora Twomey crafts an endearing for the whole family.

FAQ – New Family-Friendly Netflix Movies

What types of animation styles have recent Netflix family films showcased?

Netflix family animated releases range from Apollo 10 1/2’s nostalgic rotoscoped style, to the CGI wonders of The Sea Beast, to the hand-drawn beauty of My Father’s Dragon.

Do Netflix family animations attract well-known talent?

Absolutely, movies like Apollo 10 1/2 feature voice work from big stars like Jack Black and Zachary Levi, while also highlighting rising young voices like Jacob Tremblay.

Why are animated movies a priority in

Fascinating Documentaries

1. The Tinder Swindler

• Directed by: Felicity Morris
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: True Crime Documentary

This shocking documentary chronicles the crimes of “Tinder Swindler” Shimon Hayut, an Israeli con man who used the dating app to swindle millions from unsuspecting women looking for love. Director Felicity Morris weaves together jaw-dropping interviews with Hayut’s victims, recounting how they were ensnared by his elaborate ruse. A fascinating glimpse into deceit in the digital age, The Tinder Swindler serves as an urgent warning for anyone searching for connections online.

2. The Andy Warhol Diaries

• Directed by: Andrew Rossi
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Biographical Documentary

Expanding on his previous Warhol documentary, director Andrew Rossi provides intimate new insights into the iconic pop artist through this six-part series based on Warhol’s own posthumously published diaries. Via both Warhol’s own irreverent words and a wealth of archival footage, the series peels back the mask of his public persona to reveal the man underneath. Fans of Warhol and the New York arts scene he revolutionized will find these diaries offer the most in-depth look at the legendary figure ever put to screen.

3. Jimmy Savile: A British Horror Story

• Directed by: Rowan Deacon
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: True Crime Documentary

This two-part docuseries explores the monstrous crimes of Jimmy Savile, the late British TV personality publicly known for his charity work but exposed after his death as a serial sex abuser. Director Rowan Deacon details how Savile groomed a nation and leveraged his celebrity into sinister access to hundreds of victims. Featuring interviews with both survivors and colleagues who knew Savile, the documentary constructs a comprehensive account of institutional complicity allowing Savile’s horrors to go unchecked.

FAQ – New Netflix Documentaries

What real-life topics have recent Netflix documentaries covered?

Netflix has released compelling new docs tackling subjects ranging from dating scams in The Tinder Swindler to the art world icon Andy Warhol to the serial predator Jimmy Savile.

Why has Netflix focused on producing original documentaries?

Releasing buzzy new documentaries drives conversation and coverage around Netflix. The best docs also often lead to awards recognition.

How have recent Netflix docs innovated the art form?

Netflix documentaries utilize stylish visuals and inventive frameworks like The Andy Warhol Diaries’ use of the subject’s own writing to find creative new angles on both new and already covered subjects.

Independent Hidden Gems

1. Windfall

• Directed by: Charlie McDowell
• Starring: Jason Segel, Lily Collins, Jesse Plemons
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Hitchcockian Suspense Thriller

A wealthy man (Jesse Plemons) arrives at his vacation home to find a couple (Jason Segel and Lily Collins) who claim they now own the house have broken in. This tight-knit indie thriller ensues examining greed and class dynamics with riveting intensity. Director Charlie McDowell wrings expert suspense while the talented cast adds moral complexity. Carried by charged dialogue and an Agatha Christie-esque premise, Windfall is a sleek, skillfully crafted hidden gem.

2. All My Friends Hate Me

• Directed by: Andrew Gaynord
• Starring: Tom Stourton, Charly Clive, Joshua Mcguire
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Dark Comedy

At a birthday getaway with old university mates, perpetual awkward Pete (Tom Stourton) comes to believe his friends are playing cruel pranks meant to exclude and humiliate him. Impressively mounting tension gives way to stress-inducing chaos once the alcohol flows freely. This cringe-inducing exploration of festering insecurities and fraying friendships makes for squirmingly funny viewing. Led by Stourton’s hapless lead turn, All My Friends Hate Me takes no prisoners in hilariously skewering toxic friend dynamics.

3. Dual

• Directed by: Riley Stearns
• Starring: Karen Gillan, Aaron Paul, Beulah Koale
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Sci-Fi Black Comedy

After receiving a terminal diagnosis, Sarah (Karen Gillan) opts to undergo an expensive cloning procedure to ease the loss on her loved ones. When the treatment unexpectedly puts her into remission, Sarah must face off against her own double in a state-mandated duel to the death. Dual serves up a wickedly satirical look at privilege and self-absorption through the lens of speculative fiction. Gillan’s dual performance also delivers double the impact.

FAQ – Under the Radar Netflix Movies

How does Netflix give a platform to smaller independent films?

Releasing indie acquisitions like Windfall and funding unique original visions like Dual helps Netflix support independent filmmakers and connect them with wider audiences.

Do indie Netflix releases feature emerging young talents?

Yes, films like All My Friends Hate Me showcase rising stars like writer/director Andrew Gaynord and actor Tom Stourton alongside indie veterans like Succession’s Joshua McGuire.

Why are smaller indie movies a focus for Netflix?

Highlighting indie films helps Netflix differentiate itself from larger studio projects and generates buzz and acclaim from niche audiences and critics.

Romantic Date Night Movies

1. Purple Hearts

• Directed by: Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum
• Starring: Sofia Carson, Nicholas Galitzine
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Romantic Drama

In this romance against the odds, aspiring singer-songwriter Cassie (Sofia Carson) agrees to a marriage of convenience with troubled Marine Luke (Nicholas Galitzine) in exchange for health benefits. Despite their opposing backgrounds, their fake relationship soon blooms into real love. Purple Hearts soars thanks to the winning chemistry between Carson and Galitzine and a soundtrack filled with infectious pop songs. Their heartfelt story will have you swooning through both the lighthearted and heavier moments.

2. Through My Window

• Directed by: Marçal Forés
• Starring: Clara Galle, Julio Peña, Hugo Arbués
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Romantic Drama

Based on Ariana Godoy’s popular novel, this Spanish-language flick centres on Raquel, who has long been intrigued by her mysterious neighbour Ares. When an unexpected meet-cute leads them to start secretly dating, Raquel is determined to turn their seductive connection into a fairy tale romance. Clara Galle and Julio Peñasmolder as the central couple in this steamy, melodramatic teen soap opera.

3. Your Place or Mine?

• Directed by: Aline Brosh McKenna
• Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Ashton Kutcher
• Release Year: 2023
• Genre: Romantic Comedy

Total opposites and best friends Debbie (Reese Witherspoon) and Peter (Ashton Kutcher) swap homes and lives for a week across coasts. Predictably, hijinks and heartfelt revelations ensue. Writer/director Aline Brosh McKenna cleverly flips the classic screwball formula giving Witherspoon and Kutcher equal opportunity to shine. Your Place or Mine? will leave rom-com fans intoxicated by its fizzy blend of laughter and romance.

FAQ – New Netflix Romances

What genres have recent Netflix romantic movies spanned?

Netflix has released romantic movies ranging from syrupy Nicholas Sparks-esque dramas like Purple Hearts to steamy teen soaps Through My Window to traditional rom-coms such as Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher’s Your Place or Mine?

Do Netflix romances feature diverse stories and lead characters?

Yes, films like Purple Hearts and Through My Window feature interracial and Spanish-language central romances, while most new Netflix romances feature strong, successful female protagonists.

Why are stories focused on love and relationships a priority for Netflix?

Heartfelt romances represent comfort viewing that cuts across demographics. Netflix romantic films also frequently trend on the service and get high rewatch rates.

Adrenaline-Pumping Action Movies

1.Interceptor

• Directed by: Matthew Reilly
• Starring: Elsa Pataky, Luke Bracey
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Action Thriller

In her first lead role, Elsa Pataky (of Fast and Furious fame) brings muscularity and grit to Interceptor as an Army captain who must singlehandedly protect a remote missile interceptor base from attack. With its simple yet electrifying concept energized by relentless fight scenes, Interceptor offers explosive B-movie thrills. Which each electrifying showdown, Pataky cements her well-deserved action star status.

2. Day Shift

• Directed by: J.J. Perry
• Starring: Jamie Foxx, Dave Franco, Snoop Dogg
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Supernatural Action Comedy

Jamie Foxx stars as a pool cleaner moonlighting as a vampire hunter in this signature slick and fun Netflix programming starring Dave Franco and Snoop Dogg. From John Wick stunt coordinator turned director J.J. Perry, Day Shift serves up supercharged action sequences mixed with snappy comic banter and plenty of bloodsucker carnage. Foxx is a charismatic lead, but Snoop Dogg nearly steals the show as his vampire-slaying mentor. This action-comedy is purely designed for adrenaline-pumping fun.

3. Athena

• Directed by: Romain Gavras
• Starring: Dali Benssalah, Sami Slimane, Anthony Bajon
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Crime Action Drama

After his younger brother dies under suspicious circumstances, Athena follows a French-Algerian family’s youngest son thrown into chaos. Director Romain Gavras brings enormous kinetic energy and tension to this powder-keg drama portrayed through constant, frenetic movement. Breakout leads Dali Benssalah and Sami Slimane deliver emotionally potent performances as their lives spiral out of control. With bold social commentary matched only by its explosive set pieces, Athena announces Gavras as a filmmaker to watch.

FAQ – New Netflix Action Movies

What unique action subgenres have recent Netflix movies covered?

Netflix’s new action slate ranges from the contained military thriller Interceptor to supernatural comedy Day Shift to gritty crime drama Athena.

Do Netflix action movies feature diversity both on screen and behind the camera?

Yes, films like Athena spotlight diverse voices while also showcasing international talents like French-Greek director Romain Gavras.

Why are action movies a key part of Netflix’s film strategy?

The broad appeal of action combined with the visual spectacle allows Netflix to break through the noise and attract wide audiences.

Thought-Provoking Dramas

1. All Quiet on the Western Front

• Directed by: Edward Berger
• Starring: Felix Kammerer, Albrecht Schuch, Aaron Hilmer
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Anti-War Drama

Edward Berger directs this shattering adaptation of the classic 1929 novel by Erich Maria Remarque. Set during World War I, it follows Paul Bäumer (breakthrough star Felix Kammerer), a young German soldier whose initial patriotic fervor transforms into grave disillusionment after experiencing the unbearable horrors of life in the trenches. Masterfully capturing the waste and trauma of war, All Quiet on the Western Front translates the timeless message of peace into an intensely cinematic new telling.

2. Blonde

• Directed by: Andrew Dominik
• Starring: Ana de Armas, Adrien Brody, Bobby Cannavale
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Biographical Drama

Based on the novel by Joyce Carol Oates, Blonde reimagines the tumultuous inner life of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe. Ana de Armas delivers a fearless all-in performance, portraying Monroe’s public joy and private pain. Director Andrew Dominik creates a subjectively surreal portrait focused intimately on the costs of exploitation and obsessive fandom. Blonde boldly blurs fact and fiction for a unique psychological study of trauma.

3. The Good Nurse

• Directed by: Tobias Lindholm
• Starring: Jessica Chastain, Eddie Redmayne
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: True Crime Drama

Jessica Chastain and Eddie Redmayne shine in this chilling true story of nurse Amy Loughren (Chastain) who risks her career to help stop fellow nurse and serial killer Charlie Cullen (Redmayne). The Good Nurse moves steadily and subtly, more concerned with complicated character dynamics than cheap thrills. Weaving an unsettling mood, Lindholm elevates the fascinating case beyond usual true crime trappings into a nuanced drama about deception and moral duty.

FAQ – Thought-Provoking Netflix Movies

What important themes have recent Netflix dramas explored?

Netflix has released dramas covering vital topics from the futility of war in All Quiet on the Western Front, to exploitation in Blonde, to moral courage among nurses in The Good Nurse.

Do Netflix dramas aim to be awards contenders?

Prestige dramas like All Quiet, Blonde and The Good Nurse absolutely position Netflix to attract critical acclaim and awards attention, especially with A-list stars like Ana de Armas.

Why are serious-minded dramas a priority for Netflix?

Along with driving subscriptions, acclaimed dramas raise Netflix’s profile as a top destination for quality cinema and help attract leading filmmaking talents.

Feel-Good Crowd-Pleasers

1. 13: The Musical

• Directed by: Tamra Davis
• Starring: Debra Messing, Rhea Perlman, Josh Peck
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Coming-of-Age Musical

This lively film adaptation of the Broadway hit follows Evan Goldman (Eli Golden) as he navigates his stressful Bar Mitzvah preparations after an upsetting move to a new town. Featuring catchy musical numbers and themes of friendship, family, and becoming a man, 13: The Musical will have tweens singing along and parents nodding along. With added star power from Debra Messing, Rhea Perlman and Josh Peck, this crowd-pleasing coming-of-age tale hits all the right notes.

2. The Royal Treatment

• Directed by: Rick Jacobson
• Starring: Laura Marano, Mena Massoud
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Romantic Comedy

An American hairdresser (Laura Marano) unexpectedly begins styling a prince (Mena Massoud) ahead of his royal wedding and—surprise, surprise—sparks fly. While The Royal Treatment sticks closely to romantic comedy formulas, the undeniable charisma of leads Marano and Massoud elevates the familiar fairy tale premise. Offering princely wish fulfillment, The Royal Treatment is a breezy crowd-pleaser perfect for uplifting family movie nights or girls’ night in.

3. Hustle

• Directed by: Jeremiah Zagar
• Starring: Adam Sandler, Queen Latifah, Robert Duvall
• Release Year: 2022
• Genre: Sports Drama

Proving he still has dramatic chops, Adam Sandler shines in this crowd-pleasing basketball drama as Stanley Sugarman, a scout who believes amateur player Bo Cruz (Juancho Hernangómez) could be his ticket back into the NBA. Energized by heartwarming mentorship themes and a surprisingly moving underdog story, Hustle scores big thanks to Sandler’s nuanced lead turn. With Queen Latifah and Robert Duvall lending endearing support, this is a sports movie with universal appeal.

FAQ – Feel-Good Netflix Movies

What uplifting genres have recent feel-good Netflix movies covered?

Netflix has released feel-good films spanning from musicals like 13: The Musical to rom-com wish fulfillment like The Royal Treatment to underdog sports dramas such as Hustle.

Do Netflix feel-good movies attract major stars?

Absolutely, uplifting Netflix releases have starred big names like Adam Sandler and Queen Latifah mixed with up-and-comers like Laura Marano.

Why are feel-good movies a focus in Netflix’s film strategy?

Releasing crowd-pleasers provides comfort viewing which builds subscriber loyalty. Heartwarming films also tend to get high rewatch levels, increasing platform value.

The Best New Movies on Netflix – Final Takeaways

Hopefully this comprehensive guide has helped highlight the very best new movie releases currently available on Netflix across every conceivable genre. From critically acclaimed Oscar contenders to star-powered blockbusters to hidden indie gems, Netflix’s 2022 film slate has offered premier streaming options for all tastes.

Looking ahead, Netflix plans to ramp up releases even further, debuting at least one major original film per week over the course of 2023. That means movie lovers will have even more fantastic new options to choose from when browsing their Netflix menus.

So whether you’re looking for a chilling horror show, touching drama, raucous comedy, adrenaline-fueled action flick, swoon-worthy romance or uplifting crowd-pleaser, you’re guaranteed to find films that satisfy your cravings among the best new movies on Netflix right now. Happy viewing!