Getting lost in good movies on Netflix can sometimes be the best medicine! Self-isolators, those on lockdown, staying at home and everyone else will be firing up their computers or TVs for a binge. There’s just one obstacle – picking something to watch.
Here are 10 solid selections to keep streamers moved and entertained. And if Netflix movies aren’t an option, they should hopefully offer some eyeball-pleasing ideas…
The Meyerowitz Stories (2017)
This absorbing and amusing comedy drama about a family is written and directed by Noah Baumbach (Marriage Story, While We’re Young). Baumbach has a knack for getting the best out of his cast and he doesn’t have to try hard here. Adam Sandler, now an award-winning serious actor, stars alongside Ben Stiller. Dustin Hoffman plays the formidable Meyerowitz Sr. Emma Thompson and Adam Driver also appear. It even won the prestigious Palm Dog gong at Cannes for canine cast member Bruno…!
A Serious Man (2009)
Writer/directors the Coen Brothers (Fargo, The Big Lebowski) can always be relied upon to tell the most eye-opening stories. 1960s set comedy drama A Serious Man is packed with the Brothers’ trademark off-kilter characters and surprising situations. The lead is Michael Stuhlbarg, possibly America’s most underrated actor! He plays Prof. Larry Gopnik, who is about to face a mountain of personal and professional crises. From the evocative folk tale-style opening to the crushing climax, this is definitely one to dive into…
The Witch (2015)
Fancy something seriously scary? This bone chilling and harrowing story marked the film debut of writer/director Robert Eggers. He’s gone on to astonish people with stark horror movie The Lighthouse. In this pick, 17th century New England finds an isolated and paranoid clan preyed upon by a malevolent and ancient presence. Rising star Anya Taylor-Joy (Split, Emma.) takes the lead, appearing with highly-respected Scottish actress Kate Dickie. Try not to watch this alone – you will certainly lose your willies…
The Ritual (2017)
There’s nothing like a bit of bonding to bring people together. Unfortunately this proves a nerve-shredding mistake for a group of friends gone-a-hiking in Netflix’s wilderness-bound nightmare. Director David Bruckner (The Signal) assembles a cast of Britain’s best and brightest to frighten out of their wits, including Rafe Spall and Downton Abbey’s Robert James-Collier. The wilds of Sweden certainly make a contrast to the silver spoons of English country life. It’s based on a novel, so expect something meaty…
Her (2013)
Scarlett Johansson makes her first appearance on the list. For this entry however, she’s unseen. There’s no mistaking her voice though, as she plays an Alexa-like assistant in this weirdly romantic sci-fi. The fact she’s casting her digital spell on lead Joaquin Phoenix should be reason enough to press play. But the presence of writer/director Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich) in the creative hot seat is what seals the offbeat deal…
The Invitation (2015)
As films like You’re Next and Ready Or Not have shown, intimate gatherings sometimes inevitably lead to chaos. That’s definitely the case with horror thriller The Invitation, from director Karyn Kusama (Destroyer). Starring Logan Marshall-Green and Tammy Blanchard, the movie leads us down dark paths through a raw and uncompromising reunion between a man and his ex-wife. Kusama’s work is always interesting, making this a powerful jolt of a watch…!
Marriage Story (2019)
Adam Driver returns to the list, together with Scarlett Johansson, for this moving and convincing drama about a relationship slowly disintegrating. Noah Baumbach also brings together a stellar supporting cast, including the legendary Alan Arkin and Laura Dern – who won Best Supporting Actress at this year’s Oscars for her role as a whip smart lawyer. Ray Liotta makes a welcome big screen appearance as her equally ruthless legal opponent. With a slew of awards under its belt, Marriage Story is the most high profile film on the rundown and deservedly so…
Step Brothers (2008)
Fed up with the heavy stuff? Then this slice of pure silliness, infused with the infectious performances of Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly, should do nicely. Directed by Adam McKay (The Big Short, Vice), it has a simple and hilarious set up. When ageing lovers Robert (Richard Jenkins) and Nancy (Mary Steenburgen) fall in love they face a shared and unusual challenge… ditching their middle aged sons who still live at home! The comic treat is easily Ferrell and C. Reilly’s best work…
The Tigers of Scotland (2017)
For those fed up with fictional characters, a trip north of the border to meet the beautiful and fascinating wildlife of Britain might be just the ticket! Filmmaker Leanne Gater enlisted the distinctive tones of Iain Glen (Game Of Thrones) for this chronicle of the Scottish Wildcats. Untamed countryside and magnificent creatures, all from the comfort of the living room. At just under an hour it provides everything needed for a glimpse of another world that’s decidedly Earth-bound…
Y Tu Mamá También (2001)
Alfonso Cuarón’s name is associated with striking works that portray the human condition in vivid and powerful terms. 2018’s Netflix movies release Roma netted him a bunch of awards, but Mexican comedy drama Y Tu Mamá También (And Your Mom Too!) is well worth a watch also. Stars Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna are well known for their roles in Mozart In The Jungle and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. But back at the turn of the century they played 2 excitable teenagers on the road encountering an “older” woman (Maribel Verdú who was barely 30!). The steamy tale should get pulses racing and minds firing…
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This is just a selection of what’s on offer. No Netflix account on hand to watch movies? These movies should be available on other streaming services or to rent or buy. Films rarely change the world but they often change perspectives. So go ahead and take a trip without ever leaving your chair…