50 Movies And TV Shows On Netflix You'll Actually Want To Watch

    New year, new things to watch.

    Spencer Althouse
    by Spencer Althouse

    BuzzFeed Staff

    We asked the BuzzFeed Community to tell us their absolute favorite movies and shows on Netflix right now. Here are the must-watch results.

    1. Feel Good (2020–2021)

    Mae video-chatting with her mom
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Mae Martin co-created and stars in this witty, touching series that draws on her own life experiences."

    Why you should watch it: "I recently watched this, and it was realllllly funny. There are only six short episodes in the series so far, so you can binge it in one night. It's clever, intimate, deep, and the cast is incredible." —ajanibazile

    2. Bridgerton (2020–present)

    Daphne looking at Simon in the boxing ring
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn's bestselling novels."

    Why you should watch it: "Gah, it’s so good — the writing, the cast, the costumes, everything! I haven’t watched a Shonda Rhimes show since Scandal, and I was so impressed with this one that I bought the book it’s based on because I can't wait for the next season." —brittanyp930

    3. Other People (2016)

    Joanne and the family talking about cremation while drinking milkshakes
    Vertical Entertainment

    Its Netflix description: "After a bad breakup, a struggling New York comedy writer tries to don a brave face and care for his dying mother in Sacramento."

    Why you should watch it: "This is one of those movies that'll have you laughing one minute and crying the next. It's about self-acceptance and mortality and finding your place in the world, but there's nothing hokey or clichéd about it. Like, the movie tackles really serious issues but does it in a totally real and careful way. I love it." —spenceralthouse

    4. Alice in Borderland (2020–present)

    Characters getting ready to fight on broken glass
    Silver Link

    Its Netflix description: "An aimless gamer and his two friends find themselves in a parallel Tokyo where they're forced to compete in a series of sadistic games to survive."

    Why you should watch it: "It's a Japanese drama that I binged in a single day. The whole show is interesting and really plays with your mind. It reminds me of Now You See Me." —maggieshannon1

    5. Evil (2019–present)

    David Acosta praying in "Evil"
    CBS

    Its Netflix description: "A forensic psychologist partners with a Catholic priest-in-training to investigate miracles and demonic possession in this supernatural drama."

    Why you should watch it: "I’m picky about what I watch, but I LOVE horror movies, and this series is both spooky and so interesting in the way it tells different stories and weaves them together. It deals with supernatural aspects but also brings an element of reality into it by having one of the main characters there to 'debunk' different hauntings and possessions. PLUS it’s been renewed for a second season!" —hannahw49

    6. Hasan Minhaj: Homecoming King (2017)

    Hasan Minhaj telling a joke on stage
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Comic Hasan Minhaj of The Daily Show shares personal stories about racism, immigrant parents, prom night horrors, and more in this stand-up special."

    Why you should watch it: "I love the stand-up comedy specials on Netflix. Hasan Minhaj's Homecoming King is so good and funny and theatrical. Also, don’t ignore his show, Patriot Act. It still blows my mind how smart he and his team are." —callista_sey

    7. The Hollow (2018–2020)

    Adam, Mira, and Kai in "The Hollow"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Three teens join forces to find a way home after waking up in a strange realm filled with magic portals, perplexing puzzles, and vicious beasts."

    Why you should watch it: "It’s an animated series that’s inclusive, has a good mystery, is full of twists, and has interesting and bizarre characters. I wish more people knew about it." —nadiaz4

    8. Someone Great (2019)

    Gina Rodriguez's character riding the subway and writing in her journal
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "On the heels of a blindsiding breakup, music journalist Jenny braces for a new beginning and one last adventure with her closest friends."

    Why you should watch it: "It's the best modern rom-com that somehow makes heartbreak feel more manageable." —hannahk43

    9. 20th Century Women (2016)

    Dorothea talking to Jamie in the kitchen while they wash dishes together
    A24

    Its Netflix description: "In 1979, single bohemian mom Dorothea, hoping to help her teen son find his place as a man, asks two young women to share their lives with him."

    Why you should watch it: "No one ever talks about this perfect movie. It stars Annette Bening (who's never been better), Greta Gerwig, Elle Fanning, and Billy Crudup. I won't give anything away, but this has one of my favorite endings of any movie. I remember crying because I felt so much love and hope and heartbreak. It made me feel nostalgic for something I had never even experienced. You have to watch it." —spenceralthouse

    10. Babylon Berlin (2017–present)

    Charlotte and Greta kissing at a bar
    Sky1

    Its Netflix description: "A Soviet freight train's hijacking leads a haunted cop and a poor typist to uncover a political conspiracy amid the vice and glamour of 1929 Berlin."

    Why you should watch it: "Politics and the social norms of the time weave throughout this German drama series. It centers around a police detective and a young woman doing what she needs to survive. The costume and set budgets must’ve been huge because you truly feel like you’re in the Roaring Twenties of Berlin. It has a definite edge and doesn’t shy away from anything. Don’t let the subtitles scare you off! If you like intricate crime dramas, you’ll be bingeing this one." —lilpeb

    11. Trinkets (2019–2020)

    Elodie, Tabitha, and Moe at a Halloween party
    Two Blocks Apart Productions

    Its Netflix description: "A grieving teen finds an unexpected connection with two classmates at her new high school after they all land in the same Shoplifters Anonymous group."

    Why you should watch it: "The show follows three young women who go to a support group for stealing. I didn’t think I'd like it at first, but wow, it had a lot of really great storylines. Also, the main character is a lesbian, there's Black representation, and a lot of it revolves around feminism. It also handles more serious issues, like running away, abusive relationships, and divorce. It’s an amazing show that no one talks about." —klee12

    12. Good Time (2017)

    Connie and Nick in "Good Time"
    A24

    Its Netflix description: "After spearheading an ill-fated bank robbery, a man must get his younger brother who's mentally challenged out of jail while eluding his own capture."

    Why you should watch it: "It's a thriller from the Safdie Brothers (they made Uncut Gems) that stars Robert Pattinson. It's so entertaining, and the overall message is just so, so sweet. It’s one of my favorite movies, and I recommend it to everyone who’s looking for something to watch on Netflix." —cpo2

    13. Pose (2018–present)

    Pray Tell talking about the AIDS pandemic in "Pose"
    FX

    Its Netflix description: "In 1987 New York, LGBTQ ball fixture Blanca starts her own house, soon becoming mother to a gifted dancer and a sex worker who's in love with a yuppie client."

    Why you should watch it: "It should be nominated for every TV award there is. The cast is amazing, and the story is fantastic. It can make you weep and also leave you feeling so hopeful." —ashtree92

    14. Kath & Kim (2002–2017)

    Kath talking to Kel at a party
    Seven Network

    Its Netflix description: "As Kath prepares to wed fine-meats purveyor Kel, her daughter, Kim, moves back home after becoming disillusioned with her two-month marriage to Brett."

    Why you should watch it: "As someone who has watched The Office 583,749,594 times, I can't recommend Kath & Kim enough. It has the same kind of chaotic, messy behavior, but is less problematic (and includes a tacky mother-daughter duo in Australia). 10/10, will watch again and again."

    —hannahburrow

    15. Snowpiercer (2013)

    Tilda Swinton's character shrugging her shoulders while other people try to hijack the train
    Moho Film

    Its Netflix description: "The Earth's remaining inhabitants are confined to a single train circling the globe as revolution brews among the class-divided cars."

    Why you should watch it: "The movie was written and directed by Bong Joon-ho (he won several Oscars for making Parasite) and stars people like Chris Evans, Octavia Spencer, and Kang-Ho Song. It's just so, so good."

    —noradominick

    16. Anne with an "E" (2017–2019)

    Anne talking about love to her grandmother
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "A plucky orphan whose passions run deep finds an unlikely home with a spinster and her soft-spoken bachelor brother. Based on Anne of Green Gables."

    Why you should watch it: "People tend to write this show off because it’s a period piece, but it tackles complex and modern issues that we still face today. All the characters are compelling, and the story is fresh! Also, it has the best slow-burn relationship between Anne and Gilbert that you can’t help but fall in love with!" —carolync41

    17. Dark (2017–2020)

    Opening scenes of the characters in the woods in "Dark"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "A missing child sets four families on a frantic hunt for answers as they unearth a mind-bending mystery that spans three generations."

    Why you should watch it: "It's so good and underrated. It's full of plot twists and characters who have so much going on. The show really makes you use your brain, and that’s why I like it. It is in German, so subtitles are necessary if you don't speak the language, but I think that makes it more interesting!" —grumpyscissors88

    18. Z Nation (2014–2018)

    Someone hitting a zombie in the face with a bat
    SyFy

    Its Netflix description: "A team embarks on a perilous cross-country mission to transport the one man who survived a deadly zombie virus, hoping he holds the key to a vaccine."

    Why you should watch it: "It has a really good plot and all the characters have depth and you grow to love all of them. It also has the right balance of zombie apocalypse and comedy for it to be entertaining."

    —canunotmywaywardson

    19. Quincy (2018)

    Quincy Jones in his 20s and then Quincy Jones in his 80s accepting an honorary degree
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "You've heard his songs, including some of the biggest hits of our time. Now meet the extraordinary man behind the music."

    Why you should watch it: "This documentary about Quincy Jones' life is soooo good. It was actually made by his daughter, Rashida Jones, so things get especially real and personal." —kaylayandoli

    20. Community (2009–2015)

    Shirley and Britta in the study room
    NBC

    Its Netflix description: "When the legitimacy of his degree is challenged, lawyer Jeff Winger must return to school where he meets a clan of misfit community college students."

    Why you should watch it: "This show went from being something I promised I would never watch to being my go-to 'just for background noise' show. I recommend it to anyone and everyone." —bc13

    21. It's Bruno! (2019–present)

    Bruno and his owner talking to another dog/owner on the street
    Warner Bros. Television

    Its Netflix description: "An old-school Brooklyn native devotes his days to caring for his adorable dog, Bruno, and making sure the neighbors show his pooch the proper respect."

    Why you should watch it: "This is a little gem. Each episode is only about 15 minutes long. It’s a bit of a weird comedy about a guy and his dog living in New York. It's fun, easy watching." —nadiaz4

    22. Haven (2010–2015)

    Nathan and Duke hugging in "Haven"
    SyFy

    Its Netflix description: "Residents of Haven, Maine, are plagued by supernatural afflictions. To reveal the truth, FBI agent Audrey Parker must delve into her own strange past."

    Why you should watch it: "You need to watch this if you're into suspense or mystery shows. It's based on Stephen King's story called The Colorado Kid, so if you like anything from him you'll probably like this." —anda_panda

    23. Pottersville (2017)

    Michael Shannon as Maynard Greiger in "Pottersville"
    Echo Bridge

    Its Netflix description: "A man's drunken romp in a gorilla suit gets him mistaken for Bigfoot, drawing media attention and tourist dollars to his struggling small town."

    Why you should watch it: "It's ridiculously funny and odd, and I love it so much! It never fails to make me laugh. It’s got a great cast (like Michael Shannon and Judy Greer) and a really sweet ending. 10/10!" —jamiet4

    24. Eternal Love (2017)

    Yang Mi and Mark Chao's characters kissing in "Eternal Love"
    Gcoo Entertainment

    Its Netflix description: "After the deities Bai Qian and Ye Hua meet and fall in love, their romance stands the test of three lifestimes – each an epic in its own right."

    Why you should watch it: "There are some truly great international shows out there, and this is one of them. It's an epic love story full of angst, gorgeous people, gorgeous costumes, and beautiful music." —shellezbellez

    25. The Last Kingdom (2015–present)

    The men looking at a nun as she walks by
    BBC TWO

    Its Netflix description: "As Alfred the Great defends his kingdom from Norse invaders, Uhtred – born a Saxon but raised by Vikings – seeks to claim his ancestral birthright."

    Why you should watch it: "This show is super underrated, but I love it! It’s action-packed, has great characters and storylines, and is shockingly funny. It’s not a comedy by any means, but none of the characters have a verbal filter, which makes for fun banter and a lot of sarcasm. Overall, it’s such a good show!" —liv2smile

    26. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018)

    A character making a joke before being hanged in "The Ballad of Buster Scruggs"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Ranging from absurd to profound, these Western vignettes from the Coen Brothers follow the adventures of outlaws and settles on the American frontier."

    Why you should watch it: "I came across this during the beginning of our first lockdown. It's a bit lengthy, but the movie is broken into five or six 'sub movies' that are all kinds of twisted, dark comedies. It's my go-to recommendation, hands-down." —raycharzol

    27. Julie and the Phantoms (2020–present)

    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Julie lost her passion for music when she lost her mom. But when three ghostly guys appear and lift her spirits, they decide to start a band together."

    Why you should watch it: "It's a show that was made by the same guy who made High School Musical, and it's of the same quality! The songs are amazing, and the characters and storylines have so much depth (especially for a show that's meant for kids). The cast is so good and full of very talented actors and performers. It really needs a second season!" —b4bba4

    28. The Dragon Prince (2018–present)

    Everyone arriving to a new boat in "The Dragon Prince"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "An extraordinary discovery inspires two human princes and an elven assassin to team up on an epic quest to bring peace to their warring lands."

    Why you should watch it: "It's an animated adventure series that's made by the same people who created Avatar: The Last Airbender. It’s stunning, funny, heartfelt, eery, dark, and it’s one of the most inclusive shows (animated or not) that I’ve ever seen." —jamiehhhhh

    29. The Umbrella Academy (2019–present)

    The superheroes using their powers while being attacked
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Years after they rose to fame as young crime-fighting superheroes, the estranged Hargreeves siblings come together to mark their father's death."

    Why you should watch it: "This show is awesome! The characters are so well-developed, the actors are amazing (I'm looking at you, Aidan Gallagher), and the plot is so hooking. Also, I’m slightly in love with Klaus and Five. I’m so excited for Season 3." —protego24

    30. Stardust (2007)

    Claire Danes in "Stardust"
    Paramount Pictures

    Its Netflix description: "To win his true love's heart, wide-eyed Tristan Thorn journeys to a forbidden realm to retrieve a fallen star that has taken human form."

    Why you should watch it: "It's my favorite fantasy movie. It has an all-star cast (Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Robert De Niro), great CGI, and is such a wonderful fairy tale that takes my breath away every time I watch it! I recently watched it with my aunt and uncle who aren't into fantasy at all, but they absolutely loved it!" —squish37

    31. Bonding (2019–present)

    Tiff confronting Doug in the bathroom stall
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "A New York City grad student moonlighting as a dominatrix enlists her gay BFF from high school to be her assistant."

    Why you should watch it: "It's honestly one of the funniest shows on Netflix. It's so bingeable (there are only seven 15-minute episodes). I can't wait for Season 2 to come out!" —lukeb42

    32. The Five (2016)

    A side-by-side of kids running in the woods and someone lying in a hospital bed
    Sky1

    Its Netflix description: "Twenty years after 5-year-old Jesse disappears near his home, his DNA turns up at the scene of a woman's murder, baffling his family and the police."

    Why you should watch it: "It’s a British murder mystery miniseries that is SO intriguing. The friendships are flawed but beautiful, yet the series gets paid dust." —kpotterswift

    33. Kim's Convenience (2016–present)

    Kim talking to her grandmother outside
    CBC Television

    Its Netflix description: "While running a convenience store in Toronto, members of a Korean-Canadian family deal with customers, each other, and the evolving world around them."

    Why you should watch it: "I never see this show get the love it deserves, but it's so funny." —benevolentspirit

    34. James Acaster: Repertoire (2018)

    James Acaster on stage telling a joke
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Offbeat comic James Acaster covers the strange, the mundane, and everything in between in this collection of four wide-ranging stand-up specials."

    Why you should watch it: "I've forced half the people in my life to watch this. It's basically four different stand-up specials that are all loosely linked, but the humor is so goofy and absurd and full of call-backs. It's incredible."

    —tessafahey

    35. The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)

    Trevor asking Ben a question while they sit on the couch
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "A writer stuck in the past. A teen with an uncertain failure. On a road trip full of firsts, they get a new lease on life."

    Why you should watch it: "This movie is honestly so heartwarming and funny. It stars Paul Rudd and Selena Gomez, and it's just so good." —pinkster

    36. The Queen's Gambit (2020)

    Beth playing chess
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "In a 1950s orphanage, a young girl reveals an astonishing talent for chess and begins an unlikely journey to stardom while grappling with addiction."

    Why you should watch it: "Most people have probably watched this miniseries, but if you haven't yet then you need to. It's the best show to come out of 2020. I binged it in just three days." —fivecardcharlie

    37. Dynasty (2017–present)

    Fallon standing up for herself while wearing a red dress
    The CW

    Its Netflix description: "The Carringtons and the Colby's feud for control over their fortune – and their children – in this updated reboot of the classic primetime soap."

    Why you should watch it: "It's a modernized reboot of the '80s soap opera/drama about the filthy rich Carrington family. This show is amazing because you get to feel a rollercoaster of emotions while watching it, and you won't be able to stop. It's a truly entertaining masterpiece."

    —geordana_odra

    38. Lenox Hill (2020)

    Two doctors at Lenox Hill
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Four doctors at New York's historic Lenox Hill Hospital balance their personal lives and their dedication to their patients in this documentary series."

    Why you should watch it: "It's an absolute gem of a documentary series. They did an excellent job finding a balance between the medical and personal storylines. As a nurse, I appreciate it even more. It’s one of the few medical shows that could have a broader appeal! Definitely an underrated find." —misswhittlebury

    39. Elite (2018–present)

    Ander and Polo getting sexual in bed in "Elite"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "When three working-class teens enroll in an exclusive private school in Spain, the clash between them and the wealthy students leads to murder."

    Why you should watch it: "The plot is wildly unpredictable and gets you hooked (think of it as a better, more serious version of Gossip Girl). I tell everyone I can about it!" —swishswishbish37

    40. Chef (2014)

    Jon Favreau's character making the perfect grilled cheese in "Chef"
    Open Road Films

    Its Netflix description: "After igniting a Twitter war with a well-known culinary critic, a Los Angeles chef packs his knives, heads home to Miami, and opens a food truck."

    Why you should watch it: "This is one of my favorite movies! It stars and was written/directed by Jon Favreau. Every time I watch it, it inspires me to cook. For some reason not a lot of people talk about it, but it's so good." —kaylayandoli

    41. Easy (2016–present)

    Two characters kissing on a couch in "Easy"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "This eclectic, star-studded anthology follows diverse Chicagoans fumbling through the modern maze of love, sex, technology, and culture."

    Why you should watch it: "It's three seasons of well-written, funny vignettes (sometimes intersecting) about love, sex, and relationships. It's got a killer cast that includes Aubrey Plaza, Zazie Beetz, Dave Franco, Marc Maron, and more. I've never heard anyone talk about it, but I really enjoyed it." —ariellej4

    42. Locke & Key (2020–present)

    The kids looking at the keys
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "After their dad's murder, three siblings move with their mom to his ancestral estate where they discover magical keys that unlock powers – and secrets."

    Why you should watch it: "I 100% recommend this show. I'd say it’s more aimed toward teens, but my 45-year-old dad and his twin brother also love the show. My uncle is actually the one who recommended it to me." —puffle1327

    43. Sense8 (2015–2018)

    The characters from "Sense8" hanging out together
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "From the creators of The Matrix and Babylon 5 comes this tense series in which eight people can telepathically experience each other's lives."

    Why you should watch it: "So many types of love and relationships are represented in this show, the locations are amazing, and you'll genuinely care for every character. It really opened my eyes to what love can look like." —lesleytucker

    44. Wentworth (2013–2021)

    Fremantle Australia

    Its Netflix description: "Bea Smith is locked up while awaiting trial for the alleged attempted murder of her husband and must learn how life works in prison."

    Why you should watch it: "It’s a show based in a women’s prison in Australia, and it blows Orange is the New Black out of the water. It's got amazing writing and character arcs, and it's just plain incredible. It's such a perfect show." —jennyp4

    45. Chambers (2019)

    Spooky images of covered-up faces from "Chambers"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Haunted by eerie visions and sinister impulses after a heart transplant, a teenager tries to unmask the truth behind her donor's mysterious death."

    Why you should watch it: "It's so undefeated. It features Sivan Alyra Rose in the lead role, alongside Uma Thurman and Tony Goldwyn. It's beautifully shot and well-written, and the actors are amazing. It's a great mystery show that will have you saying 'WTF' every 10 minutes. Very few people saw it, which I think is a shame." —s46d

    46. The Stranger (2020)

    Thomas Prince confronting a neighbor in "The Stranger"
    Red Production Company

    Its Netflix description: "When a stranger makes a shocking claim about his wife, family-man Adam Price becomes entangled in a mystery as he desperately searches for answers."

    Why you should watch it: "I wish I could watch this British crime/mystery series all over again without knowing anything about it. There are so many different plot twists, and it's just so good." —laurenw48

    47. Sex Education (2019–present)

    Otis and Eric jumping for joy at school
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Insecure Otis has all the answers when it comes to sex advice, thanks to his therapist mom. So rebel Maeve proposes a school sex-therapy clinic."

    Why you should watch it: "It's a teen comedy about high schoolers, but it's also really meaningful and thoughtful. The show is super diverse and features really important and serious storylines, all while keeping the show funny." —shawnmendesisthebest

    48. Dracula (2020)

    Dracula talking to a friend
    BBC One

    Its Netflix description: "The Count Dracula legend transforms with new tales that flesh out the vampire's gory crimes – and bring his vulnerability into new light."

    Why you should watch it: "This miniseries is SO GOOD, and no one else I know has seen or even heard of it. The female lead is incredible, clever, and brave. She also has some beautifully profound monologues scattered throughout the series. The show is dark, addicting, and an awesome, fresh take on Dracula’s story." —rhiannonww

    49. Workin' Moms (2017–present)

    Kate at the therapist's office in "Workin' Moms"
    CBC Television

    Its Netflix description: "Maternity leave is over, and it's time for these four moms to return to work while navigating kids, bosses, love, and life in modern-day Toronto."

    Why you should watch it: "This show is as funny as Schitt’s Creek and completely addictive. I’m kind of obsessed." —bgolob

    50. And Derry Girls (2018–present)

    Sister Michael talking to the students in "Derry Girls"
    Netflix

    Its Netflix description: "Amidst the political conflict of Northern Ireland in the 1990s, five high school students square off with the universal challenges of being a teenager."

    Why you should watch it: "It’s so funny and touching and even has a little history thrown in. The characters are amazing, especially the head nun. You'll laugh so much." —aowens369

    Do you have a favorite movie or show on Netflix that didn't make the list? Tell us about it in the comments below!

    Note: Submissions have been edited for length and clarity.