Over the past decade, Netflix has transformed itself from a mere streaming service to a formidable force in the film industry. Since releasing its first original film, *Beasts of No Nation*, the platform has garnered significant acclaim, earning prestigious awards such as Oscars, Golden Globes, and Emmys. In 2025 alone, Netflix secured three Oscars, and recently, its action thriller *Rebel Ridge* won the Emmy for Best TV Movie. Alongside these accolades, popular titles like *KPop Demon Hunters* have soared in viewership, establishing Netflix as a dependable home for a wide range of cinematic hits.
Netflix’s diverse catalog caters to every taste—whether you prefer intense dramas, lighthearted comedies, blockbuster action, or intimate independent films. For those looking to dive into current offerings, *Past Lives*, an Oscar-nominated drama starring Greta Lee, is highly recommended but will leave the platform on October 31. Also newly added is the acclaimed *Ip Man* series, starring martial arts legend Donnie Yen. If television series are more your style, Netflix also offers a curated selection of top TV shows worth exploring.
**Martial Arts, Horror, and Action on Netflix**
The *Ip Man* film series, now available on Netflix as of October 5, is a standout in martial arts cinema. Starring Donnie Yen—known for his role as the blind assassin Caine in *John Wick: Chapter 4*—these biographical films chronicle the life of Yip Man, the legendary kung fu master who trained Bruce Lee. Combining biography, drama, and action, these critically praised films are celebrated staples of Hong Kong cinema.
For horror enthusiasts, Netflix recently added *28 Days Later* and *28 Weeks Later*, perfect for a zombie movie marathon. The 2002 original, starring Cillian Murphy, follows a bike messenger who awakens from a coma to find Britain devastated by a virus that turns people into aggressive, zombie-like creatures. These films have gained renewed interest following the release of *28 Years Later*.
Action fans can also enjoy *Training Day*, which recently arrived on Netflix. This 2001 crime thriller features Denzel Washington in his Oscar-winning role as Alonzo Harris, a corrupt LAPD officer. The film explores the morally ambiguous relationship between Harris and rookie cop Jake Hoyt, played by Ethan Hawke. Notable cameos include Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Terry Crews in his first film appearance.
**Award-Winning Films and Netflix Originals**
*The Hurt Locker*, a gripping war drama from 2008, earned six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Kathryn Bigelow—the first woman to win the latter. The film follows a bomb disposal team in Iraq, depicting the psychological toll of war with intense realism. Its cast includes Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, and Ralph Fiennes.
Netflix’s own *Rebel Ridge* earned an Emmy this year for Best Television Movie. The film stars Aaron Pierre as an ex-Marine whose attempt to bail out his cousin spirals into a tense confrontation with corrupt police. Don Johnson, transitioning from his iconic Miami Vice role, shines as a morally compromised Louisiana police chief, adding depth to the thrilling narrative.
The animated Netflix original *KPop Demon Hunters* has become the platform’s most-watched original film. Released in June, it tells the story of a KPop girl group that hunts demons by night while performing by day. Featuring original music and starring Arden Cho, May Hong, and Ji Young Yoo, the film’s theatrical sing-along version is also available on Netflix.
In a different vein, the documentary *Will & Harper* stars Will Ferrell and Harper Steele on a road trip exploring Steele’s transition to life as a woman. The film candidly addresses the challenges and discrimination Steele faces, balanced by Ferrell’s supportive friendship. The documentary won a Peabody Award and received an Emmy nomination in 2025.
**Comedies, Documentaries, and Classic Films**
Netflix offers a variety of comedic fare, including *Nonnas*, where Vince Vaughn opens an Italian restaurant staffed by older women—played by Susan Sarandon, Talia Shire, Lorraine Bracco, and Brenda Vaccaro—preserving family traditions through food.
For fans of classic and cult films, Netflix features *Inglourious Basterds*, Quentin Tarantino’s alternate World War II tale starring Brad Pitt and Michael Fassbender