Netflix is a treasure trove with thousands of movies and series, but let’s be honest—sometimes scrolling endlessly through the catalog feels more exhausting than entertaining. To save you time and help you find your next binge-worthy obsession, here are 15 top picks across genres, handpicked by critics and streaming fans alike. Whether you’re craving thrilling suspense, heartfelt drama, or captivating documentaries, this list has you covered.
La Nuit du 12
This gripping thriller dives deep into the harsh realities of femicide, blending raw realism with a touch of narrative finesse. The standout performances, especially from Bastien Bouillon alongside a powerful ensemble of women, elevate the story into an unforgettable viewing experience.
Ses Trois Filles
Set in a New York apartment, this intimate drama explores the complexities of three sisters reunited to care for their dying father. What starts off as a straightforward story evolves into a touching, nuanced portrait of family bonds, loss, and reconciliation.
Une Femme en Jeu
Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut is a tense, well-crafted thriller inspired by true events. It chillingly portrays the harrowing realities of serial femicides, underscoring the tragic failures of authorities and the resilience of victims’ families.
Oppenheimer
Christopher Nolan’s 2023 epic paints a compelling portrait of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant yet tormented physicist behind the first atomic bomb. Praised for its nuanced storytelling, the film clinched the 2024 Oscars for Best Picture and Best Director, showcasing history’s moral complexities through masterful cinema.
Chien de la Casse
An indie gem blending contemporary Western vibes with rural life’s laid-back rhythms, this film captures the unlikely friendship between two contrasting characters. Raphaël Quenard delivers a memorable, heartfelt performance that lingers long after the credits roll.
Les Quatre Saisons
Co-created and led by Tina Fey, this lively series humorously dissects the chaos of friends’ vacations and the trials of middle-aged relationships. Its sharp writing and relatable characters make it a must-watch for fans of clever, character-driven comedies.
Pour Toujours
Based on a controversial 1975 novel, this coming-of-age series sensitively follows the joys and struggles of two Black teenagers in California. Tackling themes from first love to racial and social discrimination, it resonates as a powerful and timely drama.
Hacks
A breakout hit, Hacks features a sharp-witted septuagenarian comedian teaming up with a young writer. Their generational clash unfolds into a touching story of unlikely friendship. The show won the 2024 Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series, and its blend of humor and heart is truly infectious.
Astérix et Obélix : Le Combat des Chefs
Alain Chabat returns with a vibrant adaptation of the classic 1966 comic, injecting modern stakes into the legendary Gaulish duo’s adventures. The clever script and stunning animation make this mini-series a joyous watch for all ages.
Projekt UFO
Set against the backdrop of a fading communist regime, this mini-series combines extraterrestrial intrigue, political satire, and absurd humor. The quirky mix delivers both laughs and thoughtful commentary on power and identity.
Chronique Arctique
Tracing three generations of Inuit women in northern Canada, this heartfelt Netflix comedy shines with authenticity and warmth. Its blend of humor and cultural insight has earned it critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
Du Mariage au Crime
This chilling documentary revisits a brutal family murder in North Carolina, exploring the impact on relatives and investigators a decade later. Its raw interviews and slow-building suspense make for an intense and thought-provoking watch.
La Seule Fille de l’Orchestre
Director Molly O’Brien pays tribute to her aunt, a pioneering bassist in 1960s New York. This intimate documentary balances homage and self-reflection, offering a fascinating look at a trailblazing woman in a male-dominated world.
De Rockstar à Tueur : Le Cas Cantat
Over two decades after the murder of Marie Trintignant by rock singer Bertrand Cantat, this incisive documentary examines how society’s understanding and response to violence against women have evolved. It’s a sobering and important exploration.
Turning Point: The Nuclear Weapon and the Cold War
Spanning eighty years of global tension and conflict, this meticulously crafted documentary series provides vital context for today’s geopolitical landscape. Especially relevant amid ongoing conflicts, it shines a light on the persistent shadow of the Cold War.