Netflix has become a powerhouse in the film industry, consistently producing original movies since its significant expansion in 2016. Below is a breakdown of the standout Netflix Original movies from each year, showcasing critical reception, audience viewership, and notable accolades.
Top Netflix Original Movies by Year (2016–2025)
2016: 13th
The year 2016 marked a significant turning point for Netflix. “13th,” directed by Ava DuVernay, received widespread acclaim for addressing racial inequality in the United States. The documentary won multiple awards, including a BAFTA and an Emmy, and was nominated for an Academy Award.
2017: Mudbound
In 2017, “Mudbound,” directed by Dee Rees, gained attention for its poignant storytelling and historical significance. The film earned a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and made history with Rees’ Best Adapted Screenplay nomination, marking a milestone for Black women in film.
2018: Roma
“Roma,” directed by Alfonso Cuarón, showcased Netflix’s commitment to quality filmmaking. This black-and-white film won three Oscars, including Best Foreign Language Film. Its touching narrative centered on a middle-class family in Mexico during the early 1970s.
2019: The Irishman
Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” dominated 2019 with its star-studded cast, including Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. The film’s dramatic portrayal of organized crime received ten Oscar nominations and solidified its place in cinematic history.
2020: The Trial of the Chicago 7
Amid lockdowns in 2020, “The Trial of the Chicago 7” provided a powerful political narrative based on the 1969 trial of activists. The film garnered six Oscar nominations and won Best Motion Picture (Drama) at the Golden Globes, maintaining a strong presence in Netflix’s top charts.
2021: The Power of the Dog
In 2021, “The Power of the Dog,” directed by Jane Campion, emerged as a critical favorite. The film was nominated for numerous awards, including Best Picture, and boasted strong performances from Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst.
2022: All Quiet on the Western Front
The adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque’s novel, “All Quiet on the Western Front,” dominated 2022 with its impactful storytelling. The film secured four Academy Awards, further cementing Netflix’s reputation for award-winning content.
2023: Extraction 2
“Extraction 2” became a hit in 2023, building on the success of its predecessor. The film excelled in action sequences, featuring a remarkable 21-minute one-take shot. It quickly climbed the viewership rankings with 29.3 million views shortly after its release.
2024: Carry-On
Recognized for its thrilling narrative, “Carry-On” featured Taron Egerton as an airline security guard thrust into a tense situation during the holiday season. The film racked up 118.2 million views, surpassing other films released that year.
2025: Kpop Demon Hunters
In 2025, “Kpop Demon Hunters” emerged as a major blockbuster, blending the vibrancy of K-Pop with animation. The film broke records with over 20.5 billion viewing minutes and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film.
As Netflix continues to innovate and captivate audiences, the future holds promise for even more exceptional original movies, with plenty of anticipated releases on the horizon.
