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Discovering the best thrillers on Netflix can be a rollercoaster ride of suspense and excitement. From heart-pounding action to mind-bending mysteries, the streaming platform offers a diverse selection of films guaranteed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Whether you're in the mood for a gripping crime thriller or a chilling psychological drama, Netflix has something for every thriller enthusiast. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of tension, intrigue, and unexpected twists as we explore the top picks for the best thriller movies available to stream right now.
Here are the 10 best thriller movies on netflix :
1. Bird Box (2018)
Sandra Bullock in 'Bird Box'. NETFLIX
"Bird Box" presents a gripping post-apocalyptic tale where looking means death. Director Susanne Bier skillfully weaves a narrative that shifts between past and present, following Sandra Bullock's character, Malorie Hayes, as she guides two children through perilous blindfolded journeys. The film's tension arises from the unknown, offering a thrilling experience akin to "A Quiet Place." Despite initially receiving less attention upon release, "Bird Box" captivates audiences with its unique premise and talented cast, including Bullock's compelling performance. The story delves into the aftermath of Earth's invasion by mysterious entities, compelling characters to navigate the dangerous landscape without the use of sight. With its blend of sci-fi and horror elements, "Bird Box" remains a standout choice for fans of suspenseful thrillers seeking an edge-of-your-seat experience. #1 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch Bird Box: Netflix
EW grade: B
Director: Susanne Bier
Cast: Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes, John Malkovich, Danielle Macdonald, Sarah Paulson
2. The Devil All the Time (2020)
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Tom Holland stars in Netflix's original period thriller, "The Devil All the Time," delving into interconnected lives in small Southern Ohio towns post-World War II. Directed by Antonio Campos, the film explores themes of religious fervor, war aftermath, corruption, and serial murder, based on the 2011 novel. The ensemble cast, including young Hollywood talents, navigates the dark subject matter with skill. Campos expertly balances art-house ambiance with Southern Gothic drama, crafting a captivating yet grim narrative. The film's portrayal of human depravity and its consequences makes it a compelling watch, drawing viewers into a world rife with sin and moral complexity. #2 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch The Devil All the Time: Netflix
EW grade: B+
Director: Antonio Campos
Cast: Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Sebastian Stan, Riley Keough, Eliza Scanlen, Haley Bennett, Bill Skarsgård, Mia Wasikowska, Jason Clarke
3. El Camino (2019)
Aaron Paul reprises his role as Jesse Pinkman in "El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie," a Netflix film that picks up where the acclaimed series left off. Directed by Vince Gilligan, the movie focuses on Pinkman's character, delving into his journey after the events of Breaking Bad. With flashbacks and cameos from familiar faces like Walter White (Bryan Cranston) and Jane, the film provides closure for fans of the series. Jesse Plemons's character, Nazi Todd, drives much of the plot, offering insight into Pinkman's past struggles. Despite Paul's aging appearance since the series' conclusion, viewers are treated to Pinkman's emotional processing of his tumultuous experiences, making "El Camino" a satisfying addition to the Breaking Bad universe. #3 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch El Camino: Netflix
EW grade: B+
Director: Vince Gilligan
Cast: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Jesse Plemons, Jonathan Banks, Matt Jones
4. Emily the Criminal (2022)
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Aubrey Plaza shines in "Emily the Criminal," portraying Emily, a struggling artist in Los Angeles drowning in debt and student loans. Hindered by a felony conviction that hampers her job prospects, Emily turns to a credit card fraud scheme for financial relief. What begins as a survival strategy soon evolves into a full-fledged dive into criminality as Emily navigates the blurred lines between necessity and opportunity. Plaza's trademark deadpan delivery and practicality resonate with audiences facing similar economic challenges, capturing the disillusionment of a generation grappling with unattainable milestones like homeownership and retirement. As Emily grapples with her choices, Plaza's performance adds depth to the character's complexities, making "Emily the Criminal" a compelling exploration of desperation and resilience in the face of economic hardship. #4 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch Emily the Criminal: Netflix
EW grade: B+
Director: John Patton Ford
Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Theo Rossi, Bernardo Badillo, John Billingsley
5. Fair Play (2023)
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In "Fair Play," Alden Ehrenreich and Phoebe Dynevor portray Luke and Emily, a newly engaged couple whose passionate romance must be kept under wraps at their workplace. However, when Emily advances to a managerial position at their cutthroat hedge fund, power dynamics shift, straining their relationship. Praised for its sharp script, the film's final act brims with escalating tension as the characters confront complex workplace dynamics and gender roles. Both Ehrenreich and Dynevor deliver compelling performances, navigating the intricacies of contemporary office politics with nuance and depth. "Fair Play" skillfully avoids simplistic portrayals of victimhood or villainy, immersing viewers in a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of love, ambition, and power. #5 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch Fair Play: Netflix
EW grade: B+
Director: Chloe Domont
Cast: Phoebe Dynevor, Alden Ehrenreich, Eddie Marsan, Rich Sommer
6. The Good Nurse (2022)
In the Netflix original thriller "The Good Nurse," Jessica Chastain portrays Amy Loughren, a dedicated night nurse who discovers unsettling truths about her colleague Charles Cullen, played by Eddie Redmayne. As Amy delves deeper into the mysterious death of a patient, she unravels a disturbing reality: Charles may be involved in intentional harm. Based on true events, the film follows Amy's courageous efforts to expose a serial killer within their hospital. "The Good Nurse" delivers chilling suspense, drawing viewers into a gripping narrative inspired by real-life events. With stellar performances from Chastain and Redmayne, the film offers a riveting portrayal of deception and betrayal in the healthcare system. #6 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch The Good Nurse: Netflix
EW grade: B+
Director: Tobias Lindholm
Cast: Jessica Chastain, Eddie Redmayne
7. I Care A Lot (2021)
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In "I Care a Lot," Rosamund Pike shines as Marla Grayson, a cunning fraudster posing as a legal guardian to exploit vulnerable seniors. When she targets Jennifer Peterson, played by Dianne Wiest, Marla's scheme takes a perilous turn as Jennifer's connections pose unforeseen threats. Pike delivers a riveting performance, channeling her Gone Girl persona into Marla's deceptive character. As Marla navigates treacherous waters, viewers are treated to a thrilling tale of deception and intrigue. With compelling performances from the cast, including Peter Dinklage, "I Care a Lot" offers a gripping narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. #7 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch I Care a Lot: Netflix
EW grade: B
Director: J Blakeson
Cast: Rosamund Pike, Dianne Wiest, Peter Dinklage, Eiza González, Chris Messina, Isiah Whitlock Jr.
8. I Don't Feel At Home In This World Anymore (2017)
In "I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore," Melanie Lynskey shines as Ruth, a nursing assistant who's had enough after a break-in at her home. Teaming up with her quirky neighbor Tony, played by Elijah Wood, they embark on a quest to reclaim her stolen belongings. Directed by Macon Blair, this 2017 sleeper offers a blend of suspense and inspiration as Ruth and Tony navigate their offbeat journey. With standout performances from Lynskey and Wood, supported by Jane Levy as one of the burglars, the film reimagines the buddy-cop genre with inventive twists. Recognized with the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance, it captivates audiences with its unique charm and unexpected turns. #8 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore: Netflix
EW grade: B+
Director: Macon Blair
Cast: Melanie Lynskey, Elijah Wood, Jane Levy
9. Joker (2019)
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In "Joker," Joaquin Phoenix delves deep into the psyche of Arthur Fleck, a downtrodden aspiring comic living in '80s Gotham City. Struggling with societal neglect and his own mental health issues, Fleck adopts the persona of the Joker, unleashing chaos upon the city. Directed by Todd Phillips, the film explores themes of mental illness and societal disenchantment, sparking controversy with its portrayal of violence. Phoenix's mesmerizing performance earned him an Oscar, capturing Fleck's turmoil and vulnerability with haunting intensity. As noted by EW's critic, Phoenix immerses himself in the role, embodying Fleck's inner turmoil and descent into darkness with unparalleled depth and authenticity. #9 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch Joker: Netflix
EW grade: N/A
Director: Todd Phillips
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen
10. L.A. Confidential (1997)
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In "L.A. Confidential," set in 1950s Los Angeles, a routine investigation spirals into a web of corruption and deceit. Guy Pearce and Russell Crowe shine as detectives navigating the city's seedy underbelly, alongside Kim Basinger, who delivers an Oscar-winning performance. Reminiscent of classic detective novels, the film captivates with its stylish noir aesthetic and gripping plot twists. EW's critic draws parallels to "Chinatown," noting the film's exploration of morality and the dark allure of the city. As the characters confront their own demons, "L.A. Confidential" exposes the fragility of virtue in a world tainted by vice. #10 movie on the list of best thriller movies on netflix.
Where to watch L.A. Confidential: Netflix
EW grade: A
Director: Curtis Hanson
Cast: Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, James Cromwell, David Strathairn, Kim Basinger, Danny DeVito
