While Netflix offers a huge variety of movies, I often find myself browsing endlessly through all of the titles before deciding what to watch. Whether I’m looking for a documentary, an action movie, or a Rom Com, it's easy to become overwhelmed, spending more time searching than actually watching. Before I know it, I'll find myself browsing titles that I don't even recognize. With this list of 50 must-watch titles (all available right now for instant streaming), you can stop searching, and finally begin watching. While you'll recognize some of these movies, this is a mix of classics along with recent hits, there is plenty to explore here for that perfect Netflix and chill night. You'll also find a variety of genres, from popular adventures like Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park, to quirky independent films like Wes Anderson's Moonrise Kingdom. Like this list? Please SHARE with your friends so they can quit endlessly browsing on Netflix and start streaming!
50. 'The Truman Show'
Starting off with The Truman Show, if you love Jim Carrey, this is a classic, and if you aren't as familiar, this is a great start. Carrey stars on his own reality TV show, and doesn't know it. A dark comedy that will keep you laughing and intrigued all at once.
49. 'Grease'
It's hard to turn down John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John dancing and singing together in this 1950s-themed movie that was filmed in 1987. You'll inevitably find yourself singing along by "Summer Nights" and this is a great choice for family movie night.
48. 'Armageddon'
If you like seeing Bruce Willis save the day (think Die Hard), then you have to watch Armageddon. Michael Bay combines outer space, a star-filled cast, and endless suspense.
47. 'Begin Again'
Mark Ruffalo from 13 Going on 30 and more recently in Academy Award Winning Spotlight, joins Keira Knightly in this understated romantic comedy released in 2014. These two come together as a music producer and a singer-songwriter, and this plot is just too cute to pass up.
46. 'Across The Universe'
If you are in the mood to lay back and listen to the Beatles, then check out Across the Universe. An unusual take on 33 of your favorite Beatles' classics, this movie will take you back to the '60s in the best way.
45. 'Bernie'
Jack Black, Shirley MacClaine, and Matthew McConaughey join forces in this thriller/comedy. From the same director as School of Rock, Jack Black fits perfectly into this role, making this one of his top films.
44. 'Meet The Patels'
Based on the real life experiences of Ravi Patel, this feel-good, hilarious film chronicles a man stuck between his parents and the girl of his dreams. Patel creates an honest depiction of family, along with a good amount of relatable humor.
43. 'Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind'
Another must watch Jim Carrey film, but this time with Kate Winslet, this film won the Oscar for Best Screenplay in 2004, and, like The Truman Show, also carries similar tones of dark humor, with some emotion and romance added in for good measure.
42. 'Talledega Nights: The Ballad Of Ricky Bobby'
If you seek a guaranteed laugh, stream Talledega Nights, featuring the power comedy duo, Will Farrell and John C. Reilly. While Farrell throws out some cringe worthy jokes, the family dynamic and quotable lines make this worth watching.
41. 'Love Actually'
While Love Actually doubles as a Christmas movie, it makes for an enjoyable night any time of year following several love stories in London. Both charming and funny, this movie gets better every time you watch it.
40. 'Trainspotting'
Ewan McGregor stars in this twisted comedy. While more violent than some of the other picks, this movie will both surprise and entertain you.
39. 'Stardust'
In this imaginative fantasy, Tristan, played by Charlie Cox, seeks out the falling star, which turns out to be Clare Danes. This film promises drama, romance, and a thoroughly exciting adventure.
38. 'Charlie And The Chocolate Factory'
While I cannot deny that this film is both a bizarre and disturbing take on the classic Roald Dahl story, this is certainly an unusual and intriguing creation by Tim Burton and Johnny Depp. With Charlie and the Chocolate Factory coming to Broadway next year, give this film a second look.
37. 'Heathers'
When this movie was first recommended to me, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. It begins like a Mean Girls of 1989 and then something goes horribly wrong and suddenly it draws you in as a fascinating thriller. When you finish watching, you'll want to tell a friend about it immediately.
36. 'Pulp Fiction'
You've probably heard of this one, and if you haven't had the time to watch it, now is your chance. Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction, combines crime and suspense and stars John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson.
35. 'Clueless'
No matter how many times I watch this movie, I can't get over Alicia Silverstone's character. As a lighthearted coming-of-age movie, Cher, played by Silverstone, navigates high school and love in 1995 Beverly Hills.
34. 'American Beauty'
Kevin Spacey, pre-House of Cards, plays the leading role in this film, winning Best Picture and Best Actor. Featuring family dysfunction at its height, American Beauty will disturb and entrance you.
33. 'Nightcrawler'
Oscar nominated in 2014, this film features a grungy Jake Gyllenhaal filming crime in LA.
32. 'Amélie'
If you are looking for a foreign film, Amélie skillfully captures the quirk, genius, and sly humor of French film. A good introduction to French films, especially if you enjoy whimsical movies.
31. 'Hot Fuzz'
A witty cop comedy featuring the same cast as Shaun of the Dead. A parody on more serious cop movies this movie maintains excitement throughout.
30. 'Walt Before Mickey'
This understated movie brings young Walt Disney to life as he journeys from Missouri to Hollywood. Based on a true story, watch this film if you are a fan of any of the Disney classics to learn more about the man behind it all.
29. 'The Interview'
Like other James Franco and Seth Rogan films, this satire loves gory humor and dramatic turns. Controversial because of its focus on North Korea, this film will win some laughs.
28. 'Team Foxcatcher'
A provocative documentary following the rise of wrestler John Du Pont and his murder of wrestler Dave Schultz this feature premiered at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival, and was instantly controversial, making it all the more fun to watch.
27. 'The Usual Suspects'
Another classic Kevin Spacey film, The Usual Suspects brings together five innocent conmen after a truck hijack. An interesting movie and definitely a must see. Make sure to stay with it until the very end!
26. 'The Pursuit Of Happyness'
This movie will bring you to tears and inspire you all at the same time. Will Smith acts with his son Jaden and works his way up from difficult times. It's even based on a true story.
25. 'The Do-Over'
A Netflix original from this year, Adam Sandler and David Spade star in this goofy comedy. A bank managers life turns upside down when he fakes his death.
24. 'The Boy In The Striped Pajamas'
Based on a heartbreaking book, this film tells the story of friendship between two boys in Poland, one on the inside of an internment camp and one on the outside. Prepare yourself for tears!
23. 'Bridget Jones' Diary'
Hilarious and lighthearted, this film is perfect for a girls night or a gathering with friends. You'll find yourself saying "Bridget Jones reporting for duty!" in a British accent without even realizing it.
22. 'Forrest Gump'
There's a good chance you've watched this before, and even if you have, watch it again. A classic feel good movie that never gets old. A solid choice when hanging out with friends.
21. 'Just Friends'
Anna Ferris steals the show in this awkward comedy featuring Ryan Reynolds as he tries to win over his high school crush and best friend many years later. Surprisingly funny and enjoyable.
20. 'V for Vendetta'
Natalie Portman pairs up with Hugo Weaving who plays a masked freedom fighter. This movie exceeds expectations and will draw you in from the beginning.
19. 'Sixteen Candles'
One of my favorite John Hughes' movies, Sixteen Candles tells the story of Samantha, played by Molly Ringwald, who gets forgotten on her sixteenth birthday. If you liked The Breakfast Club, this movie features the same angsty teenage vibes.
18. 'Into The Wild'
Written and directed by Sean Penn and based on a true story, this difficult movie will capture your attention as a young man leaves everything for the wild.
17. 'Cinema Paradiso'
A beautiful film about a young Sicilian boy who loves movies and his friendship with a projectionist. Touching, stunning, and one you will remember.
16. 'Chef'
Jon Favreau and Sofía Vergara shine in this feel good movie about a chef who returns home to Miami to start a food truck. A charming film that will warm your heart.
15. 'The Wolfpack'
A fascinating documentary on seven sibling raised in isolation and shaped by movies. This movie won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival after its release in 2015.
14. 'E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial'
Steven Spielberg brought E.T. to life in 1982, and ever since it remains a heartfelt classic. Another great pick for a family movie night.
13. '50 First Dates'
Set in Hawaii, Adam Sandler enters into a more romantic role, attempting to win over Lucy (Drew Barrymore), whose memory restarts every morning. A cute comedy that reveals an emotional side of both Sandler and Barrymore.
12. 'Silver Linings Playbook'
Not your typical rom com, Silver Linings Playbook tackles family, loss, mental illness, and love. Jennifer Lawrence won an Academy Award for her role and pairs nicely with Bradley Cooper. Charmingly funny and well-done.
11. 'Braveheart'
Braveheart captures the inspiring leadership of Scottish warrior William Wallace in this Best Picture winner. Mel Gibson not only starred, but also directed this action packed film.
10. 'Almost Famous'
15-year-old William Miller travels with a rock band as a writer in the 1970s. You'll love the soundtrack!
9. 'Meet The Parents'
The first in the series of father-in-law versus son-in-law showdowns between Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro. De Niro plays an ex-CIA and Stiller can't seem to catch a break. A comedy classic.
8. 'Shawshank Redemption'
This one is a must see! Tim Robbins plays framed murderer Andy Dufresne who befriends inmate Red played by Morgan Freeman. Shawshank Redemption received seven Oscar nominations.
7. 'Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse Of The Black Pearl'
The first in an epic series of smart pirate films. Johnny Depp fully embraces the character of Captain Jack Sparrow, and Keira Knightly and Orlando Bloom are irresistible.
6. 'Django Unchained'
Quentin Tarantino is back (see Pulp Fiction also on this list) with Jamie Foxx starring in Django Unchained. Christopher Waltz won the Oscar for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role!
5. 'Best In Show'
This film follows several couples competing in a dog show and you won't be able to resist laughing with its wonderfully subtle and witty humor. A "mockumentary," it interviews the couples as if they are really competing. Great for dog lovers, and really anyway who loves to laugh.
4. 'Moonrise Kingdom'
Wes Anderson embraces young love in this bizarre story of a young camper and his girlfriend that run away together, only to be followed by her parents and the police. This film will inspire you to check out other Anderson flicks.
3. 'The Princess Bride'
A farmhand battles for his true love in this classic action/romance filled with a lot of laughs along the way. A fun take on a classic fairy-tale!
2. 'Jurassic Park'
You may have recently seen Jurassic World in theaters, which makes this an awesome throwback to remind yourself of how it all began. Dinosaurs come to life as things take a turn for the worse and humans lose control.
1. 'Good Will Hunting'
Matt Damon plays a 20-year-old undiscovered genius from Boston who works as a janitor at MIT when he solves an incredibly difficult math problem in front of an MIT professor, a moment that changes his life for good. Robin Williams plays his therapist, which is more than enough reason to see this movie.
