As Netflix solidifies its status as a leading force in the realm of film and television within the contemporary landscape of streaming services and digital media, the platform has made a significant impact by introducing a diverse range of content across various genres of filmmaking. Among these genres, the thriller genre stands out as one of the most influential and captivating, showcasing an extensive collection of not only adrenaline-pumping action thrillers but also intricate and methodical crime thrillers and other suspense-driven narratives.
Netflix has firmly established itself as a premier destination for compelling and highly engaging original thriller films, featuring contributions from both legendary filmmakers and emerging talents in the industry. While competing streaming platforms have their share of remarkable original thrillers, Netflix excels in terms of the sheer volume and quality of thrilling cinematic experiences, consistently offering some of the most memorable thrillers in recent cinematic history.
10
‘Woman of the Hour’ (2024)
Directed by Anna Kendrick
While Anna Kendrick is predominantly recognized for her roles in various comedic films such as Pitch Perfect and A Simple Favor, her directorial debut with Woman of the Hour marks a significant shift into the realm of dark and unnerving thriller cinema, specifically focusing on a harrowing serial killer narrative. This film, which is based on a true story, intricately weaves together the chilling events surrounding a notorious serial killer who found himself competing on the beloved television game show The Dating Game during the 1970s. In addition to directing, Kendrick takes on the role of a female contestant, who must navigate the chilling presence of this unknown murderer.
Woman of the Hour excels in establishing a tense atmosphere and methodically builds anticipation leading up to the pivotal game show moments, ensuring that its core scenes are saturated with palpable tension and dread. The film not only explores the life of the innocent female contestant prior to her appearance on the show but also delves into the gruesome murders orchestrated by the killer, Rodney (Daniel Zovatto), providing an unsettling glimpse into his malevolence masked by charm. Beyond its gripping storyline, the film offers a profound and impactful commentary on the societal power dynamics of the era, illustrating how ignorance can allow pure evil to go unpunished.
9
‘Gerald’s Game’ (2017)
Directed by Mike Flanagan
The first of what would become several Stephen King adaptations by the modern horror visionary Mike Flanagan, Gerald’s Game effectively balances both horror elements and escalating anxiety, drawing viewers into its captivating premise. The film depicts a married couple seeking adventure at a secluded house, indulging in erotic escapades. However, when Jessie (Carla Gugino) finds herself handcuffed to the bed, her husband Gerald (Bruce Greenwood) unexpectedly dies of a heart attack, leaving her trapped with scant hope of rescue.
Gerald’s Game masterfully translates the tension and horror of the original King novel onto the screen, heightened by an exceptional performance from Gugino. While it utilizes horror filmmaking techniques, it leans more towards a psychological thriller, exploring Jessie’s dread and inner turmoil as she confronts her traumatic predicament. This film swiftly established Flanagan as the go-to director for modern adaptations of King’s work, further solidified by his success in films such as Doctor Sleep and The Life of Chuck.
Gerald’s Game
- Release Date
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September 29, 2017
- Runtime
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104 minutes
8
‘I’m Thinking of Ending Things’ (2020)
Directed by Charlie Kaufman
While the acclaimed writer and director Charlie Kaufman is not primarily associated with the thriller genre, I’m Thinking of Ending Things serves as a brilliant amalgamation of his distinctive style presented through the lens of a psychological thriller. The narrative follows a young woman (Jessie Buckley) who embarks on a journey with her boyfriend (Jesse Plemons) to visit his parents (Toni Collette and David Thewlis). However, the film transcends its seemingly straightforward premise as it intricately weaves in seemingly disconnected scenes involving a school janitor (Guy Boyd) going about his daily routine.
In true Kaufman fashion, I’m Thinking of Ending Things is infused with rich subtext and profound insights, which may pose a challenge for mainstream audiences, yet those attuned to its underlying themes will discover a deep exploration of pain, humanity, and the complexities of existence. The film excels in its attention to detail and the creation of an unnerving atmosphere, heightening feelings of discomfort and unease as it progresses towards its perplexing yet captivating climax.
7
‘The Devil All the Time’ (2020)
Directed by Antonio Campos
Set against a backdrop of post-World War II America, The Devil All the Time serves as a gripping period-piece crime thriller that unearths a rarely explored chapter of American history. The film intricately chronicles the lives of the townsfolk in Knockemstiff, Ohio, as various sinister characters and malevolent opportunities arise around the young protagonist Arvin Russell (Tom Holland). Amidst the personal struggles and challenges he faces, Arvin is resolutely committed to confronting the evil forces that threaten both him and his family.
More than anything else, The Devil All the Time excels in its ability to vividly portray the duplicitous yet heartfelt landscape of rural America during the mid-20th century. The diverse array of characters injects life into the narrative, each contributing their unique perspectives through innocence, charm, or unsuspected malice. Holland delivers a commendable performance in one of his rare dramatic roles, yet it is Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of the manipulative Southern priest Reverend Preston Teagardin that truly captivates audiences, solidifying the film as a must-watch thriller.
6
‘The Night Comes for Us’ (2018)
Directed by Timo Tjahjanto
The Night Comes for Us assembles much of the same talent from the critically acclaimed Indonesian action thriller series The Raid, delivering a raw and unfiltered action thriller that feels like an extension of the The Raid franchise. The violent martial arts film follows an elite Triad assassin (Joe Taslim) who finds himself targeted by his former employers after sparing a young girl’s life during a brutal massacre. Notably, he must confront his friend Arian (Iko Uwais), who is determined to eliminate him in a bid for power within the gang.
The Night Comes for Us retains many of the standout elements that fans loved in The Raid, showcasing intense action and superb choreography that elevate its thrilling sequences. Its straightforward narrative paves the way for some of the most exhilarating and brutal action scenes imaginable, presenting a unique style that distinguishes it from the typical action thrillers produced in the United States.
5
‘Fair Play’ (2023)
Directed by Chloe Domont
Fair Play is a seductive and cunning erotic thriller that explores the intricate challenges of maintaining a secret relationship within a competitive workplace. The narrative dives into the psychological tension and emotional warfare that arise as its broken characters navigate the turbulent waters of love and rivalry. It centers on Emily Meyers (Phoebe Dynevor) and Luke Edmunds (Alden Ehrenreich), two analysts employed at a ruthless Manhattan hedge fund, who have been nurturing a passionate but clandestine affair. However, after Luke proposes to Emily, their relationship faces a seismic shift when Emily receives a promotion that Luke expected, sparking jealousy and competition between them.
Fair Play is significantly enhanced by the palpable chemistry and dynamic interplay between the lead actors, with Dynevor and Ehrenreich showcasing a fluid relationship that oscillates between intense passion and raw anger. Their performances elevate the film’s thrills and emotional stakes, rendering each twist and moment more impactful. The film delves into the toxic mindset that can destroy relationships, highlighting how some individuals struggle to accept the possibility of not being the primary provider in a partnership.
Fair Play
- Release Date
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October 6, 2023
- Runtime
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113 minutes
4
‘Carry-On’ (2024)
Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra
Carry-On is a thrilling return to the classic style of action filmmaking, where an engaging premise with a unique setting and sharp execution can elevate a film into an entertaining experience. The storyline follows Ethan Kopek (Taron Egerton), a TSA officer who finds himself racing against time on Christmas Eve to prevent a mysterious traveler (Jason Bateman) from smuggling a dangerous item onto a flight. This captivating narrative quickly escalates into a tense game of cat and mouse, where each character strives to outsmart the other.
Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, known for his impressive lineup of action thrillers throughout the 2010s, Carry-On represents not only a return to form for the director but also revitalizes the genre as a whole. The airport setting proves to be an ideal backdrop for this urgent thriller, with compelling characters and unexpected twists enhancing the film’s entertainment value. Audiences have responded positively to this revival, making Carry-On one of Netflix’s standout successes in recent years.
Carry-On
- Release Date
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December 13, 2024
- Runtime
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119 Minutes
3
‘Operation Hyacinth’ (2021)
Directed by Piotr Domalewski
While Netflix is renowned for its extensive collection of American films, it also features a wealth of international offerings, one of the most underrated being the Polish thriller Operation Hyacinth. This gripping film draws upon the historical events surrounding a covert operation by the Polish communist police, which aimed to assemble a national database of homosexual individuals in Poland. The story follows a dedicated police officer who finds himself entangled in a dark investigation after his dissatisfaction with the outcome of a murder case drives him into a complex web of deceit.
Operation Hyacinth encapsulates all the essential elements of an exceptional crime thriller, with a strong focus on mystery and concealed truths that challenge the protagonist.
Operation Hyacinth possesses all the qualities of a truly captivating crime thriller, emphasizing suspense and the protagonist’s struggle to uncover the truth amidst hidden dangers. Despite its Polish origins limiting its reach among American audiences, the film’s exceptional filmmaking and gripping narrative ensure that it deserves recognition as one of Netflix’s finest thrillers to date.
2
‘Rebel Ridge’ (2024)
Directed by Jeremy Saulnier
In recent years, a notable trend among action thrillers has emerged, characterized by the John Wick archetype, where a single, vengeful protagonist takes on legions of adversaries single-handedly. While Rebel Ridge captures some of the essence of this style, it also presents an engaging narrative that escalates to an inevitable climax. The plot follows a former marine (Aaron Pierre) who is compelled to confront corruption in his small town after local law enforcement unjustly seizes a bag of cash necessary for posting his cousin’s bail.
Rebel Ridge stands out not only for its electrifying and expertly choreographed action sequences but also for its poignant exploration of the abuse of power and corruption within local law enforcement. Pierre delivers a committed performance, showcasing his capabilities as a former soldier while maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure. Every moment in the film resonates with the audience, securing its place as one of Netflix’s most compelling thrillers and one of its best original action movies.
1
‘The Killer’ (2023)
Directed by David Fincher
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