Welcome to the eleventh edition of our monthly series, where I dive into the best movies added to Netflix
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In this article, I’ll guide you through the must-watch movies that have made their way to the streaming giant this November, ensuring you won’t miss out on any of the platform’s latest winners. In the first section, I’ll go through the ten best movies added so far. Then at the end of the article, you’ll find a comprehensive list of all the movies that have made 2023 so exciting for Netflix subscribers.
The 10 Best New Movies on Netflix in 2023
Leo
In this animated tale, Leo, a 74-year-old class pet lizard, embarks on a quirky journey beyond his cage, becoming an impromptu therapist for fifth-graders. Directed by Robert Marianetti, Robert Smigel, and David Wachtenheim, this comedy offers a unique perspective on elementary school life through reptilian eyes. Adam Sandler not only stars but also co-wrote this film, produced by his company, Happy Madison. The voice cast includes Sandler’s family—Jackie, Sunny, and Sadie—adding a personal touch to this humorous and heartwarming story.
Rustin
Rustin magnificently portrays the life of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal figure in the 1963 March on Washington, portrayed by Colman Domingo. Directed by George C. Wolfe, the film celebrates Rustin’s fearless fight for civil rights, highlighting his unwavering stance on his identity and beliefs. Alongside historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Ella Baker, Rustin’s story is one of courage, inspiring change in a tumultuous era. The film, also featuring Chris Rock and Glynn Turman, pays tribute to an often overlooked hero of history, reminding us of the power of standing up for what’s right.
The Killer
The Killer, directed by David Fincher, stars Michael Fassbender as a solitary, meticulous assassin losing his grip on reality. This thriller is a classic Fincher concoction—stylish, intense, and gripping. Fassbender’s portrayal of a conflicted, cool assassin is both chilling and captivating. The narrative, interspersed with dark humor and sharp wit, also features performances by Arliss Howard, Charles Parnell, and Tilda Swinton. The film’s tension and absurdity, coupled with Fincher’s masterful direction and Fassbender’s compelling acting, make for an enthralling cinematic experience.
By the way, here’s a great explanation of The Killer for anybody interested in the movie’s deeper metaphors about life.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
After reuniting with Gwen Stacy, Brooklyn’s full-time, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is catapulted across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence. However, when the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles finds himself pitted against the other Spiders. He must soon redefine what it means to be a hero so he can save the people he loves most. Stars Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Brian Tyree Henry, Lauren Vélez, and Jake Johnson. Directed by Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson.
Dune (2021)
Directed by Denis Villeneuve, Dune is a visually stunning and intellectually rich adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi classic. Starring Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, this epic tale delves into complex themes of destiny, power, and environmentalism. The film’s breathtaking visuals and sound design create an immersive experience, while the performances of Zendaya and Oscar Isaac give the film an emotional punch. Its narrative complexity and world-building are unparalleled, making it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking science fiction and grand cinematic landscapes.
NYAD
A remarkable true story of tenacity, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit, NYAD recounts a riveting chapter in the life of world-class athlete Diana Nyad. Three decades after giving up marathon swimming in exchange for a prominent career as a sports journalist, at the age of 60, Diana (four-time Academy Award nominee Annette Bening) becomes obsessed with completing an epic swim that always eluded her: the 110-mile trek from Cuba to Florida, referred to as the “Mount Everest” of swims. Determined to become the first person to finish the swim without a shark cage, Diana goes on a thrilling four-year journey with her best friend and coach Bonnie Stoll (two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster) and a dedicated sailing team. The inspirational and thrilling film marks the narrative directorial debut of Academy Award–winning documentary filmmakers Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin (Free Solo, The Rescue).
The Pale Blue Eye
Here’s the thing about small towns: Everyone knows everyone. The villagers of The Pale Blue Eye are no different; the military community of West Point is a hotbed of gossip and scandal, with friends and enemies alike snowbound together for months at a time. It’s no wonder someone turns up dead. Enter renowned detective Augustus Landor, who finds himself on the trail of a killer with only the help of a young poet named Edgar Allan Poe. As the pair delve deeper into the dark tell-tale heart of the case, they find themselves face-to-face with a lineup of sinister suspects — but only one of them is guilty. Stars Christian Bale, Harry Melling, Gillian Anderson, Lucy Boynton, and Robert Duvall. Directed by Scott Cooper.
Murder Mystery 2
Nick and Audrey Spitz, played by the dynamic duo of Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston, return as private detectives in Murder Mystery 2. This time, they’re embroiled in an international case after a friend’s abduction. Directed by Jeremy Garelick, the film ramps up the humor and action, surpassing its predecessor with wilder laughs and a deeper exploration of the couple’s relationship. The chemistry between Sandler and Aniston shines brighter than ever, supported by Mark Strong and Mélanie Laurent, making this sequel an even more enjoyable and intriguing comedic thriller.
El Conde
Set in the desolate south of Chile, El Conde tells the tale of an aged vampire, portrayed by Jaime Vadell. Living with his weary wife, Lucia (Gloria Münchmeyer), and loyal butler (Alfredo Castro), he confronts his legacy after centuries of tyranny. Directed by Pablo Larraín, this film blends horror with a deep reflection on history and morality. As the vampire contemplates ending his immortal life, the arrival of his opportunistic children, including Paula Luchsinger, brings a new dilemma, adding layers to this dark and thought-provoking story.
Pain Hustlers
Emily Blunt stars as Liza Drake, a struggling single mother who dives into the murky world of pharmaceutical sales in Pain Hustlers. Directed by David Yates, the film follows Liza’s ethical quandaries as she rises economically but falls into a dangerous scheme with Chris Evans’ character, Pete Brenner. Andy Garcia and Chloe Coleman add depth to this gripping narrative, painting a stark picture of desperation and greed. This sharp drama skillfully exposes the devastating consequences of corporate manipulation, making it a compelling and revealing journey into the darker side of ambition.
More Great New Movies on Netflix
Here are several other great movies that have been added to the Netflix library in 2023.
- 65: Pilot Mills crashes on prehistoric Earth, fighting for survival alongside another survivor against ancient creatures. Adam Driver stars in this sci-fi thriller, a suspenseful journey through Earth’s distant, dangerous past.
- A Man Called Otto: Grumpy widower Otto’s life changes when a lively young family moves next door. An unexpected friendship with a pregnant woman brings joy and transformation.
- Ballerina: Former classmates Ok-ju, an elite bodyguard, and Min-hee, a ballerina, reunite joyfully. Tragedy strikes when Ok-ju finds Min-hee’s body and a note begging for revenge, leading her into a dangerous underworld.
- Best. Christmas. Ever!: Charlotte feels overshadowed by her successful friend Jackie, but a GPS mishap lands her family at Jackie’s for Christmas. Misadventures and holiday spirit lessons unfold.
- Bird Box Barcelona: In post-apocalyptic Barcelona, survivors Sebastián and Anna face unseen horrors and dark threats as they seek safety among other survivors in this haunting thriller.
- Chupa: On a mystical Mexican vacation, a boy discovers a legendary chupacabra in his grandfather’s shed, leading him on an adventure filled with myths and excitement.
- Dog Gone: Starring Rob Lowe, this heartfelt biopic follows his journey across the Appalachian Trail, desperately searching for his lost beloved dog in the vast wilderness.
- Don’t Worry Darling: Set in the 1950s, Florence Pugh’s Alice discovers disturbing secrets under the facade of her perfect suburban life, unveiling a dark and unsettling reality.
- Extraction 2: Chris Hemsworth returns as Tyler Rake, undertaking a perilous mission to rescue an endangered family amidst the treacherous landscapes of Bangladesh.
- Fair Play: Emily and Luke, financial analysts in a forbidden relationship, face turmoil when one’s promotion strains their engagement. Stars Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich in a dramatic departure from their iconic roles.
- Furies: A Vietnamese martial arts spectacle featuring three vigilantes on a ruthless mission to dismantle a crime syndicate with fierce and relentless determination.
- Heart of Stone: Gal Gadot stars as Rachel Stone in a tale of espionage, where she confronts a global conspiracy, perilous stakes, and formidable adversaries.
- Hunger: This culinary journey from Bangkok’s streets to high-end dining chronicles Aoy’s ambitious rise in the elite culinary world, filled with tantalizing experiences.
- I Don’t Expect Anyone to Believe Me: Juan Pablo Villalobos, in Barcelona to study literature, gets entangled in a criminal network. His life takes absurd, sinister turns, inspiring him to write a novel amidst the chaos.
- JUNG_E: Set in a dystopian future, this compelling tale fuses heartache with high-tech warfare, featuring a scientist cloning her mother’s brain into a battle robot.
- Living: A lonely civil servant facing a terminal diagnosis seeks meaning in life. Influenced by vibrant individuals, he pursues a purposeful legacy, beautifully remade from Akira Kurosawa’s classic.
- Love Again: Mira’s heartfelt messages to her deceased fiance kindle an unexpected romance with journalist Rob, evolving into a tender and unique love story.
- Luther: The Fallen Sun: Idris Elba returns as detective Luther, breaking out of prison to relentlessly pursue a sinister and elusive serial killer.
- Marry My Dead Body: In this Taiwanese comedy, policeman Wu Ming-Han’s engagement to a ghost leads to comedic mysteries and supernatural whirlwinds.
- Minions: The Rise of Gru: Follow young Gru’s chaotic journey to villainy, assisted by his mischievous Minion companions in this amusing and adventurous tale.
- Missing: A suspenseful techno-thriller where June uses advanced technology to search for her missing mother in Colombia, uncovering disturbing mysteries.
- No Hard Feelings: Desperate to save her home, a woman agrees to date a wealthy couple’s awkward son. Jennifer Lawrence shines in this comedic flick, showcasing her exceptional comic timing in a story blending humor and challenges.
- Pamela, a Love Story: This documentary explores Pamela Anderson’s vibrant journey, delving into her dynamic experiences and illustrious career’s intricacies.
- Poisoned: An exploration into America’s food industry, revealing the unsettling truths of foodborne illnesses, compromised safety, and hidden regulatory failures.
- Seasons: A tender story of love and friendship, following two best friends as they explore the realms of romance and companionship, finding unexpected connections.
- Spy Kids: Armageddon: The Tango-Torrez kids, a new generation of spies, embark on a mission to avert a global technological catastrophe caused by a virus.
- Squaring the Circle: The Story of Hipgnosis: A documentary on Hipgnosis, the genius minds behind iconic album covers for bands like Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin. Anton Corbijn explores their creative journey, from rock royalty to music revolutionaries.
- Take Care of Maya: This powerful documentary exposes the emotional turmoil of a family wrongfully separated due to a medical misdiagnosis, spotlighting their quest for justice.
- The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die: In the chaotic aftermath of King Edward’s death, Uthred’s quest for unity unfolds in this captivating continuation of ‘The Last Kingdom.’
- The Magician’s Elephant: Join orphan Peter on a whimsical journey, where prophecies and magical encounters lead his quest to find his long-lost sister.
- The Monkey King: Dive into a vibrant realm where a powerful monkey born from stone faces demons and personal challenges in an epic tale of action and discovery.
- The Mother: Jennifer Lopez stars as a fierce combat specialist, navigating a dangerous world to protect her child from a threatening criminal underworld.
- The Out-Laws: A whirlwind of comedic misunderstandings as Owen grapples with suspicions of his future in-laws being formidable bank robbers.
- The Perfect Find: A woman’s rediscovery and romance threaten her career resurgence, offering a heartwarming journey of love and challenges in this romantic tale.
- The Pope’s Exorcist: Russel Crowe plays Father Gabriele Amorth, the Vatican’s chief exorcist, in a possession film highlighted by his stellar performance against sinister forces.
- The Raid 2: Jakarta cop Rama, after surviving a brutal gang fight, goes undercover in prison to protect his family from a more deadly criminal threat, risking everything to dismantle a criminal empire.
- The River Wild: An intense rafting journey reveals a tale of suspense and unexpected revelations as nature’s fury collides with haunting past secrets.
- The Saint of Second Chances: A heartwarming comeback story of Mike Veeck, overcoming past misfortunes in baseball, evolving into a journey of redemption and family appreciation.
- The Snowman: Detective Harry Hole pursues the elusive “Snowman Killer” in a mysterious crime and intrigue game, navigating a sinister trail of clues.
- The Son: A poignant exploration of fatherhood and redemption, as Peter struggles to support his troubled son amidst a backdrop of personal challenges and regrets.
- The Woman King: Viola Davis leads an all-female warrior ensemble in 1800s Africa, fiercely defending their kingdom against invasions in this epic tale of courage and sisterhood.
- The Tutor: An unsettling descent into obsession as a tutor becomes entangled in his enigmatic student’s mysterious and dark fixations.
- They Cloned Tyrone: An eerie conspiracy unfolds when drug dealer Fontaine, alongside Slick Charles and Yo-Yo, uncovers a government plot targeting the Black community, following a bizarre resurrection.
- To Leslie: The raw and poignant life of Leslie, a Texas single mother, as lottery winnings offer a glimmer of hope amidst her struggles with addiction.
- True Spirit: Follow 16-year-old Jessica Watson on her daring solo journey to conquer the world’s oceans, embodying youthful courage and adventurous spirit.
- Untold: Johnny Football: A gripping documentary unveiling the dramatic ascent and tumultuous downfall of football prodigy Johnny Manziel, highlighting his personal battles and fleeting fame.
- Unknown: The Lost Pyramid: Join explorers on an exhilarating archaeological odyssey in Egypt’s deserts, uncovering hidden treasures and ancient pyramid mysteries.
- We Have a Ghost: Kevin and ghost Ernest embark on quirky adventures, leading to comedic scenarios and unexpected familial bonds in this supernatural tale.
- WHAM!: Celebrate Wham!’s extraordinary legacy, tracing their musical journey from inception to global acclaim, enriched by rare footage and intimate interviews.
- Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody: Delve into Whitney Houston’s captivating life, from her rise to stardom to becoming a legendary musical icon.
- You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah: Experience the joys and tribulations of adolescence, as two best friends navigate crushes and conflicts while planning their dream Bat Mitzvahs.
- You People: A comedic exploration of love and cultural clashes as a couple’s romance leads to hilarious family interventions and misunderstandings.
- Your Place or Mine: A heartwarming exchange of lives and homes between friends reveals surprising emotions and discoveries in this modern romantic comedy.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/travisbean/2023/11/24/the-best-new-movies-on-netflix-in-2023-november-edition/