Five essential classic movies to binge this weekend on Netflix

As the weekend approaches, there’s nothing quite like settling in for a movie marathon. And if you’re a Netflix subscriber, we’ve got you covered.

If you are looking for a nostalgia ride, we’ve curated five classic films from different genres and decades. The streaming giant boasts an impressive collection of classic films that have stood the test of time. 

Whether you’re a fan of gripping thrillers, heartwarming coming-of-age tales, or thought-provoking dramas, Netflix has something for everyone. We’ve got a classic from Steven Spielberg, two Martin Scorsese masterclasses and perhaps the definitive teen movie of the 1980s.

This is just the latest in our ongoing essential binges series. So, make sure to check out the rest of our recommendations.

Five essential films to binge-watch on Netflix this weekend:

Jaws (1975)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, Jaws is the film that redefined the summer blockbuster and left audiences hesitant to dip their toes into the ocean. This thrilling masterpiece follows police chief Martin Brody, played by Roy Scheider, as he teams up with a marine biologist and a seasoned fisherman to hunt down a monstrous great white shark that’s terrorising the waters of a New England resort town.

With its iconic score and suspenseful storytelling, Jaws remains a must-watch.

Taxi Driver (1976)

Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro in one of his most memorable roles, Taxi Driver delves into the gritty underbelly of New York City. De Niro plays Travis Bickle, a Vietnam War veteran turned taxi driver who becomes increasingly disillusioned with society.

The film explores themes of loneliness, alienation, and urban decay, offering a glimpse into one man’s descent into darkness. Scorsese’s masterful direction and De Niro’s intense performance make Taxi Driver a cinematic tour de force.

The Breakfast Club (1985)

John Hughes’ quintessential coming-of-age film, The Breakfast Club, takes viewers on a journey through the lives of five high school students from different social cliques. Detention becomes a catalyst for introspection and connection as the characters, who are portrayed by a talented ensemble cast full of Brat Packers, including Emilio Estevez and Molly Ringwald.

With its contemporary portrayal of teenage angst and the universal longing for understanding, The Breakfast Club has become a fascinating time capsule.

Goodfellas (1990)

Another Scorsese directorial, Goodfellas, is a gripping exploration of the mafia underworld based on true events. Starring De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci, the film chronicles the rise and fall of Henry Hill as he becomes entangled in organised crime.

Scorsese’s trademark storytelling style, infused with sharp editing and a memorable soundtrack, makes Goodfellas another classic worth revisiting again and again.

Groundhog Day (1993)

If you’re in the mood for something lighter but no less stirring, Groundhog Day is the perfect choice. Directed by Harold Ramis and starring Bill Murray, this comedy classic follows the story of a cynical weatherman who finds himself trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again.

As he navigates this bizarre situation, he undergoes a transformative journey that leads him to reevaluate his life and priorities. Groundhog Day is charming, funny, and philosophical.