Five essential movies to watch on Netflix this weekend

With countless options available on streaming platforms, choosing the perfect movie for your weekend binge can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Netflix offers a diverse array of cinematic experiences catering to every taste and mood. Whether you’re in the mood for a heart-pounding thriller, a thought-provoking drama, or a laugh-out-loud comedy, Netflix has something for everyone.

From timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, these films offer a glimpse into different worlds, perspectives, and emotions. Each selection has been carefully chosen for its compelling storytelling, stellar performances, and enduring impact on audiences, including selections from Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg and more.

In this article, we’ll delve into the plots, themes, and reasons why these movies deserve a spot on your weekend watchlist. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, a cathartic emotional experience, or simply a few hours of pure entertainment, our recommendations have you covered. From edge-of-your-seat suspense to heartwarming tales of love and friendship, these films span various genres and styles, ensuring there’s something for every movie enthusiast to enjoy.

Furthermore, with the convenience of Netflix’s streaming platform, you have the flexibility to watch these movies at your own pace, anytime and anywhere. Whether you prefer a movie marathon or spreading your viewing sessions across the weekend, Netflix offers the freedom to tailor your cinematic experience to suit your preferences.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into our selection of five essential movies to watch on Netflix this weekend.

Five perfect movies to watch on Netflix:

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.

Bird Box (2018)

Based on Josh Malerman’s novel, Bird Box takes viewers on a nerve-wracking journey in a world plagued by mysterious entities that drive people to madness and suicide when you look at them. 

Sandra Bullock’s character, Malorie, must navigate this scary world blindfolded to protect herself and her children. The film explores the psychological toll of survival and the lengths to which individuals will go to endure in the face of the unknown, making it a gripping addition to the apocalypse genre.

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.

Girl, Interrupted (1999)

Directed by James Mangold, this psychological drama is based on Susanna Kaysen’s memoir of the same name. Starring Winona Ryder and Angelina Jolie, the film revolves around a young woman’s experiences in a psychiatric hospital in the 1960s. Jolie’s powerful portrayal of Lisa, a charismatic but troubled young girl, earned her an Academy Award for ‘Best Supporting Actress’.

Girl, Interrupted offers a poignant exploration of mental health, girlhood, and friendship amid society’s jaded expectations.