As Netflix’s vast library continues to expand, countless cinematic treasures often go unnoticed. For film enthusiasts seeking compelling stories beyond the trending lists, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to the streaming giant’s most underrated movies, from gripping thrillers to heartwarming dramas and raunchy comedies, perfect for discovering this October and throughout the year.
Every month, Netflix floods its platform with new content, from highly anticipated series like Outer Banks season 4 and Heartstopper season 3 in October 2024, to buzzy new docuseries like the NBA’s Starting 5. While these new releases capture much of the attention, a wealth of incredible films often get buried beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered by discerning viewers. These are the hidden gems that truly make streaming worthwhile, offering unique narratives, powerful performances, and unforgettable moments that resonate long after the credits roll.
As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, there’s no better time to settle in with a genuinely good movie. Forget the endless scrolling; our experts have dug deep into the Netflix vault to unearth films that might not make the ‘Most Popular’ list but consistently deliver quality entertainment. This guide is tailored for fans who appreciate films that challenge expectations, spark conversations, and offer a fresh perspective on storytelling.
Psychological Thrillers and Disturbing Dramas: Unsettling Masterpieces
For those who crave suspense and a deep dive into the human psyche, Netflix hosts a collection of thrillers that are far too good to miss. These films often offer more than just jump scares, providing a thought-provoking experience.
- The Platform (2019): This Spanish dystopian thriller, directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, is a social allegory that will stick with you long after viewing. Set in a vertical prison where food descends from the top, its powerful messages about social inequality and greed are chillingly effective. If you haven’t seen it, watch it before streaming its sequel, The Platform 2, now available on Netflix.
- Red Dragon (2002): A prequel to The Silence of the Lambs, this film sees Anthony Hopkins reprise his role as Hannibal Lecter, assisting FBI agent Will Graham (Edward Norton) in tracking a new serial killer. Dark, elegant, and psychologically complex, it delves into the thin line between brilliance and madness, making it a perfect pick for spooky season, as noted by Us Weekly.
- Horse Girl (2020): Starring Alison Brie, this psychological drama explores mental illness through the story of Sarah, whose life unravels amid vivid lucid dreaming, delusions, and amnesia. Brie’s performance is a powerful, relatable portrayal of fear and vulnerability, combining humor and raw emotion.
- Leave the World Behind (2023): Based on Rumaan Alam’s novel, this apocalyptic psychological thriller starring Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, and Ethan Hawke, explores a world where technology slowly fails. Directed by Sam Esmail, known for Mr. Robot, it’s a smart, suspenseful film that sparks conversation about our reliance on technology.
- The Babadook (2014): An Australian horror film that builds its scares slowly, focusing on a boy possessed by a monster from a creepy bedtime story. It’s a masterclass in atmospheric horror and highly recommended for those who appreciate psychological terror over cheap thrills.
Unconventional Comedies and Heartfelt Stories: Laughter and Reflection
Beyond the typical blockbusters, Netflix offers a range of comedies and dramas that resonate with depth and unexpected charm.
- The Girl Next Door (2004): A raunchy teen comedy with an unexpectedly effective message, this film follows high schooler Matthew Kidman (Emile Hirsch) as his carefully planned life takes a turn when he falls for the titular girl next door, Danielle (Elisha Cuthbert), who harbors a secret.
- Sausage Party (2016): From the minds of Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, and Jonah Hill, this adult-animated comedy is a wild ride. Set in a supermarket where food items believe being bought by humans is their path to “great beyond,” it quickly devolves into an unforgettably X-rated adventure once they discover the truth.
- You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah (2023): Featuring Adam Sandler’s real-life daughters, this sweet coming-of-age story follows Stacy as teenage drama threatens her bat mitzvah plans. Despite initial talks of nepotism, the film proved to be a heartwarming and well-received addition to Netflix’s comedy catalog.
- Old Dads (2023): Starring Bill Burr, Bobby Cannavale, and Bokeem Woodbine, this comedy explores three men in their 50s navigating a new cultural landscape after selling their business to millennials. Critics may have panned it, but audiences, especially “old dads” across the nation, found it relatable and genuinely hilarious.
- Chef (2014): Directed by and starring Jon Favreau, this feel-good film follows a celebrity chef who, after a public meltdown, reinvents himself with a food truck. It’s a culinary delight that will leave you actively drooling, full of heartwarming moments and incredible food shots.
Action-Packed Adventures and Cult Classics: Thrills and Nostalgia
Sometimes, what’s underrated is simply a film that was ahead of its time or overshadowed upon release. These action and genre-bending movies are ripe for rediscovery.
- Point Break (2015): While not surpassing the 1991 original, the 2015 remake has its own merits as an extreme sports action film. Remove the title, and you’re left with dazzling action scenes and emphasis on thrills, starring Luke Bracey as Johnny Utah and Édgar Ramírez as Bodhi. Approach it with an open mind for a surprising result.
- They Cloned Tyrone (2023): This sci-fi comedy mystery starring John Boyega, Jamie Foxx, and Teyonah Parris, follows an unlikely trio uncovering a sinister government cloning conspiracy. Praised for being original, fun, and delightfully satirical, it has all the makings of a future cult classic.
- Good Will Hunting (1997): A true classic, though perhaps not “underrated” by traditional metrics, it’s a hidden gem for those who haven’t experienced it on streaming. This Oscar-nominated film features Matt Damon as a math genius, Ben Affleck, and a powerful performance by Robin Williams as his therapist. Its Boston backdrop and themes of mentorship and self-discovery make it a timeless watch.
- Ouija: Origin of Evil (2016): This prequel to Ouija might not have been requested, but it proved to be a surprisingly good horror film. Directed by Mike Flanagan, a filmmaker who has since thrived in the horror genre with beloved Netflix shows, it laid the groundwork for his distinctive style.
International and Inspirational Gems: A World of Stories
Netflix’s global content offers a rich tapestry of stories, many of which, particularly those outside Hollywood, gain significant traction on streaming platforms after their theatrical run.
- Even the Rain (2010): This Spanish-language drama, recommended for the October 10-12, 2025 weekend by Us Weekly, stars Gael García Bernal as an idealistic filmmaker shooting a movie about Christopher Columbus’ exploitation of natives in Bolivia. The film creates painful irony as the cast and crew encounter modern-day protests against water privatization, highlighting that oppression is not merely a thing of the past.
- Khel Khel Mein (2024): This Indian comedy starring Akshay Kumar and Taapsee Pannu, despite theatrical challenges, became a sleeper hit on OTT, climbing to #1 on Netflix. Its humor, situational comedy, and comedic timing made it a standout.
- Lucky Bhaskar (2024): Featuring Dulquer Salmaan, this gripping tale of greed and survival keeps audiences engaged till the end, proving to be a fierce, stylish, and addictive watch on the platform, according to IMDb.
- Mei Yaz Hagan (2024): A critically acclaimed Tamil drama directed by C. Prem Kumar, starring Karthi and Arvind Swamy. It follows a journey of self-discovery and reflection on family bonds, receiving praise for its emotional depth and strong performances, per IMDb.
- Srikanth (2024): This deeply touching and inspirational biopic captures Srikanth Bolla’s incredible journey, blending humor and emotion to deliver a powerful message about overcoming adversity through determination and hard work. It’s a testament to resilience and ambition.
- Maharaja (2024): A dark and gritty tale of a vengeful barber that mixes mystery and dark humor. Vijay Sethupathi’s raw acting and sharp storytelling made it a smash hit among fans and critics alike, quickly topping streaming charts.
- Amaran (2024): This Tamil biographical action war film, starring Sivakarthikeyan as Major Mukund Varadarajan, received widespread critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and music upon its Diwali release, achieving significant box office success.
Embracing the Unseen: Why Underrated Matters
In an era dominated by algorithm-driven recommendations and top-ten lists, deliberately seeking out underrated films is an act of cinematic rebellion. It’s an opportunity to experience unique narratives that often defy conventional trends, support diverse voices, and discover future classics before they become mainstream. These films, whether they are psychological thrillers, heartfelt comedies, or powerful dramas, offer a rich viewing experience that goes beyond fleeting popularity.
So, as you plan your next movie night, consider venturing off the beaten path. Our curated list of underrated Netflix movies, from those perfect for October 2025 to timeless classics, provides a starting point for your next great discovery. You might just find your new favorite film among these hidden gems.
