As an entertainment-hungry public, we often look forward to the big releases each year. Movie news streaming platform Netflix saw a massive demand in 2023, with dozens of new films released that earned rave reviews and loads of praise from critics and audiences alike.
Whether you’re into action thrillers or tearjerkers, there’s something for everyone on this list of the best-rated films released on Netflix this year! Check out our breakdown below (complete with review scores) to determine which movies are worth your time. They are immensely popular among viewers too!
1. Fair Play
In the competitive realm of One Crest Capital, a prestigious New York hedge fund, Emily Meyers and Luke Edmunds, both analysts, navigate a secret romantic relationship in Fair Play. Luke proposes to Emily during his brother’s wedding, and she joyfully accepts. However, the dynamics shift when a portfolio manager is fired the following day. Emily learns that Luke is being considered for the position and shares the exciting news with him.
Unexpectedly, CEO Campbell summons Emily late at night, revealing that she is the one set to receive the promotion. Reluctantly, Emily breaks the news to Luke, who surprisingly expresses support.
As Emily embraces her new role, tensions arise in her relationship with Luke, who harbors resentment for not being promoted. Luke immerses himself in the teachings of a self-help guru, focusing on workplace assertiveness, leading to struggles in their personal life, including intimacy.
- Rating: 87%
2. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
Anderson weaves a tale of mystery and magic in the enchanting world of Wes Anderson’s 2023 American fantasy short film, “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar,” based on Roald Dahl’s 1977 short story of the same name. The protagonist, known by the pseudonym Henry Sugar, leverages his inherited fortune to fuel his gambling pursuits.
The narrative is intriguing when Henry stumbles upon a book containing a doctor’s report on Imdad Khan, a man claiming to see and interact without using his eyes.
Witnessing Imdad’s extraordinary feats in a circus act, Henry delves into the doctor’s interview with Imdad, unveiling the fascinating life history of the enigmatic character. Imdad, once a young runaway in a traveling circus, sought guidance from The Great Yogi, a guru capable of meditating while levitating.
Reluctantly mentored by The Great Yogi, Imdad gained unique abilities through meditation, though he passed away before further examination by doctors. Intrigued by Imdad’s story, Henry decides to practice the same reflections.
By staring into a candle flame at eye level and picturing the face of the person he has loved most for three years, Henry achieves the extraordinary ability to see through the backs of playing cards, unraveling a world of magical possibilities.
- Rating: 95%
3. Nowhere
Directed by Albert Pintó, the 2023 survival thriller film “Nowhere” unfolds a gripping narrative penned by an evocative screenplay. Mia and Nico, compelled by a crisis leading to a scarcity of essential resources and an oppressive government in Spain, make a daring decision to leave the country, driven by fear for their lives and the safety of their unborn child.
Haunted by the tragic loss of their firstborn daughter, Uma, who was taken by the military, Mia grapples with a profound sense of guilt, blaming herself for Uma’s disappearance.
The couple’s plan to escape to Ireland via a cargo ship takes an unexpected turn as they get separated, thrusting Mia into a series of harrowing challenges on her own.
In a poignant scene, Mia, determined to warn Nico of impending danger, skillfully navigates a military checkpoint where others on her truck face tragic fates.
As she attempts to reach out to Nico, the suspense intensifies, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the unfolding twists of this suspenseful tale.
- Rating: 55%
4. Reptile
Benicio del Toro leads Reptile, an intense crime thriller that keeps the audience on edge with its main character, Detective Tom Nichols (del Toro). The storyline unfolds as a young woman named Summer (Matilda Lutz) is brutally murdered, her body discovered by her boyfriend, Will Grady (Justin Timberlake). Intriguingly, the film suggests that multiple men in Summer’s life, including Grady himself, might have posed a threat.
As the investigation deepens, Nichols confides in his wife, Judy (Alicia Silverstone), sharing some of the case details. However, the film hints at complexities within Nichols’ relationship with Judy, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Forced to reexamine his own life, Nichols navigates a web of uncertainties while searching for answers that could lead to justice for the killer.
- Rating: 42%
Conclusion
Netflix had a remarkable year for films in 2023. From high-action blockbusters to chilling thrillers and hilarious comedies, the streaming giant had something for every type of movie enthusiast.
Hopefully, this list has helped you find your perfect cinematic fix – be sure to check out the best-rated films on Netflix that were released for a truly unique movie experience. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get streaming as soon as possible!