As we find ourselves in the heart of summer, the world of streaming is offering a diverse selection of films to keep us entertained. From sci-fi thrillers to heartwarming documentaries, there’s something for everyone. Here are the 20 best movies to stream right now in 2024.
1. They Cloned Tyrone (Netflix)
Starring Jamie Foxx and John Boyega, this sci-fi conspiracy thriller is Netflix’s biggest original movie offering of July. The film centers on a series of eerie events that lead an unlikely trio onto the trail of a nefarious government conspiracy.
Why You Should Watch It
- Provocative and clever sci-fi: The movie is a thought-provoking exploration of a government conspiracy, offering a unique blend of science fiction and mystery.
- Exceptional cast: The film features an outstanding cast, including John Boyega, Jamie Foxx, and Teyonah Parris, who bring their characters to life with compelling performances.
- Unique blend of genres: “They Cloned Tyrone” successfully combines elements of sci-fi and comedy, providing a fresh and entertaining viewing experience.
- High critical acclaim: The film has received positive reviews from critics, highlighting its intriguing plot and excellent performances.
This movie is highly recommended on Rotten Tomatoes, with 93% on tomatometer and 100% audience score.
2. 65 (Netflix)
Adam Driver’s adventure movie “65” is a unique offering on Netflix this month. Driver plays an explorer who crash lands on earth 65 million years ago and is forced to battle dinosaurs to survive.
Why You Should Watch It
- Unique premise: The film offers a unique premise of a man crash landing on earth 65 million years ago, providing an interesting blend of adventure and survival.
- Adam Driver’s performance: Known for his versatile acting skills, Adam Driver’s performance is a key highlight of the movie.
- Dinosaur action: For fans of the prehistoric era, the film offers thrilling dinosaur action sequences.
- From the writers of “A Quiet Place”: The film is written by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, known for their work on the critically acclaimed horror film “A Quiet Place.”
3. Bird Box Barcelona (Netflix)
The “Bird Box” franchise is expanding with a Spanish-language spinoff titled “Bird Box Barcelona.” The film centers on a group of people forced to blindfold themselves in order to stay alive.
Why You Should Watch It
- Continuation of a popular franchise: The film is a Spanish-language spinoff of the popular “Bird Box” franchise, offering a new perspective on the original story.
- Unique setting: The film is set in the desolate streets of Barcelona, providing a unique backdrop for the story.
- Effective twists: The film expands the franchise with some effective twists, keeping the narrative fresh and engaging.
- High tension: While it may lack some of the creepy tension of its predecessor, “Bird Box Barcelona” remains occasionally involving and suspenseful.
4. Wham! (Netflix)
This documentary by Chris Smith explores the lives of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, showing how two best friends came together to form one of the world’s most beloved pop acts in just four years.
Why You Should Watch It
- Nostalgic journey: The film serves as a nostalgic journey back to the 1980s, offering a look at the duo’s influence on the pop culture of the time.
- No thorny issues: The documentary presents a story free of controversies or thorny issues, focusing instead on the music and friendship between the duo.
- Critically acclaimed: The film has received positive reviews from critics, who praise its lighthearted and enjoyable exploration of Wham!’s career.
If you didn’t know, George Michael is considered one of the most influential artists in contemporary music. He had a significant impact on pop culture and LGBTQ+ representation, especially through his openness about his sexuality.
5. The Out-Laws (Netflix)
Netflix’s “The Out-Laws” puts an action spin on “Meet the Parents,” starring Adam Devine, Pierce Brosnan, Nina Dobrev, and Ellen Barkin.
Why You Should Watch It
- Fun and easy watch: The film is a comedy that offers an entertaining viewing experience, making it a great choice for a light-hearted movie night.
- Interesting premise: The film presents an intriguing premise where a man believes his future in-laws are infamous outlaws, leading to a series of comedic situations.
- Star-studded cast: The film features a strong cast, including Adam Devine, Pierce Brosnan, and Ellen Barkin, who deliver engaging performances.
- Topping the charts: The film has been popular among Netflix viewers, topping the most-watched movie charts.
6. Pride and Prejudice (Netflix)
Joe Wright’s rapturous “Pride and Prejudice” is coming to Netflix this month. The 2005 release earned four Academy Award nominations, including best actress for Keira Knightley.
Why You Should Watch It
- Classic love story: The film is based on Jane Austen’s beloved novel, offering a timeless tale of love, class, and societal expectations.
- Strong performances: The film features strong performances from Keira Knightley and Matthew MacFadyen, who bring the characters of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy to life.
- Acclaimed adaptation: This adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” has been widely praised for its faithful representation of the source material, earning it four Academy Award nominations.
- Beautiful cinematography: The film is visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography that brings the early 19th-century setting to life.
7. The Sweetest Thing (Netflix)
The 2002 comedy “The Sweetest Thing,” starring Cameron Diaz, Christina Applegate, and Selma Blair, centers on a woman who has avoided men for years but finds her perfect match one night while out with her girlfriends.
Why You Should Watch It
- Fun and light-hearted: The film is a fun, light-hearted romantic comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
- Strong female leads: The film features strong performances from Cameron Diaz, Christina Applegate, and Selma Blair, who bring their characters to life with charm and humor.
- Road trip adventure: The plot revolves around a spontaneous road trip, leading to a series of hilarious and wild misadventures.
- Relatable themes: The film explores themes of friendship, love, and the search for Mr. Right, making it relatable for many viewers.
8. The Squid and the Whale (Netflix)
Noah Baumbach’s best directorial effort, “The Squid and the Whale,” is coming to streaming on Netflix. The 2005 biographical comedy-drama centers on two boys in Brooklyn coping with their parents’ divorce in 1986.
Why You Should Watch It
- Authentic portrayal of divorce: The film offers a raw and authentic portrayal of a family dealing with divorce, making it a compelling watch for those interested in character-driven dramas.
- Strong performances: The film features strong performances from its cast, including Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney, who bring depth and complexity to their roles.
- Critically acclaimed: The film has received critical acclaim for its sharp writing and direction by Noah Baumbach, earning it an Oscar nomination.
- Unique storytelling: The film’s unique storytelling approach, which includes a mix of humor and drama, sets it apart from other family dramas.
The film’s title, “The Squid and the Whale,” refers to a diorama of a giant squid and a sperm whale locked in battle that is shown at the American Museum of Natural History. This diorama is used as a metaphor for the broken marriage of the film’s central characters.
9. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (Netflix)
Universal’s “Shrek” spinoff “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” comes to Netflix after originally making its streaming debut on Peacock in March.
Why You Should Watch It
- Return of a beloved character: This film marks the return of everyone’s favorite swashbuckling feline, Puss in Boots, after more than a decade.
- Star-studded cast: The film features the voices of Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek, reprising their roles from the original film, along with new additions like Harvey Guillén and Florence Pugh.
- Adventure-filled plot: The film sends Puss on an epic journey to find the mythical Wishing Star and restore his lost lives, promising an adventure-filled plot for viewers.
- Positive reviews: The film has received positive reviews for being smart, sweet, and funny, proving that some franchises only get better with age.
10. Ford v Ferrari (Hulu)
James Mangold’s “Ford v Ferrari” is available on Hulu this month. The story is centered around the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France.
Why You Should Watch It
- Based on a true story: The film is based on the fascinating true story of the Ford Motor Company’s attempt to defeat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France in 1966.
- Stellar performances: The film features strong performances from Matt Damon and Christian Bale, who bring their characters to life with depth and authenticity.
- High-speed racing sequences: The film is packed with thrilling, high-speed racing sequences that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Critically acclaimed: The film has received critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling, strong performances, and exciting racing sequences.
11. The Quiet Girl (Hulu)
Colm Bairéad’s “The Quiet Girl” was nominated for best international feature film at the Oscars earlier this year. The Irish drama is set in 1981 and centers on a withdrawn 9-year-old girl who experiences a loving home for the first time when she spends the summer on a farm with distant relatives.
Why You Should Watch It
- Emotional impact: The film is a remarkable debut for writer-director Colm Bairéad, offering a deceptively simple story that leaves a large emotional impact.
- Authentic portrayal: The film provides an authentic portrayal of a young girl’s experience in foster care, making it a compelling watch for those interested in character-driven dramas.
- Strong performances: The film features strong performances from its cast, who bring depth and complexity to their roles.
- Critically acclaimed: The film has received critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling and strong performances.
12. 80 for Brady (Prime Video)
“80 for Brady” arrives on Prime Video this month. Rita Moreno, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Sally Field play smitten Tom Brady fans who embark on a hilarious road trip to the Super Bowl.
Why You Should Watch It
- Inspired by a true story: The film is inspired by the true story of four best friends who take a wild trip to the 2017 Super Bowl LI to see their hero Tom Brady play.
- Star-studded cast: The film features a star-studded cast including Rita Moreno, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Sally Field, who deliver engaging performances.
- Light-hearted comedy: The film is a light-hearted comedy that offers an entertaining viewing experience, making it a great choice for a fun movie night.
- Positive reviews: The film has received positive reviews from critics, who praise the performances of the veteran leading ladies and the film’s overall charm.
13. The Twilight Saga (Prime Video)
The four-film franchise “The Twilight Saga” is arriving on Prime Video this month, over a decade after turning Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner into global superstars.
Why You Should Watch It
- Unique take on vampire lore: The Twilight Saga offers a unique take on vampire lore, with a family of vampires who choose not to drink human blood.
- Romantic storyline: The series is known for its romantic storyline between Bella Swan, a human, and Edward Cullen, a vampire, which has captivated audiences worldwide.
- Star performances: The series features strong performances from Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner, who have become global superstars through their roles.
- Cultural phenomenon: The Twilight Saga has become a cultural phenomenon, with a dedicated fanbase and significant impact on popular culture.
14. Till (Prime Video)
Danielle Deadwyler gave one of the best performances of 2022 in “Till,” starring as the mother of Emmett Till who used her son’s horrific murder to create a larger awareness of the Civil Rights Movement across America.
Why You Should Watch It
- Powerful story: The film tells the profoundly emotional and true story of Mamie Till Mobley’s relentless pursuit of justice for her 14-year-old son, Emmett Till, who was brutally lynched in 1955.
- Strong performances: Danielle Deadwyler’s performance as Mamie Till Mobley has been highly praised, bringing a heart-wrenching depth to the character.
- Historical significance: The film provides a poignant exploration of a significant event in American history, shedding light on the personal and societal impacts of racial violence.
- Critically acclaimed: The film has received critical acclaim for its storytelling, performances, and its exploration of the universal power of a mother’s ability to change the world.
15. Knock at the Cabin (Prime Video)
In director M. Night Shyamalan’s latest psychological horror, a family gets taken hostage by four strangers who demand their sacrifice to prevent an apocalypse.
Why You Should Watch It
- Thought-Provoking Chiller: The film is described as a thought-provoking chiller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s a great pick if you’re in the mood for a movie that will make you think and keep you guessing.
- Upper-Tier Shyamalan: If you’re a fan of M. Night Shyamalan’s work, this film is considered to be one of his better offerings. Shyamalan is known for his unique storytelling and unexpected plot twists, and this film is no exception.
- Solid Acting: The film boasts solid performances from its cast. Good acting can greatly enhance the viewing experience, making the characters more believable and the story more engaging.
- Plenty of Suspense: “Knock at the Cabin” is filled with suspense, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish. If you enjoy movies that keep you in suspense, this one is worth a watch.
- Unique Plot: The plot revolves around a family taken hostage by four strangers who demand their sacrifice to prevent an apocalypse. This unique premise sets the stage for a thrilling and suspenseful viewing experience.
16. Stephen Curry: Underrated (Apple TV+)
“Stephen Curry: Underrated” documents the basketball player as he rises from an undersized college player at a small town Division I college to a four-time NBA champion.
Why You Should Watch It
- Inspirational story: The film tells the inspiring story of Stephen Curry’s rise from an undersized college player at a small town Division I college to a four-time NBA champion, making it a must-watch for sports fans and those who love a good underdog story.
- High-quality production: The film is produced by Ryan Coogler, known for his work on “Black Panther,” and features intimate cinéma vérité, archival footage, and on-camera interviews, promising high-quality production values.
- Insight into Curry’s life: The documentary provides an in-depth look into Curry’s life, both on and off the court, offering fans a chance to see a different side of the basketball superstar.
- Positive reviews: The film has received positive reviews from critics, who praise its engaging storytelling and the insight it provides into Curry’s life and career.
17. The Beanie Bubble (Apple TV+)
Zach Galifianakis, Elizabeth Banks, Sarah Snook, and Geraldine Viswanathan join forces to take on the true story of the Beanie Babies empire that dominated culture in the 1990s.
Why You Should Watch It
- Unique story: The film tells the unique story of Ty Warner, a frustrated toy salesman who with the help of three women, turned Beanie Babies into the biggest toy craze in history.
- Star-studded cast: The film features a star-studded cast, including Zach Galifianakis, Elizabeth Banks, Sarah Snook, and Geraldine Viswanathan, who deliver engaging performances.
- Comedy genre: The film is a comedy that offers an entertaining viewing experience, making it a great choice for a fun movie night.
- Interesting theme: The film explores what and who we value and the unsung heroes whose names didn’t appear on the heart-shaped tag, making it an interesting watch.
The film will illustrate how the coming together of scarce supply, passionate collectors, and savvy marketing can give rise to a significant cultural phenomenon.
18. Ambulance (Peacock)
Michael Bay’s “Ambulance” stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as an army veteran down on his luck who turns to “brother” Gyllenhaal for help when he needs $231,000 to pay for his wife’s surgery.
Why You Should Watch It
- Action-packed: The film is described as an endless sprawl of a film set in LA, with most of the running time taken up by a very expensive car chase, promising an action-packed viewing experience.
- Strong performances: The film features strong performances from Jake Gyllenhaal and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who bring their characters to life with intensity and authenticity.
- High-stakes plot: The plot revolves around a heist gone wrong and a high-stakes car chase, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Directed by Michael Bay: If you’re a fan of Michael Bay’s work, known for his high-octane action sequences and larger-than-life storytelling, this film is a must-watch.
19. Bones and All (Paramount+)
Taylor Russell and Timothée Chalamet star in “Bones and All,” a love story about a young woman learning to live with a terrifying secret. This film is a must-watch on Paramount+.
Why You Should Watch It
- Unique love story: The film tells a unique love story between Maren, a young woman learning how to survive on the margins of society, and Lee, an intense and disenfranchised drifter.
- Thought-provoking: The film is described as deeply romantic and thought-provoking, offering viewers a chance to reflect on themes of identity, survival, and societal norms.
- Strong performances: The film features strong performances from Taylor Russell and Timothée Chalamet, who bring depth and authenticity to their characters.
- Directed by Luca Guadagnino: The film is directed by Luca Guadagnino, known for his work on “Call Me by Your Name” and “Suspiria,” promising a high-quality cinematic experience.
20. The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (HBO Max)
Nicolas Cage plays a fictionalized version of himself in “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent,” a meta-comedy that sees Cage accepting a $1 million offer to attend the birthday of a super fan. When things take a wildly unexpected turn, Cage is forced to become a version of some of his most iconic and beloved characters in order to extricate himself from an increasingly dangerous situation.
Why You Should Watch It
- Unique concept: The film features Nicolas Cage playing a fictionalized version of himself, adding a meta layer to the narrative that’s both unique and entertaining.
- Strong performances: The film features strong performances from Nicolas Cage, Pedro Pascal, and Tiffany Haddish, who bring their characters to life with humor and authenticity.
- Comedy and action blend: The film is an action-comedy, promising a blend of thrilling sequences and laugh-out-loud moments.
- Positive reviews: The film has received positive reviews from critics, who praise its smart, funny, and wildly creative narrative, as well as the scene-stealing performance by Pedro Pascal.
Final Words
These are the 20 best movies to stream right now in 2024. Whether you’re in the mood for a thrilling action film, a heartwarming documentary, or a laugh-out-loud comedy, there’s something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show!