Outline:
Each month, Netflixupdates their collection by removing and adding numerous films for users to select from. Occasionally, it may be challenging to go through them all while trying to determine what’s worth your valuable time, which is why we have put together a list of three movies that are sure to be great choices.
Covering a broad array of genres, these carefully chosen pieces feature remarkableRotten Tomatoesratings, and although critics aren’t always accurate, you’re likely to discover at least one film on the list below that you can include in your viewing queue. From intense science fiction to classic historical films, here are our selections for three of the top movies that became available on Netflix in January 2026.
‘Green Room’ (90%)
Released in 2016, Green Roomone of the rare horror films that succeeded in captivating critics instead of turning them away. Set in the Pacific Northwest, the movie centers around a punk rock band that witnesses a killing, only to later fall into the hands of a group of neo-Nazi skinheads, led by a character portrayed by Patrick Stewart. The film was written and directed by Jeremy Saulnier (Rebel Ridge), its concept may be straightforward, butGreen Roomis anything other than your average survival horror.
Also featuring Anton Yelchin, Imogen Poots, Alia Shawkat, Joe Cole, and Callum Turner,Green Roomis a relentless and truly harsh horror film that never slows down once it begins. Examining the vulnerability of life through the perspective of extreme violence, you won’t find any solace in this one, but instead a movie that showcases the everyday nature of evil thatremains with you long after the credits have finished.
‘District 9’ (90%)
Recognized as one of the top science fiction films of the era,District 9Neill Blomkamp’s first major film delves into themes such as xenophobia, corporate greed, segregation, and identity. Released in 2009, the movie centers on the arrival of a sick and undernourished alien race and their placement in an internment camp in South Africa. Over time, the local population comes to despise them, perceiving the aliens as a nuisance on the planet. As conflicts escalate, a defense company is hired to suppress the unrest, prompting one individual to choose which side of history he will stand on.
Accoladed for its powerful emotional effect, mockumentary approach, and societal critique,District 9Received four Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Picture. Although it did not win any awards, Blomkamp’s science fiction classic is still just as pertinent now as it was over ten years ago.
“12 Years a Slave” (95%)
Unlike District 9, 12 Years a SlaveWon many Academy Awards, including the Oscar for Best Picture. Directed by Steve McQueen, this 2013 historical film follows the life of Solomon Northup, a free Black man from New York who was taken in Washington, D.C. in 1841 and forced into slavery.
Led by Chiwetel Ejiofor, 12 Years a Slaveis an emotionally intense and unyielding examination of the horrors of slavery, and how quickly evil can be accepted as normal when supported by societal approval. Uncompromisingly truthful and, at times,extremely painful to watch, the movie is enhanced by the performances of its renowned supporting cast, featuring Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti, Lupita Nyong’o, Sarah Paulson, Brad Pitt, and Alfre Woodard.