The Top Thrillers Currently Streaming on Netflix

If you're in the mood for comfort food, Netflix can provide. But if you're looking for something that really packs a punch, a thrilling movie is what you need. You want a movie that will leave you on the edge of your seat without relying too heavily on blood and gore. While Netflix has a decent selection of thrillers, they also have many movies labeled as "thriller" that aren't worth your time. To save you from wasting time scrolling through options, we've compiled an updated list of the best thriller movies on Netflix. If you're unsure of which movies to watch, check out our recommendations below.

Editor's Note: This article was last updated October 2023.

Recently Added: Don't Worry Darling.

Warner Bros. presents the captivating film, Don't Worry Darling. In this gripping story, Florence Pugh's character, Alice, becomes suspicious of her seemingly perfect neighborhood. Uncovering dark secrets, the spotlight shifts to the enigmatic Frank, portrayed by Chris Pine. Under the meticulous direction of Olivia Wilde, Don't Worry Darling immerses the audience in a chilling atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. With expert performances by Pugh, Gemma Chan, and even Wilde herself, the narrative weaves through sinister twists, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. A tension-filled mystery, Don't Worry Darling is truly enthralling and impossible to resist. - Jake Hodges

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Emily the Criminal

Release Date: August 12, 2022

Director: John Patton Ford

Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Theo Rossi, John Billingsley, Bernardo Badillo

Runtime: 97 minutes

Genres: Drama, Crime, Thriller

In his feature directorial debut, writer and director John Patton Ford presents "Emily the Criminal," an award-winning crime thriller starring Aubrey Plaza (known for her role in "The White Lotus"). The film tells the unsettlingly relatable story of a young woman trapped in student loan debts and unable to find a stable job due to a felony conviction. Facing constant rejection from employers, she is forced to enter the underground world of credit card scammers in order to survive. "Emily the Criminal" serves as a powerful critique of how corporations and predatory lenders exploit the working class, shedding light on the connection between poverty and crime.

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Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

Director: Rian Johnson

Release Date: December 23, 2022

Cast: Janelle Monae, Daniel Craig, Edward Norton, Dave Bautista, Kathryn Hahn

Genres: Mystery, Thriller

Watch on Netflix

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022) is a departure from the dark and gritty tone found in many other titles on this list. Instead, it embraces brightness and humor while still delivering an exhilarating storyline. The film derives its comedy from satirical portrayals of the suspects, whose lives are intertwined in a complex and multi-layered narrative akin to the enigmatic "Glass Onion" itself.

The renowned detective, Benoit Blanc (played by Daniel Craig), is invited to a weekend gathering on an eccentric billionaire's private island. The host, portrayed by Edward Norton, has organized a murder mystery game for his closest friends. However, when a real murder becomes a menacing reality, Blanc must unravel the case, which delves into the troubled pasts of each person present.

The plot is a brilliantly executed classic whodunit, but what truly sets this film apart is Rian Johnson's stylish direction. Every detail, from the costumes to the set design, is meticulously crafted, resulting in a visually impressive and expertly made movie that appeals to audiences of all types.

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Extraction 2

Release Date: June 16, 2023

Director: Sam Hargrave

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani, Daniel Bernhardt, Sinead Phelps

Rating: R

Genres: Action, Thriller

Chris Hemsworth, known for his role in The Avengers, reprises his role as the black ops mercenary Tyler Rake in Extraction 2. Joining him are writer Joe Russo (The Gray Man) and director Sam Hargrave (Extraction). In this film, Rake, now retired and enjoying a peaceful life in Austria, is approached by a stranger with a unique request - to rescue a mother and her two daughters from a Georgian prison. With the collaboration between Russo and Hargrave, who have previously worked together on MCU films, viewers can expect a thrilling experience filled with adrenaline-pumping action and suspenseful chases as Rake embarks on this dangerous mission of escort.

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It Follows

Director David Robert Mitchell's horror thriller, "It Follows," was released on March 15, 2015. Starring Bailey Spry, Carollette Phillips, Loren Bass, Keir Gilchrist, Maika Monroe, and Lili Sepe, the film offers a captivating story that takes a simple premise and turns it into a suspenseful and thrilling experience. The plot revolves around Jay (played by Maika Monroe), who becomes cursed after engaging in sexual activity. From there, she becomes the target of a mysterious force, and along with the audience, embarks on a paranoid journey where anyone could be a potential threat. With its tense atmosphere and standout performance by Maika Monroe, "It Follows" is a must-see for fans of horror and thrillers.

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The Pale Blue Eye, directed by Scott Cooper, is set to be released on January 6, 2023. Featuring a stellar cast including Christian Bale, Harry Melling, Simon McBurney, and Timothy Spall, this thrilling film combines elements of horror, crime, and mystery. Don't miss the opportunity to watch it on Netflix.

The great American writer Edgar Allan Poe has made invaluable contributions to the mystery and thriller genres. The Pale Blue Eye, adapted from Louis Bayard's novel, takes place during Poe's troubled years at West Point Military Academy in New York. This period piece combines elements of horror and mystery, following a fictional detective tale that begins with the discovery of a cadet's body hanging from a tree. As the story unfolds, a seasoned detective (played by Christian Bale) realizes he needs the assistance of a brilliant young cadet, Edgar Allan Poe (Harry Melling), to uncover the secrets of the academy. Bale delivers an exceptional performance, but it is Melling who truly shines in this dark and eerie tale. The film expertly builds suspense, revealing new secrets and surprising twists at every turn. Even when you think you have identified the killer, there is always another surprising revelation in store. Whether you are a fan of Poe or simply enjoy gothic mysteries, The Pale Blue Eye is a must-watch.

Spiderhead

In 2022, Director Joseph Kosinski gained attention with his film Top Gun: Maverick. However, his Netflix thriller, Spiderhead, is equally captivating. The story takes place at a private research facility turned prison and follows Chris Hemsworth's character, a mysterious scientist who conducts chemical experiments on the inmates. Miles Teller plays one of the prisoners who begins to question the purpose of these tests. The film builds tension gradually, leading to an unexpected twist. The chemistry between Teller and Hemsworth is excellent, and Jurnee Smollett delivers a layered and endearing performance. Spiderhead stands out as one of Netflix's best releases this year due to its exceptional acting and gripping narrative. Moreover, the fact that the film's premise could potentially become a reality adds to its impactful nature.

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Released in 1922, this film directed by Zak Hilditch showcases a talented cast including Thomas Jane, Molly Parker, Brian D'Arcy James, Neal McDonough, Dylan Schmid, and Roan Curtis. It combines elements of crime, horror, and drama to create a captivating viewing experience. Watch this gripping story on Netflix.

Looking for a slow-burner? Look no further than 1922. This film, based on Stephen King's novella of the same name, captivates with its deliberate pacing and inevitable darkness. While not reliant on excessive gore, it manages to instill a profound sense of fear in the audience. Narrated and centered around farmer Wilfred "Wilf" James, played by Thomas Jane, the story takes a chilling turn when he decides to murder his wife, Arlette (Molly Parker). But what unravels is a tale of good people consumed by greed's repercussions. Unsettling and macabre, it rivals the most intense stories by Edgar Allan Poe. In Netflix's thrilling lineup, this is undeniably one of the most compelling choices. - Remus Noronha

Operation Mincemeat

Director John Madden's tense historical war drama, Operation Mincemeat, based on true events, is a gripping portrayal of one of World War II's most audacious deceptions. Starring Colin Firth and Matthew Macfadyen as intelligence agents, the film follows their daring plan to divert attention from the Allies' attack on Sicily by using a dead body. While not as heart-pounding as other films in its genre, Operation Mincemeat navigates a web of unexpected obstacles during the operation, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Additionally, the film explores the complex relationships that develop among the individuals involved, providing a well-rounded experience blending espionage and character-driven moments.

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I Care A Lot

Director J BlakesonRelease Date February 19, 2021Cast Rosamund Pike, Peter Dinklage, Eiza Gonzalez, Dianne WiestGenres Drama, Comedy, Crime Watch on Netflix

Rosamund Pike won a Golden Globe for her role as a heartless swindler who targets the elderly in the 2020 black comedy film. The movie, titled I Care a Lot, follows the tale of Marla Grayson (Pike), a guardian appointed by the court who exploits her legal authority to seize control of her victims' assets. However, her deceitful scheme encounters a setback when her latest target, a woman named Jennifer Peterson (Dianne Wiest), proves to have ties to a dangerous mobster portrayed by the renowned Peter Dinklage. With its dark humor, sharp satire, and thrilling narrative, I Care a Lot is a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre.

The Platform

Director: Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia

Release Date: March 20, 2020

Cast: Ivan Massagué, Zorion Eguileor, Antonia San Juan, Emilio Buale

Genres: Thriller, Horror, Sci-Fi

Watch on Netflix

The Platform is an exceptional thriller that blurs the boundaries between genres. It takes place in an unbelievably tall building, where residents experience either abundance or extreme scarcity depending on their floor. Each day, a lavish table loaded with food descends through the building, allowing those on the higher floors to indulge in excess while those below struggle to survive. However, there is a twist: the inhabitants are periodically gassed, repositioned, and left unaware of which floor they will wake up on. Although it has a lengthy setup, this film serves as an immensely powerful platform to examine social themes while delivering non-stop suspense within the confines of these claustrophobic walls. - Haleigh Foutch

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Oxygen

Directed by Alexandre Aja, Oxygen is set to release on May 12, 2021. The cast includes Mélanie Laurent, Mathieu Amalric, Marc Saez, Malik Zidi, Eric Herson-Macarel, and Cathy Cerda. This intriguing film falls under the genres of Drama, Fantasy, and Sci-Fi and is available for streaming on Netflix.

Alexandre Aja, known for directing High Tension, The Hills Have Eyes, and Crawl, has gained a reputation for creating incredibly intense and thrilling movies in the 21st century. However, with his latest film on Netflix, Oxygen, Aja takes a slight step back from horror and focuses mainly on delivering exhilarating thrills. The story revolves around a woman played by Mélanie Laurent, who wakes up in a cryogenic pod without any recollection of her identity or how she ended up there. To make matters worse, her oxygen supply is rapidly depleting, causing a heightened sense of urgency. While Aja may lessen his emphasis on horror in this film, there are still touches of body horror that increase the adrenaline for viewers. Although the plot twists in Oxygen may not always catch you off guard, Aja's expert skill in building tension will undoubtedly leave you on the edge of your seat. Whether you anticipate the upcoming events or not, be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave your stomach in knots. - Haleigh Foutch

Nocturnal Animals

Director Tom Ford's Nocturnal Animals, released on December 9, 2016, boasts an impressive cast including Amy Adams, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Shannon, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Isla Fisher, and Ellie Bamber. This gripping drama-thriller, available to stream on Netflix, offers viewers a meticulously crafted narrative, a star-studded ensemble, and stunning visual aesthetics. The film centers around an art gallery owner, portrayed by Amy Adams, who becomes engrossed in the newly published novel penned by her ex-husband, played by Jake Gyllenhaal. As she delves deeper into the story, the lines between fiction and reality blur, revealing the interconnectedness between the protagonist's marital troubles and the novel's narrative.

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Gerald's Game is a movie directed by Mike Flanagan and was released on September 29, 2017. The cast of the film includes Carla Gugino, Bruce Greenwood, Chiara Aurelia, and Carel Struycken. It falls under the genres of Drama, Horror, and Thriller. If you're interested, you can watch it on Netflix.

Gerald's Game, in its novella form, is one of Stephen King's most disturbing and captivating works. It is a true page-turner, holding your attention as you follow a woman's desperate struggle to survive a slow and silent death, all while grappling with the buried traumas within herself. The story is narrated entirely from a first-person perspective, immersing you in the mind of a woman who finds herself handcuffed to a bed in a secluded cabin after her husband suddenly dies. Initially believed to be impossible to adapt to film, Mike Flanagan's 2017 adaptation proved the skeptics wrong, delivering a heartfelt yet horrifying movie that remains faithful to King's original work. However, it must be noted that the film contains graphic and disturbing scenes, and the climactic moment, infamous for its intensity in the book, resulted in a visceral reaction from the audience during screenings. Overall, Gerald's Game is a powerful exploration of surviving trauma while also serving as a brutal survival story.

Velvet Buzzsaw

Director Dan Gilroy's Netflix movie Velvet Buzzsaw, released on February 1, 2019, offers a thrilling and horrifying experience. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Zawe Ashton, Tom Sturridge, Toni Collette, and Natalia Dyer, the film takes place in the art world and uncovers a collection of art created by a mysterious and deceased artist. As the artwork is displayed, a series of gruesome deaths occur. With a dose of dark humor, Gilroy skillfully critiques the art world, and Gyllenhaal delivers a vibrant performance.

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Experience the gripping thriller "Bird Box" directed by Susanne Bier. This film, released on December 21, 2018, features a talented cast including Sarah Paulson, Rosa Salazar, Sandra Bullock, David Dastmalchian, John Malkovich, and B.D. Wong. Set in a thrilling sci-fi world, "Bird Box" is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Watch it now on Netflix!

Netflix ended 2018 on a high note with the release of Bird Box, a thrilling movie starring Sandra Bullock as a mother protecting her children in a post-apocalyptic world. The film takes place in two timelines and follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world where a mysterious force compels people to kill themselves upon seeing it. Director Susanne Bier skillfully taps into the anxiety of surviving without sight, delivering intense and suspenseful moments throughout. Bullock delivers a commanding performance, reminding audiences of her star power, while Trevante Rodes and John Malkovich also shine in their respective roles.

Apostle

Directed by Gareth Evans, Apostle is a horror-thriller film that promises to deliver blood-curdling thrills. Evans, known for his action-packed hit The Raid, shifts his focus to create heart-stopping tension in this new venture. Starring Dan Stevens, known for his role in Legion, the film follows a man who enters a secluded cult to rescue his sister, only to uncover horrifying secrets hidden beneath the cult's seemingly perfect exterior. Evans expertly builds suspense throughout the film, leading to a climactic, gore-filled finale that requires a strong stomach to endure. Brace yourself for a visceral and intense viewing experience. Watch on Netflix.

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Title: Cam

Director: Daniel Goldhaber

Release Date: November 16, 2018

Cast: Madeline Brewer, Patch Darragh, Melora Walters, Devin Druid, Imani Hakim, Michael Dempsey

Genres: Horror, Drama, Mystery

Stream on Netflix

Cam is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that delves into themes of ambition, identity, and survival in the digital era. Starring Madeline Brewer as Alice, a successful cam girl determined to rise to the top of her profession, everything seems to be going well until she discovers that she has been replaced by a cheerful doppelganger who has stolen her face and her career. As Alice embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind her mysterious web clone and regain control of her life, the film takes viewers on a surreal and unsettling ride. Screenwriter Isa Mazzei and director Daniel Goldhaber form a formidable creative duo, approaching the subject matter with a refreshing and sex-positive perspective, while also exploring the dark side of online identity and the pressures of ambitious careers. Brace yourself for a dazzling and disorienting exploration of the dangers that lurk in the depths of the internet.

Berlin Syndrome

Director Cate Shortland's Berlin Syndrome, released on May 16, 2017, is a gripping thriller that follows the story of Clare Havel, a young Australian photojournalist on vacation in Berlin. Clare finds herself captivated by the city and falls in love with a local man named Andi. Their passionate romance takes a terrifying turn when Clare realizes that Andi has trapped her in his apartment and has no intention of letting her go. Berlin Syndrome expertly explores the psychological terror and the strength of the human spirit in the face of captivity.

Palmer excels in portraying a intelligent woman in captivity who constantly discovers new depths of strength. Shaun Grant's script provides her with excellent material, treating Clare with respect and never portraying her as a fool. Throughout the film, Clare makes astute and assertive choices, making you root for her while increasing the tension. As Clare becomes aware of the severity of her situation, her instinct for survival is met with Andi's cruel nature, gradually revealing itself each day. Berlin Syndrome brilliantly builds up tension and offers emotional challenges, resulting in a thrilling finale that leaves you breathless.

Creep

Director Patrick Brice's horror film "Creep," released on June 23, 2014, features a surprising and chilling performance from Mark Duplass. In collaboration with Brice, who also serves as co-writer and co-star, Duplass portrays "Josef," a mysterious and deeply unsettling character driven by a need for intimacy. To document his strange story, Josef posts a Craigslist ad looking for a filmmaker, ultimately hiring Aaron (played by Brice himself). As Aaron steps into Josef's world, he finds himself in an uncomfortable and peculiar situation that constantly teeters on the edge of chaos. Duplass skillfully embodies the charming and disarming yet freakishly eerie nature of Josef, reminiscent of manipulative corporate figures and thriving sociopaths. The film twists and turns, playing with audience expectations until its satisfying and tension-filled finale. If "Creep" leaves you craving more thrills, rest assured that its sequel delivers just as strongly.

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In the Shadow of the Moon is a captivating drama, crime, and mystery film directed by Jim Mickle. Starring Boyd Holbrook, Cleopatra Coleman, Bokeem Woodbine, and Michael C. Hall, this intriguing movie was released on September 27, 2019. You can watch it on Netflix.

Jim Mickle's sci-fi crime thriller intertwines time travel, intense detective work akin to Zodiac, and a touch of politics in this overlooked Netflix original. Boyd Holbrook, in the lead role, portrays a police officer who stumbles upon a series of horrifying crimes, leading him into a relentless game of cat-and-mouse that will shape his life for decades to come. This twisted and tragic time-travel saga holds the potential to save the future of the nation. While In the Shadow of the Moon occasionally overestimates its audience, it remains a captivating and visually stunning time-travel saga that is well-deserving of your attention. -- Haleigh Foutch