Netflix has become one of the most popular streaming platforms worldwide, providing viewers with a diverse selection of films and TV shows. The introduction of a film is often an important aspect of the viewing experience, setting the tone for what’s to come. For the last 3 years, Netflix has had many fantastic collections of films in its queue.
Here are the Top 15 most watched Netflix Movies of All time:
1. Red Notice (2021)
- 364,020,000 hours watched
American action-comedy Red Notice is a 2021 production that Rawson Marshall Thurber both wrote and directed. The film stars Dwayne Johnson, Gal Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds in lead roles. The plot revolves around an Interpol agent (Johnson) who is tasked with tracking down the world’s most wanted art thief (Gadot). However, the situation becomes complicated when a notorious conman (Reynolds) gets involved, and the trio find themselves embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse across Europe.
The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances of the lead actors, particularly Reynolds and Gadot, while others criticized the predictable plot and lack of originality. However, it has been widely acknowledged for its high-octane action sequences and stunning cinematography, which were shot on location in various parts of Europe.
2. Don’t Look Up (2021)
- 359,790,000 hours watched
Adam McKay is the director of the 2021 American science-fiction black comedy film Don’t Look Up. The film features an ensemble cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Rob Morgan, Jonah Hill, Mark Rylance, Tyler Perry, Timothée Chalamet, Ron Perlman, Ariana Grande, and Meryl Streep. The plot revolves around two low-level astronomers (DiCaprio and Lawrence) who discover that a comet is heading toward Earth and will likely cause an extinction-level event. Despite their attempts to raise the alarm, they struggle to convince the public and the government of the impending disaster.
The film has been praised for its satirical take on the modern media landscape, politics, and society’s response to global catastrophes. The cast’s performances have also been highly acclaimed, with Lawrence and DiCaprio delivering standout performances. The film was released on Netflix on December 24, 2021, and has since become one of the streaming platform’s most-watched films.
Overall, Don’t Look Up is a timely and thought-provoking film that delivers biting commentary on some of society’s most pressing issues. It is a must-watch for fans of satire and political comedy, as well as anyone who enjoys a well-crafted film with an all-star cast.
3. Bird Box (2018)
- 282,020,000 hours watched
Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes, and John Malkovich are the stars of Susanne Bier’s 2018 American post-apocalyptic horror thriller Bird Box. The film is based on a novel of the same name by Josh Malerman and revolves around a mysterious force that decimates the world’s population. The survivors must wear blindfolds to avoid seeing the creatures that cause people to commit suicide.
The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances and tense atmosphere while others criticized the predictable plot and lack of character development. However, it became a massive hit on Netflix, with over 45 million accounts streaming the film in its first week of release.
Bird Box has been noted for its effective use of suspense and terror, as well as its commentary on themes of motherhood, survival, and mental illness. It has also been the subject of various internet memes and challenges, with people attempting to complete everyday tasks while blindfolded.
Overall, Bird Box is a solid addition to the post-apocalyptic horror genre and is worth a watch for fans of the genre. It may not be the most groundbreaking film out there, but it delivers plenty of scares and an intense viewing experience.
4. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
- 279,740,000 hours watched
Glass Onion: A Knives-Out Mystery is a 2022 American mystery film directed and written by Rian Johnson. The film is a sequel to the 2019 film Knives Out, with Daniel Craig reprising his role as detective Benoit Blanc. The story follows Blanc as he looks into the death of a well-known author (Edward Norton) at his secluded mansion.
The film features a star-studded cast, including Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista, Janelle Monáe, and Kathryn Hahn, among others. Like its predecessor, Glass Onion has been praised for its witty and clever writing, as well as its suspenseful plot and impressive performances.
Overall, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery is a satisfying continuation of the Knives Out franchise and a must-watch for fans of the first film. With its clever twists and turns and an all-star cast, the film is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
5. The Gray Man (2022)
- 253,870,000 hours watched
Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas star in the upcoming American action thriller The Gray Man, which the Russo brothers are directing. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Mark Greaney and follows a former CIA operative turned assassin, played by Gosling, as he is hunted by a former colleague, played by Evans. The Gray Man is set to be released on Netflix in 2022 and is already generating buzz for its star-studded cast and high-octane action.
6. The Adam Project (2022)
- 233,160,000 hours watched
Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ruffalo, and Jennifer Garner star in Shawn Levy’s upcoming American science fiction movie The Adam Project. The film follows a man who travels back in time to get help from his 13-year-old self to find their late father, a brilliant scientist who has created a device that could destroy the world. The Adam Project is set to be released on Netflix in 2022 and is already generating anticipation for its intriguing plot and talented cast.
7. Extraction (2020)
- 231,340,000 hours watched
Sam Hargrave and Chris Hemsworth are the stars of the 2020 American action-thriller Extraction. The plot follows Tyler Rake, a black-market mercenary hired to rescue the kidnapped son of an international crime lord. The film is notable for its intense action sequences, particularly a 12-minute single-take sequence that has been widely praised.
The Russo brothers, who are well-known for their work on the Marvel Cinematic Universe, produced the movie. Despite mixed reviews, Extraction was a commercial success for Netflix and has been credited with cementing Hemsworth’s status as an action star outside of his role as Thor in the Marvel films.
8. Purple Hearts (2022)
- 228,690,000 hours watched
Sam Heughan and Bill Skarsgrd are the stars of Mel Gibson’s upcoming American war drama Purple Heart. The film is based on the true story of Roy P. Benavidez, a retired United States Army Master Sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Vietnam War.
The plot follows Benavidez as he defies all odds to rescue a team of soldiers during a covert operation. Purple Heart is highly anticipated by fans of war films and is expected to be a gripping and emotional portrayal of one of the most decorated soldiers in American history.
9. The Unforgivable (2021)
- 214,700,000 hours watched
Sandra Bullock is the star of Nora Fingscheidt’s 2021 American drama film The Unforgivable. The movie is based on the British miniseries Unforgiven and tells the story of Ruth Slater, a woman who is released from prison after serving 20 years for a violent crime.
Ruth faces the past and the people she hurt while trying to rebuild her life and get back in touch with her estranged sister. The Unforgivable explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the complexities of the criminal justice system. The film has been praised for Bullock’s powerful performance and its thought-provoking story.
10. The Irishman (2019)
- 214,570,000 hours watched
Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci star in Martin Scorsese’s 2019 American epic crime film The Irishman. The movie is based on the book “I Heard You Paint Houses” by Charles Brandt, which tells the story of Frank Sheeran, a truck driver who becomes a hitman for the Bufalino crime family.
The film spans several decades and uses digital de-aging technology to show the characters at different ages. The Irishman received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and screenplay, with particular praise for the performances of De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci. The movie was also nominated for multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor.
11. The Kissing Booth 2 (2020)
- 209,250,000 hours watched
Joey King, Joel Courtney, and Jacob Elordi star in Vince Marcello’s 2020 American teen romantic comedy The Kissing Booth 2. The movie is a sequel to the 2018 film The Kissing Booth and follows Elle, who is now in a long-distance relationship with her boyfriend Noah while trying to navigate her senior year of high school. Complications arise when Elle starts to develop feelings for a new classmate, and Noah faces challenges with his own college aspirations.
The Kissing Booth 2 received mixed reviews, with praise for the performances of the cast and criticism for the plot and pacing. Despite the mixed reviews, the film was a commercial success, and a third installment, The Kissing Booth 3, was released in 2021.
12. 6 Underground (2019)
- 205,470,000 hours watched
Ryan Reynolds, Melanie Laurent, and Dave Franco are the stars of Michael Bay’s 2019 American action thriller 6 Underground. The movie follows a group of vigilantes who fake their own deaths to take down notorious criminals and corrupt leaders. The film features Michael Bay’s trademark action sequences and explosive set pieces, as well as a witty script and strong performances from the cast.
6 Underground received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its action scenes and Reynolds’ performance, but criticism for its plot and character development. Despite the mixed reception, the film was a commercial success and gained a dedicated fan following for its over-the-top action and humor.
13. Spenser Confidential (2020)
- 197,320,000 hours watched
Mark Wahlberg, Winston Duke, and Alan Arkin star in Peter Berg’s 2020 American action-comedy Spenser Confidential. The movie is based on the Spenser novels by Robert B. Parker and follows an ex-cop and an ex-convict as they team up to solve a murder and take down a criminal conspiracy in Boston.
The film features a mix of action, humor, and mystery, as well as a strong ensemble cast and slick direction by Peter Berg. Spenser Confidential received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its cast and action scenes, but criticism for its plot and pacing. Despite the mixed reception, the film was a popular choice among Netflix viewers and a sequel is reportedly in development.
14. Enola Holmes (2020)
- 189,900,000 hours watched
Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, and Sam Claflin star in Harry Bradbeer’s 2020 mystery film Enola Holmes. The movie is based on the Enola Holmes Mysteries book series by Nancy Springer and follows the adventures of Enola Holmes, the younger sister of Sherlock and Mycroft Holmes, as she sets out to find her missing mother and uncovers a conspiracy along the way.
The film features a strong lead performance from Millie Bobby Brown and a clever script that combines mystery, humor, and feminist themes. Enola Holmes was well-received by critics and audiences alike, with praise for its performances, writing, and direction. A sequel is reportedly in development.
15. Army of the Dead (2021)
- 186,540,000 hours watched
Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, and Omari Hardwick star in Zack Snyder’s 2021 American zombie heist film Army of the Dead. The movie follows a group of mercenaries who plan a heist in a zombie-infested Las Vegas, hoping to steal millions of dollars from a casino vault before a nuclear bomb destroys the city.
The film features an ensemble cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets, as well as the trademark stylish direction and over-the-top action sequences of Zack Snyder. Army of the Dead received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its visuals and action scenes, but criticism for its length and pacing. Despite this, the film was a popular choice among Netflix viewers and a prequel and anime series are reportedly in development.
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FAQ
Which is the most-watched Netflix film?
Extraction 2
<strong>Can viewers expect new additions to the list of most watched Netflix movies over time?</strong>
Yes, as Netflix continues to release new original movies and acquire content from other studios, there will likely be new additions to the list of most watched movies based on viewer engagement and popularity.
<strong>How do Netflix movies impact the entertainment industry and viewing habits?</strong>
Netflix movies have transformed the entertainment industry by providing a platform for diverse storytelling, empowering filmmakers, challenging traditional distribution models, and reshaping viewer preferences towards on-demand streaming services.
<strong>Where can I find the latest updates on the top most-watched Netflix movies?</strong>
You can stay updated on the top most-watched Netflix movies by following Netflix’s official announcements, browsing streaming charts, and checking entertainment news websites for updates on popular titles and viewer trends.
<strong>Are there any upcoming Netflix movies expected to generate significant buzz?</strong>
Netflix has a diverse lineup of upcoming movies featuring A-list talent and promising filmmakers, so there’s always anticipation for new releases. However, specific titles can vary based on individual tastes and preferences.
<strong>Are there any sequels or franchises represented in the list?</strong>
Yes, several sequels or films from franchises are included in the list, such as “The Kissing Booth 2” and “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.”
<strong>Do these Netflix movies receive critical acclaim as well as high viewership?</strong>
Many of the top 15 most-watched Netflix movies have received critical acclaim from both audiences and critics, showcasing the platform’s ability to produce high-quality original content.
<strong>Which Netflix movie holds the record for the most views?</strong>
As of the latest updates, “Red Notice” starring Dwayne Johnson, Gal Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds holds the record for the most views on Netflix within the first 28 days of release.
<strong>What is "Bird Box" about?</strong>
“Bird Box” is a post-apocalyptic thriller film starring Sandra Bullock, where survivors must navigate a world overrun by creatures that cause people to commit suicide if seen.
If you are interested in Ian Fleming, Oleg Gordievsky, John le Carré or Kim Philby you should have heard of Pemberton’s People in MI6 by now. Colonel Alan Pemberton CVO MBE knew all of them and features as a leading protagonist in Beyond Enkription in The Burlington Files series.
The book “Beyond Enkription” by Bill Fairclough is the first stand-alone fact-based espionage novel of six autobiographical tomes in The Burlington Files series. As the first book in the series, it provides a gripping introduction to the world of British intelligence and espionage. It is an intense electrifying spy thriller that had me perched on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The twists and turns in the interwoven plots kept me guessing beyond the epilogue. The characters were wholesome, well-developed and intriguing. The author’s attention to detail added extra layers of authenticity to the narrative.
In real life Bill Fairclough aka Edward Burlington (MI6 codename JJ) was one of Pemberton’s People in MI6; for more about that see a brief News Article dated 31 October 2022 published in TheBurlingtonFiles website. The series follows the real life of Bill Fairclough (and his family) who worked not only for British Intelligence, but also the CIA et al for several decades. The first tome is set in 1974 in London, Nassau and Port au Prince: see TheBurlingtonFiles website for a synopsis.
Fairclough is not a professional but his writing style is engaging and fast-paced, making it difficult to put the book down as he effortlessly glides from cerebral issues to action-packed scenes which are never that far apart. Beyond Enkription is the stuff memorable spy films are made of. It’s raw, realistic, punchy, pacy and provocative. While the book does not feature John le Carré’s “delicate diction, sophisticated syntax and placid plots” it remains a riveting and delightful read.
This thriller is like nothing we have ever come across before. Indeed, we wonder what The Burlington Files would have been like if David Cornwell (aka John le Carré) had collaborated with Bill Fairclough whom critics have likened to “a posh Harry Palmer”. They did consider collaborating but did not proceed as explained in the aforementioned News Article. Nonetheless, critics have lauded Beyond Enkription as being ”up there with My Silent War by Kim Philby and No Other Choice by George Blake”.
Overall, Beyond Enkription is a brilliantly refreshing book and a must read, especially for espionage cognoscenti. I cannot wait to see what is in store for us in the future. In the meantime, before reading Beyond Enkription do visit TheBurlingtonFiles website. It is like a living espionage museum and breathtaking in its own right.