Best movies on Netflix right now (January 2026)
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
- Top-rated films currently streaming on Netflix.
- Exciting new releases for January 2026.
- Recommendation tips based on viewing mood.
- Quick viewing tips to navigate Netflix better.
Table of Contents
- Top-rated movies on Netflix right now
- New on Netflix — January 2026
- Quick picks by viewing mood
- How we picked these
- Quick viewing tips
- Conclusion
Top-rated movies on Netflix right now
These titles are standing out on critic lists and are currently streaming on Netflix (per Rotten Tomatoes’ Netflix popularity sort).
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
- Why it’s on this list: High critical praise — listed with a 92% Tomatometer on Rotten Tomatoes — and it’s the latest entry in the popular Knives Out whodunit series.
- Why to watch: If you like clever mysteries with twists, an ensemble feel and puzzle-box plotting, this is a smart, crowd-pleasing choice.
- Who it’s for: Fans of modern mysteries, Rian Johnson-style storytelling, or anyone who enjoys guessing whodunit details.
- Availability: Streaming on Netflix (regional availability may vary).
Train Dreams
- Why it’s on this list: Extremely strong critical reaction — a 95% Tomatometer on Rotten Tomatoes — earning top billing among Netflix’s current offerings.
- Why to watch: Praised for its craft and performances; recommended if you prefer quiet, character-focused dramas that linger after the credits.
- Who it’s for: Viewers who enjoy literary adaptations, period pieces, and emotionally resonant slow-burn films.
- Availability: Streaming on Netflix (regional availability may vary).
New on Netflix — January 2026 (what to watch this month)
YouTube previews and new-release roundups highlight these January additions as ones to consider. Confirm whether each title is available in your region.
Run Away
- Why watch: Featured among the month’s most-talked-about new drops; likely a tense, attention-grabbing pick for a one-sitting watch.
- Mood: Weekend thriller night.
His & Hers
- Why watch: Early coverage highlighted it as a standout newcomer — good for viewers who like relationship-focused drama with a modern edge.
- Mood: Date-night or late-night drama.
Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials
- Why watch: A mystery adaptation tied to a classic brand — great if you want a polished, plot-first whodunit.
- Mood: Puzzle-solving, cozy mystery night.
The Rip
- Why watch: Listed among top January newcomers; expect something that aims to be a conversation-starter.
- Mood: Trendy pick for viewers who want to try something new.
The Smuggler’s Web
- Note: Coverage mentioned this title as a key drama about customs officers vs. smugglers but did not always clarify whether it’s a film or a limited series — check Netflix for format and local availability.
- Mood: Procedural/drama fans.
Quick picks by viewing mood
- Want a twisty mystery? Try Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.
- Looking for a quiet, acclaimed drama? Try Train Dreams.
- Need a new release to talk about? Pick one of January’s newcomers (Run Away, His & Hers, The Rip, Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials).
- Family movie night? Check Netflix’s family section — the above picks skew adult/teen.
- Short on time? Use Netflix’s runtime info on each title before you start.
How we picked these
- Top-ranked choices come from Rotten Tomatoes’ “movies at home” list filtered by Netflix popularity (early January 2026).
- January release highlights were identified from recent YouTube previews and new-release roundups for January 2026.
- Availability can be regional and may change; always confirm on your Netflix app or the title’s Netflix page for runtime, cast, release year, and whether a title is a film or series.
Quick viewing tips
- Add promising titles to “My List” so you can check availability quickly across devices.
- Use Netflix’s filters (genre, runtime, newly added) to pair moods with time limits.
- If you’re uncertain about spoilers, read critic blurbs or short reviews before watching.
Conclusion
If you want the most critically favored movies on Netflix right now, start with Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery and Train Dreams — both are topping critic lists and are well worth a watch depending on whether you want a brainy mystery or a quietly powerful drama. For fresh options, scroll Netflix’s New Releases this month for Run Away, His & Hers, Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials and others — and remember availability varies by region. Want a tailored pick (genre, mood, runtime)? Tell me what you’re in the mood for and I’ll recommend three perfect Netflix choices.


