National Streaming Day is the perfect opportunity to dive into some intense, edge-of-your-seat thrillers that Netflix has to offer. Whether you enjoy psychological mind-benders, gripping dramas, or action-packed adventures, these ten movies are sure to keep you glued to the screen. Here are our top picks for suspenseful movies to watch on Netflix.
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019)
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie is a must-watch for fans of the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad. This film picks up right where the show left off, following Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) as he seeks freedom and redemption. With cameos from beloved characters and a tense, fast-paced narrative, El Camino provides closure to Jesse’s story while maintaining the high-stakes drama that made Breaking Bad a cultural phenomenon.
Emily the Criminal (2022)
In Emily the Criminal, Aubrey Plaza stars as Emily, a struggling artist drowning in debt and unable to find stable work due to a past felony. Desperation leads her into the world of credit card fraud, where she discovers a dangerous but lucrative path. Plaza’s riveting performance and the film’s commentary on economic hardships create a suspenseful journey that keeps viewers engrossed from start to finish.
Fair Play (2023)
Fair Play delves into the cutthroat world of high finance, where newly engaged couple Luke and Emily navigate a volatile workplace. When Emily secures a coveted managerial position, their personal and professional lives collide in explosive ways. With sharp writing and intense performances from Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich, this film explores power dynamics and ambition in a relentless, suspenseful narrative.
The Gift (2015)
The Gift, directed by and starring Joel Edgerton, is a chilling thriller about the unexpected consequences of past actions. When Simon (Jason Bateman) and Robyn (Rebecca Hall) move to California, they encounter Gordo (Edgerton), Simon’s old classmate. What starts as friendly gestures soon turns into a nightmare as Gordo’s true intentions are revealed. This psychological thriller masterfully builds tension, leaving audiences questioning the nature of guilt and forgiveness.
The Good Nurse (2022)
Based on true events, The Good Nurse follows nurse Amy Loughren (Jessica Chastain) as she uncovers the horrifying truth about her colleague Charles Cullen (Eddie Redmayne), who is suspected of intentionally causing patients’ deaths. This gripping thriller showcases Chastain and Redmayne’s stellar performances, creating a deeply unsettling atmosphere that highlights the terrifying reality of a trusted caregiver turned murderer.
I Care a Lot (2021)
In I Care a Lot, Rosamund Pike delivers a chilling performance as Marla Grayson, a cunning legal guardian who exploits the elderly for financial gain. Her scheme unravels when she targets Jennifer Peterson (Dianne Wiest), who has dangerous connections. The film’s dark humor and Pike’s ruthless portrayal make this a suspenseful and engaging watch, filled with unexpected twists and moral ambiguity.
I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore (2017)
Melanie Lynskey stars in I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore as Ruth, a nursing assistant who takes justice into her own hands after her home is burglarized. Teaming up with her eccentric neighbor Tony (Elijah Wood), Ruth’s quest for retribution leads to a series of dangerous encounters. This dark comedy-thriller balances suspense and quirky charm, making it a unique and compelling film.
L.A. Confidential (1997)
L.A. Confidential is a neo-noir classic that unravels the corruption and intrigue within 1950s Los Angeles. Detectives played by Guy Pearce, Russell Crowe, and Kevin Spacey navigate a complex web of crime and deceit, uncovering shocking truths along the way. The film’s intricate plot, atmospheric setting, and standout performances make it a timeless suspense movie that keeps viewers guessing until the end.
Lou (2022)
Lou stars Allison Janney as a reclusive landlord who aids her tenant, Hannah (Jurnee Smollett), in rescuing her kidnapped daughter. The film blends intense action with emotional depth as Lou confronts her own dark past while battling ruthless adversaries. Janney’s physical and dramatic prowess shines in this gripping thriller that showcases the strength and resilience of its characters.
Missing (2023)
Missing follows teenager June (Storm Reid) as she uses digital tools to investigate her mother’s disappearance in Colombia. The film’s innovative use of “screenlife” storytelling creates a dynamic and immersive experience, while its exploration of technology’s role in our lives adds a contemporary twist. The suspenseful narrative and Reid’s compelling performance make Missing a standout thriller that keeps viewers on edge.
These ten suspenseful movies on Netflix offer a thrilling escape into worlds filled with danger, intrigue, and intense drama. Whether you’re revisiting the gritty universe of Breaking Bad with El Camino or diving into the high-stakes financial world of Fair Play, each film promises to deliver nail-biting tension and unforgettable storytelling. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let these films take you on a suspense-filled ride this National Streaming Day.