Netflix has become a powerhouse of original content, offering a platform for both new and seasoned filmmakers to share their stories. Among these creators are several Oscar-winning directors who have brought their unique vision to the streaming giant. From gripping dramas to thought-provoking documentaries, these films highlight the exceptional talent of their directors. Here are six Netflix Originals directed by Oscar-winning directors that you can watch right now.
1. “Roma” (2018) – Alfonso Cuarón
Alfonso Cuarón, who won the Best Director Oscar for this film, brings a deeply personal story inspired by his own childhood in Mexico City. “Roma” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of family and social dynamics in the 1970s. This black-and-white masterpiece has received widespread acclaim for its cinematography and storytelling.
2. “The Irishman” (2019) – Martin Scorsese
Directed by legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, “The Irishman” features an all-star cast including Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci. This epic crime drama, which earned Scorsese another Oscar nomination, delves into the life of mob hitman Frank Sheeran and his involvement with the Bufalino crime family. The film’s use of de-aging technology and its rich narrative make it a must-watch.
3. “Marriage Story” (2019) – Noah Baumbach
Though Noah Baumbach has yet to win an Oscar, his work on “Marriage Story” earned the film multiple Academy Award nominations and won Laura Dern the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. This heart-wrenching drama explores the complexities of divorce and the impact it has on a family. With stellar performances from Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver, “Marriage Story” is both poignant and powerful.
4. “The Two Popes” (2019) – Fernando Meirelles
Directed by Fernando Meirelles, who was nominated for an Oscar for “City of God,” “The Two Popes” is a fascinating look at the relationship between Pope Benedict XVI and the future Pope Francis. The film features brilliant performances by Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce and offers a thoughtful exploration of faith, leadership, and change within the Catholic Church.
5. “Mudbound” (2017) – Dee Rees
Dee Rees, who co-wrote “Mudbound,” received an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay for this film. Set in the post-World War II South, “Mudbound” is a powerful narrative about racial tension, friendship, and hardship. The film’s strong performances and poignant storytelling highlight Rees’ exceptional directorial skills.
6. “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs” (2018) – Joel and Ethan Coen
The Coen Brothers, known for their multiple Oscar wins, bring their unique style to “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs,” a Western anthology film. This Netflix original features six distinct stories, each exploring different facets of life and death in the Old West. The film’s dark humor, sharp dialogue, and memorable characters are quintessentially Coen.
