No doubt about it, Netflix has changed the way we consume film and TV. We’re no longer at the mercy of TV or cinema scheduling, as we get to watch what we want, when we want. Blockbuster definitely felt the effects of online streaming after closing all their stores several years ago, but the public simply loves content on-demand. And who can blame them? We all want quality things as fast as possible, and it doesn’t get much better than Netflix. There are definitely some alternatives that are worth considering, such as iTunes Video, Amazon Prime and Google Play, but when there’s a desire to spontaneously watch great TV shows and films, Netflix is just leagues ahead.
Though it’s true that Netflix’s catalogue is perhaps a bit small than some of its counterparts, the convenience of a monthly subscription, as well as Originals – shows and films only available on Netflix – means that there’s always something fantastic around the corner if you fancy a night in. So, here is a list of six films available on Netflix that we think are must-see classics.
Whiplash
Featuring one of the most intense performances you’ll ever see from J.K. Simmons, Whiplash is almost hard to watch at times, such is the torment he lays upon Miles Teller’s character, Andrew. Incredible drum work notwithstanding, it’s really the fractured and taut relationship between teacher and student that shines here. Whiplash is an incredible portrayal of the trials someone will endure to reach their goal, sometimes at the cost of their loved ones and their own sanity. You’ll come away wondering if you were rushing or dragging.
Hunt For The Wilderpeople
Director Taika Waititi is busy working on the next Thor movie (out in November), but be sure to check out one of his previous films on a much smaller scale. Featuring heartwarming performances all around, Hunt For The Wilderpeople is also incredibly funny, sweet, and beautiful. When Ricky (Julian Dennison) goes missing in the New Zealand forest, his reluctant foster uncle Hec (Sam Neill) is wrongly accused of kidnapping the boy. A frantic and wild police chase ensues, but not without hilarious and tender moments between the two characters.
Drive
Ryan Gosling was an actor most would associate with romantic movies, but his strong performance in Drive is something that undoubtedly changed all that. Even though he doesn’t say an awful lot in the film, Gosling’s character (simply named Driver) speaks volumes through his extraordinary physical acting. Along with beautiful directing and a memorable soundtrack, Drive is a movie that will leave a big impression on you long after the credits have rolled.
Avengers: Age of Ultron
Although it’s fair to say that Age of Ultron didn’t quite reach the lofty heights set by the first Avengers movie, it’s still a lot of fun. There are several new characters along with the same old gang, but they are facing a threat on a much larger scale. Villainous robot Ultron has a predictable plan to end the world, but when the action, quips, and CGI is this good, we can forget a few problems, can’t we? It’s hard not to love seeing Thor smash things with his hammer, and that fight between Iron Man and The Hulk is well, truly groundbreaking, shall we say.
Ex Machina
Can robots achieve the level of human consciousness? Ex Machina boldly dares to answer the question, but it may not be an answer you want to hear. Domhnall Gleeson plays Caleb, who gets the chance to speak to a walking talking human-like robot Ava (Alicia Vikander). Also starring Oscar Isaac as Ava’s creator, Ex Machina is sometimes creepy, occasionally odd, but always exciting, all the way to the twisted ending that will keep you reeling.
Predator
There have been sequels and prequels and spinoffs and remakes (let’s forget Alien vs. Predator), but nothing will ever come close to the original 1987 Predator. Featuring Schwarzenegger, a jungle, a deadly alien killing machine, plus guns – lots of guns – Predator is a must-see for any action fan. Despite being made 30 years ago, the film still holds up incredibly well and has solid special effects. It’s also got one of Arnie’s best lines ever said: “If it bleeds, we can kill it.”
