
Following the box office domination of the video game adaptation sequel The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and Ryan Gosling‘s astronomic masterpiece Project Hail Mary, there is a new movie debuting in theaters this weekend, sure to take the crown. Ready to tell the box office competition to “Beat It” and steal a slick lead at the top of the charts like a “Smooth Criminal,” Antoine Fuqua’s Michael is destined to earn huge numbers this weekend and beyond as viewers don their singular white, sequined glove and head to the theater. But what about from your own home? To help you decide how best to use the rest of your weekend, here’s a look at three movies you should stream on Netflix.
For more recommendations, check out our list of the best shows and movies on Netflix.
Disclaimer: These titles are available on US Netflix.
1
‘Apex’ (2026)
Although Michael will take all the movie headlines this weekend, Netflix is fighting back with an eye-catching new release of its own. Starring Charlize Theron in another action blockbuster, Apex follows a grieving adrenaline junkie who vows to conquer a terrifying river. However, what lurks in these choppy waters is much more threatening than she could have ever imagined.
A fast-paced thriller perfect to inject a dose of high-octane adrenaline into your viewing weekend, Apex is sure to ascend the streaming charts thanks almost entirely to the involvement of the ever-brilliant Theron. She is joined by Kingsman star Taron Egerton and Eric Bana, with all three working under the watchful eye of director Baltasar Kormákur and from a script by Jeremy Robbins.
2
‘First Reformed’ (2017)
Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 7.1/10
Earlier this year, Ethan Hawke received his fifth acting Oscar nomination for a transformative lead role in Richard Linklater‘s Blue Moon. Despite being regularly recognized by the Academy, perhaps his best-ever performance came in a film that somehow earned only one Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay, although he at least received an Actor of the Year prize from the London Film Critics’ Circle.
The movie in question is First Reformed, director Paul Schrader‘s powerful psychological thriller, which follows the pastor of a small New York church as his life is shaken following a tragic encounter. Not afraid to tackle some serious and nuanced themes, First Reformed offers a detailed, thought-provoking tale sure to capture your heart and eyes. A masterclass in ensemble performances is topped by Hawke at his best in this must-see movie.
3
‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ (1993)
Rotten Tomatoes: 70% | IMDb: 7.1/10
Sometimes all you need on a weekend after a long, difficult week is a cozy, nostalgic favorite. If that’s what you require, look no further than the 1993 comedy classic Mrs. Doubtfire. The movie follows Daniel Hillard (Robin Williams), who fights to save his family after his wife, Miranda Hillard (Sally Field), files for divorce. To stay close to his kids, Daniel disguises himself as Euphegenia Doubtfire, a Scottish housekeeper who starts looking after the family.
Chaotic, kind-hearted, and utterly hilarious, Mrs. Doubtfire has it all. At its heart, this is the perfect family film, teaching timeless lessons through one of the best comedy performances you’re likely to ever see. Not just a hit with fans that holds up perfectly today, Mrs. Doubtfire was also a critical success, even winning the Academy Award for Best Makeup at the 66th ceremony in 1994.