These days, Netflix is all about two types of content: their original programming, and new Disney releases. The company is constantly churning out new and heavily-promoted original movies, while also reaping the benefits of their 2012 deal with Disney that made them the first outlet to premiere the Mouse House's new releases beginning last year. But Netflix still has a lot of other great films that don't fit these criteria, meaning there are tons of must-watch movies you never realized were on Netflix.
All of these films are classic in their own way, but for whatever reason don't receive a ton of promotion from Netflix. You may have to dig to find many of them, but trust me, they're all worth the trouble. Many of these movies are considered classics and date from the 1940s through the early 2000s, while a handful of others have been released just in the past few years but already show signs that they're going to stand the test of time. There are movies of every genre here as well, so regardless of what kind of film you're in the mood to watch, you'll be able to find something that pleases you here. So take a look below at the following 38 movies you may not have known were on Netflix, but that you totally need to be watching.
1
'Coraline'
Beautifully animated and scary as hell, and I mean that without even adding the caveat that this is a kids movie.
3
'Heavyweights'
A cult '90s favorite featuring a young (and psychotic) Ben Stiller.
6
'E.T.'
You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll develop a hankering for some Reese's Pieces.
8
'Pulp Fiction'
Quentin Tarantino's greatest masterpiece, stream this while you can.
9
'Dope'
This 2015 coming-of-age comedy is destined to become a cult classic.
15
'Caddyshack'
After Blazing Saddles, you're going to have a craving for more classic comedy. This should hit the spot.
16
'Big Trouble In Little China'
With the lone possible exception of Rocky Horror Picture Show, this may be the cultiest cult classic ever.
18
'The Princess Bride'
That rare '80s comedy that's both hilarious and family-friendly.
19
'The Nightmare Before Christmas'
It's technically a seasonal film, but this movie is always worth a watch, no matter what the calendar says.
21
'To Kill A Mockingbird'
You probably read the book in high school, but you should really watch the movie, too.
22
'Fantasia'
Arguably Walt Disney's most beautiful film.
23
'Chicago'
Another Oscar-winner for Best Picture, this musical took home the award in 2003.
24
'An American Werewolf In London'
This horror movie is bizarre and will take you places you didn't expect.
26
'Bridget Jones’s Diary'
There's a reason why this franchise is still kicking: The original remains a classic in the genre.
27
'The Day The Earth Stood Still'
One of the best examples from sci-fi's golden age.
28
'Tommy Boy'
This '90s film will remind you of what a great talent Chris Farley was.
30
'Working Girl'
Made back when women in the workplace were a novelty, this movie still manages to inspire.
31
'Moonrise Kingdom'
If it's not Wes Anderson's best movie, it's certainly his most charming.
32
'O Brother, Where Art Though?'
It's funny, thrilling, and has really great period music (its soundtrack even won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2001).
34
'Heathers'
This totally bonkers film has amassed a huge following in the nearly three decades since its release.
35
'To Catch A Thief'
A thriller from Alfred Hitchcock starring a couple of legends, Grace Kelly and Cary Grant.
36
'Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World'
Is it possible to be depressed and amused simultaneously? Watch this and find out!
37
'Sunset Boulevard'
Considered one of the greatest films ever made, you may not have heard of it, but you've definitely quoted it.
38
'10 Things I Hate About You'
Quick, name 10 things you hate about this movie... just kidding, that's impossible.
