Welcome to the seventh edition of my monthly roundup for 2023, where I dive into the heart of Netflix’s
NFLX
ever-expanding movie library. So far, this year has seen quite the array of films added to the platform, catering to just about every taste imaginable. From riveting dramas to heartwarming comedies, and captivating documentaries to action-packed thrillers, Netflix continues to deliver a diverse film roster.

In this article, I’ll explore the cream of the crop: the absolute best movies added to Netflix in 2023 thus far. This list strikes a delicate balance, as I’ve not only chosen the movies that have made the biggest cultural impact but also the films with which I shared a profound viewing experience. Here, you’ll find a refreshing mix between the popular and the hidden gems. So get ready.

65

Prepare for a thrilling ride back in time with 65. After crash-landing on Earth 65 million years ago, pilot Mills (Adam Driver) and survivor Koa (Ariana Greenblatt) must navigate a world teeming with prehistoric threats. Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, this exhilarating sci-fi suspense movie transports you to a time when dinosaurs ruled the Earth and survival was a daily battle.

They Cloned Tyrone

Immerse yourself in a thrilling journey of discovery and danger with They Cloned Tyrone. Jamie Foxx, John Boyega, and Teyonah Parris star as an unlikely trio who stumble upon a nefarious government conspiracy while investigating a peculiar incident. Directed by Juel Taylor, this riveting mystery caper serves up twists and turns that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

To Leslie

Dive deep into the gritty heart of West Texas with To Leslie, an emotionally-charged story of a single mother, brilliantly portrayed by Oscar-nominated Andrea Riseborough. After winning the lottery, Leslie’s life spirals into chaos as her fortune dwindles, forcing her into a high-stakes choice. A deeply human tale about the devastating cycle of addiction, this film is further enriched by stellar performances from Allison Janney, Andre Royo, and Marc Maron. Masterfully directed by Michael Morris, To Leslie will linger long after the credits roll.

Seasons

Venture into the delightfully unpredictable world of Seasons, a heartwarming romantic comedy directed by Easy Ferrer. Unravel the compelling love story between two best friends, enacted beautifully by Lovi Poe and Carlo Aquino, who dare to take risks and seek love anew, only to potentially find it in each other. Seasons breaks away from the typical romantic comedy mold, promising a captivating viewing experience from the Philippines that delights while holding firm to the genre’s intrinsic charm.

Living

Living is a profound, heart-wrenching journey helmed by Oliver Hermanus and featuring Oscar-nominated Bill Nighy in an unforgettable role. Based on Akira Kurosawa’s classic Ikiru, this film takes us into the life of a civil servant, desolate and facing a grim diagnosis, yet ignited by an unexpected friendship and newfound purpose. With an equally compelling cast including Aimee Lou Wood, Alex Sharp, and Tom Burke, this film is an introspective masterpiece of cinema.

Take Care of Maya

In Take Care of Maya, Henry Roosevelt directs a riveting social and cultural documentary that unwraps an unsettling nightmare for Jack and Beata Kowalski. A simple hospital visit spirals into a tragic tale of medical child abuse, questioning the diagnoses that shatter a Florida family’s life. This investigative film is a disturbing yet compelling exploration of the darker side of healthcare, where truth is elusive, and suspicion can lead to heartbreak.

Extraction 2

Prepare to be immersed in an adrenaline-fueled odyssey with Extraction 2. Chris Hemsworth returns as Tyler Rake, a mercenary who barely survived his last mission and is now tasked with a daring rescue mission for a notorious Georgian gangster’s family. Scripted by Joe Russo and directed by Sam Hargrave, this action thriller, boasting performances from Golshifteh Farahani, Olga Kurylenko, and Idris Elba, is an edge-of-your-seat journey you won’t want to miss.

The Magician’s Elephant

Take an extraordinary journey with young Peter in The Magician’s Elephant, directed by Wendy Rogers. Peter, portrayed by Noah Jupe, embarks on a quest to find his missing sister, guided by a fortune teller’s advice to seek a magician with an elephant. The film, blending whimsy and magic, leads audiences through a tale of self-belief, courage, and the undertaking of seemingly impossible tasks.

The Perfect Find

In The Perfect Find, we meet a woman on the edge of 40, navigating her way through a series of life-altering risks. Gabrielle Union shines in this feel-good romantic comedy, directed by Numa Perrier, about love, ambition, and the delicate balance between the two. With a star-studded cast featuring Keith Powers, Aisha Hinds, D. B. Woodside, La La Anthony, and Gina Torres, it’s a joyous, heartwarming journey of self-discovery and courage.

JUNG_E

Step into the future with JUNG_E, a postapocalyptic cyberpunk tale where the weight of the world and a decades-long war rest on the shoulders of a scientist, portrayed by Kang Soo-yeon. Tasked with cloning her mother, a heroic soldier, she grapples with deep emotional turmoil and the unforgiving reality of warfare. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho and featuring Kim Hyun-joo, and Ryu Kyung-soo, JUNG_E is an enthralling exploration of humanity and technology.

We Have a Ghost

Encounter the unknown with We Have a Ghost, a charming story of an unusual friendship between a teenage boy and a ghost. When Kevin (Winston) discovers Ernest (Harbour) in his new home, a heartwarming bond forms. But when his father (Mackie) attempts to profit from Ernest, their world unravels. Directed by Christopher Landon, this movie is an enchanting blend of humor, warmth, and intrigue.

Bird Box Barcelona

Bird Box Barcelona thrusts you into a dystopian world where unseen forces wreak havoc on the global population. Sebastián and his daughter Anna navigate the desolate streets of Barcelona, encountering other survivors and an even graver threat than they ever imagined. With stellar performances by Georgina Campbell, Mario Casas, Patrick Criado, and Diego Calva, and directed by David and Àlex Pastor, this gripping saga keeps you guessing till the very end.

The Out-Laws

Experience the hilarity of mistaken identity in The Out-Laws, where Owen Browning (Adam DeVine), a straight-laced bank manager, becomes convinced that his future in-laws are infamous outlaws. Directed by Tyler Spindel and starring Nina Dobrev, Ellen Barkin, and Pierce Brosnan, this comedic romp is filled with twists, turns, and plenty of laughter.

Rebelión

Step into the intimate world of Joe Arroyo, the brilliant Colombian salsa singer, with Rebelión. Directed by José Luis Rugeles, this film brings to life the claustrophobic journey of this musical genius, whose voice could not be restrained on stage. Featuring Jhon Narváez, this narrative is a captivating exploration of an iconic figure and his battle against an ever-present sense of vulnerability.

Missing

Missing is a gripping techno-thriller directed by Will Merrick and Nick Johnson. Storm Reid stars as June, a determined daughter whose mother disappears in Colombia. Armed with technology and tenacity, she embarks on an international quest for truth. But as she digs deeper, more questions arise, creating a web of intrigue that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Murder Mystery 2

Murder Mystery 2, directed by Jeremy Garelick, brings back the dynamic duo of Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. Now operating a private detective agency, Nick and Audrey Spitz find themselves entangled in an international investigation involving abduction. With irreverent humor, wilder adventures, and an intriguing exploration of their relationship, this sequel proves more fun and engaging than its predecessor.

A Man Called Otto

Directed by Marc Forster, A Man Called Otto tells the story of a grumpy widower, Otto Anderson, portrayed by Tom Hanks. His life is turned upside down when a vivacious pregnant woman, Marisol, moves next door. A seemingly ordinary encounter evolves into a heartfelt journey of friendship and rediscovery, making this film a touching testament to human connection.

True Spirit

True Spirit, directed by Sarah Spillane, brings the true story of 16-year-old Australian sailor Jessica Watson to life. The film captures her audacious dream of becoming the youngest sailor to traverse the world solo, confronting her deepest fears. Featuring Teagan Croft as Watson, this narrative captures the thrilling realities of a daring adventure while honoring Watson’s seafaring legacy.

The Woman King

Step back into the 1800s with The Woman King, a film about a group of female warriors determined to protect their African kingdom of Dahomey. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and starring Viola Davis as Gen. Nanisca, the movie portrays the thrilling fight against a foreign enemy that threatens their existence. The movie delivers an epic story of courage and resilience that is sure to thrill viewers.

Hunger

Sitisiri Mongkolsiri’s Hunger is a thought-provoking exploration of haute cuisine. Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying stars as Aoy, a woman who navigates the space between her family’s traditional noodle shop and Thailand’s prestigious luxury chef’s table team. The film skillfully interrogates the role of food in social advancement, offering an engaging tale of gastronomic identity and desire.

The Snowman

Embark on a chilling journey with Detective Harry Hole in The Snowman. Directed by Tomas Alfredson and featuring Michael Fassbender as the lead detective, the film tells the story of a search for a devious sociopath known as “The Snowman Killer.” Despite initial criticism, the movie’s suspenseful plot and cat-and-mouse chase have garnered a cult following.

The Son

In The Son, Florian Zeller portrays the upheaval in Peter’s life when he learns of his son’s struggles. Played by Hugh Jackman, Peter navigates the emotional turmoil to care for his troubled teenage son, Nicholas. The film draws viewers into a poignant exploration of fatherhood, offering a touching narrative that underscores the strength of family bonds.

Your Place or Mine

Your Place or Mine is a charming nod to the romantic comedies of the 2000s, directed by Aline Brosh McKenna. Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher star as best friends who swap houses and lives for a week. This delightful exchange reveals surprising truths about their desires and needs, creating a charming tale that romantic comedy lovers will adore.

You People

You People, directed by Kenya Barris, takes viewers on a comedic ride. It starts with a simple mistake: Ezra Cohen, played by Jonah Hill, hops into the wrong car, driven by Amira Mohammed, portrayed by Lauren London. This hilarious mix-up leads to a chaotic, heartwarming journey of two families who, despite their differences, are united in meddling in their children’s lives.

The Raid 2

Gareth Evans’ The Raid 2 is an adrenaline-fueled sequel that pushes the boundaries of action. Iko Uwais reprises his role as rookie cop Rama, who, after surviving a deadly gang war, is now plunged into even deadlier criminal underworlds. This exhilarating journey of survival and destruction will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Pale Blue Eye

In The Pale Blue Eye, Scott Cooper introduces viewers to a quaint military community where everyone knows everyone. That is until a murder rocks the town, and renowned detective Augustus Landor, played by Christian Bale, steps in. Assisted by a young poet named Edgar Allan Poe, the pair unravel a web of sinister suspects and chilling secrets.