The Best Movies to Watch on Netflix in January 2026

Netflix’s January 2026 lineup offers a diverse array of cinematic experiences, ranging from Academy Award-winning historical dramas to high-octane blockbusters. This month, the streaming platform balances beloved classics with fresh original content to cater to every viewer’s preference. Subscribers can expect a mix of biographical tales, animated hits, and intense thrillers arriving throughout the first few weeks of the year. The following titles represent the most anticipated additions to the library for the start of the new year.

’12 Years a Slave’ (2013)

’12 Years a Slave’ arrives on Netflix on January 1, 2026, bringing a powerful historical drama to the platform. Based on the 1853 memoir by Solomon Northup, the film follows a free Black man from upstate New York who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. Directed by Steve McQueen, the production earned significant critical acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Picture. It serves as a culturally significant exploration of American history and the resilience of the human spirit.

‘Ford v Ferrari’ (2019)

Arriving on January 1, 2026, ‘Ford v Ferrari’ depicts the true story of automotive designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles. The duo works together to build a revolutionary race car for Ford Motor Company to challenge the dominance of Enzo Ferrari. Directed by James Mangold, the film features Matt Damon and Christian Bale in the leading roles. It received praise for its technical execution and high-stakes racing sequences during the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.

‘Free Solo’ (2018)

‘Free Solo’ joins the Netflix catalog on January 1, 2026, documenting climber Alex Honnold’s quest to perform a free solo climb of El Capitan. The film captures the intense physical and mental preparation required for the ascent of the 3,000-foot rock face without ropes or safety gear. Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, the documentary won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It provides an intimate look at the risks and dedication associated with elite rock climbing.

‘Ghostbusters’ (2016)

The 2016 reimagining of ‘Ghostbusters’ becomes available for streaming on January 1, 2026. This version features an all-female lead cast including Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones. Directed by Paul Feig, the story follows a group of scientists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City. The film blends supernatural action with comedic elements as the team attempts to save Manhattan from a powerful haunting.

‘Hellboy’ (2004)

Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Hellboy’ lands on the service on January 1, 2026, adapting the popular Dark Horse Comics series. Ron Perlman stars as the titular character, a demon who works for a secret government agency to protect the world from supernatural threats. The film is recognized for its unique visual style and the director’s signature creature designs. It has developed a strong cult following since its original release due to its blend of action and fantasy.

‘District 9’ (2009)

‘District 9’ is scheduled for release on January 1, 2026, offering a gritty take on the science fiction genre. Set in Johannesburg, the story explores themes of segregation and xenophobia through the lens of an extraterrestrial population living in a slum. Neill Blomkamp directed the film, utilizing a found-footage style for parts of the narrative to enhance its realism. It was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, for its innovative storytelling and social commentary.

‘Erin Brockovich’ (2000)

Julia Roberts stars in ‘Erin Brockovich’, which will be available on Netflix starting January 1, 2026. The biographical legal drama chronicles the true story of a legal assistant who discovers a massive cover-up involving contaminated water. Despite her lack of formal legal training, she leads a significant lawsuit against the Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film earned Roberts an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of the real-life activist.

‘My Girl’ (1991)

The classic coming-of-age film ‘My Girl’ joins the platform on January 1, 2026. Set in the summer of 1972, the story follows an eleven-year-old girl named Vada Sultenfuss as she navigates themes of family, loss, and friendship. Anna Chlumsky and Macaulay Culkin deliver memorable performances as young companions during a transformative period in their lives. The movie remains a nostalgic favorite for many viewers due to its emotional depth and exploration of childhood innocence.

‘Despicable Me’ (2010)

‘Despicable Me’ arrives on January 1, 2026, introducing viewers to the supervillain Gru and his army of Minions. The plot centers on Gru’s plan to steal the moon, which is complicated by his decision to adopt three orphan girls. Produced by Illumination, the animated feature became a massive commercial success and launched a major global franchise. It is celebrated for its family-friendly humor and the distinct character design of the popular yellow Minions.

‘Despicable Me 2’ (2013)

Following the arrival of the first film, ‘Despicable Me 2’ also becomes available on January 1, 2026. In this sequel, a reformed Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to help track down a new criminal mastermind. He is partnered with secret agent Lucy Wilde, adding a new dynamic to the established cast of characters. The film expanded the universe’s reach and remains one of the most successful animated sequels in cinema history.

‘Twins’ (1988)

The 1988 comedy ‘Twins’ is slated for a January 1, 2026, release on the streaming service. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito star as unlikely brothers who were separated at birth as part of a biological experiment. The narrative follows their journey as they reunite and attempt to find their mother across the country. The film is noted for its comedic chemistry between the two leads and remains a prominent example of Schwarzenegger’s transition into comedy roles.

‘Only the Brave’ (2017)

‘Only the Brave’ joins the Netflix lineup on January 1, 2026, telling the true story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots. This elite crew of firefighters worked to protect their community from the devastating Yarnell Hill Fire in 2013. The biographical drama highlights the bravery and personal sacrifices made by the members of the unit and their families. It features an ensemble cast including Josh Brolin and Miles Teller, receiving praise for its respectful treatment of the real-life events.

‘Green Room’ (2016)

The intense thriller ‘Green Room’ will be available to stream starting January 1, 2026. Directed by Jeremy Saulnier, the story follows a punk rock band that becomes trapped in a secluded venue after witnessing a violent crime. The musicians find themselves in a desperate fight for survival against a group of skinheads led by a ruthless owner. The film is recognized for its high tension, visceral violence, and a standout performance by Patrick Stewart in a villainous role.

‘After the Quake’ (2025)

‘After the Quake’ is scheduled to debut on the platform on January 2, 2026. This recent international drama explores the emotional and societal aftermath of a significant natural disaster. The narrative focuses on the lives of several individuals as they attempt to rebuild their community and process their personal traumas. It has been noted for its artistic depth and its poignant examination of human resilience in the face of catastrophe.

‘The Rip’ (2026)

‘The Rip’ premieres as a new Netflix original on January 16, 2026, offering fresh content for the new year. This production is one of the major highlights of the month’s slate, bringing a contemporary story to global audiences. While specific plot details are part of the platform’s release strategy, it is expected to draw significant viewership upon its debut. The film represents Netflix’s continued investment in original storytelling across various genres.

Tell us which of these movies you are most excited to watch this month in the comments.