In January 2024, Netflix is kicking off the new year with an impressive lineup of critically acclaimed movies. These additions to the streaming service include both classics and original films that are generating awards buzz. All of the movies on this list have received a score of at least 90% on the review aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes, indicating their quality and worthiness for your watchlist.
One notable addition is “Gravity” (2013), a white-knuckle space thriller that takes viewers on a suspenseful journey alongside Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and Lieutenant Matt Kowalski (George Clooney). Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, the film earned Cuarón the Best Director Oscar and boasts industry-leading special effects that make the harrowing tale even more immersive. “Gravity” falls under the sci-fi genre and has a Rotten Tomatoes score of 96%.
Another classic film on the list is “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975), which stands as the second movie in history to win all five major Oscars. Adapted from Ken Kesey’s novel, the film features outstanding performances from Jack Nicholson and Louis Fletcher. It tells the story of Randle McMurphy, a prisoner who feigns insanity to avoid hard labor but finds himself battling against the cruel and malevolent Nurse Ratchet. This drama has a Rotten Tomatoes score of 93%.
For those seeking a comedic experience, “School of Rock” (2003) is a must-watch. Starring Jack Black, this film follows the hilarious journey of a slacker musician who takes on a substitute teaching job at a prestigious school. Instead of teaching academics, he transforms his students into a band to compete in a Battle of the Bands competition. With its energetic performances and memorable lines, “School of Rock” remains a fan favorite. It falls under the comedy genre and has a Rotten Tomatoes score of 92%.
“Jurassic Park” (1993) is another significant addition to Netflix’s lineup. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this action-packed film takes viewers to a wildlife park filled with genetically recreated dinosaurs. When the park’s facilities fail, chaos ensues as the dinosaurs escape and put the visitors’ lives in danger. Starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum, “Jurassic Park” is a timeless adventure that has left a lasting impact on the film industry. Its Rotten Tomatoes score is 91%.
Lastly, Netflix presents “Society of the Snow” (2023), a Spanish thriller directed by J.A. Bayona. Based on a true story, the film recounts the survival tale of a group of plane crash survivors stranded in the brutal Andes mountains. With no rescue in sight, they are forced to make extreme decisions to stay alive. Praised by critics, “Society of the Snow” is Spain’s submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards. This thriller has a Rotten Tomatoes score of 90%.
As the new year begins, Netflix offers viewers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a range of genres and experiences. Whether it’s the intense space thriller of “Gravity,” the dramatic battle of wits in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” the comedic joy of “School of Rock,” the thrilling adventure of “Jurassic Park,” or the gripping survival tale of “Society of the Snow,” there’s something for everyone to enjoy on Netflix. So grab your popcorn and get ready to embark on these cinematic journeys.