Big-budget blockbuster movies are good and fun, but there’s something special about discovering a hidden indie gem. While Hollywood action movies entertain us with huge explosions and CGI, quality independent movies grab us with their charm, honesty, and often true-to-life storytelling. When scrubbing through massive libraries on streaming services like Netflix, it can be hard to separate the diamonds in the rough. To help you with this never-ending search, we’ve crafted a list of the top five independent movies on Netflix. With a mixture of drama, suspense, and a hefty dose of charm and quirkiness, these five fantastic indie movies are definitely worth a watch. Next time you fire up Netflix and are looking for a prime movie night pick, we recommend giving these films a shot!
1. His House (2020)
His House is one of the most frightening films on our list of the top 5 independent movies on Netflix, delivering a chilling haunted house story with a twist. Written and directed by Remi Weekes, this debut feature film has earned several award nominations and wins, including the BAFTA award for the Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer. The film follows two parents, Bol Mjur (Sope Dirisu) and Rial Majur (Wunmi Mosaku), who escape from the war-ridden borders of South Sudan. After a terrifying journey to the United Kingdom, Bol and Rial lose their daughter but still hope for a somewhat better life. Soon after arriving in London, the couple begins to experience supernatural occurrences in their new home.
With its intense moments of fright, a dreary atmosphere, and heavy subject matter, His House is an indie flick that will get under your skin. Like other quality indie horror flicks, His House will have you teeming with emotion and fear, rooting for the main characters every step of the way. By subverting the expectations of a “haunted house” story and offering grounded, realistic characters, His House paints a masterful portrayal of grief. The next time you’re looking for a remarkable indie horror to watch on Netflix, give His House a try.
2. Mudbound (2017)
Mudbound is a stark and brutal story about rural America, as two families attempt to share land in the Mississippi Delta. Directed by Dee Rees and based on the book by Hillary Jordan, this unflinching drama received substantial critical acclaim when it was released in 2017. With four Academy Award nominations and dozens of other nominations, Mudbound is easily one of the most well-received films on the Netflix platform. Ripe with social commentary and a hard look at the societal issues that plagued America in the post-World War II era, Mudbound is a moving drama that is hard to forget.
The film centers on two families, the McAllans and the Jacksons. Both entrenched in poverty, the families attempt to put their differences aside and survive off the land. After returning home from fighting in World War II, two men from these juxtaposed families find common ground. Realistic, bleak, and at times surprisingly violent, Mudbound is hardly a lighthearted viewing. Through its genuine and, at times, unsettling narrative, Mudbound tackles heavy issues like systemic racism, loyalty, and sense of duty. If historical drama is what you’re after, Mudbound is easily one of the best independent films you can watch on Netflix.
3. i’m thinking of ending things (2020)
I’m thinking of ending things is an artistic and quirky drama written and directed by Oscar-nominated director Charlie Kaufman, best known for his work on films like Anomalisa and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Based on the book by Iain Reid, i’m thinking of ending things follows a young couple, Jake (Jesse Plemons) and his unnamed girlfriend (Jessie Buckley), as they embark on a trip to meet Jake’s parents. As the young woman contemplates ending her relationship with Jake, her grip on reality starts to loosen.
Like Charlie Kaufman’s other fantastic films, i’m thinking of ending things provides a trippy and quirky viewing experience, with an exceptional dose of psychological tension to make things uncomfortable. With fantastic acting performances and imaginative scene composition, i’m thinking of ending things will stimulate your senses and make you question your perception. The film’s ending and the overall narrative encourages discussion and interpretation, making this a good film to watch with your friends. When it comes to weird and captivating dramas, i’m thinking of ending things is easily one of the best available on Netflix.
4. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a charming adventure movie written and directed by Taika Waititi, best known for his work on films like What We Do in the Shadows and Thor: Ragnorak. Despite his recent breakthrough into the mainstream, Taika Waititi’s roots are firmly in the realm of independent film, best displayed in this heartfelt story of family, friendship, and overcoming adversity. The film centers on a young teen named Ricky (Julian Dennison), who struggles to find a family while bouncing through the foster care system. When Ricky is placed under the care of foster parents Bella (Rima Te Wiata) and Hec (Sam Neill), he tries his best to acclimate to his newfound rural lifestyle. When an unexpected tragedy befalls the family, Ricky runs away into the vast wilderness, forcing Hec to begrudgingly track him down.
This briskly paced, laugh-out-loud comedy will have you in both stitches and tears as emotions run high. Through the increasingly silly events of Ricky and Hec’s ludicrous adventure, we get to see a truly unbreakable bond begin to form. With Taika Waititi’s signature style of camaraderie and childlike wonder, Hunt for the Wilderpeople excels and leaves a lasting impression. While the other films on this are a bit more serious and suspenseful, Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a sincere film that provides lots of chuckles and smiles. It’s also highly rewatchable, making it an easy choice for our list of the top 5 independent movies on Netflix.
5. The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
The Killing of a Sacred Deer is a controversial horror film written and directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, best known for his work on movies like The Lobster and The Favourite. This Oscar-nominated director is well regarded for his intense characters, emotional storytelling, and intimate cinematography. The film follows a talented cardiac surgeon named Steven (Colin Farrell) who befriends a troubled teen named Martin (Barry Keoghan). When Martin’s behaviour becomes problematic, Steven must make some terrible decisions.
Full of incredible suspense, disturbing content, and a gut-wrenching finale, The Killing of a Sacred Deer is a monumental film that will challenge your perspective. The movie balances themes of family, sacrifice, and responsibility while simultaneously raising the stakes, resulting in an intoxicating slow-burn story. While it might not be as startling or spooky as the other horror films on this list, The Killing of a Sacred Deer is an exceptional indie movie ripe with tension. If you’re in the mood for a thought-provoking drama with a hefty atmosphere of dread, this excellent indie movie will get the job done.
Like what we have to say? Sign up to subscribe to email alerts and you’ll never miss a post.
