“Private Life”Netflix
Netflix can be a bit daunting, since there’s so much to choose from. But we’re here to make that easier.
Every week, we look through what’s available on the streaming service and recommend seven films you can watch over the weekend. Some of our selections recently came to Netflix, like the excellent new original movie, “Private Life.” And some have been available for a while. You just might have missed them because Netflix’s algorithm didn’t know you as well as it thought it did.
From the new Netflix original “Private Life” starring Paul Giamatti to “The Shining,” these are the films you should add to your queue for the weekend.
Here are seven films on Netflix you should check out (along with their scores from Rotten Tomatoes).
Note: Not all of these films are available in countries outside the United States. Apologies!
“Private Life” (2018) — a Netflix Original
Netflix description: Struggling to conceive, a couple in their 40s are almost out of options — until a sliver of hope arrives in the form of their visiting step-niece.
Critic score: 90%
Audience score: N/A
This darkly funny and intimate story about infertility’s effect on a married couple and their journey through it is given life through Paul Giamatti and Kathryn Hahn’s performances. It’s one of the strongest Netflix Original films so far.
“Zack and Miri Make a Porno” (2008)
Netflix description: Zack and Miri make and star in an adult film to bring in easy money. But their unspoken feelings for each other might threaten the whole enterprise.
Critic score: 65%
Audience score: 66%
This comedy isn’t one of Kevin Smith’s best, but it’s fun and easy to watch, especially if you don’t really feel like giving your full attention to a movie. The movie probably would’ve been terrible without the chemistry of its stars, Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks.
“Must Love Dogs” (2005)
Netflix description: Divorcée Sarah Nolan isn’t ready for romance, but when her sister signs her up for an online dating service, love-seeking mates come calling.
Critic score: 35%
Audience score: 50%
Is this movie stupid? Yes. But it is cute and there are dogs in it.
“Mystic River” (2003)
Netflix description: Tragedy reunites childhood friends Sean, Dave and Jimmy when they’re linked together in a murder investigation about Jimmy’s teenage daughter.
Critic score: 88%
Audience score: 89%
This is definitely not a feel-good movie, but this drama is worth your time given its incredible performances, especially by its supporting cast, which includes Kevin Bacon, Marcia Gay Harden, Tim Robbins, Laurence Fishbourne, and Laura Linney.
“The Shining” (1980)
Netflix description: Jack Torrance descends into madness — terrorizing his wife and young son — after living at a deserted and eerie hotel during its off season.
Critic score: 86%
Audience score: 93%
It’s October, so it would be very wrong if we didn’t include one horror movie or thriller on the list. “The Shining” is one of the greatest thrillers of all time, and absolutely must be watched during the spooky month.
“Moana” (2016)
Walt Disney Animation Studios
Netflix description: A Polynesian girl destined to be her island’s chief makes a perilous trip with a boastful demigod to undo his mistake and save her people.
Critic score: 96%
Audience score: 89%
With its three-dimensional characters, catchy songs, creative animation, and a story that you’ll actually care about, “Moana” modernizes the Disney animated film and it’s one of the best of the bunch.
“Star Wars: The Last Jedi”
Netflix description: As the remnants of the Resistance flee Kylo Ren and the First Order, Rey seeks out Luke Skywalker — but he wants nothing more to do with the Force.
Critic score: 91%
Audience score: 45%
A lot of people (many of whom might be Russian bots) hated “The Last Jedi.” But Rian Johnson’s stunning direction moves the story along, and it’s a great movie to revisit because there’s a lot you might have missed in theaters.
