Netflix has become a go-to platform for millions of people around the world, offering a wide range of movies that cater to all tastes. But which movies have captured the attention of viewers the most? Let’s take a look at the top 10 most watched movies on Netflix ever, based on the number of views they received in their first 28 days on the platform. These films span different genres and feature some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Whether you’re into action, comedy, or thrillers, there’s something here for everyone.
Now, let’s dive into each movie with some details about what they’re about, why they’re so popular, and a fun fact for each!
1. Red Notice (2021) – 230.9 Million Views
What’s it about? An FBI agent teams up with a slick art thief to catch another crook who’s always one step ahead.
Why it’s popular: Stars like Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot bring action and laughs to this hit.
Fun fact: It’s one of Netflix’s most expensive movies ever made!
2. Carry-On (2024) – 171.5 Million Views
What’s it about? A TSA agent at a busy airport faces off against a mysterious traveler trying to sneak a dangerous package onto a Christmas Eve flight.
Why it’s popular: Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman deliver a tense, action-packed thriller that hooked viewers fast.
Fun fact: It shot up to #2 in just months, making it Netflix’s second-biggest movie launch ever!
3. Don’t Look Up (2021) – 171.4 Million Views
What’s it about? Two scientists try to warn the world about a comet that’ll destroy Earth, but no one takes them seriously.
Why it’s popular: Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence lead a funny yet sharp take on society.
Fun fact: It sparked big online debates about climate change after its release!
4. The Adam Project (2022) – 157.6 Million Views
What’s it about? A time-traveling pilot (Ryan Reynolds) works with his younger self to save the future.
Why it’s popular: It mixes action, sci-fi, and a sweet story that families love.
Fun fact: It’s one of Netflix’s top family-friendly sci-fi adventures.
5. Bird Box (2018) – 157.4 Million Views
What’s it about? In a spooky world, people wear blindfolds to avoid deadly creatures that drive you crazy if you see them.
Why it’s popular: Sandra Bullock stars in this chilling thriller that kept everyone talking.
Fun fact: It kicked off a viral “blindfold challenge” online!
6. Leave the World Behind (2023) – 143.4 Million Views
What’s it about? A family’s vacation turns into chaos when strangers warn of a mysterious disaster.
Why it’s popular: Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke keep you guessing in this gripping thriller.
Fun fact: It’s based on a bestselling book by Rumaan Alam.
7. The Gray Man (2022) – 139.3 Million Views
What’s it about? A CIA spy (Ryan Gosling) is hunted by a wild ex-coworker (Chris Evans) out to take him down.
Why it’s popular: Big stars and wild action scenes make it a must-watch.
Fun fact: It’s part of Netflix’s push into huge action movies.
8. Damsel (2024) – 138.0 Million Views
What’s it about? A young woman (Millie Bobby Brown) is tricked into a cave with a dragon and must fight to survive.
Why it’s popular: Millie Bobby Brown’s star power turns this fantasy twist into a hit.
Fun fact: It’s climbed fast to #8 since its March 2024 release!
9. We Can Be Heroes (2020) – 137.3 Million Views
What’s it about? Kids of superheroes team up to rescue their parents from aliens in a fun adventure.
Why it’s popular: It’s a colorful, kid-friendly flick by Robert Rodriguez.
Fun fact: It’s a spin-off from The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl.
10. The Mother (2023) – 136.4 Million Views
What’s it about? A tough assassin comes out of hiding to save her daughter from danger.
Why it’s popular: Jennifer Lopez shines as a fierce action mom.
Fun fact: It’s one of J-Lo’s biggest action roles yet!
What Do These Movies Have in Common?
These top 10 movies show what Netflix viewers love the most:
- Action and Thrillers: Many of these films are high-energy action or thriller movies, proving that viewers enjoy exciting stories.
- Big Stars: Almost every movie features well-known actors like Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, Leonardo DiCaprio, or Sandra Bullock. Star power clearly draws in audiences.
- Recent Releases: Most of these movies were released between 2018 and 2024, showing that fresh content is key to capturing attention.
- Variety of Genres: From comedy (Don’t Look Up) to sci-fi (The Adam Project) to horror (Bird Box), there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for laughs, thrills, or something to keep you on the edge of your seat, these top 10 movies have something for everyone. If you haven’t seen them yet, now’s the perfect time to add them to your watch list!
Quick Look: Top 10 Movies Table
Check out this table for a fast overview of the top 10 movies, including their rank, title, year, views, and genres.
| Rank | Title | Year | Views (millions) | Genre(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Red Notice | 2021 | 230.9 | Action, Comedy, Thriller |
| 2 | Carry-On | 2024 | 171.5 | Action, Thriller |
| 3 | Don’t Look Up | 2021 | 171.4 | Comedy, Drama, Sci-Fi |
| 4 | The Adam Project | 2022 | 157.6 | Action, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi |
| 5 | Bird Box | 2018 | 157.4 | Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller |
| 6 | Leave the World Behind | 2023 | 143.4 | Drama, Thriller |
| 7 | The Gray Man | 2022 | 139.3 | Action, Thriller |
| 8 | Damsel | 2024 | 138.0 | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| 9 | We Can Be Heroes | 2020 | 137.3 | Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Sci-Fi |
| 10 | The Mother | 2023 | 136.4 | Action, Thriller |
Where We Got This Info
Data comes from Netflix Tudum. Updated as of March 14, 2025.