Planning a movie night this weekend? Netflix’s May 2025 lineup is bursting with captivating films, from fresh releases to timeless classics. Whether you’re in the mood for a laugh-out-loud comedy, a heart-pounding thriller, a heartfelt drama, or a family-friendly adventure, our curated list of the 10 best Netflix movies to stream this weekend has you covered.
These picks, trending for their critical acclaim and audience appeal, are perfect for a cozy May 2025 movie night, whether you’re watching solo or with friends. Let’s dive into the ultimate movie guide for your weekend!
Why These Netflix Movies Are Must-Watch
Our recommendations blend recent releases like Nonnas and Fear Street: Prom Queen with beloved favorites like The Dark Knight and Past Lives. Each film is selected for its storytelling, cultural buzz, and suitability for a relaxing or thrilling weekend vibe. With detailed descriptions below, you’ll find the perfect movie to match your mood. Here are the 10 best Netflix movies to watch this weekend in May 2025.
1. Nonnas (2025) – A Heartwarming Comedy
Streaming Date: May 9, 2025
Genre: Comedy
Cast: Vince Vaughn, Linda Cardellini, James Gandolfini Jr.
Why Watch: With an impressive 80% Rotten Tomatoes score, Nonnas is a feel-good comedy about a group of spirited Italian grandmothers who take over a struggling Brooklyn restaurant to save it from closure. Led by Vince Vaughn as a down-on-his-luck chef, the film blends sharp humor with heartfelt moments as these nonnas navigate family rivalries, secret recipes, and unexpected friendships. Its vibrant depiction of Italian-American culture and mouthwatering food scenes make it a delightful pick for a lighthearted weekend watch. Perfect for laughing with family or friends, Nonnas celebrates community and resilience, leaving you with a warm glow.
2. Fear Street: Prom Queen (2025) – A Chilling Thriller
Streaming Date: 2025
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Cast: India Eisley, Suzanna Son, Fina Strazza
Why Watch: The latest chapter in R.L. Stine’s Fear Street saga, Prom Queen transports viewers to 1988 Shadyside, where a sinister prom night unfolds. This horror-thriller follows a group of teens facing a mysterious killer during their high school prom, blending 80s nostalgia with gruesome twists. Expect intense suspense, clever jump scares, and a retro soundtrack that amplifies the eerie vibe. Ideal for horror fans craving a thrilling weekend experience, this film delivers both chills and emotional stakes, making it perfect for a late-night watch with the lights off and popcorn in hand.
3. Past Lives (Available Now) – A Poignant Romance
Streaming Date: Available now
Genre: Romantic Drama
Cast: Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, John Magaro
Why Watch: Directed by Celine Song, Past Lives is a critically acclaimed indie gem that explores love, identity, and the paths we don’t take. The story follows Nora and Hae Sung, childhood friends from South Korea, who reconnect years later in New York, grappling with their past and present lives. With its lush cinematography and raw emotional depth, this film resonates with anyone who’s ever wondered “what if?” Its quiet intensity and universal themes make it a perfect choice for a reflective weekend watch, ideal for solo viewers or couples seeking a meaningful story. Keep tissues nearby for this heartfelt masterpiece.
4. The Wild Robot (2024) – A Family-Friendly Adventure
Streaming Date: Available now
Genre: Animated Adventure
Cast (Voices): Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor
Why Watch: This enchanting animated film, based on Peter Brown’s book, follows Roz, a robot stranded on a lush island, who learns to adapt by befriending the local wildlife. Voiced by Lupita Nyong’o, Roz’s journey from outsider to protector is both heartwarming and visually stunning, with vibrant animation that captivates all ages. The story’s themes of belonging and environmental stewardship resonate deeply, making it a fantastic pick for a family movie night or a solo escape. Its universal appeal and uplifting message make The Wild Robot a cozy, feel-good choice for your May 2025 weekend.
5. Hit Man (2025) – An Action-Packed Comedy
Streaming Date: 2025
Genre: Action/Comedy
Cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio
Why Watch: Directed by Richard Linklater, Hit Man is a wildly entertaining blend of action, comedy, and romance. Glen Powell stars as Gary Johnson, a mild-mannered professor moonlighting as a fake hitman for police stings, only to get entangled in a real criminal plot. The film’s sharp wit, unpredictable twists, and sizzling chemistry between Powell and Adria Arjona make it a standout. Perfect for action fans looking for laughs and thrills, this movie is an energetic choice for a fun weekend watch, whether you’re hosting a movie night or unwinding solo.
6. The Dark Knight (Available Now) – An Epic Superhero Thriller
Streaming Date: Available now
Genre: Action/Thriller
Cast: Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart
Why Watch: Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight remains a cinematic milestone, with Heath Ledger’s iconic portrayal of the Joker earning a posthumous Oscar. This gritty superhero thriller follows Batman as he battles the Joker’s chaotic reign of terror in Gotham City, exploring themes of morality and justice. Its intense action sequences, complex characters, and dark atmosphere make it a gripping choice for a weekend marathon. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or watching it for the first time, The Dark Knight delivers an unforgettable experience perfect for action and drama fans.
7. Train to Busan (Available Now) – A Heart-Pounding Zombie Thriller
Streaming Date: Available now
Genre: Horror/Action
Cast: Gong Yoo, Ma Dong-seok, Jung Yu-mi
Why Watch: This South Korean masterpiece redefined the zombie genre with its blend of relentless action and emotional depth. Train to Busan follows a father and daughter trapped on a train during a zombie outbreak, racing against time to reach safety. The film’s high-stakes pacing, memorable characters, and heartrending sacrifices make it a must-watch for horror fans. Its claustrophobic setting amplifies the tension, making it ideal for a thrilling weekend night. Pair it with snacks and a dark room for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
8. Mid90s (Available Now) – A Coming-of-Age Gem
Streaming Date: Available now
Genre: Drama/Comedy
Cast: Sunny Suljic, Lucas Hedges, Katherine Waterston
Why Watch: Directed by Jonah Hill, Mid90s is a raw, nostalgic dive into 1990s Los Angeles skate culture. The story follows Stevie, a 13-year-old navigating a troubled home life and finding belonging among a group of skateboarders. With its authentic dialogue, 90s soundtrack, and gritty 16mm cinematography, the film captures the messy beauty of adolescence. It’s a great pick for a laid-back weekend, offering humor, heart, and a dose of nostalgia for viewers seeking a coming-of-age story with edge.
9. Heart Eyes (2025) – A Horror-Comedy Blend
Streaming Date: 2025
Genre: Horror/Comedy
Cast: Olivia Holt, Mason Gooding, Giorgia Whigham
Why Watch: This fresh 2025 release combines horror and comedy in a quirky tale of two coworkers mistaken for a couple by a serial killer targeting lovebirds on Valentine’s Day. The film’s blend of gory scares and sharp humor, paired with its romantic undertones, makes it a unique addition to Netflix’s lineup. Perfect for viewers who enjoy genre mashups, Heart Eyes is a fun, offbeat choice for a weekend watch, especially for a date night with a spooky twist.
10. The Two Popes (Available Now) – A Thoughtful Drama
Streaming Date: Available now
Genre: Drama/Biography
Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Jonathan Pryce, Juan Minujín
Why Watch: This compelling drama explores the unlikely friendship between Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio (future Pope Francis) during a pivotal moment in the Catholic Church. With stellar performances by Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce, The Two Popes blends wit, faith, and introspection, tackling themes of tradition versus progress. Its intimate dialogue and historical insight make it a thought-provoking choice for a meaningful weekend watch, ideal for viewers who enjoy character-driven stories with depth.
Why These Movies Are Perfect for Your May 2025 Weekend
This diverse lineup caters to every taste, from horror and action to drama and animation. With new releases like Nonnas, Fear Street: Prom Queen, and Heart Eyes alongside classics like The Dark Knight and Train to Busan, Netflix’s May 2025 catalog offers something for every viewer. These films are trending for their critical praise, engaging stories, and ability to elevate your weekend movie night.
Note: Streaming dates and availability may vary by region. Check Netflix to confirm these titles are available in your location.