The Best Movies to Watch on Netflix in January 2026

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In January 2026, Netflix will have something for everyone, with a wide variety of movies and shows. They’re adding both popular, well-known films and brand new original content, including award-winning dramas, action-packed blockbusters, animated favorites, thrilling stories, and inspiring biographies. Here’s a look at some of the most exciting titles coming to the platform to kick off the new year.

’12 Years a Slave’ (2013)

The critically acclaimed film ’12 Years a Slave’ will be available on Netflix starting January 1, 2026. Based on Solomon Northup’s true story, the movie tells the harrowing tale of a free man from New York who is illegally kidnapped and forced into slavery. Directed by Steve McQueen, it won an Academy Award for Best Picture and offers a powerful look at a difficult period in American history and the strength of the human spirit.

‘Ford v Ferrari’ (2019)

Released on January 1, 2026, ‘Ford v Ferrari’ tells the real story of Carroll Shelby, a car designer, and Ken Miles, a race car driver. They team up to create a groundbreaking race car for Ford, with the goal of beating Ferrari, which had long been the top competitor. James Mangold directed the film, starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale. Critics especially loved the movie’s realistic depiction of racing and the exciting action during the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans race.

‘Free Solo’ (2018)

On January 1, 2026, the acclaimed documentary ‘Free Solo’ will be available on Netflix. The film follows Alex Honnold as he attempts to climb the massive El Capitan rock face without any ropes or safety equipment. Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, the Oscar-winning film showcases the incredible physical and mental strength required for such a dangerous feat, and offers a personal look at the dedication and risks involved in professional rock climbing.

‘Ghostbusters’ (2016)

Starting January 1, 2026, you’ll be able to stream the 2016 version of ‘Ghostbusters.’ This update to the classic film stars Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones as a team of scientists who start a business catching ghosts in New York City. It’s a funny and action-packed movie about their efforts to protect Manhattan from a major ghostly threat.

‘Hellboy’ (2004)

Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Hellboy’ will be available to stream on January 1, 2026. Based on the well-known Dark Horse Comics series, the film stars Ron Perlman as Hellboy, a demon who teams up with a secret government organization to defend the world from paranormal dangers. Known for its distinctive look and the director’s imaginative creature effects, ‘Hellboy’ has gained a dedicated fanbase since its release, combining thrilling action with fantastical elements.

‘District 9’ (2009)

Scheduled to come out on January 1, 2026, ‘District 9’ is a realistic and thought-provoking science fiction film. The story, set in Johannesburg, uses the experiences of aliens living in poverty to examine issues like segregation and prejudice. Director Neill Blomkamp employed a documentary-style approach in certain scenes to make the film feel more authentic. It received critical acclaim and was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, for its unique storytelling and insightful social commentary.

‘Erin Brockovich’ (2000)

Starting January 1, 2026, you can watch ‘Erin Brockovich’ on Netflix. This inspiring true story stars Julia Roberts as Erin Brockovich, a determined legal assistant who uncovers a dangerous secret: a major company is covering up water contamination. Even without a law degree, Erin bravely takes on Pacific Gas and Electric Company in a landmark lawsuit. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, Julia Roberts won an Oscar for her powerful performance as this real-life activist.

‘My Girl’ (1991)

The beloved film ‘My Girl’ will be available to stream starting January 1, 2026. Set in the summer of 1972, it tells the story of eleven-year-old Vada Sultenfuss as she deals with family issues, loss, and the importance of friendship. Anna Chlumsky and Macaulay Culkin give wonderful performances as two young friends growing up. Many viewers remember the movie fondly for its heartfelt story and realistic portrayal of childhood.

‘Despicable Me’ (2010)

Get ready for ‘Despicable Me’ on January 1, 2026! The movie introduces Gru, a supervillain, and his hilarious Minions. The story follows Gru’s ambitious plan to steal the moon, which gets surprisingly complicated when he decides to adopt three orphaned sisters. Made by Illumination, the film was a huge hit with audiences and started a very successful franchise. It’s known for being fun for the whole family and for the unique, lovable design of the Minions.

‘Despicable Me 2’ (2013)

After the first movie became a hit, ‘Despicable Me 2’ will be available starting January 1, 2026. This time, Gru, now a good guy, joins the Anti-Villain League to hunt down a new villain. He teams up with secret agent Lucy Wilde, which brings a fresh energy to the story and its characters. The film broadened the world of ‘Despicable Me’ and continues to be one of the highest-grossing animated sequels ever made.

‘Twins’ (1988)

The classic 1988 comedy ‘Twins’ will be available to stream starting January 1, 2026. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito, the movie tells the story of twin brothers separated at birth through a scientific experiment. The film follows their hilarious adventure as they meet for the first time and search for their birth mother. ‘Twins’ is well-known for the great comedic timing between Schwarzenegger and DeVito and helped establish Schwarzenegger as a comedic actor.

‘Only the Brave’ (2017)

The true story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, a courageous group of firefighters who battled the 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire, comes to Netflix on January 1, 2026, with the film ‘Only the Brave’. The movie honors the firefighters’ bravery and the sacrifices made by them and their families. Starring Josh Brolin and Miles Teller, it has been praised for its sensitive and respectful portrayal of the tragic events.

‘Green Room’ (2016)

Starting January 1, 2026, you’ll be able to stream the gripping thriller ‘Green Room’. The film, directed by Jeremy Saulnier, centers on a punk band that witnesses a brutal crime at a remote venue and finds themselves fighting for their lives against a dangerous group of skinheads and the venue’s merciless owner. ‘Green Room’ is known for its intense atmosphere, realistic violence, and a particularly memorable performance by Patrick Stewart as the villain.

‘After the Quake’ (2025)

The international drama ‘After the Quake’ will premiere on January 2, 2026. The series tells the story of a community struggling to recover and heal after a major earthquake, focusing on the personal journeys of those affected. Critics have praised its emotional impact and realistic portrayal of how people cope with disaster.

‘The Rip’ (2026)

Netflix will release its new original film, ‘The Rip,’ on January 16, 2026, kicking off the new year with exciting content. The movie is expected to be a major draw for viewers and will be available to audiences worldwide. While Netflix is keeping the story details under wraps for now, ‘The Rip’ highlights the company’s commitment to creating unique and diverse original films.

Tell us which of these movies you are most excited to watch this month in the comments.

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2026-01-16 05:46