Top 10 Most Popular Netflix Movies of All Time (Updated 2025)

Netflix has transformed how we watch movies, giving us instant access to blockbusters, thrillers, comedies, and heartfelt dramas right from the comfort of our homes. Over the years, some films have skyrocketed in popularity, breaking records and becoming global sensations.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the 10 most popular Netflix movies of all time, based on global viewing numbers and audience buzz. Whether you’re into action, romance, or mystery, this list will help you decide what to binge next.

1. Red Notice (2021)

Netflix’s biggest hit ever, Red Notice stars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot. With an explosive mix of action, humor, and breathtaking visuals, the movie follows an FBI agent teaming up with an art thief to catch another criminal.

• Why It’s Popular: Star power, lighthearted humor, and globe-trotting adventures.

• Total Views: Over 230 million globally.

2. Don’t Look Up (2021)

This satirical dark comedy, directed by Adam McKay, stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence as scientists trying to warn the world about a comet heading toward Earth. It’s both hilarious and terrifying, making it one of Netflix’s most talked-about films.

• Why It’s Popular: Top-tier cast, political satire, and strong cultural relevance.

• Total Views: Around 170 million.

3. Bird Box (2018)

Sandra Bullock’s Bird Box is a survival thriller about mysterious creatures that cause mass suicides if seen. The blindfold scenes became so iconic that fans around the world even recreated them in viral challenges.

• Why It’s Popular: Unique concept and intense suspense.

• Total Views: More than 150 million.

4. The Gray Man (2022)

Directed by the Russo Brothers (Avengers: Endgame), The Gray Man stars Ryan Gosling as a CIA operative hunted by Chris Evans’ unhinged villain. This big-budget spy thriller is pure popcorn entertainment.

• Why It’s Popular: Star cast, huge action sequences, and franchise potential.

• Total Views: Over 140 million.

5. Extraction (2020)

Chris Hemsworth takes on the role of a mercenary sent to rescue a kidnapped boy in this fast-paced action flick set in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The movie’s one-shot action scene became legendary among fans.

• Why It’s Popular: Non-stop action and Hemsworth’s gritty performance.

• Total Views: Around 135 million.

6. The Mother (2023)

Jennifer Lopez proves her action-hero skills in The Mother, where she plays an assassin trying to protect her daughter from enemies. The gripping storyline and J.Lo’s powerful screen presence made it a runaway success.

• Why It’s Popular: Strong female lead and high-octane action.

• Total Views: More than 125 million.

7. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

Daniel Craig returns as detective Benoit Blanc in this sequel to Knives Out. The film’s clever twists, quirky characters, and luxurious setting kept audiences glued to the screen.

• Why It’s Popular: Stylish murder mystery with witty dialogue.

• Total Views: Around 123 million.

8. Extraction 2 (2023)

Tyler Rake (Chris Hemsworth) returns from the brink of death to pull off another dangerous mission. The sequel doubled the intensity with jaw-dropping stunts and emotional storytelling.

• Why It’s Popular: Bigger, better action than the first film.

• Total Views: Over 129 million.

9. The Kissing Booth 3 (2021)

Rom-com fans loved this final installment of the teen trilogy, which follows Elle as she makes life-changing decisions about love and college.

• Why It’s Popular: Teen drama, romance, and closure for fans.

• Total Views: More than 110 million.

10. The Irishman (2019)

Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, The Irishman tells the story of a hitman recalling his life in organized crime. Despite its long runtime, it remains a masterpiece.

• Why It’s Popular: Legendary cast, award buzz, and Scorsese’s direction.

• Total Views: Around 100 million.

From thrilling action movies like Extraction and The Gray Man to cultural phenomena like Bird Box and satirical hits like Don’t Look Up, Netflix has produced some of the most-watched movies in streaming history. If you haven’t checked out these titles yet, now is the perfect time to catch up.

FAQs About Netflix’s Most Popular Movies

Q1. What is the No.1 Netflix movie of all time?
Red Notice (2021) holds the crown with over 230 million views.

Q2. Which 2023 release joined Netflix’s all-time top list?
The Mother starring Jennifer Lopez quickly broke into the rankings with more than 125 million views.

Q3. Does Netflix include views from all countries?
Yes, Netflix counts global streams from its worldwide subscriber base.

Q4. How does Netflix rank movies?
Rankings are based on total viewing hours within the first 28 days of release.

Q5. Are sequels like Extraction 2 doing better than originals?
Yes! Extraction 2 outperformed the first part, showing the growing demand for franchises.