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Netflix and thriller movies are a classic combination. The peanut butter and jelly of the streaming world, if you will. There’s no denying that Netflix subscribers love thrillers, and I’m right there alongside them. I’m always on the lookout for the latest gripping watches on the platform.
This week will see the release of a new Netflix original from South Africa, which centers on a father driven by revenge. Meanwhile, last week’s shark survival thriller continues to dominate, and there’s also the arrival of a 2025 horror-thriller, which focuses on a young football player trying to become the best, even if that means losing their soul.
Article continues belowBest Netflix thriller movies to watch this week
‘180’ (2026)
One of Netflix’s biggest strengths is its global content pipeline. So, while there aren’t any brand new thrillers coming directly from Netflix U.S. this week, you’ve got the likes of “180” filling the void. This new revenge-fueled watch comes from South Africa, and the trailer (linked above) suggests it could be particularly intense. I also appreciate that this preview does a good job of setting the mood without giving away the entire plot. More of that, please.
Directed by Alex Yazbek, “180” centers on a father driven down a dark path of vengeance after an unexpected road rage incident puts his son in critical condition. Clocking in at 95 minutes, it might be the jolt of excitement your watchlist needs this week. Hopefully, it’ll serve as the latest reminder that must-watch Netflix movies can come from any country.
Watch "180" on Netflix from April 17
‘Thrash’ (2026)
“Thrash” swam onto Netflix last week (on April 10), and rapidly rose to the No. 1 spot in the platform’s top 10 most-watched list. That’s a position it’s held ever since, and at present, it shows no signs of relinquishing its crown. Okay, so the elephant (or shark) in the room is that this survival thriller has not been well-received. Tom’s Guide’s own Martin Shore gave it a mere 2/5 stars in his own review. Meanwhile, viewers give it just 25% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Don’t expect “Thrash” to be in the conversation for the best movie of 2026, but if you’re looking for a quick fix thriller, you might want to consider it. Just keep your expectations in check. It centers on a small coastal town that is rocked by a devastating hurricane. Among the rising water, floating debris and power outages, the storm also brings hungry sharks onto the submerged town, and it’s up to a group of residents (including Phoebe Dynevor) to survive the ordeal.
Watch "Thrash" on Netflix now
‘Him’ (2025)
I found “Him” to be one of last year’s more frustrating movies. That’s not because it’s terrible, though it most definitely has its issues. It's because I really think this horror-thriller could have been something special. Instead, it settles for mediocrity when it could have been a Hall of Famer. But hey, at least it offers strong performances from Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers, and a core premise that will have you plenty intrigued.
Cam (Withers) is a talented young football player whose promising career in the NFL may end before it can start after he’s violently assaulted after a late-night practice session. Soon after, he’s invited to train at the isolated compound of his hero, legendary San Antonio Saviors QB, Isaiah White (Wayans). Under Isaiah’s watch, Cam is drawn into a blood-chilling world where excellence is the ultimate goal. But to be the GOAT, there’s a high price to pay.
Watch "Him" on Netflix from April 19
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