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Netflix original movies aren’t always warmly embraced by critics. In fact, in any given year, there are usually more new flicks on the popular streaming service with a rotten score than a fresh one. However, among the cheesy rom-coms and generic action-thrillers, there are always a strong handful of new Netflix movies that pull an impressive rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
2025 isn’t quite over yet (though it’s alarming how fast the year has sped by), but over the past 11 months, Netflix has debuted several movies that earned Rotten Tomatoes scores close to perfect (and one with 100%). These range from a soulful period drama to the latest installment in a murder-mystery favorite. And of course, there’s a certain K-pop band in the mix as well.
To save you the hassle of finding these critically acclaimed gems yourself, I’ve combed through all the new Netflix movies released this year and picked out the five films with the highest Rotten Tomatoes scores. And I’ve even ranked them down below just to be extra helpful (no need to thank me).
5. ‘Train Dreams’
I’m rather frustrated that “Train Dreams” hasn’t made the impact on Netflix that it so richly deserves. While it currently ranks in the top 10, it’s towards the bottom of the most-watched ranking. That’s a great shame, because this emotional and visually stunning drama deserves more success. When you consider some of the subpar Netflix movies that have held the No. 1 spot in 2025, it’s very disappointing that “Train Dreams” isn’t reaching those heights.
Critics labeled it a “gorgeous meditation on America,” and that’s certainly not overselling it. Based on the novel by Denis Johnson, it’s as much a mood piece as a narrative-driven drama, and sees Joel Edgerton play a rail worker in the early 20th century, who is challenged and inspired by the changing world and natural beauty around him. Also starring Felicity Jones as his wife, “Train Dreams” is emotional, tender, and an absolute visual treat throughout.
Rotten Tomatoes: 95%
Stream "Train Dreams" on Netflix now
4. ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’
The latest installment in the “Knives Out” series is now playing in select theaters ahead of its Netflix debut on December 12. I’ve already seen it in cinemas, and I’m delighted to report that “Wake Up Dead Man” maintains the franchise’s consistent quality. As of writing, it’s Rotten Tomatoes’ score is actually higher than 2022’s “Glass Onion,” which is quite some achievement considering how much critics raved about “Knives Out’s” first sequel.
“Wake Up Dead Man” sees Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc travel to a small town in upstate New York to, you’ve guessed it, solve an "impossible murder." The mystery is as compelling as you’d expect from a “Knives Out” flick, but what really hooked me was its ruminations on faith. The movie’s thoughtful reflections on religion come through a new character, Rev. Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor), who is such a compelling presence that he actually steals the spotlight away from Blanc. I really can’t wait for “Knives Out 4”!
Rotten Tomatoes: 95%
Stream "Wake Up Dead Man" on Netflix from December 12
3. ‘KPop Demon Hunters’
“KPop Demon Hunters” is that rare beast: a commercial smash hit and a critical darling. In fact, while critics rate it 96%, viewers go even further with an almost-perfect 99%. This animated adventure has become the Netflix movie of 2025, and it’s not hard to see why. It combines likeable characters, eye-popping animation and original songs that will lodge themselves in your Spotify playlist for months. No wonder it’s become not just the most-watched Netflix movie of this year, but the biggest of all time.
One of the things I love most about “KPop Demon Hunters” is its simplicity. The name tells you everything you need to know. It’s a movie about a K-pop group, Huntrix, who sell out arenas by day and hunt down world-threatening demons by night. That’s a delightfully fun premise for an all-ages film, and “KPop Demon Hunters” does not waste such a simple but effective idea. The tune “Golden” also became the song of the summer (sorry, Taylor Swift).
Rotten Tomatoes: 96%
Stream "Kpop Demon Hunters" on Netflix now
2. ‘Left-Handed Girl’
“Left-Handed Girl” has been generating awards buzz since its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival back in May, and now that it’s streaming on Netflix, it’s sure to get a huge boost in interest. If the critical reception is anything to go by, it’s certainly worthy of more attention. Critics have described it as “a warm tour through Taipei distinguished by its lived-in cultural specificity and relatable family dynamics.” Expect laughter, a few tears, and good vibes.
Directed by Shih-Ching Tsou with Sean Baker, this year’s Oscar winner for Best Picture and Best Director, on co-writing duties, “Left-Handed Girl” sees a single mother with two daughters return to the bustle of Taipei after several years living in the countryside. The family opens a stall in one of the city’s busy night markets, and learn a few life lessons along the way. Oh, and also some hidden family secrets come to light to add a pinch of drama.
Rotten Tomatoes: 98%
Stream "Left-Handed Girl" on Netflix now
1. ‘Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl’
Getting and then maintaining a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes is pretty darn rare. Even the universally adored “Paddington 2” only has a 99% score, so kudos to Wallace & Gromit for keeping a flawless score almost 11 months after its early January release. I’ll admit, “Vengeance Most Fowl” isn’t my favorite claymation adventure that British animation studio Aardman has ever made (their previous feature outing “Curse of the Wererabbit” is clear at the top). However, it's still a cozy and charming movie for all ages.
The flick sees inventor Wallace create a new “smart” gnome to assist his best pooch pal with his horticulture hobby. But when the gnome goes haywire, it’s soon revealed that an old nemesis is masterminding the chaos. Packed with gentle gags, meticulously handcrafted animation (you can literally see the thumbprints on its plasticine cast), and a story that is just high-stakes enough to feel cinematic, while still being very “Wallace & Gromit,” this lovable comedy deserves its rating. But seriously, justice for “Paddington 2.”
Rotten Tomatoes: 100%
Stream "Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl" on Netflix now
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