As we wrap up July 2025, Netflix continues to deliver a stellar lineup of films that cater to every mood and taste. With theaters packed with blockbusters like Fantastic Four: First Steps, Jurassic World Rebirth, and Superman, Netflix offers a cozy alternative for those looking to relax at home. Whether you're craving heartfelt drama, laugh-out-loud comedy, or animated adventures, our picks for the five best movies to stream this week have you covered. Here's why these films stand out, complete with industry insights and critical context.
1. Cora Bora (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes: 78% | IMDb: 5.7/10
Release Date: June 15, 2023
Successful comedian Megan Stalter takes on her first lead role in this refreshing comedy-drama. Cora Bora follows Cora, a woman who returns home to win back her girlfriend, only to uncover much more than she bargained for—think heartache, trauma, and self-discovery wrapped in sharp humor. Collider's Emily Bernard called it “a comedy soaked in heartache,” and she's not wrong. Stalter, known for her breakout roles in Hacks and Netflix's Too Much, delivers a performance that's both hilarious and deeply moving. This under-the-radar gem is perfect for those seeking a fresh take on modern relationships, with a narrative that feels like a late-night chat with a witty friend.
Why It Works: Stalter's ability to balance comedy with raw emotion elevates Cora Bora beyond typical rom-com fare. Its modest 78% on Rotten Tomatoes belies its emotional resonance, making it a sleeper hit worth discovering.
2. The Room Next Door (2024)
Rotten Tomatoes: 85% | IMDb: 7.8/10
Release Date: October 18, 2024
Pedro Almodóvar's first full-length English-language film is a masterclass in psychological drama. Starring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton, The Room Next Door explores the bittersweet reunion of two former colleagues under circumstances that tug at the heartstrings. Almodóvar's signature vibrant cinematography and emotional depth shine through, with Moore and Swinton delivering immersive performances that balance hope and heartache. This film is a contemplative escape, ideal for viewers who want a story that lingers long after the credits roll.
Industry Insight: Almodóvar's shift to English-language filmmaking marks a bold new chapter for the Spanish auteur, whose work has long been a staple at festivals like Cannes. The film's 85% Rotten Tomatoes score reflects its critical acclaim, positioning it as a must-watch for art-house enthusiasts.
3. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
Rotten Tomatoes: 66% | IMDb: 7.2/10
Release Date: July 9, 2004
A cornerstone of 2000s comedy, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy remains a cultural touchstone. Will Ferrell's iconic portrayal of Ron Burgundy, a pompous news anchor facing a changing industry, is packed with quotable lines and unforgettable scenes—like the legendary newsroom brawl. Despite a modest 66% from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, its 86% audience score speaks to its enduring appeal. Supported by comedy heavyweights like Paul Rudd, David Koechner, and Steve Carell, this Adam McKay-directed classic is a guaranteed laugh-fest. If you need a pick-me-up, Anchorman delivers, 60% of the time, every time.
Why It's Still Relevant: In an era where comedy often leans on nostalgia, Anchorman's sharp satire of media and gender dynamics feels surprisingly fresh. Its availability on Netflix makes it an easy choice for a fun night in.
4. KPop Demon Hunters (2025)
Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 8.2/10
Release Date: June 20, 2025
This animated musical fantasy has taken Netflix by storm since its June 20, 2025, release. KPop Demon Hunters follows K-pop superstars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, who moonlight as demon hunters protecting their fans from supernatural threats. Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film blends vibrant animation, catchy K-pop tunes, and thrilling action. With a stellar voice cast including Arden Cho and Ahn Hyo-seop, it's no surprise it's topped Netflix's global charts, racking up 82 million views in just four weeks. Its 96% Rotten Tomatoes score and 92% audience rating cement its status as a cultural phenomenon.
Industry Context: Produced by Sony Pictures Animation, KPop Demon Hunters taps into the global K-pop craze, with its soundtrack dominating Billboard charts. As Variety noted, its success signals a growing appetite for culturally rooted animation, challenging studios to think beyond traditional tropes.
5. Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (2025)
Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 8.5/10
Release Date: January 3, 2025
Aardman Animations' beloved stop-motion duo returns in this delightful adventure, released on January 3, 2025. In Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, Gromit must save Wallace when his latest invention—a “smart” gnome named Norbot—goes rogue, manipulated by the villainous Feathers McGraw. With a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 97% audience score, this film is a masterclass in charm, humor, and craftsmanship. Directed by Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham, it's a nostalgic yet timely critique of overreliance on technology, wrapped in Aardman's signature wit.
Why It Stands Out: The film's critical acclaim, including nominations for Academy Awards and BAFTAs, underscores Aardman's enduring legacy. Its 79-minute runtime is packed with sight gags and heart, making it a perfect family watch that appeals to all ages.
Why These Films?
This curated list blends recent releases with a timeless classic, offering a snapshot of Netflix's diverse catalog. Cora Bora and The Room Next Door deliver emotional depth, while Anchorman provides pure comedic relief. KPop Demon Hunters and Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl showcase animation's versatility, from high-energy musicals to cozy claymation. Together, they reflect Netflix's strategy of balancing fresh originals with beloved catalog titles, ensuring broad appeal.
Final Thoughts
As a film analyst who's seen trends come and go, I can say these five films capture what makes cinema special—stories that entertain, provoke, and connect. Netflix's ability to deliver such variety is a testament to its dominance in streaming. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let these movies light up your week.
Which of these films is your top pick? Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this list with fellow movie buffs, and check back for more curated recommendations on Filmofilia.com.
