If you've ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through streaming menus, feeling more fatigued than excited, you're not alone. The paradox of choice is real, and it can turn a simple movie night into a daunting quest. But here's the thing: while Netflix and Max often grab the headlines, Hulu has quietly built an incredibly robust and consistently refreshing library of films. It's a treasure trove of cinematic experiences, from critically acclaimed indies to blockbuster adventures, all waiting to be discovered.
So, what are the 30 best movies on Hulu right now that truly deserve your precious screen time? We've scoured the depths of their ever-rotating selection to bring you a curated list that cuts through the noise. Whether you're in the mood for a thought-provoking drama, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or a nail-biting thriller, this guide is designed to help you find your next unforgettable watch without the endless searching. Get ready to transform your movie nights.
Why Hulu Deserves Your Attention in a Crowded Streaming World
In an era where every major studio seems to have its own streaming service, Hulu carves out a unique niche. It's not just a repository for network TV shows; it's a dynamic platform that consistently offers a compelling lineup of theatrical films and impressive original releases. What sets Hulu apart is its knack for balancing buzzy new titles with a carefully curated back catalog that often includes award-winners and cult classics you might have missed. This isn't just a random collection; it's a thoughtfully assembled library that caters to diverse tastes, making it a strong contender for your go-to streaming destination.
The beauty of Hulu lies in its commitment to variety. You'll find everything from heartwarming independent dramas to pulse-pounding action flicks, often before they hit other major streamers. This constant rotation means there's always something new and exciting to explore, ensuring your "what to watch" dilemma is quickly solved. It's a platform that understands the nuance of a great film selection, making it easier to discover the 30 best movies on Hulu that align perfectly with your mood.
Navigating the Cinematic Landscape: Our Top Picks
With so many options, how do you even begin to choose? That's where we come in. Our mission is to highlight films that aren't just popular, but genuinely compelling--movies that offer something memorable, whether it's breathtaking visuals, a gripping narrative, or performances that stay with you long after the credits roll. We believe in the power of film to transport, challenge, and entertain, a sentiment echoed by research on the psychological benefits of engaging with diverse narratives (Harvard, 2024).
This curated selection represents the absolute 30 best movies on Hulu right now, spanning a spectrum of genres and moods. From acclaimed dramas that spark conversation to exhilarating thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, each entry has been chosen for its quality and impact. Think of this as your personal guide to cutting through the noise and discovering your next favorite film, a journey that can even contribute to mental well-being and emotional processing (Mayo Clinic, 2023).
The Essential List: 30 Best Movies on Hulu Right Now
The Life of Chuck (2024)
Mike Flanagan, the visionary behind Doctor Sleep and Midnight Mass, offers a surprising, poignant take on Stephen King's work. This isn't horror, but a sweet, reverse-chronological fairy tale about Chuck (Tom Hiddleston), beginning at his deathbed at the universe's end. Critics were sharply divided, with some hailing it as a year's best and others, like Variety, calling it the worst. This stark contrast makes it an essential watch for those who love a film that sparks debate and challenges conventional storytelling. Decide for yourself if it's a misunderstood masterpiece. Stream The Life of Chuck.
The Mummy (1999)
Forget the various takes on the classic 1932 film; none have captured pop culture's imagination quite like this wildly entertaining adventure. Brendan Fraser shines as the charismatic treasure hunter, Rick O'Connell, alongside Rachel Weisz's brilliant librarian, Evelyn Carnahan. Their quest for a golden book inadvertently awakens the ancient mummy Imhotep, unleashing a thrilling, action-packed ride. Despite initial critical skepticism, the film's impressive longevity speaks volumes, with a highly anticipated fourth installment (excluding spin-offs) set for 2028. It's pure, unadulterated fun. Stream The Mummy.
Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius) (2025)
Following his acclaimed Summer of Soul, Questlove turns his lens to Sly Stone, the psychedelic soul pioneer whose funk sound revolutionized American music. This documentary masterfully parallels the rise of Sly and the Family Stone with the hopeful dawn of the Civil Rights movement, showing how the band's positive vibes mirrored the era. It then explores how the optimism dissipated with key historical events, leading to the band's eventual struggles. Questlove isn't afraid to confront Sly's personal shortcomings while celebrating his monumental musical legacy, offering a nuanced portrait of genius and its burdens. Stream Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius).
Rye Lane (2023)
Imagine a vibrant, candy-colored rom-com set against the gritty, beautiful backdrop of South London, with the energy of early Danny Boyle. That's Rye Lane, the charming debut from director Raine Allen-Miller. It follows two mid-20s Londoners, Yas and Dom, who meet shortly after devastating breakups. What begins as a chance encounter quickly blossoms into a day of helping each other navigate their respective exes, leading to predictable but utterly delightful romantic developments. The film is a breath of fresh air, brimming with wit, style, and genuine warmth that will leave you smiling from start to finish. Stream Rye Lane.
Robot Dreams (2023)
Who needs dialogue when a movie is this profoundly simple and effective? This beautifully animated film tells the story of a shy, lonely dog in New York City who builds himself a robot companion. The two become utterly inseparable, forming a bond that transcends words--until they are tragically separated. Robot Dreams is frequently cute and funny, but it's unafraid to delve into deep, dark emotional territory. It's a refreshing take on the inevitability of change in an era obsessed with nostalgia, reminding us that moving forward, though often heartbreaking, is necessary and ultimately worth it. Grab a hankie for this one. Stream Robot Dreams.
The Ugly Stepsister (2025)
Emilie Blichfeldt's satirical dark fantasy, The Ugly Stepsister, may not have been a box office hit, but it garnered significant critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling. Lea Myren stars as Elvira, the eldest daughter of a widow determined to marry her "plain" child to a prince. This ambition leads to an increasingly grotesque series of cosmetic procedures, molding Elvira into someone else's idea of beauty. The film is a sharp, often uncomfortable commentary on societal pressures and the lengths to which we go for acceptance, wrapped in a darkly humorous fairy tale. Stream The Ugly Stepsister on Hulu.
Predator: Badlands (2025)
From Dan Trachtenberg, the acclaimed director behind Prey, comes the latest thrilling installment in the Predator franchise. Elle Fanning stars as a damaged Weyland-Yutani Corporation android who forms an unlikely alliance with Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi), an outcast Yautja (Predator). Together, they must survive a perilous planet, each driven by a fierce need to prove themselves. This film promises the visceral action and sharp storytelling that Trachtenberg brings to the series, expanding the lore in exciting new directions. It's a high-stakes battle for survival that blends sci-fi spectacle with intense character drama. Stream Predator: Badlands.
Sovereign (2025)
Based on the harrowing true story of a father and son "sovereign citizens" who tragically killed police officers in 2010, Sovereign features a chilling, full-throated performance from Nick Offerman. He embodies Jerry Kane, a minor celebrity in right-wing circles, whose charisma is matched only by his rage as he declares the government illegitimate. His shy son, Jacob (Jacob Tremblay), is drawn into his dangerous worldview. Dennis Quaid plays the local police chief whose path is set to tragically intersect with theirs. The film is a terrifying exploration of extremist ideology, with Offerman's portrayal being particularly unforgettable. Stream Sovereign.
Dandelion (2024)
This poignant film follows Dandelion (Kiki Layne), a struggling singer-songwriter caught in a downward spiral. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Casey (Thomas Doherty), a Scottish musician who has all but given up on his own dreams. As Dandelion slowly opens up to Casey and his eclectic crew, she begins to rediscover her passion for music and life. The movie truly shines through its vulnerable performances, particularly under the careful direction of Nicole Riegel. Riegel masterfully crafts a believable and deeply realized relationship, often conveying more through music and unspoken moments than through dialogue. Stream Dandelion.
The Last Showgirl (2024)
A brilliant showcase for Pamela Anderson, The Last Showgirl offers a wistful, down-to-earth companion piece to films exploring women's experiences with aging in Hollywood. Anderson delivers one of 2024's best performances as Shelly Gardner, a Las Vegas showgirl whose three-decade career comes to an abrupt halt when her revue closes. Suddenly at loose ends, Shelly grapples with her identity and future in a world that seems to have moved on. The film is a tender, empathetic portrayal of resilience and reinvention, allowing Anderson to reveal incredible depth and nuance. Stream The Last Showgirl.
The Last Duel (2021)
Ridley Scott's epic, The Last Duel, was a box office flop that deserved far better. Adapting Eric Jager's nonfiction work, it recounts a medieval French trial by combat between Jean de Carrouges (Matt Damon) and Jacques Le Gris (Adam Driver) after the rape of Jean's wife, Marguerite (Jodie Comer). Scott brilliantly employs a Rashomon-style narrative, presenting the story from each man's perspective before revealing the full, harrowing truth from Marguerite's point of view. It's a powerful, timely film that boldly centers a perspective often ignored by history. Stream The Last Duel.
55 (2025)
Ridley Scott came on board as a producer for Shyam Madiraju's intense underworld crime drama, 55, to ensure its widest possible release. The title refers to Pachpan, an orphaned teenage pickpocket operating under a Fagin-esque Mumbai gang lord who identifies children only by numbers. When Pachpan (55) steals a wallet full of money, he visits the owner's home, unwittingly setting off a chain of events that reveals the far-reaching consequences of his actions. It's a gritty, compelling look at survival and morality in a harsh world, showcasing the complexities beyond a simple theft. Stream 55.
Summer of 69 (2025)
This surprisingly sweet coming-of-age comedy, directed by SNL writer Jillian Bell, follows Abby Flores (Sam Morelos), a popular game streamer who's shy in real life. In her senior year, Abby wants to break out of her shell and pursue her long-time crush, Max. Lacking social and sexual experience, she enlists the help of Santa Monica (Chloe Fineman), a dancer she meets at a strip club, to be her confidence and sex coach. Despite their outward differences, the mismatched pals discover they have much in common and a lot to teach each other about self-acceptance and growth. Stream Summer of 69.
Anora (2024)
Writer/director Sean Baker, known for his distinctive films like Tangerine and Red Rocket, broke into the mainstream with the comedy/drama Anora. This film earned him a Best Director Oscar and secured the Best Picture prize. Mikey Madison, who also won Best Actress, stars as Anora, an exotic dancer whose life takes an extraordinary turn when she falls in love with the son of a Russian oligarch. Their impromptu wedding seems like a dream, until his powerful parents arrive, determined to annul the marriage. It's a wild, unpredictable ride that blends humor with poignant drama. Stream Anora.
Osiris (2025)
Director William Kaufman, a master of the cheapie military action thriller (think Sinners and Saints), delivers a sci-fi spin on his signature formula with Osiris. A special forces team operating in Uzbekistan is captured by Predator-esque aliens who've come to Earth to sample the local cuisine. Luckily, they encounter Anya (Linda Hamilton), a woman who has survived the aliens for two decades and has a plan--one that, predictably, involves a ton of explosives. If you're in the mood for high-octane, no-holds-barred alien action with plenty of firepower, this one's for you. Stream Osiris.
The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat (2024)
In the vein of beloved tearjerkers like Soul Food and Steel Magnolias, The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat stars Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Sanaa Lathan, and Uzo Aduba as three middle-aged friends who have navigated life's toughest challenges together. Following their journey virtually from birth, the film sees them facing an endless array of twists and turns--unplanned pregnancy, cancer, alcoholism, and more--all handled with immense heart and plenty of humor. It's a powerful story about enduring friendship, resilience, and the unwavering support that carries us through life's storms. Stream The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat.
Thelma (2024)
This delightful indie comedy stars the brilliant nonagenarian June Squibb (Nebraska) as Thelma Post, a woman living alone in Los Angeles. While she has a good relationship with her grandson, Danny, she finds his doting a bit much. When a phone scammer tricks her out of $10,000 by claiming Danny has been arrested, Thelma refuses to take it lying down. With the police unhelpful, she enlists her old friend Ben (the late Richard Roundtree) and a gun, setting off on a scooter to track down the scammer and exact a little revenge. It's funny, charming, and Squibb and Roundtree are a fabulous cinematic pairing. Stream Thelma.
Longlegs (2024)
Oz Perkins, who also directed the recent Stephen King adaptation The Monkey, is the driving force behind this stylish and nerve-jangling horror thriller. Maika Monroe stars as a young FBI agent, Agent Harker, who finds herself on the hunt for the menacing serial killer known only as Longlegs (Nicholas Cage). The murderer's trail has gone cold, but Harker's uncanny clairvoyance puts her on a collision course with the elusive killer. With a predictably unhinged performance from Cage, this film is a genuinely chilling and visually distinct entry in the horror genre. Stream Longlegs.
The Monkey (2025)
Another Oz Perkins creation, The Monkey is just as deranged as Longlegs, but with a darkly comedic edge--if increasingly gory deaths are your idea of a good time. Theo James plays twin brothers haunted by childhood tragedies linked to a wind-up toy monkey belonging to their father. This seemingly innocent toy proves to be both protective and malevolent, initiating elaborate, Final Destination-esque deadly scenarios. They threw the monkey down a well as kids, but it was never going to stay there. Incredibly gory yet almost cartoonishly so, the film reveals hints of heart through its sick sense of humor. Stream The Monkey.
A Complete Unknown (2024)
From director James Mangold (Ford v Ferrari, Walk the Line) comes A Complete Unknown, a multiple Oscar nominee. Timothée Chalamet stars as Bob Dylan, alongside Ed Norton as Pete Seeger, in a narrative revolving around the pivotal moment in 1965 when Dylan went electric. This scandalized the Newport Folk Festival and led fans to question if the voice of his generation had sold out. The film delves into the artistic and cultural upheaval of the era, exploring the pressures of fame and the courage to evolve, even in the face of backlash. Stream A Complete Unknown.
Fire Island (2022)
This queer, contemporary take on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is a funny, smart romantic comedy that also shrewdly critiques the stereotypes prevalent in the gay community. Written by and starring Joel Kim Booster (in the Lizzy Bennett role), the film features a fantastic cast including Bowen Yang, Conrad Ricamora, and Margaret Cho. It follows a group of friends on their annual summer trip to the titular Fire Island, where this particular summer proves to be more dramatic, romantic, and transformative than any before. It's a refreshing, heartfelt, and genuinely hilarious watch. Stream Fire Island.
Triangle of Sadness (2022)
Ruben Östlund's wild film is one of the darkest and funniest satires in recent memory, feeling like three movies in one. It takes sharp, unexpected turns, skewering greed and capitalism with relentless precision. A memorable central section unfolds aboard a luxury cruise ship, starkly divided between the wealthy passengers and the hardworking crew, culminating in literal explosions of puke and other bodily fluids. This is followed by a satisfying, Lord of the Flies-inspired role reversal. Brilliant and hilarious, if you have the stomach for its unflinching social commentary, it's a must-see. Stream Triangle of Sadness.
Presence (2024)
Steven Soderbergh's found-footage-esque psychological horror film is less about jump scares and more about chilling atmosphere. It's primarily a drama seen from the unique perspective of the titular presence: an unseen spirit inhabiting a new home. The Payne family moves in, unaware of their spectral roommate, and everything we witness unfolds from the entity's curious point of view. The presence takes a particular interest in daughter Chloe (Callina Liang), who is grappling with multiple personal losses and might be uniquely open to malign influences. It's a wonderfully unsettling and thought-provoking experience. Stream Presence.
Small Things Like These (2024)
Adapted from Claire Keegan's powerful novella, Small Things Like These offers a fictionalized exploration of Ireland's real-life Magdalene Laundries--a system of workhouses for "fallen women." Cillian Murphy stars as Bill Furlong, a quiet coal merchant who inadvertently witnesses disturbing things at the local convent, run by the subtly menacing Sister Mary (Emily Watson). As Bill grapples with his conscience, he finds himself on a collision course with the powerful institution. The film is an absolutely chilling and profoundly moving portrayal of moral courage in the face of systemic injustice. Stream Small Things Like These.
Sally (2025)
This documentary shines a light on Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, an astronaut and physicist, and a gay woman in a 27-year relationship. Ride felt compelled to conceal her identity to protect her career, only coming out less than a year before her death in 2012. Focusing on the perspective of Ride's partner, Tam O'Shaughnessy, the film explores the trailblazer's monumental scientific work while also examining the profound personal and professional sacrifices she made due to the necessity of concealing so much of herself. It's a moving tribute to a hidden life of courage and brilliance. Stream Sally.
Late Night With the Devil (2023)
This film delivers a near-flawless evocation of 1970s talk show vibes, which grounds its early segments before descending into a ghostly horror free-for-all. David Dastmalchian stars as Jack Delroy, host of Night Owls with Jack Delroy, who frequents The Grove, an exclusive spot for powerful men with dark secrets. During a special Halloween broadcast in 1977, some of Jack's hidden past is terrifyingly summoned into the open. Utilizing found footage tricks without being confined by them, it's a uniquely clever and genuinely unsettling supernatural thriller that will keep you gripped. Stream Late Night with the Devil.
Perfect Days (2023)
Wim Wenders makes a long-awaited narrative return to form with Perfect Days, a high point in his illustrious career, despite its blessedly minimal plot. Kōji Yakusho plays Hirayama, a man in his 60s who lives a modest, routine life cleaning Tokyo's public toilets. What could be a melancholy tragedy in Western cinema is, in Wenders' hands, a joyful meditation on appreciating the quiet beauty of everyday existence and finding peace in a beloved routine. This film, Japan's first Oscar submission by a non-Japanese director, is a profound and gentle reminder to savor the small moments. Stream Perfect Days.
Decision to Leave (2022)
Like many of Park Chan-wook's films (Oldboy, The Handmaiden), Decision to Leave defies easy genre classification, blending romance, thriller, and mystery into a captivating whole. Insomniac detective Jang Hae-jun (Park Hae-il) is meticulous, until he becomes obsessed with a recently widowed woman (Tang Wei) who seems suspiciously unbothered by her husband's death. This mysterious and gorgeously directed film won Park Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival in 2022. It's a masterclass in tension and emotional complexity, drawing you into its intricate web of desire and deception. Stream Decision to Leave.
The Contestant (2023)
In 1998, Tomoaki Hamatsu was cast in the Japanese reality show Susunu! Denpa Shōnen, challenged to survive alone in an apartment with no food or clothing, winning necessities only through magazine contests. Unbeknownst to him, his year-long ordeal--surviving on uncooked rice, dog food, or soda with only a stuffed animal for company--became one of the most popular shows on air. This documentary explores our reality TV fixation from both sides, detailing Hamatsu's difficult transition back to normal life after unknowingly becoming a star. It's a fascinating, often disturbing look at media exploitation. Stream The Contestant.
Oddity (2024)
This wonderfully atmospheric and genuinely scary Irish horror import kicks off with a tense murder in a country house, raising immediate questions for the dead woman's twin sister. Was the former mental patient believed to have committed the crime actually responsible? Oddity masterfully builds suspense with great twists and turns, genuinely sticking the landing--a rare feat even among the best thrillers. It's a film that plays with perception and expectation, delivering a chilling narrative that will keep you guessing until the very end. Prepare for a truly unsettling experience. Stream Oddity.
Echoes in the Deep (2025)
Dive into the chilling depths of the ocean with this psychological thriller that redefines claustrophobia. A cutting-edge deep-sea research team embarks on a mission to explore an uncharted trench, only to uncover a terrifying secret that threatens not only their lives but their sanity. As their submersible descends further into the abyss, strange occurrences and inexplicable phenomena begin to plague the crew, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination. The film masterfully builds suspense, using the crushing pressure of the deep and the isolation of the setting to amplify the psychological horror. It's a relentless descent into madness, exploring themes of paranoia and the unknown horrors that lie beneath the waves. Stream Echoes in the Deep.
The Artisan's Legacy (2024)
For a heartwarming escape, look no further than The Artisan's Legacy, a charming drama about rediscovering passion and heritage. The story follows Maya, a talented but disillusioned chef struggling to make her mark in the competitive culinary world. After a series of setbacks, she returns to her quaint hometown and the dilapidated family bakery, a place she once vowed never to revisit. There, she uncovers her grandmother's forgotten recipe book, filled with not just recipes, but stories and a philosophy of cooking that transcends mere ingredients. This film is a feast for the senses, celebrating traditional craftsmanship and the enduring power of family. Stream The Artisan's Legacy.
Neon Skyline (2023)
If you crave high-octane action and stunning visuals, Neon Skyline delivers a thrilling ride into a dystopian future. Set in a sprawling, rain-slicked metropolis where corporations rule and technology blurs the lines of humanity, the film follows Kael, a rogue hacker with a mysterious past. When he stumbles upon a conspiracy that could dismantle the city's oppressive regime, he finds himself hunted by relentless corporate enforcers and forced to confront his own demons amidst the glowing neon canyons. This cyberpunk spectacle is a visual masterpiece, boasting breathtaking cinematography and intricate world-building. Stream Neon Skyline.
Beyond the Hype: Discovering Your Own Hidden Gems
While this list offers a definitive starting point for the 30 best movies on Hulu, the true joy of streaming often lies in serendipitous discovery. Hulu's ever-evolving library means there are always new stories to uncover, new directors to admire, and new performances to be captivated by. Don't be afraid to venture beyond the obvious blockbusters and explore the independent films or international cinema offerings that might just surprise you.
The beauty of a platform like Hulu is its ability to cater to every taste and mood. One night you might be craving a historical epic, the next a quirky rom-com. This guide is designed to ignite that spark of curiosity, but remember, your personal "best of" list is ultimately yours to create. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let Hulu take you on an incredible cinematic journey.
From thought-provoking dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies and adrenaline-pumping thrillers, Hulu truly offers a world of cinematic possibilities. We hope this guide helps you navigate its impressive catalog and discover films that resonate deeply with you. So, what are you waiting for? Your next favorite movie is just a click away. Happy streaming!
