10 Best Underrated Movies Recently Added to Netflix

Many people enjoy spending evenings watching Netflix. This is thanks to its wide variety of shows and movies. Since Netflix began creating its own original content, it’s consistently added more options for viewers, becoming a leading streaming service with high-quality entertainment.

Each month, Netflix consistently updates its selection of movies and shows, adding new titles and removing others. This means there’s always something fresh to watch, whatever you’re in the mood for. Recently, a number of hidden gems have been added that are worth checking out.

Here are 10 underrated movies to check out that were added to Netflix recently.

‘Caramelo’ (2025)

Pedro, a talented chef with dreams of opening his own restaurant, receives a life-altering diagnosis: a terminal illness. Just when things seem darkest, he finds an unexpected connection with a dog named Caramelo. Together, they embark on a journey as Pedro searches for purpose and meaning in the face of his limited time.

The Unbreakable Bond Between a Man and His Dog

Although Caramelo gained some popularity on Netflix in certain countries, it generally didn’t stand out among the many international shows available. However, Caramelo is special because of its heartfelt story, skillfully combining humor and drama to create a truly moving experience. And for dog lovers, it’s a definite must-see, beautifully portraying the special connection between people and their pets.

‘404’ (2024)

404, also called 404 Run Run, tells the story of Nakrob, a dishonest house flipper who sets his sights on the abandoned Sukhee Nirun hotel for a new scheme. However, his plans are disrupted by the ghost of a woman named Lalita, who is determined to protect the property. As Nakrob tries to get rid of the ghost and continue his work, he uncovers her sad history, which forces him to question his own actions and the ethics of his business.

A Haunted House with Heart

If you enjoy horror comedies with a unique style, this Thai film is a delightful find. It avoids relying on typical jump scares, opting instead for humor derived from its quirky characters and bizarre supernatural events. Beyond the laughs, the story also offers a surprisingly touching look at one character’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

‘IHostage’ (2025)

Although it didn’t receive worldwide attention, the film IHostage is based on a real event: a 2022 hostage situation at an Apple Store in Amsterdam’s Leidseplein Square. The movie dramatizes what happened, starring Soufiane Moussouli as Ammar Ajar, who holds Ilian Petrov (played by Admir Šehović) hostage for five hours, demanding €200 million in cryptocurrency in return.

Based on Real Events

Like many international shows on Netflix, this Dutch crime thriller didn’t become a mainstream hit, but it appealed to a specific audience and those familiar with the region. It’s a gripping and well-made dramatization of actual events. The filmmakers prioritized realism, carefully recreating the story, which helped draw viewers into the strange case and reveal new details. While the film isn’t perfect, true crime fans will likely consider it a hidden gem on Netflix.

‘Alpha’ (2018)

Set during the Ice Age over 20,000 years in the past, Alpha tells the story of Keda, a young hunter portrayed by Kodi Smit-McPhee. After being wounded on a hunt, Keda is left behind to fend for himself. He unexpectedly forms a powerful bond with a wolf, and together they struggle to survive and return to Keda’s people.

An Engaging Tale of Survival and the Early Bond Between Canines and People

Albert Hughes’ film is a beautifully shot story imagining the very beginning of the relationship between humans and dogs. When it came out, it was celebrated for its immersive visuals, and special IMAX screenings really drew audiences into the moving story. However, it didn’t make a lot of money at the box office and faded from public conversation by the end of 2018. Despite this, it remains a touching film that pet owners are likely to especially enjoy.

‘The Hating Game’ (2021)

Lucy Hutton and Josh Templeman start as professional rivals, but when their companies merge, they’re forced to work together. Despite their clashing personalities, they make a bet: they’ll both apply for a promotion, and the loser has to leave the company. However, as they spend more time together, they begin to see each other in a new light and unexpectedly fall for one another.

Enemy to Frenemy to Romantic Interest

If you enjoy classic romantic comedies, The Hating Game is a delightful and predictable choice. Lucy Hale and Austin Stowell have great chemistry as characters who start as rivals and eventually fall in love. The movie features witty banter and a sweet, heartwarming story, offering a feel-good experience with a focus on positive values and genuine charm.

‘Cell 211’ (2009)

Juan Oliver begins his first day as a prison guard amidst a full-blown riot, quickly losing control of the facility. Unrecognized as staff, he pretends to be a prisoner to survive, falling under the protection of Malamadre, a notorious and dangerous inmate. As the situation worsens and hostages are taken, Juan must navigate shifting loyalties to protect himself and maintain his moral compass.

Finding Humanity in the Darkest Corners

Fans of realistic crime thrillers will likely enjoy Daniel Monzón’s Cell 211, a tense and dramatic film set within the Spanish prison system. While the movie depicts a bleak and fast-moving situation, it also delves into the emotional story of a man fighting to survive and the complex line between right and wrong. The film also offers a thought-provoking look at power structures from a unique cultural viewpoint. Netflix later created a limited series, Celda 211, based on the film, and it’s a compelling show that doesn’t get enough attention.

‘The Outrun’ (2024)

After battling addiction and completing a 90-day rehab program, Rona (Saoirse Ronan) goes back to her childhood home in the Orkney Islands of Scotland. The film, The Outrun, depicts her journey of recovery, which includes mending relationships with her parents and ultimately finding independence and self-confidence in a secluded setting.

A Touching Tale of Self-Love and Recovery

I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about The Outrun, especially Saoirse Ronan’s incredible performance, and I can see why. While it’s likely to stay within the indie film world thanks to its unconventional, non-linear storytelling and deep focus on character, I think that’s a real shame because this film deserves to be seen by more people. It’s a visually beautiful movie – the way they capture nature really complements the story of personal recovery. What I appreciated most is that it avoids the typical tropes you find in films about addiction. Instead of dwelling on the darkness, The Outrun is a surprisingly poetic and hopeful look at growth and learning. It’s a film that stays with you, and I highly recommend checking it out.

‘Demon City’ (2025)

Shuhei Sakata was a highly skilled hitman who wanted to retire and finally be with his family after completing one last job. But he was betrayed, and his family was killed, leaving him paralyzed. After years of being unable to move, Shuhei slowly regains his physical abilities and memories, and transforms into a vengeful force determined to make those who wronged him pay.

An Over-the-Top Tale of Bloody Revenge

Despite a complicated storyline hindering its widespread appeal, Demon City offers over-the-top, intense action that builds to a wild and overblown finale. It’s packed with blood and some over-the-top deaths, and the plot is fairly predictable. However, once the action gets going and the body count rises, Demon City is undeniably fun and entertaining.

‘Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital’ (2024)

Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital follows a group of Filipino actors, celebrities, and YouTubers who participate in a staged ghost hunt at a supposedly haunted hospital in Taiwan. They’re hoping to create a popular live stream, but quickly discover the hospital has a dark history – previous paranormal investigators have mysteriously died there. It doesn’t take long for the group to realize the terrifying stories are real, and they’re facing genuine supernatural dangers and ancient, sinister forces.

An Underrated Found Footage Horror Movie from the Philippines

If you enjoy international found-footage horror, you’ll notice similarities between Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital and the hit film Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum. Both movies excel at creating a truly frightening experience with a suspenseful mood, creepy backstory, and lots of startling scares. Strange Frequencies doesn’t waste time with drawn-out plots – the characters quickly face danger, making it ideal for viewers who want fast-paced thrills and chills.

‘A Little White Lie’ (2023)

Inspired by Chris Belden’s novel Shriver, A Little White Lie tells the story of Schriver, a struggling handyman whose life takes an unexpected turn when people mistake him for a famous author with the same name. Instead of correcting them, Schriver plays along, enjoying the newfound attention, which includes a literary festival and a romance with an English professor (played by Kate Hudson). But as the deception grows, his life becomes more complicated and his chances at real happiness are threatened.

A Little Rocky But Utterly Charming

While A Little White Lie received a somewhat mixed response from critics and viewers – some found the story felt rushed and the characters weren’t fully developed – it’s still worth checking out. Michael Shannon’s performance is outstanding, and the film tackles a relatable theme: feeling like a fraud. Its quirky humor gives it a unique, independent feel. It won’t appeal to all tastes, but it’s definitely worth a watch, especially since it’s available on Netflix.

2025-11-01 03:37