Remember last fall? Netflix was promoting their upcoming major blockbuster film “Bright.” At the time, people viewed Netflix films as either big-budget disasters, small (but quality) indie films, or Adam Sandler “comedies.” Needless to say, the stigma around Netflix Original Films was pretty horrible. Now, a year later, there’s no “Bright” on the horizon. Instead, we have not just one or two quality films coming to the streaming service, but we actually have enough to justify a Netflix Film Festival.
Filmmakers like Nicole Holofcener, Haifaa al-Mansour, Jeremy Saulnier, Gareth Evans, Paul Greengrass, Morgan Neville, David Mackenzie, and the Coen Brothers all have new films coming to the streaming service in the final months of 2018. Oh yeah, and Netflix is going to have the final film from a little-known filmmaker named Orson Welles. Suddenly that $10 per month subscription fee sounds like a steal.
So, let’s take a moment to highlight some of the big films hitting Netflix over the next few months. These are the films that not only will keep you glued to your couch, but will also probably be in the discussion around awards time. When your non-cinephile friend comes to you and complains there’s nothing good on Netflix, you’ll be waiting with a laundry list of must-see films.
So, let’s begin the 1st annual Netflix Film Festival, coming to a living room near you!
“The Land of Steady Habits”
Release Date: 9/14
Filmmaker Nicole Holofcener is not quite the household name just yet. But with a strong filmography, including “Friends with Money” and “Enough Said,” combined with strong TV work on “One Mississippi” and “Orange is the New Black,” the director is proving that she’s a cherished treasure among film fans. And her latest film, “The Land of Steady Habits” is sure to keep that streak going. With a cast that includes Ben Mendelsohn, Edie Falco, Connie Britton, and Thomas Mann, this is the perfect chance for people to discover the joy that is Nicole Holofcener.
“The Angel”
Release Date: 9/14
For those hoping for something a bit more conspiratorial, look no further. Filmmaker Ariel Vromen’s highly-anticipated “The Angel” is going to be your fall’s answer for those wanting a heavy dose of political intrigue, with a heaping helping of suspense and conspiracies. Starring Marwan Kenzari and Toby Kebbell, this film looks incredible
“Nappily Ever After”
Release Date: 9/21
Filmmaker Haifaa al-Mansour burst onto the scene with her incendiary film “Wadjda.” After that, she made her English-language debut with last year’s “Mary Shelley.” Now, the Saudi filmmaker returns with her debut on Netflix with the film “Nappily Ever After.” While the film might feel slight on first glance, with typical rom-com tropes abound, the Sanaa Lathan-starrer has that extra bit of heart and cultural significance that might sneak up on an audience and teach them a thing or two.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xh9XFxo2Hg
