Of course, the 20 best movies on Netflix South Africa is going to change every few years – bigger,better, and more exciting movies are released every year.
Netflix South Africa offers a captivating mix of films that traverse continents and cultures, giving viewers access to stories that inspire, challenge, and entertain.
Whether you’re cozying up for a quiet evening or diving into a weekend movie marathon, this list of 20 must-watch films—from gripping South African narratives to globally acclaimed blockbusters—will keep your watchlist fresh and fascinating.
Best Movies On Netflix South Africa
South Africa’s film industry continues to thrive, producing powerful narratives that reflect the nation’s complex history, vibrant cultures, and everyday lives. The following homegrown titles represent the best of modern and classic South African filmmaking on Netflix:
1. Silverton Siege
Inspired by real events, Silverton Siege tells the story of anti-apartheid freedom fighters who take hostages in a bank, demanding the release of Nelson Mandela. The film is fast-paced, intense, and emotionally resonant, shedding light on sacrifice, resistance, and political urgency. It’s not just a movie—it’s a bold chapter of South African history brought vividly to life.
2. I Am All Girls
This chilling crime thriller tackles the brutal reality of human trafficking in South Africa. The story follows a detective unraveling a sinister network and uncovers haunting truths along the way. Balancing suspense with emotional gravity, the film boldly speaks against exploitation and systemic injustice.
3. Seriously Single
On a lighter note, Seriously Single offers rom-com relief with a South African twist. Following the journey of two friends in Johannesburg navigating dating, heartbreak, and independence, it celebrates self-discovery and the bonds of sisterhood. Fun, flirty, and full of local flavor.
4. Catching Feelings
Set in the bustling intellectual world of Johannesburg, this dark comedy-drama follows a married academic whose life gets upended when a famous writer moves in. With witty dialogue and themes of love, betrayal, and South African middle-class life, it’s a refreshingly modern tale.
5. Tsotsi
Winner of the 2006 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, Tsotsi is a must-watch. It chronicles the redemption arc of a young street thug who unexpectedly finds himself caring for a baby. Raw and emotionally stirring, it remains a timeless reflection on poverty, violence, and the human capacity for change.
6. Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
Based on Nelson Mandela’s autobiography, this sweeping biopic stars Idris Elba in an unforgettable portrayal of one of the world’s greatest leaders. It’s a journey of resistance, resilience, and vision—a necessary watch for anyone interested in South African history.
7. Ayanda
A vibrant and visually rich story, Ayanda centers on a young woman who inherits her father’s garage and fights to keep his legacy alive. It’s a beautiful exploration of creativity, entrepreneurship, and grief, particularly within the urban landscape of Johannesburg.
8. Baby Mamas
This comedy-drama follows four women juggling parenting, careers, and love. With relatable characters and a playful tone, Baby Mamas is a celebration of motherhood that doesn’t shy away from real-life challenges.
9. Four Corners
An introspective look into Cape Town’s notorious gang culture, Four Corners blends crime drama with coming-of-age themes. Gritty and compelling, it captures a side of South Africa rarely portrayed on screen.
10. The Letter Reader
Short but striking, this 30-minute film tells the story of a young boy who reads letters for villagers and starts to understand the impact of words and human connection. It’s a poetic reminder of empathy and the power of literacy.
Top International Picks Trending in South Africa
Netflix South Africa also opens the door to critically acclaimed international films. Here are 10 movies currently buzzing with acclaim across genres:
11. The Irishman
Martin Scorsese’s epic crime saga spans decades and stars legends like Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci. It’s a masterclass in storytelling, exploring themes of loyalty, regret, and aging. A slow burn, yes—but one that’s worth every minute.
12. Marriage Story
This poignant tale of a couple navigating divorce is deeply emotional and sharply written. Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson deliver powerhouse performances in a film that explores love’s evolution and the heartache of separation.
13. The Dig
Set in 1939 England, The Dig follows an archaeologist and a widow uncovering one of the most significant burial finds in British history. Elegant and reflective, the film intertwines historical discovery with personal transformation.
14. Tell Me Who I Am
Part documentary, part psychological thriller, this film tells the haunting story of two brothers and a tragic secret buried deep in their childhood. It’s emotional, disturbing, and impossible to forget.
15. Klaus
An animated holiday classic in the making, Klaus reimagines the origin of Santa Claus with stunning visuals and heartwarming storytelling. It’s funny, touching, and perfect for both kids and adults.
16. Icarus
This explosive documentary dives into the world of sports doping, uncovering a global scandal that rocked the Olympics. It’s gripping, courageous, and investigative filmmaking at its finest.
17. Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond
Ever wonder what goes on inside the mind of Jim Carrey? This fascinating behind-the-scenes documentary shows Carrey’s extreme method acting for Man on the Moon and ponders the nature of identity and art.
18. Blue Jay
This indie gem captures a tender reunion between two former lovers. With understated performances and intimate storytelling, Blue Jay is a melancholic and beautiful portrait of lost love and nostalgia.
19. The Edge of Democracy
A political documentary rooted in Brazil’s recent turmoil, this film cleverly weaves personal insight with global consequences. It’s a sobering look at democracy under threat, and one that resonates far beyond its borders.
20. Divines
Set in the outskirts of Paris, Divines follows a teenager chasing power and success in the underworld. Energetic and emotionally raw, it explores ambition, friendship, and the high cost of dreams.
Why These Films Matter
From the streets of Soweto to the boulevards of Paris, these films reflect the universal threads that bind us—love, struggle, triumph, and change. Netflix South Africa’s diverse catalogue not only entertains but informs and inspires. Whether it’s the harsh realities of apartheid, the laughter of contemporary romance, or the unraveling of personal truths, each film offers something unique and important.
And the best part? You don’t have to leave your couch to explore worlds, cultures, and emotions that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
20 Best Movies On Netflix South Africa
1. Icarus (2017)
Directed by Bryan Fogel, Icarus (2017) is an award-winning movie that is in the “Documentary” and “Mystery” genres. This is one of the best movies on Netflix in South Africa that has been made in recent times, and you can enjoy the actions. If you are a fan of true-crime political thrillers, you should see Icarus. Simply search for your movie and start enjoying the actions
2. Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond
Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond – Featuring a Very Special, Contractually Obligated Mention of Tony Clifton (2017)
A comedy movie directed by Chris Smith. The movie remains one of the most unique and mind-blowing documentaries on Netflix. The production team invested a lot in bringing this up, and it is been enjoyed by many film lovers too. If you want to enjoy some fun stuff, go for this.
3. Blue Jay (2016)
Blue Jay (2016) is directed by Alex Lehmann with Alexandre Lehmann. The Drama-Romance movie stars the versatile Sarah Paulson, who calmly carried out the act in a convincing way, making Blue Jay a movie that can be recommended.
4. The Edge of Democracy (2019)
The Edge of Democracy (2019) is a powerful documentary, directed by Petra Costa. It opened the eyes of people to some aspects they might not know about Brazil – which is her home country, and you sure will enjoy this. Let’s get going
5. Divines (2016)
Divines (2016) was directed by some of the finest directors in the industry – Houda Benyamina (an award-winning director) and Uda Benyamina. The drama exposes the economic reality in a setting of poverty. It revealed the lives of two friends as well as their desire for freedom. You should enjoy this movie on your Netflix.
6. Virunga (2014)
Virunga (2014) is an epic documentary of war available on Netflix. Directed By Orlando von Einsiedel, the movie is exhilarating and educational, and it is recommendable too.
7. Operation Odessa (2018)
Operation Odessa (2018) is another superb movie available on Netflix. Directed by Tiller Russell, you might be surprised that some of the activities in this documentary happened for real. It started with a submarine deal, and you will see how three criminals ran the deal (which is worth $35 million)
8. Klaus (2019)
If you love animation movies, Klaus is one of the best movies on Netflix in South Africa then see Klaus. Directed by Sergio Pablos, the movie present several funny moments and well-known voiceovers like Rashida Jones and J.K. Simmons.
9. Struggle: The Life And Lost Art Of Szukalski (2018)
Struggle: The Life And Lost Art Of Szukalski (2018) was directed by Irek Dobrowolski with Ireneusz Dobrowolski. It is a superb documentary you can watch on Netflix in South Africa. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t be surprised to see some of the characters displaying some weird characters. When a man (an art collector) saw the artistic works of an unknown artist, he did research and eventually found him – Szukalski. So, basically, the movie is a collection of tapes from plenty of interviews between the collector and the main character.
10. Shéhérazade (2018)
Shéhérazade (2018) is a Drama, Romance, Thriller movie directed by Jean-Bernard Marlin and set in the notorious city of Marseille in France. The movie has a nice storyline and was adorned by superb actors.
11. The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
You can get a good laugh from The Fundamentals of Caring, directed by Rob Burnett with Robert Meyer Burnett on Netflix. It is one of the best movies on the platform and deserves to be on the list. The movie is an offbeat comedy/drama that takes you into the world of two funny people trying to overcome emotional pain.
12. My Happy Family (2017)
My Happy Family, directed by Nana Ekvtimishvili with Simon Groß, is another dramatic masterpiece you will find on Netflix. It is a beautiful film about a mother who decided to switch her life into solitude. Those who have a sacrificing mother while growing up will appreciate their efforts much better after watching this.
13. I Lost My Body
If you are a fan of exciting animation films, you should see this then. Directed by Jérémy Clapin, with Jérémy Clapin, the movie is the first-ever animated film to win the Nespresso Grand Prize. It has the reputation for being the first-ever Netflix movie to win the Prize. This should make you realize how nice the movie will be.
14. Tell Me Who I Am (2019)
Tell Me Who I Am is another fine film directed by Ed Perkins. In the movie, a man had an accident that made him lost his memory. He forgot everything about himself, except his twin brother, who was trying to make him remember his childhood.
15. Paddleton (2019)
Paddleton was directed by Alexandre Lehmann, who worked on Blue Jay. If you are a fan of Ray Romano or Mark Duplass, then you should enjoy this movie. The two were neighbors in the movie, and you should expect to see some drama in this dramatic movie
16. Private Life (2018)
Directed by Tamara Jenkins, Private Life is another exciting movie you should see on Netflix. The movie introduces viewers to a couple trying to have their own child, but they just couldn’t. They were getting frustrated but decided to go to a long extent to get their own child. The dramatic movie is in the Comedy genre and you should enjoy it.
17. Marriage Story (2019)
Marriage Story was directed by Noah Baumbach. It is a marriage story of a family (you will enjoy it if you are a fan of drama/romance. Noah Baumbach I a talented filmmaker that was nominated for the Academy Awards.
18. The Irishman (2019)
The Irishman is another superb movie available to watch on your Netflix in South Africa. You love and enjoy interesting movies? Then you should see the Irishman.
19. The Dig (2021)
The Dig is a recent movie brought up in recent times. If you want to see something that is more recent and interesting, then you should watch this movie, available on Netflix.
20. Little Women (2019)
Last on the list is the movie Little Women. Nope, this is not just for ladies and women, but anyone can enjoy the story, even men.
Related:
- Top 10 Fastest Products To Sell From Home In South Africa
- Top 10 Biggest Clothing Retailers In South Africa
- Top 10 Biggest Malls In South Africa
In conclusion, while there are several other superb movies that can be recommended for Netflix users in South Africa, you can start with these. Then perhaps, when you are done, you can then look for others! But if you want to experience some of the best movies currently available on Netflix South Africa, then go for the ones up there on this list