Netflix top movies right now: New arrivals and weekend must‑watches (updated Feb. 17, 2026)
As of 5: 00 PM ET on 17 February 2026, the streaming charts are a mosaic of high‑stakes spy cinema, pulse‑pounding horrors and regionally rooted comedies and dramas. New theatrical carryovers are driving big viewership, while returning series and international mysteries continue to pull global audiences into binge cycles. If you’re scrolling for a weekend pick, here’s what’s dominating attention and how to choose.
Big‑budget spy thrills and why they’re topping the charts
A recently released spy action picture that completed its theatrical run has surged into the top ranks on the service. The title’s cinematic production values and star attachments helped it translate box office momentum into streaming traction quickly. Its blend of undercover operations, tense setpieces and a politically charged edge has sparked debate among viewers about pacing and narrative ambition, which in turn keeps the film near the top of daily lists.
What’s notable is how star power still determines early streaming lift: films that arrived with strong marketing and recognizable casts are converting curiosity into extended viewing. Expect similar titles to rise in the coming days — the leaderboard is responding not just to new arrivals but to what viewers are talking about next.
Comfort viewing vs. dark thrills: two weekend picks worth your attention
For audiences seeking a cozy, familiar watch, last year’s big‑screen live‑action take on a beloved animated franchise is a comfortable choice. While many critics and viewers will always prefer the animated original, this remake’s high production values and committed performances make it an unexpectedly satisfying reimagining. The film’s warm world‑building and a sequel on the horizon make it a solid option for viewers who want something that leans nostalgic without feeling hollow.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, a 2021 supernatural‑tinged horror has reemerged on streaming as a tense counterprogramming option. Centered on a young protagonist abducted by a terrifying antagonist, the film leans heavily into suspense and delivers a finale that has earned strong word‑of‑mouth. If your weekend mood skews toward chill‑your-bones terror rather than date‑night comfort, this film is an effective choice — and it pairs well with a horror deep‑dive if you’re in the mood to binge more of the genre.
International fare and returning series keeping the charts diverse
Beyond global blockbusters, regional series and international mysteries continue to drive cross‑market interest. A gritty Punjabi crime drama has returned with a new season, bringing back the atmospheric storytelling and layered characters that first earned it attention. Meanwhile, a Korean mystery released on 13 February 2026 (ET) has quickly become a water‑cooler conversation starter: its blend of psychological suspense and procedural investigation is appealing to viewers who prefer puzzle‑driven, slow‑burn narratives.
For lighter viewing, a Telugu comedy‑drama and a Tamil political satire are steady performers in regional charts, offering tonal relief from darker entrants. These titles underscore a broader audience shift: subtitles and regional storytelling are now front‑line drivers of engagement, not niche afterthoughts.
How to pick: if you want kinetic, plot‑driven entertainment, prioritize the spy action titles and hard‑edged thrillers near the top. If you prefer character and mystery, the Korean puzzle drama is a strong bet. And when you need a palate cleanser, regional comedies and satirical dramas provide charm and emotional payoff. Expect the leaderboard to keep shifting as new arrivals land and word‑of‑mouth reshuffles priorities — for now, the mix offers something for every weekend mood.
