Three Little-Known Netflix Movies You Should Watch This Weekend (April 4-6)

Tired of seeing the same recommendations on Netflix? You're not alone; the algorithm often prioritizes big hits and the most talked-about releases. However, behind the eye-catching thumbnails lies a myriad of underrated films that deserve to be discovered. These movies may not have received much hype, but they still offer impactful storylines. Whether you're looking for a suspenseful drama, a chilling dystopia, or an acclaimed war film, there are surprises ready to amaze you. It's time to set aside the usual options and give these hidden gems a chance to tell bold yet overlooked stories. Get your popcorn ready and enjoy a fun weekend with these little-known films on Netflix.

Beasts of No Nation (2015)
Set in an African country amid chaos, the story follows Agu (Abraham Attah), a boy whose childhood is torn apart by civil war. Separated from his family, Agu joins a group of child soldiers under the command of the feared Commandant (Idris Elba). Through Agu's eyes, a stark journey unfolds, revealing the devastating impact of war on the innocent. Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, this film uniquely represents the psyche of a child trapped by the horrors of conflict. Despite being critically acclaimed and awarded various honors, this 2015 film has not achieved the recognition it deserves in the realm of war cinema from the last decade. Its release, which included limited theatrical distribution, triggered a boycott from major cinema chains, limiting its exposure to a broader audience. Beasts of No Nation is available on Netflix.

The Kitchen (2023)
Set in a dystopian London in 2040, this film depicts a city transformed into a playground for millionaires, plagued by high housing prices and the elimination of social welfare. The dispossessed find refuge in "The Kitchen," the last social housing complex, where a man, Izi (Kane Robinson), encounters a 12-year-old orphan, Benji (Jedaiah Bannerman). Their relationship redefines their initial goals and leads Izi to face decisions that could impact his entire community. Directed by Daniel Kaluuya and Kibwe Tavares, the most notable aspect of The Kitchen is its world-building, offering an impressive portrayal of a society on the brink of collapse. The film presents a futuristic version of London marked by extreme contrasts, with bright skyscrapers overshadowing crumbling buildings, reflecting the gap between wealth and poverty. While the setting may threaten to overshadow the plot, the narrative remains a powerful experience, especially for fans of films that critique systemic inequality. The Kitchen is also available on Netflix.

Solo (2018)
On the Spanish island of Fuerteventura, the real and thrilling story of surfer Álvaro Vizcaíno (played by Alain Hernández) is presented. The plot follows Álvaro, who, after a night of excess and personal conflicts, embarks on a solo surfing expedition to reflect. However, a mistake leads him to fall from a cliff, suffering severe injuries that leave him stranded on an isolated beach with little hope of immediate rescue. Amidst the relentless nature and his past decisions, Álvaro endures over 48 hours of physical and mental agony as he fights for survival. Given that the same year saw the release of a Solo in a galaxy far, far away that gained significant notoriety, it’s no wonder this Canary tale has gone unnoticed. Directed by Hugo Stuven, this survival drama offers a visually striking exploration of a man's life—his regrets, his relationships, and more. Its non-linear narrative may pull viewers away from the intensity of the struggle for life, but it also adds necessary layers to the story that will surely have anyone rooting for Álvaro in his ultimate journey. Solo is available on Netflix.