As September winds down, Netflix is serving up a trio of films that cater to wildly different tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a brooding drama, a high-octane thrill ride, or a feel-good romance, this week's streaming slate has you covered. Here are three movies that deserve a spot in your queue from September 28 to October 2, 2026.
1. The Devil All the Time (2020)
Robert Pattinson continues his reign as one of Hollywood's most daring actors. With his new film Primetime fresh in theaters and Dune: Part Three on the horizon, now is the perfect time to revisit one of his most underrated performances. In The Devil All the Time, Pattinson plays the venomous Reverend Preston Teagardin, a role that showcases his ability to steal scenes with chilling precision. He stars alongside Tom Holland, who delivers a harrowing turn as a young man confronting the violence that surrounds him in rural America. This isn't light viewing—it's a dark, immersive experience that demands your full attention. If you appreciate gritty storytelling that doesn't pull punches, this is your pick of the week.
2. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Tom Cruise is back in the spotlight with Digger, his first English-language film since 2015's The Revenant, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu. But before you catch that, revisit the film that reminded everyone why Cruise is a bona fide movie star. Top Gun: Maverick isn't just a sequel; it's a cinematic event that many credit with saving theaters after the pandemic. Cruise reprises his role as Maverick, now a veteran instructor training a new generation of pilots while battling his own demons. Directed by Joseph Kosinski and written by Christopher McQuarrie, this Oscar-winning blockbuster delivers breathtaking aerial sequences and genuine emotional depth. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves big-screen spectacle—and with a follow-up in development, there's no better time to reacquaint yourself with Maverick.
3. People We Meet on Vacation (2026)
If you need a break from dark dramas and fighter jets, People We Meet on Vacation offers a delightful escape. Based on Emily Henry's bestselling novel, this 2026 rom-com follows Poppy (Emily Bader) and Alex (Tom Blyth), two best friends whose annual trips together start to spark something more. The film's success hinges on the chemistry between its leads, and Bader and Blyth deliver in spades. With a supporting cast that includes Lucien Laviscount, Sarah Catherine Hook, and Jameela Jamil, this heartfelt and hilarious movie is guaranteed to leave you smiling. It's the perfect way to add a little joy to your week.
For more streaming recommendations, check out our list of the best thrillers on Netflix and our guide to Mike Flanagan's Oculus, which is also haunting the platform this month. And if you're in the mood for something nostalgic, Conan the Barbarian is now streaming.
