World War II continues to be a rich vein for Hollywood, with stories ranging from epic battles to intimate acts of resistance. While blockbusters like Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk and Oppenheimer dominate the conversation, some gripping tales have flown under the radar. One such film is Anthropoid, a tense WWII thriller starring Cillian Murphy and Jamie Dornan, which is finally getting its due on streaming.
Directed by Sean Ellis, Anthropoid was released in 2016 to modest box office returns—grossing under $5.5 million worldwide—but it has since gained a cult following for its harrowing depiction of one of the war's most daring resistance missions. Now, the film is set to reach a wider audience when it arrives on Netflix in the United States on June 4, 2026.
A Real-Life Mission of Daring and Sacrifice
The film is based on the true story of Operation Anthropoid, a covert mission to assassinate SS officer Reinhard Heydrich, the third-highest-ranking Nazi after Hitler and Himmler. Heydrich was a key architect of the Final Solution, and his brutal rule over Czechoslovakia made him a prime target for the Allied resistance.
Murphy plays Josef Gabčík, a Czechoslovak soldier parachuted into Prague alongside Jan Kubiš (Dornan). The pair must navigate a city under tight Nazi control, with limited resources and the constant threat of betrayal. The film captures the tension of their mission, blending historical accuracy with edge-of-your-seat suspense.
Critical Reception and Streaming Revival
Upon its release, Anthropoid earned mixed reviews, holding a 67% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised the performances—especially Murphy and Dornan's chemistry—but noted the film's uneven pacing. The consensus called it "a compelling and moving interpretation of a largely forgotten moment in European history."
Despite its initial underperformance, the film has found new life on streaming platforms. It was added back to Prime Video in February 2026 after a brief removal, and its upcoming Netflix debut marks a significant push for the title. For fans of historical thrillers, this is a chance to see Murphy in a role that predates his Oppenheimer fame, showcasing his ability to anchor a tense, character-driven war drama.
If you're looking for more edge-of-your-seat action, check out our list of 7 Action Thrillers That Outgun John Wick for similar high-stakes entertainment.
Why 'Anthropoid' Deserves a Second Look
In an era where WWII epics often focus on grand battles or famous figures, Anthropoid zeroes in on a small, desperate operation that had enormous consequences. The assassination of Heydrich led to brutal Nazi reprisals, but it also boosted Allied morale and proved that resistance was possible. The film doesn't shy away from the moral complexities and human cost of war.
For fans of Murphy's recent work in Peaky Blinders or Dornan's turn in The Fall, Anthropoid offers a gritty, grounded performance from both actors. It's a reminder that sometimes the most powerful war stories are the ones that don't make headlines—until now.
Mark your calendars: Anthropoid streams on Netflix starting June 4, 2026. For more streaming recommendations, see how Liam Neeson's 'Retribution' Finds Streaming Redemption on Netflix in July 2026.
