Move over, John Wick — there's a new action hero in town, and she's cleaning house. Daisy Ridley, best known for her role as Rey in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, has quietly become one of the most talked-about stars on streaming this June. Her 2025 action thriller Cleaner, co-starring Clive Owen, is experiencing a massive resurgence on Prime Video, and it's easy to see why.
Directed by Martin Campbell (Casino Royale, GoldenEye), Cleaner follows Ridley as a former special forces operative turned high-end crime scene cleaner. When a routine job goes sideways, she finds herself entangled in a conspiracy that forces her to use her lethal skills to survive. The film has been described as a grittier, more grounded take on the action genre, with Ridley delivering a performance that rivals Keanu Reeves' iconic hitman.
While the film initially flew under the radar during its theatrical release, its arrival on Prime Video has sparked a streaming frenzy. According to recent data, Cleaner has climbed into the platform's top 10 most-watched titles, drawing comparisons to other sleeper hits like Ridley Scott's 'Alien: Earth' Becomes Hulu's Sleeper Sci-Fi Hit in June 2026. The film's success is a testament to the power of streaming in reviving underappreciated gems.
What Makes 'Cleaner' Stand Out?
Unlike many action films that rely on flashy CGI and over-the-top stunts, Cleaner takes a more visceral approach. Campbell's direction emphasizes practical effects and tight choreography, giving each fight scene a raw, bone-crunching intensity. Ridley trained extensively for the role, performing most of her own stunts, which adds an authenticity that fans of the John Wick series will appreciate.
The film also benefits from a strong supporting cast. Clive Owen plays a morally ambiguous mentor figure, while rising star Taz Skylar (One Piece) delivers a scene-stealing performance as a street-smart informant. The chemistry between Ridley and Owen elevates the story beyond a simple revenge plot, adding layers of emotional depth.
For those who missed it in theaters, Cleaner is now streaming exclusively on Prime Video. If you're looking for more underrated action flicks, check out our list of Forgotten Netflix Action Gems That Are Flawless From Start to Finish.
A New Chapter for Daisy Ridley
Since her Star Wars days, Ridley has been selective about her roles, choosing projects that challenge her range. Cleaner marks a bold departure from the sci-fi blockbuster world, proving she can hold her own in a gritty, R-rated action thriller. The film's streaming success could open doors for a sequel, with fans already clamoring for more.
In an era where streaming platforms are constantly competing for attention, Cleaner serves as a reminder that quality action cinema can still find its audience. Whether you're a die-hard Ridley fan or just in the mood for a pulse-pounding thriller, this is one clean-up job you won't want to miss.
