Fede Álvarez has become a household name in horror, thanks to his work on Alien: Romulus and the Evil Dead remake. But before those, he delivered a gripping home-invasion thriller that turned the genre on its head: Don't Breathe. If you haven't seen it yet, now's the time—because it's officially leaving Netflix at the end of August 2026.
According to the streaming giant, Don't Breathe will be removed from the platform on August 31, 2026. After that, it's unclear where the film will land next, so catching it before the month ends is your best bet.
A Thriller That Paid Off Big
Released in 2016, Don't Breathe was a massive success, grossing over $157 million worldwide against a modest $9.9 million budget—that's more than 15 times its production costs. The film's clever premise and relentless tension made it a favorite among critics and audiences alike, earning an 88% critics' score and a 79% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The story follows three young thieves who break into the home of a blind war veteran, expecting an easy score. But they soon realize the man is far more dangerous than they imagined, and they become the hunted. It's a twisty, nerve-wracking cat-and-mouse game that flips the predator-prey dynamic.
Álvarez, who co-wrote and directed the film, reunited with Evil Dead star Jane Levy for the lead role, alongside Dylan Minnette (of 13 Reasons Why fame) and Stephen Lang, who delivers a chilling performance as the blind veteran.
Why You Should Watch Before It's Gone
If you're a fan of mind-bending thrillers, Don't Breathe is a must-watch. It's a masterclass in suspense, using silence and darkness to create an atmosphere of dread. The film also spawned a sequel, Don't Breathe 2, but the original remains the standout.
Álvarez's career has only soared since, with Alien: Romulus becoming one of the most talked-about horror films of 2024. He's also been linked to other projects, but his early work like Don't Breathe shows why he's one of the genre's most exciting voices.
So, before August 31 rolls around, make sure to add Don't Breathe to your watchlist. It's the kind of intense, edge-of-your-seat experience that stays with you long after the credits roll.
And if you're looking for more thrills after that, check out other streaming options like You're Next or Liam Neeson's underrated thriller on Netflix. But don't wait too long—Don't Breathe is leaving soon.
