More than two decades after its theatrical release, The Italian Job is proving that a well-executed heist never goes out of style. The 2003 crime caper, starring Jason Statham, Charlize Theron, and Mark Wahlberg, has quietly become one of Netflix's most-watched movies worldwide in June 2026, according to streaming data from FlixPatrol.
Directed by F. Gary Gray, the film is a loose remake of the 1969 British classic starring Michael Caine. While the original had a cult following, Gray's version brought the story to a new generation with a star-studded cast and a modern sensibility. The movie follows a team of thieves who pull off an elaborate gold heist in Venice, only to be betrayed by one of their own. The rest of the film is a high-octane chase through the streets of Los Angeles, complete with Mini Coopers and a memorable subway finale.
At the time of its release, The Italian Job earned a solid 72% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its charismatic ensemble. The consensus reads: “Despite some iffy plot elements, The Italian Job succeeds in delivering an entertaining modern take on the original 1969 heist film, thanks to a charismatic cast.” It grossed $176 million worldwide against a $60 million budget, making it a modest but undeniable hit.
The film's resurgence on Netflix comes amid a broader trend of early-2000s heist movies finding new life on streaming. Just as Jeremy Allen White's indie drama recently found a second wind on the platform, The Italian Job is now riding a wave of nostalgia. Its success also mirrors the recent streaming performance of Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon, which has similarly climbed the charts despite mixed critical reception.
For Jason Statham, The Italian Job remains a key early role in his career, showcasing his charisma and action chops before he became a global action star. Charlize Theron, meanwhile, brought a cool, capable presence to the role of the safecracker, while Edward Norton chewed scenery as the duplicitous villain. The supporting cast, including Seth Green, Mos Def, and Donald Sutherland, adds depth and humor.
A sequel, tentatively titled The Brazilian Job, was discussed for years but never materialized. Screenwriter David Twohy eventually confirmed that the project had stalled, leaving fans to wonder what could have been. Still, the original film remains a fan favorite, and its current Netflix run is proof that some movies only get better with age.
As of late June 2026, The Italian Job sits among the top titles on Netflix, trailing only the romantic comedy Office Romance. For those who haven't seen it in a while—or at all—now is the perfect time to revisit this slick, stylish heist film. And if you're in the mood for more streaming recommendations, check out Hugh Jackman's Song Sung Blue, which is also making waves on Netflix this month.
