As the box office heats up with new releases like Other Mommy and Street Fighter, sometimes the best entertainment is just a click away on your favorite streaming service. This weekend, Netflix has a trio of films that cater to every mood—from wild comedy to gripping drama to heartfelt comedy. Here are our top picks for October 17, 2026.
Cocaine Bear (2023)
If you're in the mood for something completely off-the-wall, Cocaine Bear is the movie for you. Directed by Elizabeth Banks, this comedy-thriller is inspired by a bizarre true story from 1985, when a black bear ingested a duffel bag full of cocaine. What follows is a chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly tense ride as a group of cops, criminals, tourists, and teenagers find themselves in the path of the drug-fueled beast.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Keri Russell, Alden Ehrenreich, O'Shea Jackson Jr., Brooklynn Prince, and Margo Martindale. It also features one of the final performances of the late Ray Liotta, adding a bittersweet note to the madness. With a 65% Rotten Tomatoes score, it's not a critical darling, but it's an absolute blast to watch—perfect for a weekend movie night.
Heat (1995)
For those who prefer their crime dramas with a side of cinematic history, Heat is a must-watch. Directed by Michael Mann, this epic crime thriller stars Robert De Niro and Al Pacino in their first on-screen pairing, delivering a tense cat-and-mouse game between a master thief and a dedicated detective. The film's famous bank heist scene is still considered one of the best action sequences ever put to film.
Despite being snubbed at the Academy Awards, Heat has earned a legendary status among movie fans. Its nearly three-hour runtime flies by, thanks to Mann's masterful pacing and a stellar supporting cast that includes Diane Venora, Natalie Portman, Amy Brenneman, and Val Kilmer. With a sequel finally in the works, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Christian Bale, and Stephen Graham, now is the perfect time to revisit this classic. If you're a fan of crime epics, you might also enjoy Goodfellas' opening line and its impact on the genre.
Babes (2024)
Switching gears to something more heartfelt, Babes is a comedy-drama that explores friendship, motherhood, and the chaos of modern life. Directed by Pamela Adlon in her feature debut, the film stars Ilana Glazer as Eden, a woman who decides to have a baby on her own after a one-night stand. Her lifelong best friend Dawn, played by Michelle Buteau, is by her side, but their bond is tested as they navigate the challenges of adulthood in New York City.
With an 87% Rotten Tomatoes score, Babes has been praised for its honest and hilarious take on friendship and parenthood. Glazer and Buteau have great chemistry, and Adlon's direction brings a fresh, authentic voice to the screen. It's a feel-good movie with real emotional depth, making it a great choice for a cozy weekend watch.
If you're looking for more streaming recommendations, check out what's new on Netflix this month, including Josh Hartnett's 'Below' and the first three seasons of 'From'. Happy streaming!
