You've probably seen all the blockbusters in English but if you're learning Spanish or just want to understand more about Spanish American culture, you can't miss out on all the Spanish movies Netflix has to offer.
Let’s check out some of the top-rated movies in Spanish on Netflix that are loved by critics and audiences alike, and we're sure several will make it onto your watch list.
"Roma" is a Mexican film directed by Alfonso Cuarón that tells the story of a young woman's life as a live-in maid in Colonia, Mexico City. The movie is a deeply personal and touching portrayal of the character's life, and it won several awards, including three Oscars. The film's black-and-white cinematography is stunning, and the attention to detail in recreating the 1970s Mexico City is impressive.
The lead actress, Yalitza Aparicio, delivers a powerful and emotional performance, and the supporting cast is also excellent. The film's themes of family, class, and social inequality are explored with sensitivity and nuance, making it a thought-provoking and engaging watch.
"Monos" is a visually stunning and thematically thought-provoking movie filmed in Colombia that offers a harrowing portrayal of teenage guerrillas in an unspecified location. The movie, directed by Alejandro Landes, is a hypnotic and intense thriller that has been compared to "Apocalypse Now" and "Lord of the Flies." The cinematography by Jasper Wolf is exceptional, capturing the breathtaking landscapes and the palpable sense of isolation and danger.
The film's score, composed by Mica Levi, adds an unnerving and haunting dimension to the narrative, enhancing the overall sense of unease and tension. "Monos" is a deeply immersive and unsettling cinematic experience that delves into the complexities of human nature and the impact of war on young minds.
"Below Zero" is a Spanish thriller that follows a police officer transporting a group of prisoners when their transport is attacked. The movie is a tense and suspenseful film that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The lead actor is outstanding, as are the cast. The film has a feeling of dark, ominous treachery all the time, and it has a lot of turns.
The original and entertaining premise is spread across the movie, adding some brief moments of relief from the tension. The movie is entertaining for its continuous suspense, a great thriller that keeps you engaged. The film is well worth a watch for anyone looking for a tense and suspenseful film.
"El Hoyo" (The Platform) is a Spanish science fiction-horror film set in a vertical prison where food is delivered on a platform that descends through the levels. The movie is a thought-provoking commentary on social inequality and human nature. The film is a dark and disturbing exploration of power, greed, and survival. The movie is violent and gory but also a compelling and well-crafted film that keeps you engaged throughout.
The lead actor, Iván Massagué, delivers a strong performance, and the supporting cast is also excellent. The film's cinematography is impressive, and the special effects are well done. The movie is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and horror.
"El olvido que seremos" is a Spanish-language film that tells the story of Hector Abad Gomez, a Colombian public-health activist and prominent government critic who was shot dead in 1987. The movie is adapted from the 2005 memoir of Gomez by his son, the now-prominent Colombian author Hector Abad Faciolince.
The film is a deeply felt and tenderly funny family drama with a novelistic attention to details and episodes. The lead actor, Javier Camara, delivers a strong performance as Gomez, the professor, husband, and father to a lively and talented family of mostly girls and one somewhat pampered son. The film's cinematography is impressive, with Hector's ecstatically remembered 1970s childhood shot in sunlit color, while the rest of the movie is shot in black and white.
"La noche de 12 años" (A Twelve-Year Night) is a Uruguayan film that tells the true story of three political prisoners who were held in solitary confinement for twelve years during the military dictatorship in Uruguay. The movie is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity.
The lead actors deliver exceptional performances, and the film's direction and cinematography are impressive, capturing the claustrophobic and oppressive atmosphere of the prison. The movie's exploration of themes such as human rights, political oppression, and the power of hope and solidarity is both timely and relevant, making it a thought-provoking and engaging watch.
"Todos Lo Saben" (Everybody Knows) is a Spanish crime drama directed by Asghar Farhadi, the acclaimed filmmaker behind Oscar-winning movies such as "A Separation" and "The Salesman." The film is a dark psychological study of people under extreme pressure, exploring the consequences of long-buried secrets coming to light. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Javier Bardem, Peneleope Cruz, and Ricardo Darin.
The film follows the story of Laura, a Spanish woman living in Buenos Aires, who returns to her hometown outside Madrid with her two children to attend her sister's wedding. However, the trip is upset by unexpected events that bring secrets into the open. As the story unfolds, the family deals with the consequences of these revelations, and the film delves into themes of class differences, long-ago secrets, and the destructive power of the past.
"JAULA / The Chalk Line" is a Spanish-language horror thriller that has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. The film follows a couple, Paula and Simon, who find a traumatized child of unknown origins and try to decipher her strange behaviors to unlock her identity and dark past.
The movie has been praised for its strong performances, particularly by the lead actress, and its atmospheric setting. However, some critics argue that the film's script is uneven and its ending plays it too safe. Overall, the movie is a promising debut for director Ignacio Tatay and a good choice for those interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the thriller genre.
"100 Metros" is a Spanish film that tells the inspiring true story of Ramón Arroyo, a man diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who defies the odds by training for and completing an Ironman competition. The movie is a heartfelt and uplifting portrayal of human resilience and the power of determination.
The lead actor, Dani Rovira, delivers a compelling performance, capturing the emotional and physical challenges faced by the character. The film's warm and witty approach, combined with the genuine message of empowerment, makes it a genuinely inspirational and engaging watch. While the movie may not offer many surprises, its focus on the human spirit and the pursuit of personal triumphs resonates with audiences, earning it a place as a well-crafted and emotionally impactful film.
"Nuestros amantes" (Our Lovers) is a Spanish romantic comedy that offers a fresh take on the complexities of modern relationships. The film follows the story of a man and a woman who, disillusioned with the idea of love, decide to create their own rules for their relationship.
As they navigate the challenges of modern romance, the movie presents a thought-provoking and lighthearted exploration of love, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness. The lead actors deliver charming performances, and the film's smart script and nice cinematography contribute to its overall appeal. The movie is a delightful and enjoyable choice for a relaxing evening, offering lovable characters and a refreshing perspective on the ups and downs of love.
"Como caído del cielo" is a Mexican film that tells the story of the late Pedro Infante, a legendary movie star and singer, who is stuck between the realms of heaven and hell. The film is a heartfelt and entertaining blend of comedy, drama, and romance, with a focus on the human side of the iconic figure. The lead actor, Omar Chaparro, delivers a strong performance as Pedro Infante, showcasing his complex character and the challenges he faces due to his past actions and decisions.
The movie's premise is intriguing, as it explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of one's actions. The film's high-concept body-swap/reincarnation storyline adds a unique twist to the afterlife debate, with Pedro Infante's spirit occupying the body of a Pedro Infante impersonator who is in a coma. This concept is both clever and entertaining, offering a fresh take on the afterlife and the power of art and fame.
"Gente que viene y bah" is a Spanish romantic comedy that delivers exactly what you expect from the genre. The film, directed by Patricia Font, is a classic, true to the romantic comedy style. It features beautiful scenery, bright and colorful scenes, bouncy music, and a happy ending, making it a delightful watch for fans of the romcom genre.
The ensemble cast, led by Clara Lago as the main character Bea, delivers strong performances, and the film's storytelling style keeps the audience engaged throughout. Overall, "Gente que viene y bah" is a lighthearted and enjoyable romantic comedy that offers a pleasant and upbeat viewing experience.
"7 Años" (7 Years) is a Spanish-language film that delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by four friends who are also business partners. The movie is a taut psychological drama that unfolds within the confines of a single location, the office of their tech company. The performances are compelling, and the film's premise, which revolves around the friends' attempts to find a solution to save their company and themselves, is thought-provoking.
The extensive dialogue and the human relationships of the characters are central to the film, and the screenplay successfully navigates the complexities of the characters' interactions and the unraveling of corporate secrets. Despite the limited change of scenery, the film's focus on the characters and their evolving dynamics keeps the audience engaged throughout the relatively short runtime.
"El club de los insomnes" (The Insomnia Club) is a Mexican film that delves into the lives of three individuals who struggle with insomnia. The movie offers a unique and intimate portrayal of the challenges and experiences faced by the characters as they navigate their sleepless nights.
The film's inclusion in the list of the greatest Mexican movies of all time and its IMDb rating of 6.3/10 indicate that it has resonated with audiences and is worth considering for those interested in thought-provoking and character-driven storytelling.
After this list of 15 movies not to miss, we hope you can make a whole afternoon or weekend of marathoning Spanish-language movies on Netflix.
The films we present you today have been critically acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, and we have presented you with a little bit of everything from suspense, comedy, history and action. There's no excuse. Get the popcorn ready, choose your favorite movies and enjoy great stories told in Spanish.
How can I find Spanish-language movies on Netflix?
You can easily find Spanish-language movies on Netflix by navigating to the "Browse" section and selecting the "International Movies" or "Spanish-Language" category. Alternatively, you can use the search bar and type keywords like "Spanish," "Latin American," or specific titles.
Are there subtitles available for Spanish movies on Netflix?
Yes, Netflix provides subtitles for many of its Spanish-language movies. You can customize the subtitle settings by clicking on the speech bubble icon during playback, allowing you to choose the language and appearance of subtitles.
Can I watch Spanish movies on Netflix in different regions?
The availability of movies varies by region due to licensing agreements. Some titles may be available in one region but not in another. To access a broader range of Spanish movies, you can use a VPN to change your virtual location and explore content from different regions.
Are there recommendations for popular Spanish movies on Netflix?
Yes, Netflix often provides recommendations based on your viewing history. Additionally, you can find curated lists and recommendations on the platform's homepage or explore the "Trending" and "Top Picks" sections for popular Spanish-language content.
Can I change the language of the movies on Netflix?
Yes, Netflix allows you to change the language of the audio and subtitles for many of its movies. You can adjust these settings by clicking on the audio or subtitle options during playback. Keep in mind that not all movies have multiple language options, so check the available settings for each title.
