While Netflix and Amazon might boast the most extensive libraries of prestige films, Apple TV+ has quietly but powerfully established itself as a contender for top-tier cinematic experiences. Since the heartwarming success of ‘CODA’ at the Academy Awards, it’s become increasingly clear that some of the most compelling and critically acclaimed movies are now calling Apple’s streaming service home. From intimate documentaries that tug at the heartstrings to bold narratives that challenge perspectives, Apple TV+ is building a robust collection that complements its growing slate of beloved television series. This guide dives into some of the standout films you absolutely should prioritize in your viewing queue, offering a blend of genres and powerful storytelling.
Embracing Life’s Journey with Poignancy: ‘Come See Me in the Good Light’
Poet Andrea Gibson’s journey through an incurable cancer diagnosis forms the emotional core of Ryan White’s documentary, ‘Come See Me in the Good Light.’ The film beautifully chronicles Gibson’s final chapter, highlighting moments of profound connection with their partner, fellow poet Megan Falley. It captures the essence of their life’s work and a powerful realization: ‘happiness being easier to find once we realize we do not have forever to find it.’ Despite the subject matter, this Sundance Film Festival favorite is infused with humor and an undeniable zest for life, making it a deeply moving and ultimately uplifting experience.
Heroism Amidst Catastrophe: ‘The Lost Bus’
Set against the devastating backdrop of the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, California, ‘The Lost Bus’ tells a gripping story of survival. Matthew McConaughey stars as a school bus driver who undertakes a heroic mission to safely escort 22 children away from the inferno engulfing their community. Directed by Academy Award nominee Paul Greengrass, this film is a testament to the extraordinary courage found in ordinary individuals and explores the enduring theme of second chances. It’s a powerful reminder of human resilience in the face of unimaginable disaster.
A Masterful Thriller with Urban Soul: ‘Highest 2 Lowest’
Spike Lee, a director renowned for his keen eye for urban culture and social commentary, teams up once again with his frequent collaborator Denzel Washington for ‘Highest 2 Lowest.’ This film centers on David King, a music mogul convinced his son has been kidnapped, launching him into a desperate race against time. Featuring a standout performance from A$AP Rocky, this reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s classic ‘High and Low’ is not only a taut thriller but also a vibrant love letter to New York City and its rich musical tapestry. Originally released in theaters, this compelling narrative is now a must-watch on Apple TV+.
Bono’s Personal Journey: ‘Bono: Stories of Surrender’
Bono’s long-standing relationship with Apple, which famously began with the iconic U2 iPods and iTunes silhouettes, continues with ‘Bono: Stories of Surrender.’ This film captures a cinematic version of the U2 frontman’s one-man show, where he shares intimate stories from his life, interspersed with performances of his iconic songs. The experience is further enriched with exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from the tour. For an even more immersive viewing, the film is also available in a unique format on Apple Vision Pro.
A Landmark Civil Rights Moment: ‘Deaf President Now!’
‘Deaf President Now!’ shines a light on a pivotal, yet often overlooked, chapter in civil rights history. The documentary meticulously chronicles the eight-day standoff at Gallaudet University in 1988. The student body protested vigorously when the board of trustees appointed a hearing president over two highly qualified deaf candidates. This powerful documentary, from Nyle DiMarco and Davis Guggenheim, utilizes immersive photography and sound design to place viewers directly within the Deaf experience. The student activism ultimately led to the resignation of the hearing president and the appointment of deaf dean I. King Jordan, marking a monumental victory for the Deaf community.
The Pursuit of Stardom: ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’
The phrase ‘number one on the call sheet’ signifies the star, the most crucial performer in any production. For Black actors, achieving this esteemed status has historically been an arduous journey. In this compelling two-part documentary, Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Angela Bassett, Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Jamie Foxx, and Michael B. Jordan, share their personal narratives. They recount their struggles, triumphs, and reflections on what it means to reach the pinnacle of their profession and the ongoing fight for equitable representation.
A Child’s Resilience in Wartime: ‘Blitz’
From Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen (’12 Years a Slave’) comes ‘Blitz,’ a powerful exploration of World War II through the innocent yet resilient eyes of a nine-year-old boy named George. Sent to the English countryside by his mother, Rita, to escape the London bombings, George embarks on a perilous journey to reunite with her and his grandfather. McQueen masterfully weaves a narrative of a child’s unwavering determination against the backdrop of immense historical turmoil.
Mockumentary Fun with a Conspiracy Twist: ‘Fly Me to the Moon’
Delve into the intriguing conspiracy theory surrounding Stanley Kubrick and the Apollo 11 moon landing with ‘Fly Me to the Moon.’ This delightful Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum comedy imagines a marketing whiz tasked with filming a fake moon landing in case the actual mission falters. The film, a long-standing favorite on Apple TV+, offers a humorous and imaginative take on this enduring urban legend, proving that sometimes the wildest theories hold the most entertaining possibilities.
Guardians of Tradition: ‘The Last of the Sea Women’
On the picturesque coast of South Korea’s Jeju Island reside the haenyeo, a community of women who have for centuries sustained their lives by diving for seafood. Sue Kim’s documentary, ‘The Last of the Sea Women,’ intimately follows these ‘real-life mermaids’ as they navigate the challenges posed by societal shifts and environmental changes. Bolstered by a new generation championing their heritage on social media, these women are finding new avenues to preserve their unique way of life. Produced by Malala Yousafzai, this film is a poignant exploration of intergenerational connection and the enduring value of tradition.
A Glimpse into Pop Stardom’s Genesis: ‘The World’s a Little Blurry’
Released in 2021, ‘The World’s a Little Blurry’ offered an unprecedented window into the formative years of pop sensation Billie Eilish. Director R. J. Cutler gained remarkable access, documenting the teenager’s journey as she recorded her debut album, ‘When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?’ The film candidly captures her songwriting process with brother Finneas and her personal discussions about Tourette’s syndrome. Watching it now, with Eilish’s global superstardom, multiple Grammy and Oscar wins, and iconic performances, feels like opening a time capsule to a pivotal moment in music history, redefining the music documentary genre.
The Avant-Garde Revolution: ‘The Velvet Underground’
Todd Haynes, known for his intense dramas, takes a deep dive into the vibrant New York City art scene of the 1960s with ‘The Velvet Underground.’ This film chronicles the explosive impact of the band on the music world, weaving together new interviews, archival footage, and even Andy Warhol’s films to capture a moment that irrevocably altered the landscape of music.
Resilience and Identity on the Reservation: ‘Fancy Dance’
‘Fancy Dance’ unfolds on the Seneca-Cayuga reservation in Oklahoma, following Jax (Lily Gladstone), who has been the primary caregiver for her niece, Roki, since her sister’s disappearance. When authorities intervene, deeming Jax unfit, Roki is sent to live with her grandfather. Driven by a quest for answers, Jax embarks on a journey with Roki to find her mother, all while evading authorities who seem less invested in finding the missing woman. The film is a profound examination of life on colonized land and a deeply thoughtful exploration of community protection.
The Future of Governance: ‘Girls State’
Following the acclaimed ‘Boys State,’ filmmakers Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine return with ‘Girls State.’ This documentary mirrors its predecessor by observing young individuals navigating a summer program focused on forming their own government. Set in Missouri, the film captures the ambition, heartbreak, and invaluable life lessons learned by a group of ambitious young women as they engage in the democratic process.
An Emperor’s Ambition and Heartache: ‘Napoleon’
While ‘Napoleon’ may not have garnered universal critical acclaim, it delivers a spectacular Ridley Scott historical drama with Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role. The film traces Napoleon’s relentless pursuit of conquest, but it also delves into his complex and emotionally turbulent relationship with his wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais (Vanessa Kirby). It’s a compelling study of a man who could conquer empires but struggled to master his own emotions.
The Tulsa Murders and Osage Resilience: ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’
Martin Scorsese’s epic masterpiece, based on David Grann’s book, unearths the chilling story of the Osage Nation in 1920s Oklahoma. As oil wealth flowed, members of the Osage were systematically murdered. The film centers on Mollie Burkhart (Lily Gladstone, in a Golden Globe-winning performance) and her relationship with Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio), as the FBI investigates the devastating crimes. WIRED hailed it as ‘a feel-bad masterpiece,’ a description that powerfully captures its profound impact.
The Science of Love: ‘Fingernails’
Can technology truly pinpoint ‘The One’? In Christos Nikou’s latest film, an institute run by Duncan (Luke Wilson) claims to have unlocked the formula for true love. Anna (Jessie Buckley) seeks to test this premise, especially after the institute declares her relationship with Ryan (Jeremy Allen White) a perfect match, despite her lingering doubts. Her world is further complicated when she meets Amir (Riz Ahmed) at the institute, sparking a potentially truer connection.
Music, Family, and Finding Your Voice: ‘Flora and Son’
For fans of John Carney’s charming musical films like ‘Sing Street’ and ‘Once,’ ‘Flora and Son’ is an absolute delight. Set in Dublin, the story follows a mother struggling to connect with her son, finding common ground through the power of music. Featuring a captivating performance from Eve Hewson (Bono’s daughter), the film is filled with Carney’s signature melodic warmth and emotional resonance.
From Underdog to Legend: ‘Stephen Curry: Underrated’
Stephen Curry, one of basketball’s most celebrated and skilled players, is the subject of Peter Nicks’ documentary ‘Underrated.’ The film chronicles Curry’s journey from his time at Davidson College, where he defied predictions of his NBA draft potential due to his size, to becoming one of the greatest players in league history, a two-time MVP with four championship rings and a record for career three-pointers.
A Groundbreaking Family Portrait: ‘CODA’
‘CODA,’ an acronym for ‘child of deaf adults,’ was the film that truly put Apple TV+ on the map. The story follows Ruby, the only hearing member of her family, as she discovers a passion for music. The film beautifully explores the tension between her burgeoning aspirations and her family’s reliance on her to bridge the communication gap in their fishing business. ‘CODA’ is a warm, gripping, and emotionally resonant film that will undoubtedly move audiences to both cheers and tears.
A Life of Courage and Advocacy: ‘Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie’
Oscar-winning documentarian Davis Guggenheim presents a poignant portrait of Michael J. Fox in ‘Still.’ The film traces the beloved actor’s rise to superstardom in the 1980s, his courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease diagnosed at just 29, and his subsequent transformation into a tireless advocate for a cure. It’s a deeply personal and inspiring look at a life lived with remarkable resilience.
A Sci-Fi Dilemma of Love and Loss: ‘Swan Song’
Mahershala Ali delivers a compelling performance in ‘Swan Song,’ a film that seamlessly blends romantic drama with science fiction. Cameron (Ali), a devoted husband and father, faces a terminal illness and grapples with a difficult decision: how far will he go to shield his family from the pain of his impending loss? The film is a thoughtful exploration of love, sacrifice, and the ethics of advanced technology.
A Web of Deception: ‘Sharper’
‘Sharper’ is a neo-noir thriller best experienced with minimal spoilers. This twisty film, starring Julianne Moore, Sebastian Stan, Justice Smith, and John Lithgow, masterfully unravels a narrative where no one is quite who they seem. Its brief theatrical run meant it flew under many radars, making it a hidden gem worth seeking out for its intricate plot and stellar performances.
A Modern Coming-of-Age Story: ‘Cha Cha Real Smooth’
Cooper Raiff emerges as a significant talent with ‘Cha Cha Real Smooth.’ This Sundance hit, which Raiff writes, directs, and stars in, centers on a young man working as a party starter at bar and bat mitzvahs. The film is a charming and insightful exploration of modern life, relationships, and self-discovery.
Shakespeare Reimagined: ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’
Director Joel Coen offers a striking new interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic tale in ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth.’ Shot entirely in black and white, and featuring powerhouse performances from Denzel Washington as Macbeth and Frances McDormand as Lady Macbeth, the film earned three Oscar nominations and brings a fresh, visually arresting perspective to this timeless story of ambition and its consequences.
The Journey of an Iconic Game: ‘Tetris’
Beyond its status as a global gaming phenomenon, ‘Tetris’ the movie delves into the fascinating, and at times espionage-tinged, story of how this beloved game made its way from the Soviet Union to the rest of the world. While not always hitting every mark, the film offers a compelling look at the individuals who brought this iconic puzzle game to international fame.
Healing and Connection in the Aftermath: ‘Causeway’
Lila Neugebauer’s ‘Causeway’ is a quiet but profound film about trauma and healing. Jennifer Lawrence stars as a soldier who returns home to New Orleans after sustaining a brain injury in Afghanistan. The film delicately explores her journey of recovery and the unexpected connections she forms as she navigates the aftermath of her experiences. It’s a poignant and worthy watch, especially during times of personal introspection.
A Legend’s Legacy: ‘Sidney’
Released in the same year as his passing, the documentary ‘Sidney’ offers a comprehensive look at the remarkable life and career of Sidney Poitier. This film goes beyond his iconic roles in films like ‘In the Heat of the Night’ and ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,’ exploring his profound impact on American culture and politics. Featuring interviews with luminaries like Spike Lee and Morgan Freeman, the documentary traces Poitier’s journey from his Bahamian upbringing to his instrumental role in the civil rights movement and beyond, solidifying his legacy as a true cultural icon.