Netflix is a platform that hosts a vast array of films, spanning genres from heartwarming dramas to edge-of-your-seat thrillers. However, for those willing to venture off the beaten path, Netflix also offers some truly weird and thought-provoking films that are bound to leave you scratching your head. Whether it’s bizarre narratives, unconventional storytelling, or surreal imagery, these films push the boundaries of traditional cinema. Below, we explore some of the weirdest films available on Netflix right now, providing you with an eclectic mix of strange, offbeat, and downright bizarre films.
On Body and Soul (2017)
Winner of the 2017 Berlin Film Festival and an Academy Award nominee for Best Foreign Language Film, On Body and Soul is a Hungarian film that defies the norms of romantic dramas. The story revolves around two workers at a slaughterhouse who discover they share a dream where they are represented as deer in a snow-covered forest. This strange and poetic narrative unfolds in a setting that contrasts with the ethereal connection between the characters. The film’s unique concept, exploring the intersection of dreams, reality, and love, makes it an unsettling yet beautiful experience.
The Disaster Artist (2017)
Directed by and starring James Franco, The Disaster Artist is a biographical comedy that delves into the making of the cult classic The Room, widely regarded as one of the worst films ever made. The film portrays the eccentric and mysterious Tommy Wiseau, whose inexplicable decisions led to the creation of this cinematic oddity. Franco’s portrayal of Wiseau, with his odd accent and bizarre behavior, mirrors the absurdity of the film’s production, making The Disaster Artist a hilarious and bizarre celebration of one of cinema’s greatest failures.
What Happened to Monday? (2017)
In a dystopian future where siblings are illegal, seven identical sisters must assume a single identity to avoid detection by the government. The sisters live under the guise of one person, Monday, but when one of them goes missing, the remaining six must risk their lives to uncover the truth. This sci-fi thriller stars Noomi Rapace in multiple roles, showcasing her incredible range. The film is filled with action, tension, and an underlying exploration of family, identity, and government control. What Happened to Monday? is a strange yet engaging ride that raises questions about the cost of individualism and freedom.
Mister Organ (2022)
This documentary by New Zealand journalist David Farrier is less about traditional investigation and more about psychological horror. Farrier sets out to uncover the mysterious and manipulative behavior of Michael Organ, a man who has caused immense harm to multiple people without ever being fully understood or apprehended. The film is a chilling exploration of a person whose actions can only be described as parasitic, weaving a sticky web of deceit and manipulation that pulls in everyone who comes into contact with him. As the documentary unfolds, Farrier himself becomes a victim of Organ’s schemes, making the film all the more disturbing.
Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (2021)
For a completely different flavor of weird, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On offers an adorable yet unconventional experience. Originally a viral YouTube sensation, this stop-motion animated film follows Marcel, a tiny shell with a big personality, as he navigates the world with his one shoe. The film balances whimsy and existential musings, as Marcel embarks on a journey to find his family. While it may seem like a light-hearted family film, Marcel explores deep themes of loneliness and belonging, all wrapped up in its eccentric premise.
Death Note (2017)
Based on the immensely popular manga and anime series, Death Note tells the story of Light Turner, a high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. As Light embarks on his crusade to rid the world of criminals, he comes into conflict with a brilliant detective known only as L. The film’s bizarre premise of supernatural justice, combined with Light’s growing megalomania, creates an odd and gripping psychological thriller. While it deviates from the source material, Death Note remains a weird and engaging watch.
Rattlesnake (2019)
In this psychological thriller, Katrina, a mother whose daughter has been bitten by a rattlesnake, finds herself in a mysterious and morally complex situation. After a strange woman heals her daughter, Katrina is informed that she must now take another life to balance the scales. The tension builds as Katrina struggles with the decision to sacrifice someone in order to save her daughter. The film explores themes of guilt, sacrifice, and the pressures of moral decisions, all set against the backdrop of a dusty Texas town. Though it may not be the most groundbreaking horror film, its weird premise and ethical quandaries make it worth a watch.
The Perfection (2018)
The Perfection is a horror-thriller that combines psychological tension with intense gore. The story follows Charlotte, a former prodigy cellist, who befriends Lizzie, a student at a prestigious music academy. The two women are soon drawn into a web of manipulation and revenge, culminating in disturbing and gory twists. The film’s surreal and violent narrative, along with its unpredictable plot, keeps viewers on edge throughout. With shocking moments and a dark exploration of obsession and vengeance, The Perfection stands out as one of the most unsettling films on Netflix.
John Dies at the End (2012)
A mind-bending comedy-horror film, John Dies at the End is about two slackers, John and Dave, who take a drug that allows them to see otherworldly entities and travel through different dimensions. The film’s nonsensical plot and bizarre characters make it a surreal and outlandish experience. With elements of comedy, horror, and science fiction, the movie constantly shifts between absurdity and suspense, leaving the audience bewildered but entertained. The strange and unpredictable narrative makes it one of the most unconventional films available on Netflix.
The Similars (2015)
In The Similars, a strange storm descends upon a bus station, and a group of strangers finds themselves trapped together as the storm intensifies. Soon, bizarre occurrences unfold, and the group begins to realize that something otherworldly is happening. As tensions rise and paranoia sets in, the film explores themes of identity, the supernatural, and human nature. The black-and-white aesthetic and slow-building suspense give the film a unique, eerie atmosphere that adds to its surreal and mysterious tone.
FAQs
What makes a movie “weird”?
A weird movie typically stands out due to its unconventional narrative, bizarre characters, surreal visuals, or unexpected plot twists. These films challenge the audience’s expectations and may present unfamiliar or bizarre scenarios, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Are these films suitable for all audiences?
Most of the films on this list are not suitable for children due to their complex themes, dark humor, and, in some cases, graphic content. Viewer discretion is advised, and some films may be more appropriate for mature audiences interested in exploring avant-garde or experimental cinema.
Can I watch these movies with friends?
Yes, these films can be fun to watch with friends, especially if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary. Many of these movies provoke strong reactions, whether it’s laughter, confusion, or discomfort, making them great conversation starters afterward.
Where can I find these films?
All of the films mentioned are currently available on Netflix, but availability may vary depending on your region. It’s always a good idea to check your local Netflix library to see if these films are available for streaming.
Why are these movies considered “weird”?
These movies are considered weird because they deviate from mainstream conventions in various ways, whether through strange plotlines, unusual characters, surreal visuals, or unexpected twists. They embrace the bizarre, offering experiences that challenge traditional narrative structures and provoke thought in unexpected ways.
Final Thoughts
The weirdest films on Netflix offer an exciting and unconventional viewing experience for those willing to step outside the usual cinematic boundaries. These films push the limits of traditional filmmaking, often combining elements of horror, comedy, science fiction, and surrealism to create unique narratives that are both thought-provoking and entertaining. Films like On Body and Soul and Mister Organ offer deeply philosophical insights, while others, like The Perfection and The Disaster Artist, entertain with their chaotic storylines and eccentric characters.
Whether you’re seeking a disturbing psychological thriller or a light-hearted yet bizarre animated film, Netflix has a wide array of weird movies that promise to surprise and challenge your expectations. The diversity of genres and storytelling techniques seen in these films makes them stand out, from thought-provoking dramas to mind-bending adventures. Even though many of these movies won’t appeal to traditional tastes, they are ideal for those looking for something different, offering entertainment that sticks with you long after the credits roll. For anyone looking to broaden their cinematic horizons, these weird films on Netflix are a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences that showcase the artistry of bold and innovative filmmakers. So, if you’re in the mood for something truly out-of-the-box, Netflix’s weirdest offerings are sure to provide a refreshing break from the norm.
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