20 Must-Watch Movies Leaving Netflix in February 2026
Must-Watch Movies Before They Leave Netflix in February 2026
Netflix is always updating its library, and sometimes great films slip away. If you're hunting for 20 must-watch movies to stream right now, February 2026 is your deadline for these gems. From thrilling horrors to hilarious comedies and epic adventures, this list covers a range of genres that have captivated audiences for years. These films are leaving the platform soon, so grab your popcorn and dive in before they're gone. Whether you're revisiting classics or discovering hidden treasures, these 20 must-watch movies offer something for everyone. Let's explore why each one deserves a spot on your watchlist.
1. 28 Days Later (2002) - Leaving February 1
This zombie apocalypse thriller kicks off with a man waking up from a coma to find London deserted and overrun by rage-infected humans. Directed by Danny Boyle, it stars Cillian Murphy in a breakout role as he teams up with survivors to escape the chaos. The film's fast-paced infected changed the zombie genre forever, inspiring countless imitations. It's gritty, intense, and full of heart-pounding moments that keep you on the edge of your seat. If you love survival stories with a touch of social commentary on society breaking down, this is one of the 20 must-watch movies you can't miss. The cinematography captures the eerie emptiness of a post-apocalyptic world beautifully, making every scene feel real and terrifying. Fans often praise its soundtrack, which adds to the tension. Watch it for the innovative take on horror that still feels fresh today.
2. Anaconda (1997) - Leaving February 1
Dive into the Amazon with this creature feature starring Jennifer Lopez, Ice Cube, and Jon Voight. A documentary crew searching for a lost tribe encounters a massive, man-eating snake that's smarter than it looks. The film blends adventure, horror, and campy fun, with over-the-top effects that were groundbreaking for the time. It's a guilty pleasure that's perfect for a movie night with friends, full of jumps and laughs. As one of the 20 must-watch movies, it showcases Lopez in an early action role, proving her star power. The river chase scenes are thrilling, and Voight's villainous performance adds a creepy layer. Despite mixed reviews, it has a cult following for its ridiculous yet entertaining plot. If you're into monster movies like Jaws but with a slithery twist, stream this before it slithers away.
3. Charlie’s Angels (2000) - Leaving February 1
Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Lucy Liu star as the iconic trio of private investigators kicking butt and solving crimes with style. Directed by McG, this reboot of the classic TV show is packed with high-energy action, witty banter, and empowering vibes. The angels tackle a kidnapping case involving cutting-edge technology, leading to explosive fights and clever gadgets. It's one of the 20 must-watch movies for its fun, feminist take on spy adventures. The soundtrack is killer, featuring hits that amp up the excitement. Barrymore's production involvement adds heart, and the chemistry between the leads is electric. Perfect for fans of empowering stories with humor and heart, this film reminds us that teamwork and smarts can conquer anything. Don't let it fly off Netflix without a watch.
4. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009) - Leaving February 1
This animated delight follows inventor Flint Lockwood, voiced by Bill Hader, who creates a machine that turns water into food, leading to delicious but disastrous weather. Based on a children's book, it features voices from Anna Faris, James Caan, and Mr. T. The movie is a feast for the eyes with colorful visuals and inventive humor that appeals to kids and adults alike. As part of the 20 must-watch movies, it's hilarious and heartwarming, teaching lessons about ambition and consequences. The food storms are creative and funny, like giant burgers raining down. Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller bring their signature wit, seen in later hits like The Lego Movie. If you enjoy family-friendly animations with clever jokes, this one is a must. It's pure joy from start to finish.
5. Groundhog Day (1993) - Leaving February 1
Bill Murray shines as a grumpy weatherman trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over in Punxsutawney. Directed by Harold Ramis, this comedy explores self-improvement and romance with Andie MacDowell. It's clever, funny, and philosophical, making you think about life's routines. One of the 20 must-watch movies, it has become a cultural staple, even inspiring the term "groundhog day" for repetitive situations. Murray's performance is iconic, blending sarcasm with growth. The script is tight, with memorable scenes like the alarm clock wake-up. It's perfect for winter viewing, full of warmth and laughs. If you've ever felt stuck, this film offers hope through humor. Catch it before the loop ends on Netflix.
6. Memoirs of a Geisha (2005) - Leaving February 1
Based on Arthur Golden's novel, this drama follows a young girl sold into the geisha world in pre-WWII Japan, starring Ziyi Zhang, Michelle Yeoh, and Gong Li. Directed by Rob Marshall, it's a visual masterpiece with stunning costumes and sets that transport you to another era. The story of rivalry, love, and survival is emotional and captivating. As one of the 20 must-watch movies, it highlights cultural traditions and personal strength. The cinematography won Oscars, capturing the beauty and hardship of geisha life. Zhang's performance is mesmerizing, showing vulnerability and grace. It's a tale of resilience that stays with you long after. If you appreciate historical dramas with deep character arcs, this is essential viewing.
7. Mr & Mrs Smith (2005) - Leaving February 1
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie play married assassins who discover each other's secret lives, leading to explosive confrontations. Directed by Doug Liman, this action-comedy mixes romance, gunfights, and domestic humor. Their chemistry sizzles, making it a standout in the genre. Part of the 20 must-watch movies, it's fun and flirty, with high-stakes chases and witty dialogue. The house destruction scene is legendary. It sparked real-life romance rumors, adding intrigue. Perfect for date nights or solo thrills, it balances heart and adrenaline. Don't miss this before it targets another platform.
8. Oblivion (2013) - Leaving February 1
Tom Cruise stars as a drone repairman on a desolate Earth after an alien war, uncovering shocking truths. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, it features stunning visuals and twists with Morgan Freeman and Olga Kurylenko. The sci-fi elements are immersive, exploring identity and humanity. One of the 20 must-watch movies, it's visually spectacular with epic landscapes. Cruise's action prowess shines in intense sequences. The score by M83 elevates the atmosphere. If you love thought-provoking sci-fi like Inception, this is a gem. Stream it for the mind-bending revelations.
9. Parasite (2019) - Leaving February 1
Bong Joon-ho's Oscar-winning masterpiece follows a poor family infiltrating a wealthy household, leading to dark comedy and thriller elements. Starring Song Kang-ho and Choi Woo-shik, it critiques class divide with sharp wit. As a top pick in the 20 must-watch movies, it's innovative and unpredictable. The basement reveal is iconic. It made history as the first non-English Best Picture winner. Perfect for those who enjoy social commentary wrapped in suspense. Watch for its brilliant storytelling.
10. The Patriot (2000) - Leaving February 1
Mel Gibson plays a farmer turned revolutionary in the American War of Independence, seeking revenge after tragedy. Directed by Roland Emmerich, it features intense battles and family drama with Heath Ledger. The historical action is gripping, blending heroism and heartbreak. One of the 20 must-watch movies, it's epic in scope with memorable fights. Gibson's performance is powerful, showing a man's transformation. If you like war films like Braveheart, this delivers. Catch the freedom fight before it's gone.
11. The Terminator (1984) - Leaving February 1
Arnold Schwarzenegger is the unstoppable cyborg sent to kill Sarah Connor, played by Linda Hamilton, in this sci-fi classic by James Cameron. A protector from the future adds twists. It's action-packed with iconic lines like "I'll be back." As part of the 20 must-watch movies, it defined the genre. The chase scenes are thrilling, and effects hold up. Perfect for fans of time travel and robots. Stream this terminator before termination.
12. What Lies Beneath (2000) - Leaving February 1
Michelle Pfeiffer and Harrison Ford star in this supernatural thriller about a woman haunted by visions in her home. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, it builds suspense with psychological depth. The twists keep you guessing. One of the 20 must-watch movies, it's chilling and elegant. Pfeiffer's acting is superb, conveying fear and doubt. If you enjoy ghost stories like The Sixth Sense, this is spot-on. Uncover the secrets soon.
13. Mean Girls (2004) - Leaving February 5
Lindsay Lohan navigates high school cliques in this comedy written by Tina Fey, featuring Rachel McAdams as the queen bee. It's quotable and satirical, poking fun at teen life. As a favorite in the 20 must-watch movies, it's endlessly rewatchable. The Burn Book scenes are hilarious. Perfect for laughs and nostalgia. Fetch this before it's out.
14. Election (1999) - Leaving February 5
Reese Witherspoon plays an ambitious student running for class president, clashing with teacher Matthew Broderick. Directed by Alexander Payne, it's a sharp satire on politics and ambition. The humor is dry and insightful. One of the 20 must-watch movies, it earned Oscar nods. Witherspoon's breakout role is fierce. If you like clever comedies, vote for this.
15. Spencer (2021) - Leaving February 8
Kristen Stewart portrays Princess Diana during a tense Christmas with the royals, directed by Pablo Larraín. It's intimate and emotional, focusing on her inner turmoil. As part of the 20 must-watch movies, Stewart's performance is transformative. The score and visuals evoke isolation. Perfect for biographical dramas with depth.
16. Ouija (2014) - Leaving February 16
A group of friends unleashes evil through a spirit board after a tragedy, leading to horrors. Starring Olivia Cooke, it's a jump-scare filled ride. One of the 20 must-watch movies for horror fans, it's spooky and fun. The board game ties add creepiness. Say goodbye before the spirits do.
17. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) - Leaving February 18
Tobe Hooper's slasher classic follows friends encountering a cannibal family, including Leatherface. It's raw and influential, shaping horror. As a key in the 20 must-watch movies, it's terrifying without gore overload. The atmosphere is suffocating. Essential for genre lovers.
18. Operation Finale (2018) - Leaving February 20
Oscar Isaac and Ben Kingsley star in this true story of capturing Nazi Adolf Eichmann. Directed by Chris Weitz, it's tense and historical. One of the 20 must-watch movies, it highlights justice and memory. Performances are gripping. Watch for the real-life drama.
19. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023) - Leaving February 25
Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback join Autobots and Maximals in a 90s-set adventure against new threats. Directed by Steven Caple Jr., it's action-heavy with robot battles. As part of the 20 must-watch movies, it's exciting for fans. The beasts add fresh twists. Transform your viewing now.
20. Watcher (2022) - Leaving February 25
Maika Monroe stars as a woman suspecting her neighbor is a killer in Bucharest. Directed by Chloe Okuno, it's a slow-burn thriller with paranoia. One of the 20 must-watch movies, it's atmospheric and tense. Monroe's role echoes Rear Window. Keep an eye on this before it vanishes.
These 20 must-watch movies represent the best of what's departing Netflix in February 2026. From edge-of-your-seat thrills to laugh-out-loud moments, they've left lasting impacts on cinema. Stream them while you can, and share your favorites with friends. Netflix's library evolves, but classics like these endure. Happy watching!
