From an action film with Henry Cavill to Martin Scorsese's epic – we watched all Apple TV+ movies and compiled their ranking.
The streaming service Apple TV+ launched in 2019 and over the 5 years since its debut has released 32 feature-length fiction films under the Apple Originals banner, including animated projects. We watched them all and ranked them: from worst to best.
32nd place – “The Sky Is Everywhere” (2022)
A touching, at least in concept, adaptation of the novel of the same name by Jandy Nelson tells the story of Lennon, a girl grieving the sudden death of her sister Bailey. Jason Segel plays Lennon's uncle, who tries to help her cope with the loss, while the heroine herself finds solace in music and an unexpected love for a classmate.
Director Juliette Poulin attempted to create a visually vibrant and emotionally rich film that tells a story balancing the pain of loss and the joy of first love. But it turned out sometimes infantile, sometimes unconvincing, and ultimately just boring. Moreover, repeating the same thoughts and scenes does not make the film more interesting. Still, watching Segel as a hippie uncle is amusing.
31st place – “The Family Plan” (2023)
“The Family Plan” is a comedy action film with Mark Wahlberg as Dan Morgan, a seemingly ordinary family man with a dark past as a hitman. When his dark secrets begin to threaten his family's peace, Dan is forced to take his unsuspecting family on a wild journey full of unexpected twists and comedic situations.
Clumsily blending action and comedy elements, “The Family Plan” offers viewers a look at how secrets within a family can affect relationships. Otherwise, it's a predictable plot, an abundance of clichés, strange humor, and Wahlberg's typical performance.
30th place – “Ghosted” (2023)
The comedy action film “Ghosted” starring Ana de Armas and Chris Evans is a bright and dynamic story about love and the quirks of fate. The main character, Gabriel (Evans), falls in love with a mysterious girl named Adrienne (de Armas) after their first date. However, when she suddenly disappears, the guy decides to find out what happened and sets off in search of his new love, unaware of what awaits him and the dangers ahead.
The filmmakers asked, “What if instead of a damsel in distress, we have a man in distress?” That is, they tried to break the mold of spy action films and make the heroine strong and the male character weak, as if no one had ever done such a trick before. It's not to say that sparks fly from the interaction between Evans and de Armas, but thanks to the high tempo and occasional relief with funny (and not so funny) punchlines, the film can brighten your evening (but that's not certain).
29th place – “Spirited” (2022)
The pre-New Year comedy with Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell is another interpretation of the classic Christmas story by Charles Dickens about ghosts of the past. The film tells how the Spirit of Christmas (Ferrell) decides to change the life of a narcissistic businessman (Reynolds) who doesn't believe in miracles. Together they embark on a magical journey full of laughter, unexpected discoveries, and… songs!
All this, let's call it a quasi-musical, is aimed at creating a festive and carefree atmosphere. And Reynolds and Ferrell certainly know how to deliver humor better than many. It's unlikely the film will become a Christmas classic, as the story itself is too derivative, but if you don't want to rewatch “Home Alone” for the hundredth time, “Spirited” could be a decent alternative.
28th place – “Argylle” (2024)
In this spy comedy hodgepodge with Henry Cavill as a sort of James Bond superhero, viewers are treated to a cocktail of genre clichés that are sometimes mocked successfully, sometimes not, as well as a whole scattering of star cameos of varying quality (for every wooden Dua Lipa, there are talentedly goofing Sam Rockwell and Bryan Cranston).
Matthew Vaughn's film, with vibes from his own Kingsman series, tells the story of an outstanding but fictional spy Argylle (Cavill) created by writer Elly Conway (Bryce Dallas Howard), who turns out to be practically a dramatization of a real spy (Rockwell), whose exploits are whimsically embodied in Elly's books. Thus, the girl herself becomes embroiled in a dangerous game with international intrigue, caricature villains, and all sorts of ridiculous situations set to loud and sometimes nostalgic hits of years past. Unfortunately, “Argylle” doesn't reach the level of Kingsman, even the least successful films in the series.
27th place – “Tetris” (2022)
The film starring Taron Egerton is a gripping story about the success of one of the most popular video games in history. The plot tells how American salesman Henk Rogers (Egerton) fights for the rights to the game during the Cold War and insane competition from corporations. His journey to the Soviet Union to meet Tetris developer Alexey Pajitnov (Nikita Efremov) quickly turns from a business trip into a story about trying to survive and achieve the maximum despite everything.
Of course, it didn't go without “cranberries” (clichéd Russian stereotypes). Nor without “chases” in Ladas. But overall, director Jon S. Baird delivered a dynamic and entertaining biopic about passion, struggle, and dedication to a cause that inspires and captivates. For more accurate information, it's better to consult serious biographical sources.
The first part of the film, where representatives of the gaming industry try to outwit each other in hopes of grabbing the coveted prize, is made with skill and pleasure. The mastery of the material is evident. But as soon as it goes beyond legal nuances, naive clichés begin with neon discos, races in a Lada, and a dull attempt to build suspense in the final scene at Sheremetyevo-2.
26th place – “Cherry” (2020)
Tom Holland as Cherry, a young man who goes through many trials, from college to service in Iraq. Returning home with PTSD, he faces drug addiction and the criminal world, leading him to bank robberies.
The film, directed by the Russo brothers, is both a crime drama and an attempt to explore the human psyche and the consequences of war. Holland demonstrates incredible (by his standards) depth in the role, showing how love and loss can change a person. If it weren't for the unnecessary formal experiments and inexplicable length, the film could have been much better.
25th place – “Fancy Dance” (2024)
The debut feature film by director Erica Tremblay, “Fancy Dance” is a family drama that raises important questions about the lives of Native Americans. At the center of the plot is Jax (Lily Gladstone), a woman with a difficult past, who takes care of her 13-year-old niece Roki (Isabel Deroy-Olson) after her sister's disappearance.
The heroine, played by the convincing Gladstone, faces system prejudices, challenges them, tries to keep her family together, and not violate the traditions of her people. The actress's performance is the film's main plus (okay, you can also add the color of Native American traditions and languages to the piggy bank). Among the film's problems are its predictability and the one-dimensionality of all other characters.
24th place – “Hala” (2019)
“Hala” is a coming-of-age story about the life of a Muslim schoolgirl trying to find her place between the traditions of a Pakistani family and modern American values. The main character, Hala (played by Geraldine Viswanathan), faces internal conflicts related to her cultural identity, sexuality, and parental expectations.
Despite predictable moments (literally all plot twists are discernible in the first ten minutes) and shortcomings in plot development, “Hala” stands out among similar films for its unique perspective on the lives of Muslim girls in America. It's a film that makes you think about how important it is to be true to yourself in a world full of expectations and stereotypes.
23rd place – “Emancipation” (2022)
“Emancipation” is a historical drama starring Will Smith, based on real events during the American Civil War. Smith plays Peter, a slave who escapes from a Louisiana plantation and embarks on a dangerous journey to Lincoln's camp, pursued by a brutal slave hunter Fassel (Ben Foster).
Director Antoine Fuqua made a chase film, but in a surprising way. It's terribly slow and drawn out, and the rare action episodes are mixed with unoriginal dramatic elements related, obviously, to racism and the cruelty of slavery. But the undeniable charisma of actors Smith and Foster pulls the film out of the Louisiana swamps and makes it worth watching.
22nd place – “The Beanie Bubble” (2023)
This comedy-drama, based on real events, immerses viewers in the world of madness surrounding collectible toys of the 90s. The film tells how the iconic Beanie Babies became a phenomenon, and behind the scenes, a struggle for wealth and fame unfolded.
Blending elements of comedy and drama, “The Beanie Bubble” explores the theme of greed and passion, showing how they can affect human relationships. While the film is far from outstanding, it is nonetheless a moderately engaging and ironic look at American consumer culture.
21st place – “Napoleon” (2023)
The question “Why watch this film?” never arose. Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon Bonaparte is a spectacle in itself that you can't take your eyes off. And in the director's chair is the master of epic canvases, Ridley Scott. Who better than them to tell the story of the rise and fall of the French emperor with battle scenes and palace intrigues?
But there are several “buts”: at the center of the film is Napoleon's personal relationship with his wife Josephine, shown through the prism of his rise as emperor, but they lack sparks and depth; in the theatrical (let's call it that) version, many moments are rushed for the sake of runtime (which is bloated in both versions of the film); the film desperately lacks vivid characters, and Napoleon himself remains a mystery.
“Napoleon” by Ridley Scott is an example of how one film can tarnish the name of a great historical figure. Scott galloped through Napoleon's biography without really explaining or showing anything. A boring, historically inaccurate, and sometimes even ugly film.
20th place – “Fingernails” (2023)
The sci-fi romantic drama “Fingernails” by director Christos Nikou immerses viewers in an alternate reality of the near future where it's possible to test a couple's perfect compatibility using special devices. The main character Anna (Jessie Buckley) starts working at the Love Institute and meets a charismatic colleague Amir (Riz Ahmed). Their encounter makes Anna question her feelings for her boyfriend Ryan (Jeremy Allen White).
Nikou, like another Greek who loves absurdity, attempted to create a canvas woven from light science fiction, absurdist tendencies, and some nostalgia. But while in “The Lobster” the author didn't see strict boundaries for himself, in “Fingernails” there's a desire to keep the story strictly within the emotional experiences of a love triangle full of silent desires and self-doubt. And it feels like this restraint harmed the film, relegating it to the cohort of promising but ultimately not too original films.
19th place – “Causeway” (2022)
An intimate drama by Lila Neugebauer about a soldier returning from war and her attempts to adapt to civilian life. Jennifer Lawrence plays a complex and ambiguous character, Lynsey, a young woman wounded in Afghanistan and previously traumatized in her family. Her meeting with mechanic James (Brian Tyree Henry) grows into a touching friendship between two lonely people trying to cope with past traumas.
The film is unhurried and minimalist, but it grabs you with its honesty and acting. This movie may seem even too simple, but an invisible thread of faint hope for a bright future runs through it, which is a kind of relief that many seek when watching.
18th place – “The Greatest Beer Run Ever” (2022)
This dramedy starring Zac Efron is based on real events and tells the story of a crazy journey undertaken by a simple-minded American. The main character decides to bring beer to his soldier friends on the front lines during the Vietnam War, leading to a series of comedic, dramatic, and touching situations.
Director Peter Farrelly simultaneously raises important themes about war and its consequences in a pacifist vein and entertains the viewer with dynamic episodes and humorous sketches. “The Greatest Beer Run Ever” is, to a certain extent, an inspiring story about how simple actions can have enormous significance, and that true friendship knows no bounds.
17th place – “Sharper” (2022)
The crime thriller “Sharper” by director Benjamin Caron immerses viewers in the secret corridors of New York, where nothing is as it seems at first glance. At the center of the plot is a complex web of deception where the characters' motives are not always obvious. And at the head of it all is a star-studded cast with Julianne Moore in the forefront.
The combination of a gripping plot divided into novellas about different characters, striking visuals, and talented actors makes “Sharper” an excellent choice for fans of crime dramas with unexpected twists. And even if at times it may seem that the authors overcomplicated things on one hand and chose simple solutions on the other, at least the fact that you'll want to discuss this film with friends is worth a lot.
Despite all the variety that the subgenre of adventure thriller can offer the viewer, Benjamin Caron's “Sharper” still manages to be something unique. First of all, the film stands out for its structure: the story is divided into novellas named after their central characters, and each logically follows from the previous one. So we observe a kind of cycle of swindlers in society. All characters are guided by only one principle: profit is paramount. They do not hesitate to betray even their own accomplices. They, to put it mildly, are not particularly concerned about social justice or the well-being of loved ones. They want to fleece the rich from Wall Street to take their place themselves.
16th place – “Luck” (2022)
The animated film “Luck” from Skydance Animation invites viewers to dive into a magical world where luck and misfortune have their own forms and vivid representatives (for example, cute leprechauns are responsible for luck). The main character, a girl named Sam, enters the world of these creatures and decides to find a magical penny that brings luck for her friend from an orphanage who desperately dreams of a new family.
The film is full of bright colors and witty jokes, making it ideal for family viewing. And it's quite an instructive story about how important it is to believe in yourself and your luck, even when everything doesn't go as planned.
15th place – “Palmer” (2021)
An emotional drama starring Justin Timberlake, “Palmer” tells the story of a former prisoner trying to start a new life. His encounter with a boy named Sam, who doesn't fit traditional societal norms, becomes a turning point.
The film touches on themes of acceptance and friendship, showing how two people, each with their own problems, can change each other's lives. “Palmer” is a touching story about how important it is to be there for those who need support.
14th place – “The Banker” (2019)
The film “The Banker” tells the story of two African American entrepreneurs, Joe Morris (Samuel L. Jackson) and Bernard Garrett (Anthony Mackie), who in the 1960s decided to conquer the banking world and become the first black bankers in America. Despite the racial prejudices of the time, they devised a bold business strategy, using a white frontman (Nicholas Hoult) to bypass discrimination.
Obviously, the heroes' path to success is full of obstacles and dangers they must overcome to realize their dream. Equally obvious, the film raises important questions about racial inequality, social justice, and the power of money in 1960s America. But thanks to the dynamic and engaging presentation, its predictability is cleverly masked.
13th place – “Fly Me to the Moon” (2024)
This romantic comedy starring Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum tells how love can arise in the most unexpected places. The main characters are marketing specialist Kelly (Johansson) and NASA launch director Cole (Tatum), who work on the image of a company trying to land the first humans on the Moon. Meanwhile, Johansson's character is involved in creating a fake version of the Apollo 11 landing.
“Fly Me to the Moon” is a slightly chaotic, lighthearted, and sometimes touching film about dreamers changing the world. And between the lines, it also says that you shouldn't be afraid to open your heart.
“Fly Me to the Moon” is the main discovery of the year for me. It's an amazingly multifaceted film that manages to be simultaneously a thriller about adventurers, a romantic comedy, a political satire, and a touching drama. I especially want to highlight Channing Tatum's performance, as such versatile roles are rare in his filmography. The scenes mentioning the failure of the Apollo 1 mission were simply heartbreaking.
12th place – “Raymond & Ray” (2022)
This drama with elements of black comedy tells the story of two brothers, Raymond and Ray, who gather for the funeral of their father, with whom they had a complicated relationship. Along the way, the filmmakers reflect on how the past can influence our present.
The duo of Ethan Hawke and Ewan McGregor is the heart and soul of the film. There is much humor and even more pain in their characters' relationship. They seek forgiveness and their place in a world full of flaws. And it's extremely fascinating to watch.
11th place – “Swan Song” (2021)
The intimate and melancholic sci-fi drama “Swan Song” starring Mahershala Ali is built entirely on the power of acting and the emotional depth of the character. The Oscar-winning actor convincingly plays Cameron, a devoted family man and talented designer who learns he will soon die from a neurodegenerative disease. Seeking to protect his family from grief, he secretly contacts a biotech company that offers to clone him and transfer all memories to the clone, allowing it to take his place in life without his loved ones' knowledge.
Director Benjamin Cleary's film raises complex ethical questions but doesn't fall into didacticism. The script, though somewhat derivative, conveys Cameron's internal struggle, as he battles not only with the morality of the greatest deception of his loved ones but also with the thought that his family will love the clone, not him. Ali in dual roles fills every scene with deep emotions, elevating an otherwise average film a step higher. As does the absolutely beautiful visuals.
10th place – “The Instigators” (2024)
This crime comedy starring Matt Damon and Casey Affleck tells the story of two criminals who, after a failed heist, are forced to team up to survive and get out of trouble. Their journey is full of heartfelt conversations between men with midlife crises, as well as brisk and dynamic chase episodes.
Director Doug Liman makes viewers root for the characters and laugh at their clumsiness. One of the most fun and lively productions to come out on Apple TV+.
A heartfelt and funny film about two sad men with cheerful names that sound like circus pseudonyms — Cobby and Rory. Director of masculine action films Doug Liman managed to show himself as a good lyricist, and with an excellent sense of humor. “The Instigators” feels like his deeply personal statement about male sadness and lonely melancholy, which can result in a paradoxically sweet and funny film.
9th place – “Flora and Son” (2023)
John Carney's film is a story about a single mother and a true musical odyssey, touching to the core. Flora, played by Eve Hewson, tries to improve her relationship with her rebellious son Max and finds a hobby — playing the guitar. This process becomes not only a way to bond but also real therapy for both. The sounds of music penetrate the heart, creating an atmosphere of warmth and hope.
Carney, known for his musical films, once again shows how a melody can change lives. “Flora and Son” is a bright and uplifting story where every chord sounds like a step toward understanding and love. Smiles and tears during viewing are guaranteed.
8th place – “Greyhound” (2020)
“Greyhound” is a tense naval thriller (almost an action film!) starring Tom Hanks, based on the novel by C. S. Forester. Hanks plays Captain Ernest Krause, who is given his first command of the destroyer USS Keeling during World War II. His mission is to escort a convoy of 37 merchant ships through dangerous Atlantic waters where German submarines lie in wait.
Director Aaron Schneider takes the needle of constant tension and literally plunges it into the viewer. Dynamic editing, realistic battle scenes that seem never to stop — thanks to this approach, the film doesn't let go until the final credits. Although the film doesn't delve into the characters of secondary figures, Hanks' performance and the masterful conveyance of the constant military threat make “Greyhound” a gripping work that pays tribute to the courage of sailors.
7th place – “The Tragedy of Macbeth” (2021)
Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand shine in this dark and stylish adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy by Joel Coen (making his first film without his brother). Without epic scope, but with ancient passions. Not a masterpiece, but a vivid and uncompromising film.
The black-and-white palette and minimalist, almost theatrical sets create an atmosphere of primal evil, perfectly suited for a story about the lust for power, betrayal, and their consequences. Washington and McDormand (who would doubt it) are convincing as the ambitious couple obsessed with the witches' prophecy (the actress playing them is terrifying). And if you also love noir, this might be the best screen adaptation of the legendary Shakespearean text for you.
6th place – “On the Rocks” (2020)
Sofia Coppola, as only she can, made a charming comedy about the complicated relationship between a father and daughter. Successful writer Laura (Rashida Jones) begins to suspect her husband is cheating on her. Her eccentric father Felix (Bill Murray), a former playboy himself, comes to the rescue. Together they set off in pursuit of the unfaithful husband through nighttime New York.
The film is filled with subtle intellectual humor, sparkling dialogues, and beautiful views of the Big Apple. And Bill Murray's performance as the charming adventurer recalls the best moments of the great actor's illustrious career.
5th place – “Finch” (2021)
Tom Hanks plays an inventor who survives a global catastrophe and decides to build a robot to take care of his dog after his death. Together they embark on a dangerous journey across a devastated America.
Miguel Sapochnik's film (he directed the legendary “Battle of the Bastards” in “Game of Thrones”) raises eternal themes of friendship, love, and the meaning of life. Hanks, as always, is convincing as a lonely man trying to find his place in a new world. A somewhat speculative but incredibly touching story about overcoming fear and finding hope will not leave indifferent fans of humanistic science fiction, and everyone else as well.
4th place – “CODA” (2020)
“CODA” is a touching coming-of-age dramedy that tells the story of 17-year-old Ruby, the only hearing member of a deaf family. Director Siân Heder creates a vivid and emotional portrait of Ruby's life as she tries to balance family responsibilities and her dreams. She helps her parents with their fishing business while developing her vocal abilities and pursuing a music career.
The film is based on the French film “The Belier Family” and became a real hit, winning three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Notably, the actors playing the parents are deaf in real life, which adds extra authenticity to the film. “CODA” not only entertains (it's genuinely funny!) but also raises important questions about family, identity, and overcoming challenges.
A heartfelt, beautiful, simple-in-plot film that can touch and not leave anyone indifferent. Quite realistic and showing problems that many don't even know about.
3rd place — “Cha Cha Real Smooth” (2022)
“Cha Cha Real Smooth” is one of those indie films where the author's sincerity and energy burst through the screen with incredible force. Writer, producer, director, and lead actor Cooper Raiff created a new-generation rom-com with obvious techniques from past hits, but with new ethics, social subtext, and unashamed humor. At the same time, it's a great coming-of-age story and a search for oneself.
According to the plot, a young guy who can't seem to enter adulthood meets an experienced woman Domino (Dakota Johnson), tangled in her relationships, and this encounter makes them both see the world anew. Their dates and dialogues will include awkwardness, mutual sympathy, and the comfort they both feel in each other's company, despite the difference in age and social status. And most importantly — hope that each of the characters, and indeed the viewers, awaits if not a dance in the rhythm of cha-cha-cha, then at least a chance for a pleasant life.
2nd place – “WolfWalkers” (2020)
The Cartoon Saloon film captivates with its unique hand-drawn animation in the style of Irish engravings. But behind the beautiful visuals lies a gripping story about the confrontation between man and nature, about prejudice and friendship. Robyn, a girl and daughter of a wolf hunter, befriends a wolf-girl Mebh, discovering for herself and the viewer a wonderful world where there is no place for fear and prejudice.
This animated film is a true feast for the eyes and soul, enjoyed by both children and adults. Unsurprisingly, it received numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe.
What is good about Tomm Moore's work? The contrast between the complexity of the topics addressed and their demonstration. Using magical imagery, the director delicately describes the grim history of the eradication of paganism, primal origins, and traditions of Ireland by the British, who imposed Christian teachings. And even despite the distance of the depicted world from the cultures of many global viewers, it's impossible to resist a story where there is no place for vulgarity and modern ideals. The sketches are imbued with freedom, there is no clear boundary, and therefore each character is filled with a sense of liberty. And if that's not enough, after listening to the uplifting “Running With the Wolves,” it will definitely be impossible to keep the soul within the body.
1st place – “Killers of the Flower Moon” (2023)
Martin Scorsese returned with an epic story based on real events that immerses viewers in the dark world of crime and betrayal. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, the film tells the story of the mysterious murders of Osage Native Americans in the 1920s, when oil on their land attracted greedy people.
Scorsese masterfully creates a viscous and dramatic atmosphere, using his signature long takes and detailed scenes. The film runs over three hours, but every moment keeps you in suspense, making viewers empathize with the characters while simultaneously passing judgment on racial prejudice and human depravity.
“Killers of the Flower Moon” is a 3.5-hour expensive canvas by Martin Scorsese, perhaps not the most outstanding film of the maestro, but certainly one of the best roles in Leonardo DiCaprio's career (who was absolutely unfairly snubbed for an Oscar nomination), a triumphant discovery for the world in the form of Lily Gladstone, and a great comeback from B-movie comedy division for Robert De Niro. At least for that, “Killers of the Flower Moon” can already be loved. Well, and it's another proof that Zhirinovsky was right, and the dollar is a dirty green piece of paper.
What films would you name as the best in the Apple TV+ catalog?
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