Best of… lists

Best movies to watch on Netflix right now

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The Courier (2021)

Benedict Cumberbatch stars in this drama based on the true story surrounding Greville Wynne, a British businessman who was recruited by the Secret Intelligence Service to carry messages to and from the Soviet Union during the Cold War. As Wynne works with a Russian spy to get information out, it puts his life and freedom in danger.

Cumberbatch is phenomenal in the central role, while particular plaudits also have to go to Jessie Buckley for her small but impactful role as Wynne's wife Sheila. It may not be up there with the very best spy thrillers, but it remains tense throughout, and you'll find yourself shocked by the real history surrounding Wynne's life.

It's been over a decade since Jane Campion last released a feature film – although she did create acclaimed TV series Top of the Lake in that time – and The Power of the Dog is a brilliant return to moviemaking for the former Oscar winner. Equal parts Western and psychological thriller, the film is based on Thomas Savage's 1967 novel of the same name, and deftly delves into issues including toxic masculinity and repressed homosexuality.

This is an impeccably crafted film, complete with a superb Jonny Greenwood score and a terrific cast – including a career-best turn from Benedict Cumberbatch as brutish rancher Phil Burbank and equally accomplished performances from Kodi Smit-McPhee, Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons. The film bagged a hatful of Oscar nominations, and don't be too surprised to see some involved walking away with a golden statuette.