‘Phenomenal’ new film that is no.1 on Netflix today – ‘powerful watch start to finish’ | Films | Entertainment

A new film on Netflix, currently number one on the streaming app, has been described as phenomenal by fans who say it is a must-see. The film was released at the end of 2025 but has recently climbed up the Netflix ranks. Anniversary, directed by Jan Komasa and starring the likes of Diane Lane,  Kyle Chandler, Madeline Brewer and Zoey Deutch, is an American dystopian political thriller.

The synopsis on Rotten Tomatoes reads: “In this gripping thriller, a close-knit family is caught in the turmoil of a controversial rising movement known as ‘The Change.’ Ellen and Paul (Diane Lane and Kyle Chandler) witness their lives fall apart when Ellen’s former student Liz (Phoebe Dynevor) reappears and starts dating their son (Dylan O’Brien).

“As Liz becomes a part of the Taylor family, tensions rise and loyalties are tested. Liz’s role in ‘The Change’ brings simmering conflicts to the surface, unravelling the fabric of the family just as the nation itself stands on edge during an alarming and challenging time of uncertainty.”

Despite being released just a few months ago, the film has already garnered numerous reviews and a 78% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers describing it as a hidden gem and completely baffled by why it hadn’t been “promoted”.

One person wrote: “I walked into the movie having no idea what it was about. It blew me away! Phenomenal. Really good message for our current political landscape. Just wow! So well done.”

Another said: “A little hidden gem of a movie that surprised me very positively. Very good!”

Anniversary’s political aspect was one of the things that drew many people in, with some fans even suggesting that the “unconventional masterpiece” foreshadows what’s to come in the United States.

One fan urging people to “pay attention” wrote: “Not only a good movie with excellent acting and writing, but a dismal foretelling of the next few years of our future,” while a second said: “Everyone needs to watch and take heed considering the current regime.”

A third commented: “A powerful watch from start to finish. More terrifying than any thriller, in a Handmaid’s tale vibe, carried by an incredible cast, a captivating script, and a sober and efficient direction, it’s the best political movie of the year.”

Even if politics might not be your sort of thing, viewers also praised the “impressive cast and acting” and described the film as “unique! and “compelling”, so it must be worth a watch.