Are you ready to embark on a cinematic journey like no other? Down Under, the BBC iPlayer is your passport to a world of captivating storytelling. Dive into the realm of the best movies it has to offer, featuring beloved titles such as The Hurt Locker, Psycho, and Green Book.
Whether you’re in the mood for historical drama, gripping war stories, or legendary music biopics, BBC iPlayer has your cinematic cravings covered. Get ready to be transported from the stunning landscapes of Australia to the realm of extraordinary stories as you explore the best movies on BBC iPlayer.
Why are the best movies on BBC iPlayer considered cinematic gems?
The best movies on BBC iPlayer have earned their reputation as cinematic gems because prestigious awards and nominations have acknowledged their excellence. As highlighted on the official BBC iPlayer website, these films have not only captured the hearts of viewers but have also impressed critics and industry professionals alike. Their accolades serve as a testament to their exceptional storytelling, outstanding performances, and creative brilliance. So, with these best movies on BBC iPlayer, you’re in for a cinematic treat that has received the highest honours in the world of film. Don’t miss the chance to watch BBC iPlayer in Australia and experience these award-winning masterpieces for yourself.
1. Children of Men (2006)
- IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
- Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
- Stars: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine
- Runtime: 1h 49min
Children of Men is a dystopian science fiction thriller set in a world facing infertility and societal collapse. The film’s most intense and gripping scenes include a harrowing car ambush and a long take sequence inside a war-torn refugee camp. The plot twist revolves around the discovery of a miraculously pregnant woman, offering hope in a bleak world and triggering a dangerous journey to protect her. The movie is also available to watch on Binge. Moreover, you can also get BBC iPlayer free trial in Australia, if you wish to explore through the platform.
2. The Lost Boys (1987)
- IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
- Genre: Comedy, Horror
- Stars: Jason Patric, Corey Haim, Dianne Wiest, Kiefer Sutherland
- Runtime: 1h 37min
The Lost Boys is a cult classic vampire horror-comedy that follows two brothers who move to a California town infested with vampires. The film’s most iconic scene is the initiation sequence at a vampire lair, featuring eerie visuals and eerie music. The plot twist occurs when the true identity of the head vampire is revealed, leading to a thrilling and action-packed showdown. You can also enjoy the film on Binge and Foxtel Now in Australia. Apart from the movies, you will be able to gain access to some of the best shows on Binge, if you subscribe to the platform. If you are a fan of older movies, you can also watch some of the best 80’s movies on Hulu platform.
3. The Hurt Locker (2008)
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
- Genre: Drama, War
- Stars: Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty
- Runtime: 2h 11min
The Hurt Locker takes viewers into the intense world of bomb disposal units during the Iraq War. The film is known for its realism and tension-filled scenes involving bomb defusal. The most watched scenes often involve the protagonist, Staff Sergeant William James, played by Jeremy Renner, facing life-or-death situations while disarming improvised explosive devices. The plot twist emerges when James’ recklessness and addiction to danger become central to the story, raising questions about the nature of heroism and addiction to adrenaline. You can also enjoy the movie on various other platforms in Australia, including Netflix, Prime Video and Stan. There are other best sniper movies on Netflix platform, if you subscribe to this streaming giant.
4. West Side Story (1961)
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Musical
- Stars: Natalie Wood, George Chakiris, Richard Beymer
- Runtime: 2h 33min
West Side Story is a timeless musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” set in the streets of New York City. The film’s most iconic scenes are the electrifying dance sequences, particularly the passionate and highly choreographed rumble between the rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. The plot twist centers around the tragic fate of the star-crossed lovers, Tony and Maria, echoing the themes of love and prejudice from the original play. You can also enjoy the movie on Prime Video in Australia. Moreover, you will also be able to watch American Amazon Prime in Australia, if you follow some simple guidelines.
5. An Education (2009)
- IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
- Genre: Drama, Romance
- Stars: Carey Mulligan, Peter Sarsgaard, Alfred Molina
- Runtime: 1h 40min
An Education is a coming-of-age drama set in 1960s London, focusing on the life of a young girl named Jenny, played by Carey Mulligan. The film’s most poignant scenes involve Jenny’s intellectual awakening and her relationship with an older man. The plot twist lies in Jenny’s realization that the man she admired is not who he seemed to be, leading to a turning point in her life and her pursuit of true independence. You can also enjoy the movie on Beam A Film and SBS On Demand in Australia.
6. Moulin Rouge (2001)
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
- Genre: Drama, Musical, Romance
- Stars: Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor, John Leguizamo
- Runtime: 2h 7min
Moulin Rouge is a visually stunning musical romance set in the vibrant world of a Parisian cabaret. The film’s most watched scenes are the extravagant and colorful musical numbers, including the unforgettable “Elephant Love Medley.” The plot twist unfolds as the characters navigate the complexities of love and ambition, with a bittersweet and dramatic conclusion that tugs at the heartstrings of viewers. You can also stream the movie on Disney Plus in Australia.
7. In The Heat Of The Night (1967)
- IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Stars: Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger, Warren Oates
- Runtime: 1h 49min
In The Heat Of The Night is a racially charged crime drama that follows a black detective, Virgil Tibbs, portrayed by Sidney Poitier, who becomes involved in solving a murder in a racially divided Southern town. The film’s most memorable scenes highlight Tibbs’ intelligence and resilience in the face of prejudice. The plot twist comes when Tibbs unravels the truth behind the murder and confronts the town’s deep-seated racism, challenging the status quo. You can also rent the movie on Apple TV and Amazon in Australia, if you wish to watch it at your own convenience.
8. Green Book (2018)
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
- Genre: Biography, Comedy, Drama
- Stars: Viggo Mortensen, Mahershala Ali, Linda Cardellini
- Runtime: 2h 10min
Green Book is a heart-warming film that explores the unlikely friendship between an African-American pianist, Dr. Don Shirley, and his Italian-American chauffeur, Tony Vallelonga. The film’s most touching scenes involve their journey through the racially segregated South, including a standout moment when they share a meal in a “whites-only” restaurant. The plot twist comes as Tony confronts his own prejudices and learns valuable life lessons from Dr. Shirley, challenging his preconceived notions of race and friendship. Green Book is also available to stream on Netflix on Australia. You can also get American Netflix in Australia, if you follow some very simple steps.
9. What Ever Happened To Baby Jane? (1962)
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
- Genre: Drama, Horror, Thriller
- Stars: Bette Davis, Joan Crawford
- Runtime: 2h 14min
What Ever Happened To Baby Jane? is a psychological thriller featuring the legendary rivalry between two aging sisters, former child star Baby Jane Hudson and her wheelchair-bound sister, Blanche. The film’s most watched scenes are the intense and suspenseful interactions between the two sisters, particularly when Baby Jane torments Blanche. The plot twist unravels dark family secrets and the depths of Baby Jane’s madness, leading to a shocking climax that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. You can also rent the movie from Apple TV, Youtube and Google Play Store.
10. The Mule (2018)
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Stars: Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, Taissa Farmiga
- Runtime: 1h 56min
The Mule is a crime drama directed by Clint Eastwood, who also stars as the protagonist, Earl Stone. The film explores themes of redemption and family as Earl becomes unwittingly involved in drug trafficking. The most dramatic scenes revolve around Earl’s interactions with law enforcement and the dangerous drug cartel. The plot twist unfolds as Earl faces the consequences of his actions, leading to a tense and emotionally charged climax. You can also enjoy the movie on Netflix and Binge in Australia. Moreover, you will be able to access some other best true crime shows on Netflix, if you subscribe to the platform.
Our top recommendations!
For those craving suspense, intrigue, and real-life tales, we’ve got you covered with more best movies on BBC iPlayer. Our recommendations include gripping thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat, as well as mysterious narratives that will challenge your deductive skills. What’s even more captivating is that some of these films are based on true stories, adding an extra layer of authenticity and fascination to your viewing experience.
| Movie Title | IMDb Rating | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| Loving | 7.0/10 | 2016 |
| I Saw The Light | 5.8/10 | 2015 |
| A Million Little Pieces | 6.2/10 | 2018 |
| Dark Waters | 7.6/10 | 2019 |
| The Two Faces Of January | 6.2/10 | 2014 |
| Everything, Everything | 6.4/10 | 2017 |
| Baby Done | 6.0/10 | 2020 |
| Before I Go to Sleep | 6.3/10 | 2014 |
| Greta | 6.0/10 | 2018 |
| A Simple Plan | 7.5/10 | 1998 |
| The Company You Keep | 6.4/10 | 2012 |
| Law of Tehran | 7.8/10 | 2019 |
| Trauma | 4.7/10 | 2004 |
| Crossfire | 7.3/10 | 1947 |
In a nutshell!
The BBC iPlayer is a fantastic streaming service for movie enthusiasts in Australia, with a wide variety of titles available. Our list of the best movies on BBC iPlayer showcases some of the finest examples of cinema, ranging from classic Hollywood blockbusters to modern independent movies. Whether you are in the mood for a classic comedy, an intense drama, or a thrilling action flick, the BBC iPlayer has something for everyone. With new movies added regularly, there’s never been a better time to start exploring the vast library of content available on this popular platform.
