The Roku Channel, with its impressive lineup of both timeless classics and contemporary hits, has quickly risen to prominence among streaming platforms, making it a favorite among cinephiles. If you’re on the hunt for the next cinematic experience to dive into, Roku Channel presents a treasure trove of options. In this guide, we’ll delve deep into some of the top movies on Roku, highlighting the must-watch movies on Roku for 2023.
Whether you’re in the mood for an epic romance, a gripping thriller, or a light-hearted comedy, the best movies on Roku Channel ensure there’s something to satisfy every palate. So, gear up for a film marathon as we navigate through the Roku best movies you simply can’t miss this year!
Boiling Point (2021)
Revealing a cinematic treasure from recent releases, “Boiling Point” stands out as an enthralling British drama exploring the turbulent life of a head chef. Showcasing cinematic brilliance, the film weaves its narrative in a single, uninterrupted 90-minute shot, free from any camera artifice, celebrating the essence of pure filmmaking.
Though various films have delved into the frenzied realm of the restaurant industry, “Boiling Point” achieves an unparalleled level of authenticity. Collaborating with the outstanding Stephen Graham, director Philip Barantini demonstrates his directorial prowess in this sophomore feature-length effort. Together, they craft a pulse-pounding 90-minute journey that’s sure to grip viewers. Envision the pressure-cooker ambiance of “Uncut Gems,” yet with someone akin to the culinary maestro Gordon Ramsay at the helm. Brace yourself for a filmic treat that radiates genuine fervor and depth.
| Director | Philip Barantini |
| Release Date | 23 August 2021 |
| Genre | Gripping, Intense, Raw |
| Cast | Áine Rose Daly, Alex Heath, Alice May Feetham, Diljohn Singh |
| IMDb Rating | 7.5/10 |
What Maisie Knew (2012)
In “What Maisie Knew”, the film explores the emotional turmoil that young Maisie goes through when she finds herself caught in the middle of a tumultuous divorce. Despite the emotional rollercoaster that she finds herself on, Maisie’s strong will and innocence shines through as she begins to navigate her way through the complicated world of adulthood.
| Director | Scott McGehee, David Siegel |
| Released Date | 7 September 2012 (Canada), 3 May 2013 (USA) |
| Genre | Drama |
| Cast | Julianne Moore, Alexander Skarsgård, Steve Coogan |
| IMDb Rating | 7.4/10 |
Pain and Glory (2019)
This Spanish drama film tells the story of a film director named Salvador Mallo, who is dealing with a creative crisis and various health issues. As he reflects on his past, he reconnects with people from his childhood and his former lover, which leads him to contemplate his life’s choices and the meaning of existence. The film is a poignant and introspective look at aging, memory, and the power of art to heal and transform.
| Director | Pedro Almodóvar |
| Released Date | 22 March 2019 |
| Genre | Drama |
| Cast | Antonio Banderas, Asier Etxeandia, Leonardo Sbaraglia |
| IMDb Rating | 7.5/10 |
Goon (2011)
Doug is a bouncer who unexpectedly becomes a minor league hockey player. Despite his lack of skill on the ice, Doug becomes known as an enforcer and fan favorite for his willingness to fight other players.
The movie is a lighthearted sports comedy exploring the role of violence in sports and the unlikely friendships that can form between people from different backgrounds.
The film combines raunchy humor with heartfelt moments as Doug navigates his newfound success, confronts his personal demons, and tries to prove himself on and off the ice.
| Director | Michael Dowse |
| Released Date | 24 February 2012 |
| Genre | Comedy, Drama, Sport |
| Cast | Seann William Scott, Jay Baruchel, Alison Pill |
| IMDb Rating | 6.8/10 |
Headhunters (2012)
A corporate headhunter doubles as an art thief. After targeting a valuable painting owned by a former mercenary, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse and must evade a violent manhunt.
The film’s plot is expertly crafted, with clever twists that keep the audience engaged throughout. The cast delivers powerful performances, and the direction is stylish and engaging. “Headhunters” is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers.
| Director | Morten Tyldum |
| Released Date | 2012 |
| Genre | Action, Crime, Thriller |
| Cast | Aksel Hennie, Synnøve Macody Lund, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau |
| IMDb Rating | 7.5/10 |
Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)
Another Best movies on Roku “Jiro Dreams of Sushi” a famous sushi chef, Jiro Ono, shares his mastery and passion for sushi making. The documentary takes the audience through the journey of Jiro’s life, from his early days as a young apprentice to his current status as an esteemed chef. The movie also highlights the relationship between Jiro and his sons, who are also sushi chefs, and the challenges they face in continuing Jiro’s legacy.
| Director | David Gelb |
| Released Date | 2011 |
| Genre | Documentary |
| Cast | Jiro Ono, Yoshikazu Ono, Masuhiro Yamamoto |
| IMDb Rating | 7.8/10 |
Mr. Nobody (2009)
The film takes us on a mind-bending journey as it explores the idea of parallel universes and the choices we make in life. The film follows the life of Nemo Nobody, the last mortal on Earth who is faced with the decision of choosing which life to lead. Through its beautiful cinematography and thought-provoking plot, the film encourages viewers to reflect on their own life choices.
| Director | Jaco Van Dormael |
| Released Date | 2009 |
| Genre | Drama, Fantasy, Romance |
| Cast | Jared Leto, Sarah Polley, Diane Kruger |
| IMDb Rating | 7.8/10 |
Detachment (2012)
Henry Barthes is a substitute teacher who is tasked with navigating the troubled waters of a high school that is plagued by dysfunction and violence. The film depicts the harsh realities of the public school system and the impact it has on both the students and teachers. Despite the difficult subject matter, the film manages to offer hope through the compassion and resilience of the characters.
| Director | Tony Kaye |
| Released Date | 2012 |
| Genre | Drama |
| Cast | Adrien Brody, Christina Hendricks, Marcia Gay Harden |
| IMDb Rating | 7.7/10 |
Corpus Christi (2019)
“Corpus Christi” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that tells the story of a young man who has recently been released from a juvenile detention center and pretends to be a priest in a small town. As he becomes increasingly involved in the community, he is forced to confront his own demons and grapple with questions of faith and morality.
The film explores on forgiveness, and the search for meaning in life. It is a deeply moving and engaging story that will leave audiences thinking long after the film has ended, a must-see film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
| Director | Jan Komasa |
| Released Date | 11 October 2019 (Poland), 22 January 2020 (USA) |
| Genre | Drama |
| Cast | Bartosz Bielenia, Aleksandra Konieczna, Eliza Rycembel |
| IMDb Rating | 7.7/10 |
Wind River (2017)
A gripping crime thriller that tells the story of a veteran tracker and an FBI agent who team up to solve the mysterious death of a young Native American woman. Set in the harsh and unforgiving winter landscape of Wyoming, the film explores themes of grief, redemption, and the lasting impact of violence on individuals and communities. With strong performances from its lead actors and taut direction from its director, “Wind River” is a thought-provoking and haunting exploration of loss and justice.
| Director | Taylor Sheridan |
| Released Date | August 4, 2017 |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Mystery |
| Cast | Jeremy Renner, Elizabeth Olsen, Graham Greene |
| IMDb Rating | 7.7/10 |
Best Of Enemies (2015)
One of the Best movies on Roku “Best of Enemies” is a fascinating documentary that explores the historic debates between two intellectual giants, Gore Vidal and William F. Buckley Jr. The film provides a unique look at the way that these two men helped shape modern political discourse in the United States, and the way that their debates highlighted the deep ideological divisions that exist within American society. It is a must-see for anyone interested in politics, history, or the power of ideas.
| Director | Robert Gordon, Morgan Neville |
| Released Date | 2015 |
| Genre | Documentary, Biography, History |
| Cast | Gore Vidal, William F. Buckley, Dick Cavett |
| IMDb Rating | 7.6/10 |
Hunt For Wilderpeople (2016)
“Hunt for the Wilderpeople” is a heartwarming and hilarious adventure that follows a rebellious young boy and his grumpy foster father as they get lost in the New Zealand wilderness. The film beautifully captures the stunning landscapes of New Zealand while exploring the themes of family, love, and loss. The characters are charming and endearing, and their journey through the rugged terrain is both exhilarating and emotional.
| Director | Taika Waititi |
| Released Date | March 31, 2016 |
| Genre | Adventure, Comedy, Drama |
| Cast | Sam Neill, Julian Dennison, Rima Te Wiata |
| IMDb Rating | 7.8/10 |
Short Term 12 (2013)
Short Term 12 is a heartfelt and poignant drama that explores the struggles and triumphs of those who work at a group home for troubled youth. Led by a standout performance from Brie Larson, the film follows the lives of the staff and the young residents as they navigate through past traumas, current hardships, and uncertain futures.
The film tackles sensitive issues with empathy and sincerity, while also finding moments of humor and hope in the midst of difficult circumstances. Short Term 12 is a must-see film that is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.
| Director | Destin Daniel Cretton |
| Released Date | August 23, 2013 |
| Genre | Drama |
| Cast | Brie Larson, John Gallagher Jr., Frantz Turner |
| IMDb Rating | 7.9/10 |
I Am Not Your Negro (2016)
“I Am Not Your Negro” is a powerful documentary that explores the life and work of the African American writer and social critic James Baldwin. The film uses Baldwin’s words, both spoken and written, to shed light on the history of racism in the United States. The documentary is a testament to Baldwin’s prescience and his ability to articulate the complexities of the black experience in America.
| Director | Raoul Peck |
| Released Date | 2017 |
| Genre | Documentary, History |
| Cast | Samuel L. Jackson, James Baldwin |
| IMDb Rating | 7.9/10 |
Blackfish (2013)
“Blackfish” is a gripping documentary that sheds light on the dark side of the entertainment industry and the mistreatment of killer whales in captivity. Through interviews with former trainers and experts in the field, the film exposes the inhumane practices of SeaWorld and other similar organizations. The film is both heart-wrenching and eye-opening, and it is a powerful reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the need for change in the industry.
| Director | Gabriela Cowperthwaite |
| Released Date | 19 January 2013 (Sundance), 19 July 2013 (USA) |
| Genre | Documentary, Crime, Drama |
| Cast | Tilikum, Dave Duffus, Samantha Berg |
| IMDb Rating | 8.1/10 |
Conclusion
From age-old classics to the latest cinematic offerings, Roku Channel boasts a diverse selection catered to film enthusiasts of all types as mentioned above in the list of Best movies on Roku. With its ever-evolving collection, Roku Channel is a goldmine of cinematic wonders waiting to be explored. So, prepare your favorite snack, get comfortable, and dive into the finest films Roku Channel presents.
