The Best TV Shows And Movies Coming To Netflix In December 2023
Contrary to what you might think based on the plethora of Christmas films and TV series that flooded the streaming landscape recently, we're only now heading into the final month of 2023 and the winter holiday bonanza that comes with them. For Netflix, in particular, December is a time when it pulls out the big guns, tempting its subscribers with an eclectic blend of prestige television, awards season contenders, and crowd-pleasers. This year, that includes the end of the royal drama with "The Crown" season 6, part 2, Bradley Cooper going for the gold (again) with his Leonard Bernstein biopic "Maestro," and whatever the hell Zack Snyder has cooked up for us with the first half of his two-part "Star Wars"-inspired cosmic epic, "Rebel Moon — Part One: A Child of Fire."
However, in lieu of focusing on the releases that are positioned to soak up the bulk of everyone's attention, I would prefer to highlight some intriguing titles that seem at risk of getting lost in the shuffle (along with some old favorites that are coming to the platform). Here are five top picks, in addition to everything else that's headed to Netflix in December 2023.
May December
Carrying on in the tradition of the legendary Douglas Sirk, Todd Haynes is one of the few modern directors specializing in adult melodramas, combining luxuriant production design with socially-conscious stories that deal with prickly topics and subject matter in films like "Far From Heaven" and "Carol." This also makes him an exemplary choice to helm "May December," a drama whose premise would almost seem like it was designed to make you clench up with discomfort ... if it wasn't loosely inspired by real-life events (namely, the infamous tale of Mary Kay Letourneau).
Natalie Portman stars here as Elizabeth Berry, an actor who's preparing to headline a true story drama as Gracie Atherton (Julianne Moore), a woman who became sexually involved with her much younger husband Joe Yoo (Charles Melton of "Riverdale" fame) when he was still in early adolescence. As Elizabeth meets with Gracie and Joe to learn more about their lives, "Haynes expertly capitalizes on that strangeness and turns it on its ear, employing it for demented laughs as much as he does for crushing awareness," to quote Lex Briscuso's glowing review for /Film. Certain other members of the /Film team have proclaimed "May November" the "most expensive Lifetime movie I've ever seen [complimentary]," and if that doesn't sell you on it, then, well, we're probably not compatible.
Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)
With December's "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" marking the official end of the old DC cinematic universe or "Snyderverse," Netflix is, er, celebrating the occasion by streaming multiple films from the franchise. But while there are several good options to choose from, I'm gonna use this opportunity to shout out "Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)," arguably the most under-appreciated film from this era of DC (at least, so far as the box office returns are concerned). Also, it's the only one where a delicious breakfast sandwich is a key plot point, and if that's not real cinema, then nothing is.
To that same point, "Birds of Prey" embraces a dazzling Day-Glo aesthetic and chaotic tone befitting of the titular Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie, perfectly cast), who ends up on the wrong side of sadistic crime lord Roman Sionis/Black Mask (Ewan McGregor, having a blast playing a deeply despicable bad guy) upon being dumped by the Joker. The film doesn't scale the same irreverent heights as the animated "Harley Quinn" TV series (a high bar, to be sure), but director Cathy Yan delivers where it counts, serving up an antihero ensemble adventure that's funny, violent, and heartfelt in equal measure. That and every scene with Mary Elizabeth Winstead as the deadly but socially awkward Helena Bertinelli/Huntress is pure comedic gold.
Blockers
Dave Bautista might be the best actor among our current group of professional wrestlers turned film stars (see him in this year's "Knock at the Cabin" if you don't believe me), but John Cena is the funniest, as he proved with his go-for-broke performance in "Blockers." There's no gag too embarrassing for "The Perfect Man" in director Kay Cannon's hilarious sex comedy, whether it involves butt-chugging beer or a blindfolded game of what appears to be sexy Marco Polo in the nude. Of course, Cena and his costars commit just as hard to the film's moments of sincerity as its ribald jokes, which is really what makes the whole thing come together.
Cena stars here opposite Ike Barinholtz and Leslie Mann as a trio of parents who inadvertently discover their daughters (Kathryn Newton, Geraldine Viswanathan, and Gideon Adlon) — all of whom have been best friends since they were kids — are planning to lose their virginity on the night of their Senior Prom, and set out to stop them. Thankfully, the film itself is far more sex-positive and level-headed in its handling of parent-child relationships than its adult leads are at first ... though it sure is a hoot watching them make a mess of things before ultimately learning their lesson.
Leave the World Behind
We here at /Film have already run down the many parallels between "Leave the World Behind" and M. Night Shyamalan's 2023 thriller, "Knock at the Cabin," on more than one occasion. So, in lieu of that, let's skip right to what makes the former so interesting on its own. Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke star in the film — itself based on Rumaan Alam's 2020 novel of the same name — as a married couple whose getaway with their kids is suddenly disturbed by a pair of strangers (Mahershala Ali and Myha'la) warning of an encroaching apocalypse brought about by a series of cyberattacks. And while that cast and setup are exciting enough to merit attention, it's writer/director Sam Esmail (the creator of "Mr. Robot") who's perhaps the biggest selling point.
To quote /Film's self-confessed hardcore "Mr. Robot" fan Jeremy Mathai, those familiar with the filmmaker's work "will undoubtedly recognize Esmail's penchant for immaculately-framed shots" in the "Leave the World Behind" trailer footage, along with "that creeping sense of dread at the frightening reality that all our 21st Century technology can completely fail us at the most inopportune moment." In fact, this might just be the perfect viewing option for those looking for some existential dread to counterbalance all the cheer and joy next month.
Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget
Somehow, Netflix has evolved into one of the last remaining bastions of stop-motion animation, between it streaming shows like "Pokémon Concierge," funding stop-motion passion projects from Henry Selick and Guillermo del Toro, and becoming the go-to destination for Aardman Animations' ventures in the U.S. The latter's latest offering, "Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget," is, of course, a sequel to 2000's "Chicken Run," itself a thoroughly delightful homage to "The Great Escape" that remains the top-grossing stop-motion film ever made, even 23 years later. And while those are some mighty big shoes for "Dawn of the Nugget" to fill, it's comforting to know that even lesser Aardman productions still tend to be bursting with wit, innovation, and general claymation magic.
Part heist movie and part James Bond love letter, "Dawn of the Nugget" finds the courageous chick Ginger and her rooster beau Rocky (now voiced by Thandiwe Newton and Zachary Levi, respectively) taking on perhaps their greatest challenge yet: parenthood. But just as everything seems hunky-dory at last, the pair's daughter Molly (Bella Ramsey) — very much a chip off the same block — sneaks away from their island sanctuary in search of adventure, only to find her way into a chicken nugget factory run by none other than the notorious Mrs. Tweedy (Miranda Richardson). Can Ginger save the day ... again? Well, you'll just have to watch and find out, won't you? (But yes. The answer is yes.)
Movies and TV Shows Coming to Netflix in December 2023
Avail. 12/1/23
May December – NETFLIX FILM
Twenty years after their notorious tabloid romance gripped the nation, a married couple buckles under the pressure when an actress arrives to do research for a film about their past.
Sweet Home: Season 2 (KR) – NETFLIX SERIES
Who's knocking? A monster, a human, or a hybrid...? The stakes are higher than ever as the lines begin to blur, and nobody is safe from infection.
Basketball Wives: Seasons 3-4
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
Big Brother: Seasons 6 and 17
Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)
Black Swan
Blockers
Boyz n the Hood
Burlesque
College Hill: Celebrity Edition: Season 1
Holey Moley: Seasons 1-2
Insidious
L.A. Confidential
Man of Steel
The Meg
Neighbors
Real Husbands of Hollywood: More Kevin, More Problems: Season 1
Shazam!
She's All That
She's the Man
Suicide Squad
Taken
Taken 2
The Suicide Squad
Wonder Woman
Wonder Woman 1984
Avail. 12/3/23
The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Welcome to Samdal-ri (KR) – NETFLIX SERIES
Avail. 12/4/23
Dew Drop Diaries: Season 2 – NETFLIX FAMILY
Whoosh, here we go! Athena, Phoebe and Eden return to help their kids solve everyday problems with glitter, grit and a great attitude.
Avail. 12/5/23
Stavros Halkias: Fat Rascal – NETFLIX COMEDY
Acerbic comic Stavros Halkias skewers tech culture, air travel, sex — and himself — in this raunchy, rollicking and irreverent stand-up set.
Top Chef: Seasons 6 and 15
Avail. 12/6/23
Blood Coast (FR) – NETFLIX SERIES
As a vicious drug dealer tries to overtake Marseille, a rogue police captain and his daredevil team welcome a new recruit with an agenda of her own.
Christmas as Usual (NO) – NETFLIX FILM
To celebrate their engagement, Thea takes Jashan home — but his Indian roots and her family's Norwegian traditions clash in a chaotic Christmas.
Avail. 12/7/23
Analog Squad (TH) – NETFLIX SERIES
After learning of his estranged father's sickness, a scheming middle-aged man assembles a fake family to reunite with him for one last time.
The Archies (IN) – NETFLIX FILM
Set in 1960s India, Archie and the gang navigate romance, friendship and the future of Riverdale as developers threaten to destroy a beloved park.
Hilda: Season 3 – NETFLIX FAMILY
A trip to see her great-aunt sparks Hilda's interest in fairies. But the young explorer may have a stronger connection to the creatures than she thinks.
I Hate Christmas: Season 2 (IT) – NETFLIX SERIES
It's that time of year again, but now Gianna is in love and ready to embrace the Christmas spirit — even if new issues arise and threaten it.
High Tides (BE) – NETFLIX SERIES
Over a tense summer on the Belgian coast, a wealthy friend group faces adulthood's harsh realities while grappling with love and societal expectations.
My Life With the Walter Boys – NETFLIX SERIES
When a tragedy disrupts her life, a teen moves in with her guardian's big family in a small town and learns new lessons about love, hope and friendship.
NAGA (SA) – NETFLIX FILM
Teenage Cindy has high aspirations: to conquer the world. But first, she must survive high school — and high society — in her hometown of San Pedro.
World War II: From the Frontlines (GB) – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
Through vividly enhanced archival footage and voices from all sides of the conflict, this docuseries brings WWII to life like never before.
Avail. 12/8/23
Blood Vessel (NG) – NETFLIX FILM
Brought together by chance, six people fleeing a town devastated by oil pollution stow away on a mysterious ship — not realizing the dangers that await.
The Great British Baking Show: Holidays: Season 6 (GB) – NETFLIX SERIES
Ring in the holidays with judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood as bakers gather for festive fun in the tent and a chance to win the coveted cake stand.
Leave the World Behind – NETFLIX FILM
A family's getaway to a luxurious rental home takes an ominous turn when a cyberattack knocks out their devices — and two strangers appear at their door.
Women on the Edge (AR) – NETFLIX FILM
After meeting in an anger-control group, two women set out to expose a sketchy plastic surgeon, resulting in an empowering journey — and friendship.
Avail. 12/9/23
Love and Monsters
Avail. 12/12/23
Kevin Hart & Chris Rock: Headliners Only – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
From back in the day to the top of their game, Kevin Hart and Chris Rock offer an unparalleled, behind-the-scenes look at their friendship and careers.
Single's Inferno: Season 3 (KR) – NETFLIX SERIES
A new set of singles embark on a journey of love on a remote island — navigating drama, passion and everything in between for a chance at Paradise.
Under Pressure: The U.S. Women's World Cup Team – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
The all-access sports series will allow audiences to intimately follow the US Women's National Team's players and coaches and reveal an inside look at the most decorated team in soccer history. Viewers will get a first-hand look at the pressure, the euphoria, the joy, and the hardships that these world-class athletes experience as they strive to capture their third World Cup title in a row. Issues ranging from racial diversity, LGBTQ+ rights, equal pay, family, and motherhood are all brought to light as the narrative unfolds.
Avail. 12/13/23
1670 (PL) – NETFLIX SERIES
A quirky nobleman navigates family feuds and clashes with peasants in his misguided quest to become Poland's most famous figure In this satirical comedy.
Car Masters: Rust to Riches: Season 5 – NETFLIX SERIES
New faces join the Gotham Garage gang as they prepare to bring their business to the next level — but it'll take a lot of hard work and creativity.
Holiday in the Vineyards
The Influencer (CO) – NETFLIX SERIES
After a social media stunt goes wrong, an influencer is forced to rebuild her reputation while navigating a cutthroat online scene.
Se Eu Fosse: Luísa Sonza (BR) – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
Brazil's most polarizing pop singer opens up in this docuseries about her love life, career, controversies and the creation of a new album.
Avail. 12/14/23
As the Crow Flies: Season 2 (TR) – NETFLIX SERIES
Aslı and Lale must break from the norm and face fresh challenges as they continue to fight for their survival in a cutthroat media industry.
The Crown: Season 6 Part 2 (GB) – NETFLIX SERIES
With the Commonwealth irrevocably changed, Queen Elizabeth II reflects on her life and legacy, and paves the way for her successors Charles and William.
Married at First Sight: Season 14
Yu Yu Hakusho (JP) – NETFLIX SERIES
After a selfless act costs him his life, teen delinquent Yusuke Urameshi is chosen as a "Spirit Detective" to investigate cases involving rogue yokai.
Avail. 12/15/23
Carol & The End of The World – NETFLIX SERIES
With a mysterious planet hurtling towards Earth, extinction is imminent for the people of the world. While most feel liberated to pursue their wildest dreams, one quiet and always uncomfortable woman stands alone — lost among the hedonistic masses.
Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget (GB) – NETFLIX FILM
A fearless band of chickens flock together to save their own kind from an unsettling new threat: a nearby farm that's cooking up something suspicious.
Face to Face with ETA: Conversations with a Terrorist (ES) – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
Josu Urrutikoetxea, also known as Josu Ternera, gives an exhaustive interview to journalist Jordi Évole about his involvement in the terrorist group ETA.
Familia (MX) – NETFLIX FILM
As a family discusses the future of their idyllic olive farm over a meal, the complexity of their relationships emerges through laughs and confessions.
The Hills: Seasons 3-4
Yoh' Christmas (ZA) – NETFLIX SERIES
Single, 30 and under pressure, Thando lies to her family that she has a boyfriend. Now she has 24 days to bring one home for Christmas. Can she do it?
Avail. 12/18/23
Mush-Mush and the Mushables
Avail. 12/19/23
Project Runway: Season 17
Trevor Noah: Where Was I – NETFLIX COMEDY
Returning to Netflix for his fourth original comedy special, Trevor Noah shares his hilarious experiences from his recent travels around the world, ranging from foreign national anthems to varying cultural norms.
Avail. 12/20/23
Cindy la Regia: The High School Years (MX) – NETFLIX SERIES
Teenage Cindy has high aspirations: to conquer the world. But first, she must survive high school — and high society — in her hometown of San Pedro.
Love is Blind Brazil: After the Altar (BZ) – NETFLIX SERIES
Drama, closure and rekindled flames collide as cast members from past seasons of "Love is Blind Brazil" come together in this special reunion episode.
Maestro – NETFLIX FILM
Maestro is a towering and fearless love story chronicling the lifelong relationship between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein. A love letter to life and art, Maestro at its core is an emotionally epic portrayal of family and love.
Taming of the Shrewd 2 (PL) – NETFLIX FILM
Avail. 12/21/23
Flipping Out: Seasons 4-5
Like Flowers in Sand (KR) – NETFLIX SERIES
Supa Team 4: Season 2 – NETFLIX FILM
While Mr. Magedzee searches for a cleaner, greener power source, Supa Team 4 searches for the evil Chusi. Will they all find what they're looking for?
Avail. 12/22/23
Gyeongseong Creature: Season 1 Part 1 (KR) – NETFLIX SERIES
Gyeongseong, 1945. In Seoul's grim era under colonial rule, an entrepreneur and a sleuth fight for survival and face a monster born out of human greed.
Rebel Moon — Part One: A Child of Fire – NETFLIX FILM
When a peaceful settlement on the edge of a distant moon finds itself threatened by the armies of a tyrannical ruling force, a mysterious stranger living among its villagers becomes their best hope for survival.
Avail. 12/24/23
A Vampire in the Family (BR) – NETFLIX FILM
When a fainthearted ex-soccer player learns his brother-in-law is a vampire with world domination plans, he must gather his courage and save the day.
The Manny (MX) – NETFLIX SERIES
A high-powered executive hires a rancher in a panic to care for her kids. Little does she know, he'll challenge her views of gender roles — and of love.
Avail. 12/25/23
Ricky Gervais: Armageddon (GB) – NETFLIX COMEDY
The BAFTA and Golden Globe-winning mind behind The Office, Extras and Afterlife takes the stage for a provocative new stand-up special, riffing on the end of humanity, political correctness, family weddings, funerals and Artificial Intelligence.
Star Trek: Prodigy: Season 1
Avail. 12/26/23
Thank You, I'm Sorry (SE) – NETFLIX FILM
Suddenly alone during the late stages of her pregnancy, Sara receives an unexpected lifeline when Linda, her estranged older sister, arrives.
Avail. 12/27/23
Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare (GB) – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
The brutal conditions of an infamous wilderness therapy camp — and the alleged abuse of the troubled teens who attended — are exposed in this gripping tell-all documentary.
Avail. 12/28/23
Pokémon Concierge (JP) – NETFLIX FAMILY
Avail. 12/29/23
Berlin (ES) – NETFLIX SERIES
Back to his golden age before the events of "Money Heist," Berlin and a masterful gang gather in Paris to plan one of his most ambitious robberies ever.
Avail. 12/31/23
Blippi Wonders: Season 3
The Millionaire Matchmaker: Seasons 3-4