If you’re in the mood for comedy, romance, horror, action, drama — basically anything — Netflix will deliver. But what if you don’t actually want to watch a movie?
Streaming Sometimes, you’re not in the mood to give a film your full attention. Netflix has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, romance, horror, action, drama — basically anything — the streaming service will deliver. But what if you don’t actually want to watch a movie? What if you just want to have something on while you’re busy doing something else? Well, the site delivers there as well, as there are some great movies to stream in the background. What makes for a good passive watch? For starters, it should be the type of movie that can be enjoyed even if you’re not really paying attention. (Bonus points if it can be enjoyed with your full attention, but it’s definitely not a requirement. You’ll see.) Films that are presented in a vignette style are all pretty good at fulfilling this requirement, as are time travel films (they tend to repeat key scenes) and movies that follow a predictable-but-satisfying plot. Movies that aren’t exactly must-sees — due to campiness, terribleness, or lack of originality — actually function better as something that you’re just half-watching, and are prime picks for this list. And lastly, there are beautiful films, which can add either visual or auditory splendor to your living room while you’re busy doing whatever it is you’re doing besides watching it. So without further ado, here are 16 movies on Netflix that are great choices to have on in the background. The whole point of this movie (aside from the sweet romance between leads Rachel McAdams and Domhnall Gleeson) is the time travel: scenes are literally replaying over and over again. So there’s a nice repetition that makes for a perfect “in the background” watch. Watch On Netflix This Netflix original about a man who wants to be a sommelier — despite his family’s hopes otherwise — is as delicious as the wine featured onscreen, with humor and heart and Courtney B. Vance. Best for watching as you prep for hosting a party. Watch On Netflix Everything and nothing happens in this surreal comedy, and that’s the whole point: the Dude abides, after all.
