There’s an especially thrilling level of excitement that only espionage movies can deliver. Some of the best spy movies on Netflix will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The best bit is that there’s something for everyone. You have comedies, mysteries, and action. There are also spy movies inspired by true stories.
On this list, we’ll take you on an adventure to exotic locations where you might find yourself swept up in dangerous liaisons. And though some movies may not be available on Netflix USA, fret not because a free VPN can unlock these movies with a free VPN. Here is a list of some of the best movies on Netflix that you’ll surely enjoy binge-watching this fall.
Best Spy Movies on Netflix 2022
Action and Thriller Spy Movies on Netflix
When you think of the best spy thriller movies, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Action is often at the very core of espionage films. Just take classics such as Mission Impossible and James Bond. Who wouldn’t enjoy seeing incredible action sequences and expertly choreographed stunts akin to some of the best martial arts movies? If this is what you’re looking for, check out our list of the best action movies on Netflix that are spy-themed.
If a high-stakes game of cat and mouse is what you’re looking for in an action thriller, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol will fill that need. Tom Cruise reprises his role as Ethan Hunt who, along with his team, is forced to go without the resources provided by the Impossible Mission Force (IMF) after getting implicated in the Kremlin’s bombing.
As always, most of the stunts were performed by the cast themselves– allowing for visually stunning and heart-racing shots. It is also worth noting that the fourth installment in the Mission Impossible spy movies also has the best storyline thus far, with a twist ending that we’re sure will leave audiences stunned!
Rotten Tomatoes: 93%
Google Users: 87%
Of course, let’s not forget one of the best spy movies on Netflix: Casino Royale. Released in 2006, the film is Daniel Craig’s debut as the secret agent 007 – James Bond. Yes, this film is a reboot of the famous James Bond franchise, and it centers on the titular character’s first mission with the title. In Casino Royale, he is tasked with bringing down a private banker, who is known for funding terrorists, by defeating them in a game of poker.
The James Bond legacy has spanned generations and has starred some of Hollywood’s best, such as Sean Connery and Daniel Craig. After Craig’s retirement from the role, who will be the new James Bond in the coming films? We’ll simply have to wait and see.
Rotten Tomatoes: 94%
Google Users: 92%
The Bourne Ultimatum is the third film in the Jason Bourne film series that stars Matt Damon in the lead role. If you are looking for a good spy movie on Netflix, you can’t go wrong with this franchise. Make sure you start with The Bourne Identity (2002) and The Bourne Supremacy (2004) to follow the story, though.
In Ultimatum, CIA agent and assassin Jason Bourne is still piecing his memories together after developing amnesia due to an accident encountered during a mission. All the while, he has to dodge a team of elite killers sent after him by the powerful people he once worked for.
If you loved the unexpected twists and turns of the first two films, you’ll find all of that and more in Ultimatum. It is one of the best spy thrillers in recent years!
Rotten Tomatoes: 92%
Google Users: 90%
When it comes to spy films and action movies, Tom Cruise is a staple. His role as secret agent Ethan Hunt in the Mission Impossible movies is a testament to that. The franchise has spawned eight films in total – coincidentally some of the best espionage movies on Netflix that you can watch right now.
In Mission Impossible: Fallout, the sixth installment of the Mission Impossible movies, Hunt and his Impossible Mission Force (IMF) team are tasked with keeping nuclear weapon technology from going into the wrong hands. The main antagonists in this movie are the Apostles, a group of bioterrorists from the larger organization known as the Syndicate.
Rotten Tomatoes: 97%
Google Users: 83%
Next up, we have The Accountant. This action-thriller stars Ben Affleck in the role of Christian Wolff, a CPA or certified public accountant who has high-functioning autism. Wolff isn’t your ordinary accountant, however. His great skill enables him to work for some of the world’s biggest crime and terrorism organizations that might be having trouble with their books.
Aside from the suspense, this intelligence movie also received praise for having beautifully choreographed action sequences — many of which featured the Indonesian martial art called Pencak Silat. Thanks to its success, its sequel The Accountant 2 is currently in the works. Before it drops, check out The Accountant on Netflix.
Rotten Tomatoes: 52%
Google Users: 81%
Based on author Tom Clancy’s novels, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit is the fifth installment in the series. It is also considered a reboot and unlike the previous movies, it is not an adaptation of a novel– but an original story made for the film. Similar to the 007 characters, many actors have had the opportunity to play the main role. In this film, Chris Pine takes over the title from his predecessors, Ben Affleck, Harrison Ford, and Alec Baldwin, respectively.
The plot follows Jack Ryan, who leads a double life as an executive and CIA secret agent. After he uncovers a plan to crash the United States economy, he is recruited by the agency since he is the only person who can prevent it. Things go awry after he gets entangled in a web involving his handler, a Russian leader, and his fiancée.
Rotten Tomatoes: 55%
Google Users: 77%
If you’re a fan of female spy movies on Netflix, we highly suggest checking out Hanna. Starring Saoirse Ronan (pronounced seeuh·shuh row·nuhn) in the lead role, the film follows sixteen-year-old Hanna who was trained by her father to be the perfect assassin. Despite being quite young, she has the skills, strength, and intelligence of an elite killer.
Aside from being one of the best spy movies on Netflix, the film also challenges our perception of who a secret agent is. In the genre of spy films dominated by brooding and mysterious men, having a female-led movie like Hanna is quite a gem.
Rotten Tomatoes: 71%
Google Users: 75%
You have plenty of choices when it comes to female spy movies on Netflix, and among them is Salt. Starring the inimitable Angelina Jolie, the plot follows a secret service agent for the CIA who goes on the lam following accusations that she is a Russian spy. If the stunts aren’t enough to get your heart racing, we’re sure the film’s plot twist will.
It is one of the best CIA movies on Netflix, though it’s safe to say it is also one of the best spy thriller movies out of the lot. If you haven’t seen Salt, now’s the time to give this empowering film a shot.
Rotten Tomatoes: 62%
Google Users: 77%
We can’t talk about spy action movies without touching on the classic Russian secret agent trope. Anna or ANИA fits perfectly into this mold, showcasing a femme fatale as beautiful as she is dangerous. It takes a lot to become one of the most feared assassins on the planet, and the film certainly serves all the action you can ask for.
If you enjoyed Black Widow (2021), then you’ll likely fall in love with Anna as well. Starring Sasha Luss, Anna is among the best international spy movies you can check out on Netflix right now.
Rotten Tomatoes: 33%
Google Users: 77%
This 2012 spy thriller is one of the must-watch movies on Netflix. Zero Dark Thirty is the dramatized true story of the international manhunt for Osama bin Laden. It is heavy on the drama and the action, and it’s sure to leave viewers quite emotional afterward.
It features a star-studded cast, including Jessica Chastain and Chris Pratt. Although it may not be accurate to the real-life events involved in the mission, the film’s plot makes it one of the best spy movies on Netflix you should check out.
Rotten Tomatoes: 91%
Google Users: 84%
Denzel Washington is at the helm of some of the best movies to watch on Netflix, and The Equalizer is certainly one you cannot miss. The plot follows Robert McCall, a former secret agent trying to lead a quieter life. However, he crosses paths with Teri, played by Chloe Grace Moretz, whom he rescues from the Russian mob.
Witnessing this brutality, he comes out of retirement to avenge and save those who are helpless. It may not be among your usual spy films, but it is one of the best action movies on the streaming service. Note that the film is currently not available in the US, but you can access it with a free VPN.
Rotten Tomatoes: 60%
Google Users: N/A
WW2 movies are rife with espionage and the 2018 film Operation Finale is no exception. This historical drama is based on a true story of how a team of Israeli Mossad (agents) set out to capture former Nazi officer, Adolf Eichmann. Perhaps it’s the fact that the events of the film all happened in real life that adds another layer of emotion and adventure to it.
The filmmakers used several source materials for the screenplay, including a memoir written by Mossad officer Peter Malkin himself. If you’re a history buff or someone who is interested in World War II stories, then give Operation Finale a try.
Rotten Tomatoes: 61%
Google Users: 81%
Comedy Spy Movies on Netflix
The best spy movies on Netflix aren’t always serious. You have quite a selection that will bring plenty of laughs, as well as thrills and spills. Some really cool spy movies manage to inject a much-needed dose of humor even during tense moments. In our opinion, this helps balance everything out, creating a more enjoyable experience for viewers. Here are some of our favorites!
If you’re looking for spy movies on Netflix for the family, Central Intelligence makes is an excellent choice. It stars Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart so you already know it’s going to be hilarious. By the time you finish, you might just be in tears from their wholesome yet comedic acting.
The plot follows an accountant who is inadvertently pulled into international espionage after reconnecting with a friend through social media. It is one of the most underrated movies in this genre, but it is definitely worth a watch.
Rotten Tomatoes: 71%
Google Users: 76%
Some of the best British spy movies on Netflix come from the Johnny English franchise. Starring Rowan Atkinson as the protagonist, the films parody the secret agent genre. Much like his character on Mr. Bean, Atkinson plays a spy who is so bad at what he does but somehow things eventually work out in his favor. Well, most of the time anyway.
In Reborn, English resurfaces following a stint at a Tibetan monastery. This time, he is up against an international group of assassins who are plotting to kill the Chinese premier. Take a break from the usual explosive action flicks and enjoy one of the best spy comedy movies in recent years.
Rotten Tomatoes: 38%
Google Users: 82%
Though they may seem like an unlikely pair, the chemistry between actor Samuel L. Jackson and Ryan Reynolds makes The Hitman’s Bodyguard comedy-action gold. It follows an austere but skilled bodyguard who is given the job of keeping an assassin alive long enough so they can testify against a dangerous dictator.
It is one of the best spy movies on Netflix you can watch right now, but a word of caution: the film can be quite violent at certain turns and its humor may not be best for younger audiences. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for cool spy movies that will make you laugh, this is the film for you.
Rotten Tomatoes: 43%
Google Users: 80%
When it comes to irreverence, Austin Powers is leagues ahead of other comedy spy movies on Netflix. The plot of Austin Powers in Goldmember is as surreal as the two previous films that came before it, with many familiar characters popping up. This time, Powers travels back to 1975 to defeat the villain Goldmember, who is colluding with Dr. Evil.
Goldmember is the third film in this beloved franchise and was also among the most famous movies of its time. We’re not too surprised about that, though. Aside from great comedic writing, the film also stars Beyoncé and Tom Cruise!
Rotten Tomatoes: 53%
Google Users: 83%
Kids Spy Movies on Netflix
Are there PG-13 spy movies? Of course! Even some of the youngest members of the family would be able to enjoy some of the best spy movies on Netflix. From animated films to some old favorites, here are our choices for spy movies on Netflix for the family.
Few kid spy movies on Netflix can hold a candle to Spy Kids when it comes to this genre. This action-adventure film follows siblings, Carmen and Juni Cortez, who end up involved in their parents’ jobs and are part of an international espionage organization. This takes them to multiple thrilling missions over the course of four spy movies.
The final installment of the franchise, Spy Kids: All The Time in the World, was released in 2011. If you’re one of the series’ fans who want more, keep an eye out for Spy Kids: Armageddon which is set for release through the Netflix streaming service.
Rotten Tomatoes: 93%
Google Users: N/A
It’s no secret that the Madagascar films are some of the best movies on Netflix. Who can forget the deviously hilarious penguins Skipper, Rico, Kowalski, and Private known for their espionage-style missions to protect their home in Central Park Zoo?
Follow our plucky foursome as they join forces with an elite organization known as the North Wind. Together with Secret Agent Classified, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, they must stop Dr. Octavius Brine from destroying the earth. It may not be like your average spy film, but Penguins of Madagascar promises just as many thrills, chills, and nonstop laughter from beginning to end.
Rotten Tomatoes: 74%
Google Users: 81%
If you’re looking for a fun family movie, there are many Jackie Chan films to choose from. However, The Spy Next Door stands out because of its theme, which takes audiences back to old Jackie Chan flicks such as the Police Story franchise.
In The Spy Next Door, Jackie Chan stars as Bob Ho, who gets called to help babysit his neighbor’s rowdy children. However, one of the kids accidentally downloads a top-secret formula that leads to a chase between them and the Russian terrorist hunting them down. With its unique blend of PG-13 movie humor and thrills, it is one of the best suspense movies on Netflix.
Rotten Tomatoes: 12%
Google Users: 82%
Have you ever imagined what it’d be like if your pets somehow lead a secret life as spies? The 2019 film, Pets United, will give you a sneak peek. The motley crew at the center of one of the best spy movies on Netflix is led by stray dog Roger and elegant yet spoiled cat Belle, who is voiced by Patrick Roche and Natalie Dormer, respectively.
Together with the rest of their team, they must defend their home city from a potential robot invasion. It has all the elements of your usual spy thriller, coupled with the fun and adventure that only animated movies can provide! If you have a free weekend with your family, it is one of the must-see movies on Netflix.
Rotten Tomatoes: N/A
Google Users: 57%
Noteworthy Mentions Worth Your Time
Looking for more spy movies to watch with your family? Here are the honorable mentions that you can squeeze into your family movie nights.
We cannot round off a list of the top spy movies on Netflix and not include one of the originals, Men in Black. Starring Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith, the first film in the MIB franchise set the standard for the rest. It follows two secret agents from the “Men in Black” organization who are tasked with supervising extraterrestrial lifeforms who are residing on Earth.
Even today, it remains one of the most beloved films in the entire series, which is largely thanks to the chemistry between Jones and Smith. Though there are plenty of action scenes, this thrilling action-comedy can be watched by the whole family!
Rotten Tomatoes: 92%
Google Users: 88%
What happens when the agency tasked to protect the earth from the bad things in the universe realizes that the real trouble has been brewing from within their organization the entire time? Chaos will ensue. Good thing we have Agent H (played by Chris Hemsworth) and Agent M (played by Tessa Thompson) tackling the looming global threat posed by the mole within the MIB.
The Men in Black legacy found new footing following the release of Men in Black: International, the fourth installment in the series. Set in the same universe as the older MIB movies, this serves as both a spin-off and sequel to its predecessors. This movie delivers the same level of hilarity and action as the previous films, so even old-time fans will not be disappointed even if there’s been a change in the primary cast.
Rotten Tomatoes: 23%
Google Users: 73%
Enjoy the Coming Fall Season by Watching the Best Spy Movies on Netflix
From action thrillers to spy comedy movies, Netflix has quite a selection of different spy movies for you to choose from. Trust us when we say you’ll be far from bored just by checking out the ones included on our list. Who knows? By the time you’re done, you might have your own special list of the best spy movies on Netflix that you can share with fans of the genre.
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