Look, I get it – scrolling through streaming services trying to find something good to watch can feel like hunting for treasure in a foggy swamp. When Apple TV+ first launched, I remember thinking "Great, another subscription?" But man, was I wrong. Their movie lineup's gotten seriously impressive over the past couple years. Seriously, some of these films deserve way more hype than they get.
Just last weekend, my buddy Dave came over insisting we watch some big Netflix action flick. Halfway through, we both looked at each other like "This is... fine?" Then I pulled up Killers of the Flower Moon on Apple TV+. Game over. We didn't even finish the Netflix one. That's when it hit me – people need a proper guide to the best movies on Apple TV Plus.
So here's the deal: I've watched pretty much everything on there (maybe too much, according to my partner). I'm breaking down the legit standout films worth your time, why they work, and exactly what you're getting into. No fluff, no sponsored nonsense – just real talk about what deserves your eyeballs.
The Real Heavy-Hitters: Apple TV+ Movies That Actually Matter
Let's cut to the chase. These aren't just time-fillers; they're the films people will still talk about in 10 years. Apple's been throwing serious cash at projects by directors who actually have something to say, and it shows. I still think about the ending of Palmer weeks after watching it – Justin Timberlake shocked me with how good he was in that.
| Movie Title | Director | Key Cast | Runtime | Why It Stands Out | Perfect For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Killers of the Flower Moon | Martin Scorsese | DiCaprio, De Niro, Gladstone | 206 mins | Historical epic about Osage murders (Scorsese doesn't miss) | When you've got 3+ hours and want masterpiece-level filmmaking |
| Swan Song | Benjamin Cleary | Mahershala Ali | 112 mins | Thought-provoking sci-fi about cloning and grief (Ali is incredible) | Philosophical late-night viewing (+ tissues needed) |
| Coda | Sian Heder | Emilia Jones, Troy Kotsur | 111 mins | Oscar winner about deaf family dynamics (will make you cry happy tears) | Feel-good family movie night (seriously, watch with parents) |
| The Tragedy of Macbeth | Joel Coen | Denzel Washington, Frances McDormand | 105 mins | Stunning black-and-white Shakespeare adaptation (visual masterpiece) | Artsy weekend afternoon when you want to feel sophisticated |
| Palmer | Fisher Stevens | Justin Timberlake, Ryder Allen | 110 mins | Ex-con bonds with outcast kid (way better than it sounds) | When you need restored faith in humanity (Timberlake's best acting) |
Okay real talk – Killers of the Flower Moon is LONG. Like, "pause twice for bathroom breaks" long. But every minute matters. When Lily Gladstone's Molly stares down Leonardo DiCaprio? Chills. Worth clearing your schedule for.
Now, CODA winning Best Picture almost broke Twitter. I watched it twice – once alone, once with my sister who's a sign language interpreter. She pointed out things I completely missed (like how the sound design drops out during family scenes). That detail alone shows why it's among the best movies on Apple TV Plus.
Genre Spotlight: Find Your Perfect Movie Vibe
Sometimes you know exactly what mood you're in. Craving laughs? Need something creepy? Here's where Apple TV+ delivers:
For Drama Lovers (Bring Your Emotional Armor)
Apple's drama game is strong. Almost too strong – I watched The Sky Is Everywhere after a breakup. Big mistake. Great film though.
- Cha Cha Real Smooth - Awkward party host finds connection (Dakota Johnson is perfection here)
- The Sky Is Everywhere - Teen grief with magical realism (visually stunning, emotionally devastating)
- Hala - Muslim teen navigating cultural identity (underrated gem from 2019)
Comedy Gold Mines (Yes, Really)
Look, Apple isn't known for comedies but these surprised me:
- The Beanie Bubble - Ty Warner billionaire madness (Zach Galifianakis unleashed)
- Luck - Animated bad luck adventure (Pixar vibes for adults)
- Sidney - Sidney Poitier documentary (funny and profound)
Documentaries That Don't Put You to Sleep
Docs are where Apple TV+ quietly dominates:
| Documentary | Subject | Mind-Blowing Moment | Watch If You Like |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Velvet Underground | Iconic band's evolution | Warhol footage you've never seen | Music history or NYC art scene |
| Boys State | Teen mock government camp | Election speech that'll make you gasp | Political dramas like The West Wing |
| Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry | Rise to superstardom | Raw footage of her writing "Bad Guy" | Behind-the-music stories |
I dragged my feet on The Velvet Underground doc (not usually my era). Mistake. Director Todd Haynes uses split-screens in ways that feel revolutionary even now. Made me listen to their whole catalog again.
Hidden Gems You Probably Scrolled Past
These smaller films deserve way more attention:
- Wolfwalkers - Animated Irish folklore adventure (visually unlike anything else)
- The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse - Animated short (30 minutes of pure comfort)
- Soul - Pixar's jazz afterlife journey (yes it counts as a movie!)
Seriously, Wolfwalkers looks like moving woodcarvings. Why didn't more people see this? My niece made me replay it three times straight.
What Makes Apple TV+ Movies Different Anyway?
Having binged everything, here's what stands out about the best movies on Apple TV Plus:
Production Quality: Apple spares no expense. The 4K HDR in Macbeth makes other streamers look fuzzy.
Director Freedom: Scorsese got his full 200+ minute runtime. Netflix would've demanded cuts.
No Algorithm Nonsense: Original films stay available forever (unlike HBO Max removals).
Unique Stories: Where else finds a film about competitive sign language (CODA)?
That said, not every swing connects. Cherry with Tom Holland? Bit of a mess. Overambitious direction buried a decent performance. But hey, they take risks – I'll take that over safe sequels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Movies
Q: Do I need extra fees for Apple's original movies?
A: Nope! All originals are included with Apple TV+ subscription. No rental nonsense.
Q: How often do new movies drop?
A: Typically 1-2 major films monthly. They announce slate quarterly – check Apple's press site.
Q: Can I download best movies on Apple TV Plus for flights?
A: Absolutely. Hit the download button on any title. Lifesaver during travel.
Q: Why choose Apple over Netflix/Prime for movies?
A: Fewer titles but higher batting average. Less filler, more prestige. Their films get award buzz for a reason.
Personal Tips for Getting the Most from Apple TV+
After watching 50+ films here's my cheat sheet:
- Use Family Sharing: Split cost with 5 others ($6.99/mo becomes pocket change)
- Check Dolby Vision: Requires compatible device (makes Macbeth look insane)
- Turn on Subtitles Early: Dialogue mixes vary (especially in Killers of the Flower Moon)
Final confession: I initially subscribed for Ted Lasso. Stayed for the films. That combo of comfort TV and cinematic heavyweights? That's Apple's secret sauce. Whether you want to sob through CODA or analyze Scorsese's latest, these truly are the best movies on Apple TV Plus available today. No hype needed.
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