JustWatch has released its list of the top 10 most streamed TV shows and movies in the U.S. for the first half of 2025, highlighting the titles that captured viewer attention from January to June.
Based on user engagement across major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, and Max, the rankings reflect changing viewer preferences and cultural moments. The list features a mix of highly anticipated originals, viral hits, and franchise entries, showcasing how streaming trends continue to influence entertainment consumption across the country.
Top movies
Here’s a quick look at the standout films that captivated global audiences in early 2025, with each bringing a unique mix of critical acclaim, cultural relevance, and visual storytelling.
#1 Anora (2024)
The breakout star of the 2025 awards season, Anora swept the Oscars with five major wins, including Best Picture and Best Actress (Mikey Madison). This emotional drama explores themes of hardship and resilience through a raw yet tender lens. Its striking direction and bold stylistic choices have made it a streaming sensation.
#2 Conclave (2024)
Following the death of Pope Francis, Conclave surged in popularity due to its uncanny parallel to real events. Set in the Vatican, this suspense-driven political drama dives deep into the secrecy and tension of choosing a new pope. The film’s realism and timely release elevated it to must-watch status.
#3 The Substance (2024)
A daring blend of body horror and psychological drama, The Substance provokes both awe and discomfort. Its unsettling imagery and ambitious themes made it a major talking point, earning five Oscar nominations. The film’s bold narrative has sparked both praise and debate among viewers.
#4 Minecraft: The Movie (2025)
This big-budget family adventure brought the beloved video game to life and broke records at the box office before landing on HBO Max. With a mix of humor, action, and nostalgia, it successfully appeals to both kids and longtime fans of the franchise, becoming a family-friendly streaming hit.
#5 The Brutalist (2024)
A slow-burn historical drama, The Brutalist is praised for its stark cinematography and contemplative tone. The film examines themes of architecture, identity, and exile, offering a visually restrained yet emotionally rich experience. Its artistic depth has found a strong following among cinephiles.
Top shows
#1 Squid Game
The Korean megahit that redefined global television. Known for its brutal, high-stakes games and biting social commentary, Squid Game continues to dominate conversations with its suspenseful storytelling and striking visuals. Season 2, heavily anticipated, promises to expand the dystopian world and deepen the stakes.
#2 Severance
This chilling psychological thriller blends workplace satire with sci-fi horror. It explores a dystopian concept where employees undergo a surgical procedure to separate work memories from personal ones. Gripping, cerebral, and meticulously crafted, Severance has built a devoted fanbase with its unique tone and slow-burn suspense.
#3 The White Lotus
An anthology series known for its biting social commentary and luxurious yet unsettling settings. Each season unpacks the lives of wealthy vacationers against a backdrop of hidden tensions, class conflict, and existential unease. Stellar performances and evocative music make it a consistent critical favorite.
#4 Paradise
A standout sci-fi drama that imagines a future where time can be traded like money. Citizens sell years off their life to escape debt, raising chilling ethical and emotional questions. Visually sleek and narratively bold, Paradise is both a cautionary tale and a gripping emotional journey.
#5 The Pitt
A mysterious and experimental series drawing comparisons to Twin Peaks and Black Mirror. With its surreal imagery, ambiguous plot, and creeping psychological dread, The Pitt defies traditional storytelling — polarizing viewers but earning praise for its originality and depth.
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