The Top 10 Movies Available Right Now, According to Streaming Services.
According to JustWatch , the most popular movies available to stream online in September included several films perfect for early Halloween: the low-budget but terrifying horror films “Backstage” and “The Obsession” both made the top 10. If you prefer a softer supernatural twist, the 1990s classic “Practical Magic” also made the charts. You can also watch favorites starring some of the best actors of all time, like Robert De Niro in “The Whisperer” and Dustin Hoffman in “Tuner.” So, there’s something for everyone.
Behind the Scenes (2026)
Director Kain Parsons’ breakthrough in the analog horror genre proves that atmosphere, mood, and a gripping plot are always scarier than computer-generated monsters. Based on the viral YouTube series of the same name, “Backstage” tells the story of Clark (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a shopkeeper who discovers a labyrinthine liminal space in the basement of his furniture store. Renate Rainswe plays his therapist, who dismisses it as nonsense until she comes downstairs for an appointment. Acclaimed by critics— “Backstage” holds an 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes —and audiences , it makes a wonderful Halloween treat for horror fans. Watch “Backstage” on HBO Max.
Practical Magic (1998)
Released on streaming platforms alongside its theatrical sequel, Practical Magic is a beloved supernatural romantic comedy that finds a new audience in 2026. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman star as Sally and Gilly, witch sisters cursed to lose any man they ever love. Sally finds romantic interest in Aidan Quinn, a detective investigating the disappearance of Gilly’s abusive boyfriend. Can love, magic, and the power of sisterhood break the family curse? With a little help from ’90s nostalgia, they certainly can. Watch Practical Magic on HBO Max.
Obsession (2026)
Director Curry Barker isn’t even 20 yet, but his debut feature-length horror film is the kind of film that redefines the genre. “Obsession” is a classic “be careful what you wish for” story that feels fresh thanks to a talented young cast, an unpredictable plot, and a steady pace. Michael Johnston plays a young man too afraid to confess his feelings to his crush, so he wishes for her to fall in love with him. The result is a nightmare brought to life by Inde Navarrete, whose performance as the villain/victim is simultaneously heartbreaking, terrifying, and heartbreaking. “Obsession” is the best horror film I’ve seen in years. Watch “Obsession” on Peacock .
May Day (2026)
Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh play Cold War enemies brought together by Reynolds’s plane crash in the Russian wilderness. Branagh is a former KGB officer, but he’s always harbored a secret admiration for America, so he helps Reynolds escape the USSR. Like the best buddy comedies, “Mayday” relies on the charisma of its stars, and you won’t find a more energetic pair of actors than these two. If you enjoy 1980s-style buddy comedies, “Mayday” is a must-see. Watch “Mayday” on Apple TV+.
Project “Ave Maria” (2026)
In this gripping sci-fi film, Ryan Gosling plays Ryland Grace, a high school science teacher who, in a desperate attempt to save the world, is thrown into the sky. Grace is the only person on Earth who might know how to protect the sun from a cosmic contagion that threatens all life, but he’s definitely no astronaut and doesn’t consider himself a hero. Will he prove himself and learn something about his inner strength and resilience while saving us all from death? I think the answer is yes, probably. Watch “The Hail Mary Project ” on Prime Video and Fubo .
Supergirl (2026)
Don’t mess with a superhero’s dog. Millie Alcock plays Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, who travels the galaxy in search of Cream of the Yellow Hills (played by Matthias Schoenaerts). He shot Krypto, the superdog, with a poison dart, and now justice must be served. If you’re looking for a darker take on Kryptonian superheroes with deep DC Universe storylines, Supergirl is the show for you. Watch Supergirl on HBO Max .
The Whispering Man (2026)
Based on the novel by Alex North, The Whisperer tells the story of Peter Willis, a retired detective who returns to work to solve a terrifying case he previously didn’t know about. A copycat is copying the crimes of the infamous Whisperer, a serial killer Willis caught years ago. This tense thriller is built on a powerful performance by De Niro and a twisting plot that will keep you guessing until the very end. Watch The Whisperer on Netflix.
Tuner (2026)
You wouldn’t think the life of a piano tuner could be exciting until you watch The Tuner . Leo Woodall plays Nicky White, whose quiet life is dramatically changed when he discovers he can use his hearing to crack safes as easily as he can tune Steinway pianos. Desperate for money, White teams up with hardened criminals, and things spiral out of control. Dustin Hoffman and Havana Rose Liu deliver superb performances in this smart, tense thriller. If you enjoy Hitchcockian suspense, check out The Tuner. Stream The Tuner on Paramount+.
The Mandalorian and Grogu (2026)
Director Jon Favreau’s The Mandalorian & Grogu pits Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his adorable Baby Yoda against Imperial warlords and the Hutt twins. It’s classic Star Wars: a lone hero and his companion accomplish heroic deeds while facing impossible odds. Filled with thrilling action scenes and colorful characters, The Mandalorian & Grogu is pure cinematic joy. Watch The Mandalorian & Grogu on Disney+.
Toy Story 5 (2026)
Pixar is so good at what they do that even the fifth film in a series about battered old toys can become a work of art—not just art for kids, but art that’s enjoyable for parents too. In Toy Story 5, Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and company face toys’ greatest enemy: technology. Toy Story 5 asks if there’s a place for action figures and Mr. Potato Head in a world where screens are the only thing kids care about. Watch Toy Story 5 on Disney+ .