7 Best Thriller Movies Coming To Streaming In September

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As a new month arrives, you’ll find fresh content on platforms like HBO Max, Peacock, Netflix, and Paramount+, with a particular emphasis on thrilling stories. This article will delve into the exciting collection of thrillers that are about to make their debut. Each of these prominent streaming services has an array of well-loved titles ready for premiere. While some older content may be leaving, it’s always pleasant for subscribers to discover or revisit new offerings. Among various heist movies, directed by none other than Quentin Tarantino, and harrowing serial killer mysteries, here are the top thrillers slated to hit your preferred streaming service in September 2025.

Each of these films made their debut on their respective streaming platforms on September 1st, meaning you can jump right in and enjoy these heart-pounding classics without delay. Let’s dive in!

7) Inside Man — Netflix

Generally speaking, Spike Lee is often recognized for directing dramas that center around characters and delve into deeply thought-provoking topics. Notably, the film “Inside Man” falls under this category as well, but it also uniquely revolves around an intense bank heist.

In a natural and easy-to-read paraphrase, Denzel Washington portrays Detective Keith Frazier, a skilled hostage negotiator for the NYPD, who is summoned to manage an intricately plotted heist. As events unfold, it becomes clear that this isn’t your typical bank robbery but rather a calculated move aimed at delivering a specific message to a particular individual. The criminal intends to walk away with his diamonds, yet revealing highly damaging information is equally crucial to him. One of the most engaging aspects of the movie lies in the moral dilemma it presents to the audience regarding whether this crime could be morally justified.

6) Dog Day Afternoon — HBO Max

Al Pacino is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most esteemed actors for a multitude of valid reasons. His roles in films such as “The Godfather” trilogy, “Scarface”, “The Devil’s Advocate”, “Heat”, “Scent of a Woman”, and “Serpico” are all universally recognized for good reason. Interestingly, it was in his seventh film, “Dog Day Afternoon,” that he delivered what many consider to be the finest performance of his career as Sonny Wortzik, following the successes of “Serpico” and “The Godfather Part II.

The movie, titled “Wortzik,” is modeled after the life of John Wojtowicz, portrayed brilliantly by Al Pacino. He accurately captures every facet of this man’s character with utmost respect. Remarkably, this film, produced in the 1970s, maintained a high level of integrity. Similar to reality, the character Sonny Wortzik in the movie is a gay man deeply in love with a transgender woman. He’s willing to risk his life to rob a bank, aiming to secure funds for gender-affirming surgery for both him and his lover.

This movie revolves around a heist, but instead of focusing heavily on the actual heist, it delves deeper into the lives and relationship of the two main characters, one of whom is Sal Naturile, brilliantly portrayed by the late, esteemed John Cazale. Known for his roles in iconic films like “The Godfather,” “The Conversation,” “The Godfather Part II,” “This Movie,” and “The Deer Hunter,” Cazale’s career was tragically cut short by lung cancer. His performances are unmatched, and it’s hard to envision a more impressive resume. Just like Al Pacino, he delivers an endearing portrayal. The film’s emphasis on character development creates a palpable tension that surpasses the norm for heist films, as we desperately hope these characters will emerge unscathed from their predicament.

5) Seven — HBO Max

If a thriller ending surpasses that of Seven (commonly known as Se7en), it’s challenging to conceive what could possibly top it. Following his directorial debut with the third Alien film, David Fincher truly began his career with this remarkable production starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman. The making of Alien 3 was infamous for being a difficult experience for the director, making it understandable if he had chosen to quit afterward. Luckily, he persevered, and with Se7en, he demonstrated his ability to handle dark, compelling material exceptionally well.

Se7en is a film that’s most enjoyable when watched without prior knowledge of its plot twists, which might be difficult after 30 years. However, if you manage to avoid spoilers, do so and settle in for a watch. Every aspect of Se7en, from the acting by Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kevin Spacey, to the chilling atmosphere that envelops each crime scene, is executed flawlessly. The movie creates an ominous feeling of danger in its nameless, gloomy city shrouded in rain.

4) Hanna — Peacock

Generally speaking, Saoirse Ronan tends to focus on roles that earn recognition during awards season. Although Hanna might not have been a contender for Best Picture, it’s not too dissimilar from her more artistic projects. Director Joe Wright, who previously worked with Saoirse in Pride & Prejudice and Atonement, handles the spy genre sincerely yet manages to incorporate thrilling sequences that seem genuine and impactful.

In this rephrased version, fifteen-year-old Ronan portrays Hanna Heller, a character raised by her former CIA agent father to endure any circumstances since the tender age of two. On this mission, her father tasks her with eliminating a previous associate who also intends harm towards them. However, as Hanna embarks on this dangerous journey, she may uncover secrets that challenge her understanding of the world. Despite her youth, Ronan demonstrates both physical combat skills and dramatic prowess that are impressive for someone so young.

3) Knock Knock — Peacock

Eli Roth’s film “Knock Knock” is likely to gather a devoted fanbase over time due to its unique combination of stars, Keanu Reeves and Ana de Armas, who teamed up together before their later project “Ballerina” (and even prior to their less memorable collaboration, “Exposed”).

Essentially, “Knock Knock” harkens back to the erotic thrillers like “Basic Instinct” and revenge films such as “The Last House on the Left,” while also incorporating elements of violent unpredictability reminiscent of “The Strangers.” The story revolves around a man, portrayed by Reeves, who is left alone at home when his family goes away for a few days. His solitude is abruptly disrupted when two young women, drenched from the rain, claim they’re seeking a party at a neighboring house. Despite his efforts to help them find their way, these women lead him on an unexpected sexual adventure that proves to be a unique kind of satisfaction for his guests.

2) Reservoir Dogs — Peacock

Boasting a gritty script, tight plot progression, and outstanding acting from Steve Buscemi, Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, and the late Michael Madsen, “Reservoir Dogs” arguably stands as one of the most remarkable directorial debuts of the ’90s. It’s a film that leaves an impact, introducing a fresh voice in cinema that catches you off guard with unexpected twists, much like a curveball out of nowhere, while also contributing to a genre that has been around for some time.

As a cinema aficionado, I find myself drawn to the raw and unpolished charm of Quentin Tarantino’s early works, such as “Reservoir Dogs.” While he certainly pushed boundaries further and grander after this film, there’s something captivating about witnessing him work within a more confined creative space. Unlike his later productions, “Reservoir Dogs” wasn’t backed by a massive budget. Instead, it provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of a tight-knit group of men, who bicker, bond over music, and orchestrate heists.

The film’s soundtrack, another Tarantino trademark, made its debut here, showcasing his keen ear for selecting the perfect tracks and strategically placing them throughout the narrative. And let’s not forget about those iconic needle drops!

Lastly, “Reservoir Dogs” masterfully utilizes a nonlinear storytelling structure. The clever placement of certain plot twists, particularly concerning Michael Madsen’s Mr. Blonde (or Mr. Orange, as we later learn), serves to intensify the suspense and keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

1) Fatal Attraction — Paramount+

Fatal Attraction,” one of the most talked-about movies in the ’80s, eventually led to a television series adaptation years later. Given its origins, it’s not surprising that the series didn’t have a long run, despite having Lizzy Caplan in the cast. The storyline, centering around a family man being pursued by a “crazy” woman he had an affair with, seems to be more of an ’80s creation and doesn’t seem as relevant today.

Despite some variations, this film stands out as a significant representation of why the ’80s were known for their erotic thrillers. It’s no surprise that Michael Douglas revisited such roles, including “Basic Instinct” and “A Perfect Murder.” Yet, despite his captivating charm, the film truly belongs to Glenn Close. She expertly portrays Alex Forrest with a blend of sexuality and an emptiness that feels genuine, making her actions both disturbing yet sympathetic. Even fans of bunnies might find themselves empathizing with her, despite her questionable actions. Apart from the added “one last scare” ending (a reshot scene that didn’t match up to the original, darker, and more intense conclusion), this movie may well be the peak of the spurned lover narrative.

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2025-09-02 00:49