Buzz
Rumors have long swirled about Netflix's 'secret' catalog of content categories, designed to help the platform organize its films for targeted audiences. Many users hope these niche genres could simplify their movie night decisions.
The verdict? Possibly, especially if you adore Casper Van Dien or magical canine tales. Discover 14 of Netflix's most bizarrely specific genres. (To explore them yourself, visit www.netflix.com/browse/genre/####, replacing #### with the corresponding four-digit code.)
1. HEARTWRENCHING POLITICAL DRAMAS (1291)
Few things tug at your heartstrings like a political saga. Sadly, Netflix's selection in this category is limited, featuring only Braveheart and Lee Daniels’ The Butler.
2. CAPTIVATING FILMS FOR VIEWERS AGED 11 TO 12 (2869)
Not 10 and a half? Too bad. Older than 12? Move along. But if you're in that perfect preteen sweet spot, you might love The Corpse Bride or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
3. ROWDY SCIENCE FICTION AND FANTASY (9963)
Once upon a time, video stores were filled with cheap, risqué barbarian flicks. Those days are over, but Netflix offers a modern take with Hell and Back, a 2015 animated R-rated comedy about siblings who find themselves in the underworld.
4. THRILLING MOVIES FEATURING JEAN-CLAUDE VAN DAMME (516)
This category might seem unnecessary if you believe Belgian actor Jean-Claude Van Damme only stars in thrilling movies. However, the selection, mostly from his later career, suggests otherwise. While Welcome to the Jungle pales in comparison to Kickboxer, Pound of Flesh
5. SILLY SLASHER AND SERIAL KILLER FILMS (3712)
The Scary Movie series would fit perfectly here, but Netflix doesn’t currently have the rights to stream them. Instead, you’ll find Tucker and Dale vs. Evil, a lighthearted comedy about two friendly country folks mistaken for murderous maniacs.
6. UPLIFTING SPORTS MOVIES FOR KIDS AGED 8 TO 10 (855)
While Brian’s Song could belong here, Netflix opts for a more family-friendly choice: the Air Bud series, a direct-to-video favorite about a Golden Retriever talented enough to excel in sports but not quite skilled enough to land more serious acting roles.
7. THOUGHT-PROVOKING SCANDINAVIAN FILMS (995)
Rest assured, your Scandinavian Netflix lineup will be bleak, intense, and steeped in despair: Lars von Trier dominates the selection, though you can slightly brighten the mood with a documentary exploring cultural annihilation.
8. HIGHLY PRAISED BLOODY DRAMAS (4753)
If you’re going to witness a gruesome scene, it better have a stellar Rotten Tomatoes rating. Titles like Saving Private Ryan, Braveheart (once more), and Gladiator make the cut.
9. MOTIVATIONAL MOVIES FOR KIDS AGED 5 TO 7 (4561)
Kids with a glimmer of hope left in their eyes might find joy in uplifting films like Hey, Arnold: The Movie or The Land Before Time.
10. FILMS FEATURING CASPER VAN DIEN (2586)
Once you’ve exhausted your Erik Estrada (1231) or Michael Dudikoff (487) options, it’s time to move on to Casper Van Dien, the charismatic lead of 1997’s Starship Troopers. While his best work isn’t available here, you can still catch him in a spooky haunted house tale (The Pact) or a budget-friendly Avengers knockoff (Avengers Grimm) starring fairy tale figures.
11. WINE AND BEVERAGE ENTHUSIAST COLLECTION (1458)
Alcohol aficionados will relish this Netflix section dedicated to documentaries and shows about drinking, discussing drinks, or yearning for a drink. A Year in Champagne explores the creation of sparkling wine, while Crafting a Nation delves into the challenges faced by small-scale brewers.
Childhood is infinitely better with a furry companion. (Unless you were the unfortunate kid in Old Yeller.) Explore this category for tales of horse training (Flicka 2, Rodeo Girl) and a magical, immortal dog (The Amazing Wizard of Paws).
13. NON-FICTION SKIING STORIES (4437)
While fictional ski films like Ski School and Ski School 2 take creative liberties, the documentary McConkey offers a factual look at the life and legacy of skier and base jumper Shane McConkey.
14. LARRY FINE-CENTRIC COMEDIES (2171)
As any Three Stooges enthusiast will tell you, Larry Fine never truly 'starred' in a comedy. He was the ultimate supporting player, enduring countless eye-pokes for the team. This might explain why no titles are listed here.
All images provided by Netflix.
