Looking for a gripping movie night with Lifetime Movie Club? We’ve curated a list of 21 must-watch films currently streaming. Dive into captivating stories ranging from real-life inspired thrillers to dramatic family secrets. Enjoy a mix of suspense, drama, and emotional tales with these top picks.
1. Girl in the Basement
IMDb Score: 6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 70%
Runtime: 88 minutes
“Girl in the Basement” is a chilling tale about Sara, a teenager excited to escape her controlling father, Don, on her 18th birthday. However, her dreams shatter when Don locks her in the basement. The film is an intense exploration of control and resilience, with a strong performance by the lead actress. It highlights the harrowing journey of confinement and the enduring human spirit in the darkest situations.
2. Believe Me: The Abduction of Lisa McVey
IMDb Score: 7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%
Runtime: 98 minutes
Based on true events, “Believe Me: The Abduction of Lisa McVey” tells the gripping story of a young girl kidnapped on the night she plans to end her life. This movie, blending suspense and emotion, showcases her clever attempt to survive and escape her abductor. Her heartbreaking struggle for belief from others is powerfully portrayed, making it a must-watch tale of courage and survival.
3. The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson Story
IMDb Score: 6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 75%
Runtime: 82 minutes
“The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson Story” centers on 15-year-old Kara’s dramatic kidnapping and escape from a serial killer. This real-life inspired narrative is filled with tension and the raw will to survive. Kara’s intelligence and resilience are at the heart of this suspenseful and inspiring movie, emphasizing the power of quick thinking and bravery in life-threatening situations.
4. Buried in Barstow
IMDb Score: 5.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 60%
Runtime: 90 minutes
In “Buried in Barstow,” Hazel King is a single mother with a past she wishes to leave behind while protecting her daughter. As she defends those who can’t protect themselves, the movie unfolds into a thrilling tale of mystery and empowerment. Hazel’s complex character and determination are central, making this a compelling narrative of redemption and strength.
5. Girl in the Box
IMDb Score: 6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 68%
Runtime: 87 minutes
“Girl in the Box” tells the haunting story of a hitchhiker abducted by a couple and held captive for years. With its intense depiction of psychological and physical abuse, the film is challenging yet riveting. It explores themes of power, survival, and human endurance, offering a grim yet fascinating look into the victim’s struggle for freedom.
6. Seeds of Yesterday
IMDb Score: 6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 62%
Runtime: 86 minutes
“Seeds of Yesterday” continues the saga of the Sheffield family as they confront past secrets and new tragedies. This gothic drama captivates with its dark family dynamics and mysterious atmosphere. Fans of complex narratives and family sagas will appreciate the intricate storylines and emotional depth in this engrossing continuation of the Foxworth legacy.
7. Purity Falls
IMDb Score: 5.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 58%
Runtime: 83 minutes
“Purity Falls” follows a mother and her children moving to an ostensibly perfect town after a familial loss. However, the sinister undercurrents slowly unravel as the son becomes entangled in a neighbor’s shady dealings. The film skillfully blends suspense and drama, portraying the impact of deception and the quest for truth in a seemingly idyllic setting.
8. Big Driver
IMDb Score: 5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 65%
Runtime: 87 minutes
“Big Driver” is a gripping revenge thriller following Tess Thorne, a writer assaulted on a deserted road. The movie delves into her quest for justice, showcasing a thrilling transformation from victim to avenger. With a strong narrative and compelling lead performance, it explores themes of empowerment and the lengths one will go to for justice.
9. The Secret Sex Life of a Single Mom
IMDb Score: 5.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 54%
Runtime: 89 minutes
“The Secret Sex Life of a Single Mom” explores the newfound liberation and challenges of a divorced woman navigating online dating. With a mix of humor and drama, the film captures the complexities of personal rediscovery and empowerment. Its candid portrayal of modern dating offers relatable insights and engaging storytelling.
10. Prayers for Bobby
IMDb Score: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%
Runtime: 90 minutes
“Prayers for Bobby” poignantly depicts the story of Bobby Griffith, a young gay man struggling for acceptance in a religious family. This emotional film highlights the devastating impact of misunderstanding and the journey toward acceptance and love. With heartfelt performances, it’s a powerful watch for anyone interested in deep, human stories of struggle and redemption.
11. Cruel Instruction
IMDb Score: 7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 78%
Runtime: 88 minutes
“Cruel Instruction” takes viewers inside a harsh residential treatment center for troubled teens. The narrative follows Kayla and Amanda as they endure and expose the facility’s draconian practices. The story’s authenticity and urgency make it a compelling watch, underlining themes of friendship, courage, and the fight against institutional abuse.
12. Flowers in the Attic
IMDb Score: 6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 72%
Runtime: 86 minutes
“Flowers in the Attic” unravels the disturbing tale of siblings confined in a dark mansion by their mother. This gothic drama weaves a tale of family betrayal, secrecy, and resilience. Its atmospheric storytelling and gripping plot make it an intriguing watch for fans of intense family sagas.
13. Heaven
IMDb Score: 6.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 65%
Runtime: 85 minutes
“Heaven” tells the story of Heaven Leigh Casteel as she navigates a life of poverty and family secrets. This dramatic tale of survival and discovery showcases the power of resilience amid adversity. With its emotional depth and intriguing plot twists, “Heaven” keeps viewers captivated from start to finish.
14. Petals on the Wind
IMDb Score: 6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 70%
Runtime: 87 minutes
In “Petals on the Wind,” the sequel to “Flowers in the Attic,” the siblings continue to face past traumas while building new lives. This drama delves into themes of revenge, redemption, and family loyalty. Its compelling narrative keeps audiences engaged as they follow the complex journey of the Dollanganger siblings.
15. Mommy Is a Murderer
IMDb Score: 5.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 60%
Runtime: 84 minutes
“Mommy Is a Murderer” centers on Karina’s suspicion that her friend’s child is actually a girl kidnapped years ago. The film’s suspenseful plot keeps viewers on edge as Karina navigates the complexities of friendship and truth. It’s a gripping tale of mystery and determination, perfect for fans of tense thrillers.
16. Gone Mom: The Disappearance of Jennifer Dulos
IMDb Score: 6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 68%
Runtime: 88 minutes
“Gone Mom: The Disappearance of Jennifer Dulos” explores the mysterious case of a wealthy mother’s vanishing. The suspenseful storytelling and emotional depth delve into the complexities of family dynamics and media frenzy. It’s a thought-provoking film that raises questions about truth and justice.
17. Sugar
IMDb Score: 5.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 59%
Runtime: 83 minutes
Inspired by true events, “Sugar” follows two women caught in a drug smuggling operation on a luxury cruise. The film is a thrilling blend of suspense and drama, showcasing the women’s courage and desperation. It’s a captivating story of survival and friendship under extreme circumstances.
18. Nanny Cam
IMDb Score: 5.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 55%
Runtime: 82 minutes
“Nanny Cam” is a suspenseful thriller about a mother uncovering dark secrets about her seemingly perfect babysitter. As tensions rise, the film explores themes of trust and betrayal within family dynamics. With its intriguing storyline, it’s a gripping watch for suspense enthusiasts.
19. William & Kate
IMDb Score: 5.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 63%
Runtime: 87 minutes
“William & Kate” offers a romantic retelling of the royal couple’s journey from college sweethearts to their iconic wedding. The film captures the highs and lows of their relationship amid media scrutiny. It’s a delightful watch for romantics and royal enthusiasts alike.
20. The Wrong Stepmother
IMDb Score: 5.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 52%
Runtime: 84 minutes
“The Wrong Stepmother” dives into the life of a single dad and his daughters facing chaos from a new girlfriend. The film blends drama and suspense, exploring themes of family, trust, and deception. It’s a thrilling watch for those who enjoy family-centered mysteries.