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New Movies On Netflix February 2026
- Chris Olson
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
Netlix Film Feature by Chris Olson
Welcome to another monthly breakdown of what’s hitting the small screen. As we shake off the last of the January blues, Netflix is stepping up its game with a February slate that feels remarkably diverse.
We’ve got a heavy-hitting #documentary that’s already the talk of the #filmfestival circuit, a high-octane Brazilian spin-off, some trademark Tyler Perry chaos, and a Spanish psychological thriller that might just be the hidden gem of the season.
At UK Film Review, we’ve always championed the idea that great cinema doesn’t require a theatrical seat and a ten-pound tub of popcorn, although they are preferable. This month’s home-streaming highlights prove that the "big" in big-screen storytelling is more about the stakes than the size of the monitor.
Queen of Chess
Release Date: February 6th
Kicking things off on February 6th is Queen of Chess. Directed by the formidable Rory Kennedy (whose work on Downfall: The Case Against Boeing remains a masterclass in investigative #filmmaking), this documentary arrives on Netflix fresh from its prestigious slot at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.
The film focuses on the legendary Judit Polgár, widely regarded as the greatest female chess player in history. But don't expect a dry, play-by-play recount of grandmaster matches. Kennedy’s film is a "battle of the sexes" epic, charting Polgár’s fifteen-year crusade to dismantle the deep-seated sexism of the international chess world.
From being a twelve-year-old prodigy to her historic showdowns with Garry Kasparov, it’s a story about a family experiment in "cultivating genius" that turned into a global revolution. With a vibrant visual style and a soundtrack that leans into "girl-power" energy, this looks set to be the definitive portrait of a trailblazer who refused to be told where she belonged.
State of Fear
Release Date: February 11th
For those who prefer their drama with a side of adrenaline, February 11th brings us State of Fear. This isn't just another action flick; it’s a significant milestone for Netflix Brazil, serving as the first feature-film spin-off from the hit series Brotherhood (Irmandade).
Directed by Pedro Morelli, State of Fear plunges us back into the volatile world of the Brotherhood, but with the stakes raised to a breaking point. When the gang’s top leadership is transferred to maximum-security facilities, the city of São Paulo descends into a "State of Fear"—a coordinated wave of violence against the police.
At the heart of the chaos is Elisa (Camilla Damião), the daughter of the Brotherhood's founder, who finds herself caught between the legacy of her father and a desperate bid for survival. Morelli is known for his immersive, complex tracking shots, and I’m expecting this to be a visceral, gritty exploration of justice and the cycle of violence.
Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip
Release Date: February 13th
Look, I’ve often said that film criticism is about finding the joy in what a filmmaker is trying to achieve, and Tyler Perry knows exactly what his audience wants. Dropping just in time for the Valentine’s weekend on February 13th is Joe’s College Road Trip.
After appearing as a supporting player in twelve Madea films, Joe Simmons—Madea’s cantankerous, weed-loving brother—finally takes center stage. The premise is classic Perry: Joe takes his sheltered, high-achieving grandson B.J. (Jermaine Harris) on a cross-country trip to visit prospective colleges.
Naturally, Joe’s idea of "the real world" involves a series of disastrous encounters and unfiltered advice. While the Madea cinematic universe (MCU, if you will, but please don't) isn't everyone's cup of tea, there’s an undeniable heart to Perry’s work. Expect broad comedy, a few "hallelujah" moments, and a surprisingly touching look at the generational divide between a grandfather and his grandson.
Firebreak
Release Date: February 20th
Finally, on February 20th, we have what might be the most intense watch of the month. Firebreak (originally titled Cortafuego) is a Spanish psychological thriller directed by David Victori, the man behind the frenetic Sky Rojo.
The film stars the incredible Belén Cuesta (Money Heist) as Mara, a widow who takes her family to their remote summer house in the woods to finalize its sale. Things take a terrifying turn when her young daughter vanishes after an argument, just as a massive, uncontrollable wildfire begins to consume the forest.
When the authorities order a total evacuation, Mara refuses to leave, leading her family on a desperate, unsanctioned search through the smoke and flames. It sounds like a claustrophobic nightmare, but the real hook is the suspicion that the fire isn't the only threat lurking in the trees. Victori is a master of high-tension pacing, and Firebreak looks like it will be an absolute nail-biter.
Whether you're looking for the intellectual rigor of a chess grandmaster, the gritty streets of São Paulo, the chaotic laughs of a Tyler Perry road trip, or the searing tension of a forest fire, February on Netflix has you covered. It’s a month that celebrates resilience—whether that’s against a patriarchal sporting system or the literal flames of a wildfire.
