Introduction
As November 2025 rolls in, Netflix’s global Top 10 shows just how varied viewers’ tastes have become. Topping the charts this month are three very different films: Guillermo del Toro’s haunting adaptation of “Frankenstein” (2025), the dreamy romantic drama “In Your Dreams,” and the feel-good holiday favorite “A Merry Little Ex-Mas.”
These films have dominated Netflix worldwide, each offering something unique—spectacle, emotion, nostalgia, or simply an escape. Below, we take a closer look at what makes them resonate with so many people, exploring everything from plot and production to audience reactions and cultural relevance.
Frankenstein (2025): Guillermo del Toro’s Bold Reimagining
Overview
At #1 globally, del Toro’s “Frankenstein” has become a phenomenon. The film blends gothic horror with human drama in a way only del Toro can pull off. It’s visually stunning, emotionally layered, and thematically rich—everything fans hoped for after years of waiting. The movie racked up over 775 million viewership points in a single week, a testament to its universal pull.
Plot Summary
Set in the late 1800s, the story follows Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant but tormented scientist obsessed with pushing beyond the limits of life and death. Del Toro expands the classic tale, highlighting Victor’s internal struggle, the creature’s painful search for identity, and the harsh societal pressures of the era. This version stays true to the spirit of Mary Shelley’s novel while adding new layers of emotional weight and moral ambiguity.
Behind the Scenes
The film features an exceptional cast and showcases del Toro’s signature world-building—rich period details, practical effects blended with top-tier CGI, and a striking score by Alexandre Desplat. Every frame feels meticulously crafted.
How Audiences Responded
Critics and fans have embraced the movie for its storytelling depth and emotional nuance. Many are calling it one of the best Frankenstein adaptations ever made. Its strong ratings across major platforms reflect its wide appeal—not just to horror fans, but to anyone who appreciates meaningful, character-driven cinema.
Why It Matters Culturally
In a time when conversations about technology, ethics, and human identity are everywhere, del Toro’s version feels especially timely. It speaks to modern anxieties while grounding itself in a classic tale, making it resonate with audiences around the world.
In Your Dreams: A Love Story with a Touch of Magic
Overview
Coming in at #2, “In Your Dreams” has become the breakout romantic hit of the season. It’s soft, imaginative, and emotionally intimate—exactly the kind of movie people turn to when they want something heartfelt. The film earned 647 million viewership points, reflecting a broad and enthusiastic global audience.
Plot Summary
The movie follows two people whose lives intertwine in a shared dream world. In this space, they confront buried memories, unresolved grief, and the possibility of a second chance at happiness. It mixes elements of magical realism with grounded emotional storytelling, making it feel both familiar and refreshingly original.
Production Insights
Directed by a rising filmmaker known for thoughtful, character-driven films, “In Your Dreams” features a cast with remarkable chemistry. The cinematography leans into soft, atmospheric visuals, while the script balances poetic moments with realistic dialogue.
Audience and Critical Reception
Viewers have praised the film for its creativity and emotional depth. It’s become especially popular among younger audiences and fans of modern romance. Critics highlight its performances and its ability to merge fantasy elements with relatable themes.
Universal Themes and Global Appeal
At its core, “In Your Dreams” is a story about healing, connection, and the courage to move forward—ideas that transcend cultures. Netflix’s global reach allows emotional stories like this to find audiences in dozens of countries simultaneously.
A Merry Little Ex-Mas: The Holiday Comfort Watch Everyone Needed
Overview
The third most-watched movie this November is the cozy holiday rom-com “A Merry Little Ex-Mas.” With 616 million viewership points, the film continues Netflix’s tradition of releasing seasonal movies that capture the spirit of the holidays.
Plot Summary
The movie follows a woman who finds herself starting over after a breakup—just as the holidays begin. Set against a backdrop of snow-covered streets, warm family gatherings, and unexpected romantic sparks, the story explores moving on, rediscovering joy, and reconnecting with loved ones.
Production and Performances
The film features a charming cast and leans into all the classic holiday aesthetics—twinkling lights, cozy winter cabins, and festive music. While it follows familiar holiday-movie beats, it brings enough modern touches and humor to feel fresh.
Audience Reaction
This one has turned into a comfort watch for many. Audiences praise it for being wholesome without slipping into excessive sentimentality. It’s the kind of film people curl up with when they want to relax and feel good.
A Seasonal Hit with Staying Power
Netflix has perfected the holiday-movie formula, and this film fits right into that strategy. It appeals to families, couples, and anyone looking to unwind. Its global success shows just how universal holiday themes can be.
Comparing Netflix’s Top Three Movies
| Aspect | Frankenstein (2025) | In Your Dreams | A Merry Little Ex-Mas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genre | Horror, Gothic Drama | Romance, Fantasy | Holiday, Comedy, Romance |
| Central Themes | Ethics, identity, humanity | Memory, healing, love | Forgiveness, family, renewal |
| Main Audience | Horror/drama fans, cinephiles | Young adults, romance fans | Families, holiday viewers |
| Weekly Viewership | 775 million | 647 million | 616 million |
| Critical Reception | Excellent | Strong | Warm and positive |
| Global Impact | Timely ethical themes | Universal emotional story | Seasonal feel-good appeal |
Conclusion
Netflix’s top three movies of November 2025 are wildly different, yet equally successful. Del Toro’s “Frankenstein” delivers a haunting, visually stunning take on a classic. “In Your Dreams” taps into universal emotions with a dreamy romantic spin. And “A Merry Little Ex-Mas” spreads the kind of warmth people crave during the holidays.
Together, these films show Netflix’s strength: offering something for everyone, wherever they are in the world. Horror fans, romance lovers, and holiday-movie enthusiasts all found something worth streaming this month—proof that diverse stories continue to drive the platform’s global popularity.