Top 5 Drama Films to Stream in April 2026, According to RT Ratings
It’s no accident that several Oscar-nominated films rank among the finest drama movies available for streaming in April.
Many of these awards contenders had limited theatrical releases towards the end of last year, enabling them to be eligible for Academy Awards.
Two of Watch With Us’ selections for the top five drama films to enjoy this month not only received Oscar nominations but also secured major awards.
However, a surprising drama topped our list as ranked by Rotten Tomatoes, claiming the No. 1 spot.
5. ‘Nuremberg’ (2025)
Nuremberg commences shortly after World War II as the U.S. and Allied forces confront their high-ranking Nazi captives. While some advocate for immediate execution, Robert H. Jackson (Michael Shannon) argues that the Nazis must stand trial for their crimes against humanity.
Psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) is tasked with overseeing the mental health of Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) and other Nazi prisoners before their trials. Kelly sees it as a chance to write a book but doesn’t anticipate the profound impact his interactions will have on him. He, too, seeks justice—but the war criminals might evade accountability.
Nuremberg is available for streaming on Netflix.
4. ‘Shame’ (2011)
Shame stands out as one of the few mainstream NC-17 films, honestly and explicitly depicting Brandon Sullivan (Michael Fassbender), a man trapped in a web of sex and pornography addiction. His compulsion dominates both his personal and professional life, and Brandon remains indiscriminate in his pursuits.
With the 2026 Oscar nominations finally revealed, Hollywood’s biggest night looms ahead. The year 2025 produced a wealth of cinematic triumphs—from the crowd-pleasing Sinners to gothic horrors like Frankenstein and the heartwarming Train Dreams, some of the best films in recent memory debuted during this time.
Brandon fails at concealing his addiction, especially when his sister, Sissy Sullivan (Carey Mulligan), drops by to stay with him. While Sissy grapples with her own challenges, she’s one of the rare individuals capable of confronting Brandon about his shortcomings. Although there may be no rescuing him, he might salvage his relationship with Sissy.
Shame can be streamed on HBO Max.
3. ‘Hamnet’ (2025)
As the Oscars approached, Jessie Buckley emerged as a frontrunner for Best Actress due to her outstanding portrayal in Hamnet, earning her a well-deserved win. Set in a historical context, Buckley plays Agnes Hathaway, the wife of William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and the mother of their three children.
While Shakespeare focuses on writing the works that will cement his legacy, Agnes dedicates herself to their family, including their only son, Hamnet (Jacobi Jupe). When tragedy strikes, Agnes descends into despair, while Shakespeare immerses himself in his work, crafting tales that will endure through the ages.
Hamnet is available for streaming on Peacock.
With the announcement of the 2026 Oscar nominations, awards season is officially here. Thankfully for streaming enthusiasts, many of the Academy’s nominees from 2025, including the record-setting horror film Sinners and the Brad Pitt-led racing drama F1, are easily accessible on platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and more. To assist film lovers…
2. ‘Sentimental Value’ (2025)
The Norwegian film Sentimental Value led to Stellan Skarsgård receiving his first Oscar nod for Best Supporting Actor, portraying Gustav Borg, an esteemed director nearing the end of his career. Ironically, this film will stream on Hulu, despite Netflix playing a pivotal role in Gustav’s new movie’s storyline.
Gustav struggles in his relationship with his two adult daughters, Nora (Renate Reinsve) and Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas), who resent him for prioritizing his career over their needs. Even his desire to create a film about his mother fails to bridge the gap. Yet Gustav finds a connection with Rachel Kemp (Elle Fanning), the American actress he hires to portray his mother after Nora declines the role.
Sentimental Value is currently streaming on Hulu.
1. ‘Living’ (2022)
With a prestigious career dating back to 1969, Bill Nighy received his first Best Actor nomination for his powerful performance as Williams in Living. Williams is a career bureaucrat in post-World War II London who’s had few friendships and a strained relationship with his son, Michael (Barney Fishwick).
As March comes to an end, Netflix remains an ideal platform for movie watching. The streaming giant performed exceptionally at the 2026 Oscars and continues to add compelling films that you won’t want to miss. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Enter your email Please provide a valid email. Subscribe By signing up, …
It is only after Williams learns he has terminal cancer that he confronts the legacy he will leave behind and chooses to make a positive impact with his remaining time. He also forms friendships with former colleague Margaret Harris (Aimee Lou Wood) and current colleague Peter Wakeling (Alex Sharp), who support him in becoming the man he aspires to be.
Living is available for streaming on Prime Video.
