Rob Reiner’s death leaves a massive void in Hollywood, but Netflix is giving fans the perfect way to celebrate his incredible career. Starting February 1, eight of Reiner’s most memorable films hit the streaming service — a curated collection that spans romantic comedies, heartfelt dramas, and sharp political satires. From his signature 90s hits to later gems featuring acting legends like Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, this lineup captures why Reiner earned his reputation as one of the most versatile directors of his generation.
The timing feels especially poignant. Reiner, who passed away recently at age 78, directed films that defined entire eras of cinema. His work blended emotional honesty with impeccable casting and storytelling that never felt manipulative. Netflix’s package doesn’t include every masterpiece from his six‑decade career, but it showcases enough highlights to fill a weekend marathon. Here’s why these eight movies make the perfect tribute.
1. The American President (1995) – Political Romance Done Right
Michael Douglas shines as President Andrew Shepherd, a widowed commander‑in‑chief who falls for environmental lobbyist Sydney Wade (Annette Bening). Aaron Sorkin’s script crackles with walk‑and‑talk energy years before The West Wing, while Reiner keeps the romance grounded amid White House chaos. Martin Sheen and Michael J. Fox add gravitas as Shepherd’s inner circle. At 114 minutes, it’s the ideal 90s rom‑com for anyone who loves wit, idealism, and Douglas at his most charismatic. This film proved Reiner could make politics sexy without sacrificing substance.
2. The Bucket List (2007) – Nicholson’s Perfect Swan Song Pairing
Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman together are pure movie magic, and Reiner directs them through one of their best collaborations. Two terminally ill strangers — a cranky billionaire (Nicholson) and wise mechanic (Freeman) — escape the hospital to check off life goals like skydiving and seeing the pyramids. The 97‑minute runtime flies by, balancing laugh‑out‑loud moments with tears. Reiner’s touch is light but assured, letting the stars’ chemistry carry the emotional weight. It’s the kind of film that reminds you why Freeman and Nicholson are treasures.
3. Rumor Has It… (2005) – MacLaine Steals Every Scene
Jennifer Aniston stars as Sarah, who returns home for her sister’s wedding and uncovers a family secret: her grandmother (Shirley MacLaine) might have inspired Mrs. Robinson from The Graduate. Kevin Costner plays the man who could be her biological father. Reiner leans into meta comedy with a 97‑minute runtime that’s breezy and self‑aware. MacLaine’s razor‑sharp performance as the unapologetic matriarch elevates the whole thing — she’s funny, biting, and utterly unforgettable.
4. Ghosts of Mississippi (1996) – Reiner’s Courtroom Powerhouse
Alec Baldwin plays a prosecutor reopening the 1963 assassination case of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, three decades later. Whoopi Goldberg portrays Evers’ widow Myrlie, who never stopped fighting for justice, while James Woods delivers a chilling turn as the killer. Reiner’s 130‑minute drama is heavy but hopeful, showing how persistence can triumph over hate. Woods’ Oscar nomination was well‑deserved; this is Reiner at his most serious and effective.
5. Flipped (2010) – Reiner’s Nostalgic Coming-of-Age Gem
Set in the late 1950s, this 90‑minute charmer tracks Juli and Bryce’s shifting feelings from childhood crush to teenage realization. Madeline Carroll and Callan McAuliffe lead with natural chemistry, while Rebecca De Mornay and Anthony Edwards ground the parents. Reiner captures first love’s innocence with the same tenderness he brought to Stand by Me. It’s pure, uncomplicated joy — perfect for family viewing or anyone missing simpler times.
6. Alex & Emma (2003) – Underrated Dostoyevsky Rom-Com
Luke Wilson plays a novelist racing to finish his book and pay off loan sharks, hiring stenographer Kate Hudson to transcribe. As she rewrites his story, their real‑life chemistry sparks. Inspired by Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s life, the 96‑minute film is charmingly meta. Reiner keeps the pace lively, letting Wilson and Hudson’s banter shine. It’s light, clever escapism that flies under the radar but deserves rediscovery.
7. The Magic of Belle Isle (2012) – Freeman’s Quiet Masterclass
Morgan Freeman plays Monte Wildhorn, a blocked Western novelist renting a lakeside cabin who rediscovers his spark through neighborhood kids and single mom Virginia Madsen. Reiner’s 109‑minute drama is gentle and character‑driven, giving Freeman space for subtle brilliance. No big twists, just warm humanity — the kind of film you watch when you need to feel good about people.
8. LBJ (2016) – Arriving February 5
Woody Harrelson transforms as Lyndon B. Johnson, suddenly president after JFK’s assassination, pushing the Civil Rights Act against all odds. Jennifer Jason Leigh, Richard Jenkins, and Bill Pullman round out the stellar cast in this 98‑minute biopic. Reiner’s political eye makes the backroom deals and moral battles crackle. Harrelson’s commitment is riveting; this underrated gem deserves more attention.
Final Take
Reiner directed 19 feature films, but these eight highlight his range: rom‑com king (When Harry Met Sally isn’t here, but the spirit lives), drama master (A Few Good Men, The Princess Bride absent but echoed), and character specialist. Netflix’s timing honors a legend who blended humor, heart, and social insight across decades.
Whether revisiting The Bucket List for Freeman and Nicholson or discovering Flipped’s sweetness, this lineup is a crash course in Reiner’s genius. Stream them starting February 1 (LBJ on the 5th) and toast to a director whose movies made us laugh, cry, and think.
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