A Marvel film widely panned by critics and audiences alike has unexpectedly soared to the top of the Netflix UK viewing charts, proving that a dismal critical reception is no barrier to streaming success.
From Critical Disaster to Streaming Sensation
The film in question is Madame Web, a 2024 superhero action thriller starring Dakota Johnson. Upon its cinematic release in February 2024, the movie was met with brutal reviews, earning an abysmal 10% score on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes. Fans and critics were united in their disappointment, with many labelling it one of the franchise's lowest points.
Viewers took to social media and review platforms to express their dismay. One described it as "so ridiculously bad it's funny", while another starkly claimed, "I've attended funerals that were more enjoyable than Madame Web." The consensus was clear: this was a significant misfire for the otherwise dominant Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Netflix Release Sparks Surprise Surge
Despite this overwhelmingly negative reception, the film's fortunes changed dramatically upon its arrival on Netflix. Madame Web was added to the platform on Saturday, November 29, 2025, and within days it rocketed to the number one position on Netflix's most-watched movie list in the United Kingdom.
The film is currently outperforming a range of other popular titles available on the service, including:
- The new Christmas film Jingle Bell Heist.
- The animated family movie Migration.
- The comedy classic 21 Jump Street.
- The festive feature That Christmas.
This surge highlights a recurring trend where films that underperform at the box office or with critics find a substantial second life and a new audience on streaming platforms.
What is Madame Web About?
The plot centres on Cassandra Webb (Dakota Johnson), a paramedic in New York City who begins to experience clairvoyant abilities. These powerful visions lead her to cross paths with three young women, played by Sydney Sweeney, Isabela Merced, and Emma Roberts, whose futures are in grave danger. Cassandra must then use her newfound powers to protect them from a mysterious and deadly adversary.
The film boasts a star-studded cast, drawing in fans from various popular franchises, which may partly explain its strong pull on Netflix. The combination of curiosity about a much-maligned film, the convenience of home viewing, and the draw of its popular cast has created a perfect storm for streaming success.
While Madame Web may go down in history as a critical failure for Marvel, its dominant performance on Netflix UK demonstrates that audience interest and the power of a major streaming platform can rewrite a film's narrative long after its theatrical run has ended.
