New movies to stream in January have Ben Affleck and Matt Damon action thriller plus rom-com hits arriving bigger than expected

New movies to stream in January won’t disappoint with a killer lineup featuring Ben Affleck in an action thriller alongside Matt Damon, beloved rom-com hits, and fresh originals across all major platforms. From Miami crime dramas to swoony romantic getaways, this month delivers something for every mood and streaming preference.

The Rip: Ben Affleck’s January Action Powerhouse

The Rip leads January’s streaming schedule with Ben Affleck and Matt Damon reuniting for a Miami-set crime thriller. Directed by action veteran Joe Carnahan, the film follows a team of Miami cops who discover millions in cash inside a stashhouse, forcing everyone to question trust and loyalty.

The action-packed story unfolds when the officers must count the seized money before leaving the scene, creating overnight tension and betrayal. With Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, and Sasha Calle rounding out the ensemble cast, The Rip promises explosive set pieces and moral complexity. The film arrives globally on Netflix on January 16, 2026.

Teasers released in December showcase intense action sequences and the chemistry between Affleck and Damon. The project marks a significant collaboration for the Oscar-winning duo and Netflix’s commitment to high-budget action cinema.

People We Meet on Vacation: Swoony Rom-Com Romance

If action isn’t your vibe, People We Meet on Vacation arrives January 9 on Netflix as the month’s leading romantic comedy. The film adapts Emily Henry’s bestselling novel of the same name, following Poppy and Alex—two polar-opposite best friends taking annual summer vacations together.

Director Brett Haley, known for heartfelt films like Hearts Beat Loud and All the Bright Places, brings the beloved story to screen. The central tension explores whether years of summer romance could spark into something deeper for the mismatched pair. With a $14.3 million budget, Netflix invested substantially in this adaptation.

The film perfectly captures the escapism readers loved in the novel—globe-trotting romantic adventures paired with genuine emotional depth. Early trailers show chemistry between leads and vibrant international settings that make this ideal January viewing for romance lovers seeking warmth during winter months.

Complete January 2026 Streaming Schedule By Platform

Platform	Key Release	Release Date
Netflix	The Rip	January 16
Netflix	People We Meet on Vacation	January 9
Disney+	Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull	January 1
Prime Video	The Night Manager Season 2	January 2026

Why January 2026 is Essential Streaming Month

January offers the perfect escape after holiday chaos with diverse genre highlights. Netflix dominates with The Rip’s star power and People We Meet on Vacation’s romantic warmth, while Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video deliver additional classics and new series content.

The combination of high-octane action thriller and swoon-worthy romance gives households maximum flexibility. Parents and couples can choose between adrenaline-pumping crime drama or feel-good escapism, making January perfect for varied entertainment needs throughout the month.

Which New Movies to Stream Should You Prioritize First?

Start with People We Meet on Vacation on January 9 if you prefer immediate release access and romantic storytelling. Save The Rip for January 16 when you crave intense action and star-power performances from Affleck and Damon.

“Trust frays when a team of Miami cops discovers millions in cash inside a run-down stash house, calling everyone—and everything—into question.”

— Netflix Official Description, The Rip

Sources

• Netflix – Official movie descriptions and release dates
• Entertainment Weekly – January 2026 streaming coverage and film details
• Decider – Comprehensive list of best movies arriving on streaming platforms