Netflix fans are astounded that a vastly underappreciated 1990s serial killer thriller is now available for global streaming, leaving them wondering why they hadn’t discovered it earlier. While the arrival of a fresh original series on the streaming giant is always cause for celebration, there’s equal excitement in unearthing vintage treasures hidden within the platform’s vast catalogue.
The later sentiment is particularly true for a blockbuster classic that has recently been turning heads, with some fans drawing comparisons to iconic films like Seven and The Silence of the Lambs. Copycat, a psychological thriller first released in 1995, features Sigourney Weaver as Dr Helen Hudson, a criminal psychologist. The film has been steadily climbing the most-watched list, earning high praise from viewers who have only just stumbled upon it.
The plot follows Dr Helen’s life after she develops agoraphobia due to a near-death experience at the hands of her patient, Daryll Lee Cullum, portrayed by Harry Connick Jr, reports the Mirror US.
As it becomes clear that Daryll is embarking on a new crime spree, Helen finds herself called upon to assist the San Francisco police with their investigation.
Directed by Jon Amiel, the film enjoyed moderate success at the box office, raking in an impressive $79 million against a production budget of $27 million.
Although Copycat performed moderately well upon its initial release in cinemas, it did not impress critics. However, subsequent VHS releases helped reappraise the film’s critical standing, with opinion shifting significantly over time.
More than three decades after its initial release, Copycat has gained new recognition, with an increasing number of viewers praising the film as having been “way ahead of its time”.
One enthusiastic fan exclaimed: “I had not seen this movie in years and thankfully it showed up on Hulu because I had forgotten just how great it really was. Way ahead of its time, in my honest opinion. Superb cast, Holly Hunter is a gem and you can never go wrong with Sigourney Weaver.”
Other viewers echoed this sentiment. One added: “An extremely enjoyable film. Well acted by the entire cast and still amazing in 2025. There is an element of suspended disbelief but if you are ok with that then saddle up and get ready for the ride.”
Furthermore, a third fan agreed: “This one is a gem. I can’t believe I never watched this until now. Holly Hunter is excellent but Harry Connick Jr is exceptional and so creepy. I was never a Sigourney Weaver fan but she’s pretty good in this.”
Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “This is a truly superior suspense thriller. The plot is unique and intriguing. The acting by the two principals, Sigourney Weaver and Holly Hunter, is outstanding and they really bring you in with them as they confront terror. I only wish they would make more films of this caliber.”
Copycat is available to stream on Netflix now.