While browsing Netflix for something to watch this week, I stumbled upon “Jonathan,” which was recently added to the big red streaming service’s movie library. I’ll admit to never having heard of this sci-fi drama before. At first, I thought it was perhaps a new original, but it’s actually a little older.
Released in 2018, it stars Ansel Elgort, and when I looked up a brief outline of the plot, I was instantly intrigued. In short, it centers on two “brothers” who share one single body, which is a pretty neat idea for a science fiction flick. Naturally, I placed “Jonathan” at the top of my watchlist, and having now streamed it for myself, I’ve got lots of thoughts about this one.
If you also haven’t been introduced to “Jonathan,” here’s everything you need to know about this overlooked sci-fi movie now that it’s arrived on Netflix.
What is ‘Jonathan’ about?
Rather than presenting a grand sci-fi adventure set in a futuristic society, “Jonathan” is a more modest drama. It takes place in a world familiar to us, without flying cars or cybernetic androids, but the wrinkle is that the eponymous protagonist is literally two people at once.
Both played by Angsel Elgort, Jonathan and John share a single body. The former has control during the daytime, and the latter during nighttime hours. Neither is conscious while the other has control, and they don’t share memories. Which means they communicate via pre-recorded video messages. To facilitate this lifestyle, they keep to a strict set of rules.
Of course, there needs to be conflict to keep viewers engaged, and when Jonathan finds out that John is keeping a pretty big secret, the “brothers” carefully maintained coexistence starts to fall apart.
Should you stream ‘Jonathan’ on Netflix?
Don’t be misled by the trailer above. It pitches a gripping thriller-style watch, but the actual movie is a more meditative drama. It’s driven by getting under the skin of the two distinctive personalities who share a single hunk of flesh.
The central setup of “Jonathan” is plenty interesting. In the first act, it’s fascinating to watch as Jonathan/John attempts to navigate an existence in which both only live half a life. Neither appears fully satisfied with their lot. As you can probably imagine, it comes with many challenges. For example, if John goes out to a bar and gets drunk, it’s Jonathan who has to deal with the hangover the next morning. Dating? Well, that’s supposed to be impossible.
If the situation wasn’t complicated already, it gets even more so when John meets and falls in love with Elena (Suki Waterhouse). At least there’s Dr. Mina (Patricia Clarkson) on hand to offer guidance. Although, as the movie progresses, the doctor’s motives are called into question, and you might start to wonder if she’s acting in the best interest of both occupants of the body.
Even at a trim 95 minutes, “Jonathan” does stretch its premise during the middle third. It’s not that a ridiculous mid-movie twist is thrown into the mix, or that new wrinkles are added, but the limitations of the core idea are somewhat exposed. There’s only so much road for “Jonathan” to run, but at least it ends strongly with a particularly emotional and tender finale.
A lot is asked of Elgort; not only does he have to play two very different characters (John is outgoing, Jonathan is reserved), but often he’s literally talking to a television, acting against pre-recorded video footage. It’s a strong performance overall. Though I wish viewers got to spend a little more time with John. As the name implies, Jonathan is definitely the lead character.
“Jonathan” could have maybe done with a few more dramatic beats. I expect some viewers will start to lose interest as the movie’s momentum stalls after a strong start, but the finale leaves things on a bittersweet note. It’s not a sci-fi movie for those craving thrills or world-saving action, but it’s a thoughtful drama that takes the idea of a multifaceted personality to a literal extreme.
If “Jonathan” does sound like what you’re looking for, here’s a guide to the best Netflix movies to stream this weekend. Or if you want even more options, here’s our complete guide to everything new on Netflix in March 2026.
Watch “Jonathan” on Netflix now
Follow Tom’s Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds.