Over the last few years, America's become obsessed with streaming services; Netflix being the most popular. I can recall when I first became a member of Netflix, I would order movies online and then pick them up in the mail. When I think about how far we've come since then, it's worth noticing how many more people have access to film, which I personally think is pretty important. When you think about how the movies we make often reflect contemporary culture, it can be informative to get out there and see what's being made.

I've compiled a short list of independent films that maybe you've seen on Netflix a thousand times but never made a commitment to actually sit down and watch.

1. "About Alex"

I must admit, I totally passed over this for so long simply because I'm the dork that already has twenty things on her queue. However, once I finally sat down and started it, I was hooked in less than ten minutes, which is pretty big for me.

There are few stars you may recognize including that emo chick from Parks and Rec (Aubrey Plaza) as well as Schmidt from New Girl (Max Greenfield) playing a very different role for him. With a fresh cast, this flick is loaded with raw talent all around.

A group of college friends reunite after several years of separation. With a weekend full of reminiscing, laughing, and crying too, this film truly tells the story of the powers and breaking points of friendship.

2. "Take This Waltz"

First of all, the film is titled after a Leonard Cohen song which even features in the film, so immediately seeing this pop across my Netflix suggestions, I didn't hesitate to give it a shot. The soundtrack is superb, the cinematography is stellar, and the writing alone is enough to make this film worth watching.

Michelle Williams and Seth Rogan, who are both absolutely fabulous picks for these lead roles, deliver a striking performance in this honest tale of married life and what happens when the wandering eye wants to leave but return back home too.

3. "Life Partners"

This is a pretty great a movie. The acting is up to par and the script is nicely done. However, I felt that the main reason this film belongs on this list is because of the message it delivers.

This indie jewel stars two very different best friends, one who has it together (Gillian Jacobs), and the other not so much (Leighton Meester). Their lifelong bond is put to the test when one of them falls in love and begins a serious relationship with someone else (Adam Brody).

Life Partners really shows us the honest truth of how people change and how sometimes true friends are the people who see you change and love you when it happens. I think we all need reminding of this every now and again.

4. "Ask Me Anything"

I really wasn't expecting much from this film. Britt Robertson's not really one of my favorites but because of Christian Slater, I decided to give this one a chance, and boy, am I glad that I did.

Everyone in this film proved to be a talented performer. I realize that sounds a bit unrealistic, but honestly. With Britt in a very different role, which suited her well, Martin Sheen, Christian Slater, Justin Long (who normally annoys me but not so much here), Robert Patrick, Andy Buckley... I could go on. Seriously. Every single person brought everything they had to the screen.

A recent high school graduate (Britt Robertson) takes us on her journey as a young woman charting her sexual adventures through an anonymous blog that reveals her inner-most thoughts, dreams, desires, and shames.

So many profound one-liners, amazing soundtrack, and trust me; the ending will get you. Definitely worth the watch. Maybe even a few times.

5. "Take Care"

Last but not least, a movie I watched for a week straight because I couldn't shake the simple brilliance of it. With soft moments that make you smile and hard moments that make you cry, I think it may be as close to the perfect blend of drama and comedy that we've ever seen in this not so popular category of film.

Forced to recruit her ex (Thomas Sadoski) to take care of her after being hit by a car, a young woman's (Leslie Bibb) journey to recovery with him by her side, raises questions that were never asked and uproots emotions that refused to be felt. Her bed being the microcosm of their entire relationship on the med, this hilarious tale of old love will take you to that place where a good film should.