Ryan Reynolds’ sci-fi thriller Self/Less is set to leave Netflix on January 1, 2026, after being available on the platform for years. While the film was not a blockbuster hit and received mixed reviews, its availability on streaming gave it a second life. The movie, which explores consciousness transfer and identity, remains an intriguing watch for sci-fi enthusiasts and Reynolds fans. This article explains why the film is leaving Netflix, where you can still watch it, and why it’s worth considering before it exits the streaming catalog.
What Self/Less Is About
Self/Less is a 2015 science fiction thriller directed by Tarsem Singh, starring Ryan Reynolds and Ben Kingsley. The film follows Damian Hale, a wealthy billionaire dying from cancer, who undergoes an experimental procedure called “shedding” to transfer his consciousness into the body of a younger man, played by Reynolds.
At first, the procedure seems successful, giving Hale a second chance at life. But as he begins living in his new body, he experiences haunting visions and starts uncovering a dark conspiracy about the origins of his new body. The story blends sci-fi action with moral and philosophical questions about identity, mortality, and the price of living beyond one’s natural lifespan.
Though the concept is intriguing, critics noted that the film’s execution was uneven, often leaving viewers with more questions than answers. Despite this, the movie has gained a modest following on streaming platforms where audiences can revisit Reynolds in a rare serious sci-fi role.
Why Self/Less Is Leaving Netflix
Netflix periodically rotates content based on licensing agreements, and Self/Less is no exception. The film is scheduled to leave Netflix on January 1, 2026, likely because its licensing contract with the studio has expired.
Licensing agreements dictate how long a platform can host a film. Once the contract ends, Netflix can either negotiate a renewal or let the film leave the platform. For movies that do not consistently draw large viewership numbers — like Self/Less — renewal may not make financial sense.
This is part of a broader trend known as content churn, where streaming services remove older or less popular titles to make room for new acquisitions or original content. Even films with star power, like Ryan Reynolds’ sci-fi thriller, are not immune to this process.
The Reception of Self/Less
When it was released in 2015, Self/Less was met with mixed to negative reviews. Critics pointed out that the film had a compelling premise but suffered from uneven pacing and predictable plot points.
On aggregate review sites, it holds a low critic score, with many reviewers praising Reynolds and Kingsley’s performances but criticizing the story’s lack of depth. The film grossed around $31.8 million worldwide against a $26 million production budget, making it a modest box office performer.
Despite its shortcomings, the movie retains interest for several reasons:
- Fans of Ryan Reynolds enjoy seeing him in a dramatic, non-comedic role.
- Sci-fi enthusiasts appreciate the exploration of consciousness transfer and identity.
- It has a cult appeal for viewers who enjoy overlooked or underappreciated films.
Why Self/Less Matters in Ryan Reynolds’ Career
Self/Less came at a transitional point in Reynolds’ career. Before the film, Reynolds was best known for comedies and supporting roles. Self/Less allowed him to explore dramatic sci-fi territory, showcasing a different range of acting skills.
While the movie didn’t elevate his career on its own, it was part of the experimentation that led to later successes, such as Deadpool (2016) and The Adam Project (2022), where Reynolds combined humor with action and science fiction.
In retrospect, Self/Less serves as a glimpse into the actor’s willingness to take risks and explore complex sci-fi concepts before becoming a mainstream superstar.
Also Read : Stranger Things Season 5 Episode 7 Ending Explained: What Comes Next
Where You Can Watch Self/Less After Netflix
Even after leaving Netflix, Self/Less will remain available for viewers. You can rent or buy the film on multiple platforms:
- Prime Video – available for rental or purchase
- Apple TV – purchase or rent digitally
- Other digital services depending on your region
This means fans still have the opportunity to watch or own the film even after it exits Netflix’s catalog. For those interested in sci-fi, it’s worth planning to stream it before the January 1 removal date.
Should You Watch Self/Less Before It Leaves?
Whether it’s worth watching depends on your preferences:
Reasons to Watch
- You’re a Ryan Reynolds fan and want to see him in a serious sci-fi role.
- You enjoy thought-provoking sci-fi concepts involving identity, memory, and ethics.
- You like exploring underrated or overlooked films.
Reasons It Might Not Be for You
- If you prefer critically acclaimed sci-fi films, you might find the plot predictable.
- Viewers looking for deep philosophical storytelling may be disappointed.
Even with flaws, Self/Less provides entertainment and offers a different perspective on Reynolds’ filmography.
Understanding Streaming Rights and Content Churn
Netflix and other platforms regularly rotate their content catalogs based on licensing agreements, viewership data, and cost considerations. Movies like Self/Less are often removed because:
- Licensing costs may exceed projected viewer interest.
- The film doesn’t consistently attract new viewers or drive subscriptions.
- The platform wants to make room for new releases or original productions.
This cycle ensures platforms keep their content libraries fresh but also means that even films with big stars may have limited availability windows.
Other Ryan Reynolds Sci-Fi Films to Watch
If you enjoy Self/Less and want more Ryan Reynolds sci-fi, consider:
- The Adam Project (2022) – A heartwarming time-travel story combining action and emotional depth.
- Free Guy (2021) – A humorous take on video game worlds with sci-fi action and clever world-building.
These films offer more polished storytelling while still showcasing Reynolds’ appeal in sci-fi settings.
Final Thoughts
Self/Less leaving Netflix is a prime example of how streaming catalogs evolve. While the film didn’t achieve mainstream success, it remains a fascinating watch for fans of Ryan Reynolds and science fiction.
If you haven’t seen it yet, streaming before January 1, 2026, is recommended. After that, the movie will still be accessible via digital purchase or rental, ensuring it remains available to viewers who want to explore Reynolds’ early forays into sci-fi thrillers.
For those interested in lesser-known sci-fi films with moral and ethical dilemmas, Self/Less is a worthwhile watch — a reminder that even underappreciated films can offer unique viewing experiences.
Also Read : Stranger Things Season 5 – Release Date, Cast, Plot & Latest Updates
FAQs
When is Self/Less leaving Netflix?
Self/Less will be removed from Netflix on January 1, 2026.
Why is the film being removed?
Netflix’s licensing agreement with the movie’s studio has expired, and the platform likely chose not to renew it.
Where can I watch Self/Less after it leaves Netflix?
The film can be rented or purchased on Prime Video, Apple TV, and other digital platforms.
What is the premise of Self/Less?
A dying billionaire transfers his consciousness into a younger body, only to uncover a dark conspiracy surrounding the procedure.
Is Self/Less critically acclaimed?
No, the movie received mostly negative reviews and underperformed at the box office but has a niche following among sci-fi and Ryan Reynolds fans.
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I’m Atul Kumar, founder of Cine Storytellers and an entertainment creator with 5+ years of experience. I cover films, celebrities, music, and OTT content with a focus on accurate, ethical, and engaging storytelling. My goal is to bring readers trustworthy entertainment news that informs, inspires, and goes beyond gossip.
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