Gerard Butler, renowned for his action-packed roles, once again captures attention as his 2017 disaster film, “Geostorm,” climbs Netflix’s viewing charts. Despite the movie’s initial lukewarm reception in theaters, it’s currently experiencing a resurgence on the popular streaming platform. Released on Netflix on April 1, “Geostorm” has rapidly emerged as a favorite among subscribers, demonstrating the potential for films to gain traction outside traditional cinematic avenues.
In its initial week on Netflix, “Geostorm” positioned itself fourth on the global charts, boasting 4.9 million views and 8.9 million hours viewed. These numbers, while not as colossal as some debuts, signify a notable triumph, especially given its initial release was limited to the United States. The film’s unexpected resurgence highlights how streaming platforms can resurrect projects that previously languished in obscurity.
Directed and co-written by Dean Devlin, “Geostorm” features a star-studded cast including Jim Sturgess, Abbie Cornish, Ed Harris, and Andy García—alongside Butler himself. The film narrates the story of satellite designer Jake Lawson, played by Gerard Butler, as he endeavors to save Earth from self-destructive satellites. Despite the compelling premise and high production budget of $120 million to $130 million, the film’s theatrical performance fell short, grossing only $221.6 million worldwide.
Critically, “Geostorm” did not fare well, earning a dismal 18% from critics and merely a 35% approval rating from audiences. Yet, Butler’s undeniable appeal as an action star, shown through his current Netflix success, persists undeterred by previous shortfalls. Another of Butler’s films, “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera,” also thrives on Netflix, highlighting his persistent pull among viewers.
The sequel to “Den of Thieves,” which saw its theatrical debut in 2025, has proven commercially successful. Garnering a 63% critical score and 79% audience approval, it debuted on Netflix with 8.4 million views and 20.1 million hours viewed, swiftly ascending the U.S. charts. Currently, it sits just behind “Geostorm,” alongside other blockbusters such as “Alpha” and “Despicable Me 4.”
Both “Geostorm” and “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” evidence Gerard Butler’s enduring charm and adaptability in engaging audiences across different formats. These films underscore the unpredictable nature of cinematic success, where streaming platforms like Netflix can breathe new life into previously overlooked endeavors. As “Geostorm” continues to amass viewership, Butler’s magnetic appeal affirms his standing as a formidable force in the action genre.
