Ah, the unmistakable sound of a streaming service loading—there’s no more delightful audio for a TV enthusiast. But once you’ve successfully logged into Netflix, how do you choose what to watch? With an extensive library featuring hundreds of films, series, and even games, making a decision can feel overwhelming.
While Netflix movies may have their moments, they seldom earn a spot on any esteemed list of the best films. In contrast, Netflix’s television offerings stand out as exceptional (which might explain why so many found their way onto our list of the best TV shows).The real question then becomes: which show should you dive into next?
That’s precisely where our knowledgeable TV & Movies team steps in. We’ve meticulously sifted through Netflix’s vast content library to pinpoint the shows truly deserving of your valuable time—because let’s face it, no one wants to waste hours on something like Fubar (sorry, Arnie, but this one misses the mark).
So, before you hit the play button, why not browse our curated list of the best Netflix shows? Impress your friends or partner with your refined taste in television, or take a gamble with Fubar and risk a few eye-rolls.
15. Ripley
- Release Date: April 4, 2024
- Genre: Thriller
- Cast: Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, Johnny Flynn
- Seasons: 1 (8 episodes)
Overview: Inspired by Patricia Highsmith’s iconic novel, The Talented Mr. Ripley, this series follows Tom Ripley, a down-and-out scam artist employed to locate the son of a wealthy industrialist.
Why You Should Watch: Ripley is smart and stylish, offering a compelling reinterpretation of the classic tale. Andrew Scott’s nuanced portrayal of Ripley makes the character irresistibly likable, even as he teeters on the edge of morality. The stunning black-and-white cinematography enhances the visual appeal, turning Italy’s beauty into a fitting backdrop for Ripley’s complex layers.
14. Ozark
- Release Date: July 21, 2017
- Genre: Thriller
- Cast: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney
- Seasons: 4 (44 episodes)
Overview: Following financial advisor Marty Byrde, who becomes entangled with a Mexican drug cartel, he relocates his family to the Ozark region to launder money while navigating dangerous local criminal elements.
Why You’ll Enjoy It: Ozark delves into familiar territory of covert crime amidst suburban life but distinguishes itself with a grittier tone. The captivating performances from Bateman and Linney keep you engaged, even as the plot spirals into darkness.
13. Mindhunter
- Release Date: October 13, 2017
- Genre: Crime
- Cast: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
- Seasons: 2 (19 episodes)
Overview: Mindhunter follows FBI agents as they interview imprisoned serial killers to enhance crime-solving strategies.
Why It’s Worth Watching: This series is not only riveting but also meticulously crafted. Exceptional character development and outstanding performances transcend the typical crime drama, making each episode compelling.
12. The Gentlemen
- Release Date: March 7, 2024
- Genre: Action
- Cast: Theo James, Kaya Scodelario, Daniel Ings
- Seasons: 1 (8 episodes)
Overview: Edward “Eddie”Horniman returns to discover his estate’s been turned into a drug kingpin’s base, thrusting him into the perilous world of crime.
Why You’ll Love It: The Gentlemen is a fast-paced, edgy series that captures the essence of its cinematic precursor. The chemistry between the lead actors enhances the thrilling narratives wrapped in wit and action.
11. Nobody Wants This
- Release Date: September 26, 2024
- Genre: Comedy
- Cast: Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, Justine Lupe, Timothy Simons
- Seasons: 1 (10 episodes)
Overview: Jane and rabbi Noah’s romance unfolds against a backdrop of their contrasting upbringings.
Why It’s Compelling: Nobody Wants This serves as a delightful binge-watching experience propelled by the undeniable chemistry of its leads.
10. Beef
- Release Date: April 6, 2023
- Genre: Comedy-drama
- Cast: Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Joseph Lee
- Seasons: 1 (10 episodes)
Overview: After a road rage incident, Danny and Amy engage in a destructive battle that spirals out of control.
Why You Should Watch: Beef combines dark humor and shocking moments while exploring petty vengeance. Yeun and Wong deliver powerful performances, leading to a thought-provoking narrative about human limits.
9. Heartstopper
- Release Date: April 22, 2022
- Genre: LGBTQ+
- Cast: Kit Connor, Joe Locke, William Gao
- Seasons: 3 (24 episodes)
Overview: Based on the graphic novel, Heartstopper chronicles the love story between Charlie and Nick as they navigate their identities.
Why It Appeals: This series offers a heartwarming exploration of love and self-discovery, resonating deeply with viewers and providing an uplifting escape from reality.
8. Cobra Kai
- Release Date: January 1, 2021
- Genre: Action
- Cast: Ralph Macchio, William Zabka, Courtney Henggeler
- Seasons: 6 (60 episodes)
Overview: Continuing the saga of The Karate Kid, this series revives Johnny Lawrence’s character as he reopens the Cobra Kai dojo, aiming to redeem himself.
Why It’s Enjoyable: Cobra Kai unpacks themes of redemption and nostalgia while appealing to a new audience. Its blend of action and heartfelt moments makes it both an entertaining and rewarding watch.
7. Bridgerton
- Release Date: December 25, 2020
- Genre: Historical drama
- Cast: Nicola Coughlan, Luke Thompson, Ruth Gemmell
- Seasons: 3 (24 episodes)
Overview: Set against the backdrop of Regency-era England, Bridgerton captures the lives of the Bridgerton family as they navigate romance and scandal in high society.
Why You’ll Be Hooked: With its combination of modern storytelling and lavish visuals, Bridgerton is captivating and addictive, offering a deliciously scandalous escape.
6. Baby Reindeer
- Release Date: April 11, 2024
- Genre: Crime-thriller
- Cast: Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau, Tom Goodman-Hill
- Seasons: 1 (7 episodes)
Overview: After struggling comedian Donny helps Martha, his life takes a darker turn.
Why You Can’t Miss It: Baby Reindeer offers a deep dive into the impact of stalking and abuse, drawing on Gadd’s personal experiences for a raw narrative that keeps audiences engaged.
5. Squid Game
- Release Date: September 17, 2021
- Genre: Thriller
- Cast: Lee Jung-jae, Wi Ha-joon, Lee Byung-hun
- Seasons: 2 (16 episodes)
Overview: Seong Gi-hun, a gambler, enters a series of deadly children’s games to resolve his financial troubles.
Why It’s Fascinating: Squid Game serves as a sharp critique of capitalism, forcing viewers to consider the lengths people will go to for money, all cloaked in gripping suspense and thrilling action.
4. BoJack Horseman
- Release Date: August 22, 2014
- Genre: Comedy
- Cast: Will Arnett, Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie
- Seasons: 6 (76 episodes)
Overview: BoJack Horseman, the story of a washed-up TV star, explores themes of depression and redemption as he tries to tackle his issues through writing an autobiography.
What Makes It Unique: This animated series is paradoxically profound, balancing humor with dark themes of personal struggle and existentialism, allowing viewers to connect with its flawed, yet relatable characters.
3. Stranger Things
- Release Date: July 15, 2016
- Genre: Sci-fi
- Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, David Harbour
- Seasons: 4 (34 episodes)
Why It’s a Must-See: Stranger Things brilliantly taps into 80s nostalgia while delivering compelling characters and an intriguing mystery that draws viewers into its unique world.
2. Better Call Saul
- Release Date: February 8, 2015
- Genre: Crime-drama
- Cast: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Rhea Seehorn
- Seasons: 6 (63 episodes)
Overview: This prequel to Breaking Bad charts the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the morally corrupt Saul Goodman.
Why You’ll Be Captivated: It’s a masterclass in storytelling that digs into the pathos of its characters while weaving in dark humor, making the descent into villainy both relatable and tragic.
1. Breaking Bad
- Release Date: January 20, 2008
- Genre: Crime-drama
- Cast: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul
- Seasons: 5 (62 episodes)
Overview: Walter White, a chemistry teacher diagnosed with cancer, turns to the drug trade to secure his family’s financial future, sparking a riveting moral conflict.
What Sets It Apart: Breaking Bad is an intricate exploration of legacy and ambition, portraying a man’s evolution from a dull existence to baffling villainy, providing endless layers to its complex narrative.
Still unsure of what to watch?
Related Articles:
Resident Evil Trailer Unveils Gruesome New Direction for Zach Cregger’s Reboot
14:14
Attack on Titan Creator Reveals Discontent with Series Finale
9:32
Lisa Kudrow Reveals Friends Writers Were “Brutal” and Shared Fantasies About Female Stars
15:09
Leave a Reply