Streaming giant Netflix has revolutionized the way we consume entertainment, offering a vast library of movies, documentaries, and, most notably, television shows. With a diverse catalog catering to nearly every imaginable taste, deciding what to watch can be overwhelming. This guide will navigate you through some of the best Netflix shows, covering various genres and providing insights to help you discover your next binge-worthy obsession.
Exploring Netflix Originals: A Realm of Quality
Netflix’s commitment to original content has cemented its place as a dominant force in the entertainment industry. These shows often feature high production values, compelling narratives, and talented casts, making them a major draw for subscribers.
Drama That Grips You
Netflix’s drama offerings range from historical epics to gritty crime stories. These shows are known for their complex characters, intricate plots, and emotional depth.
- The Crown: A historical drama chronicling the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. The series boasts lavish production, stellar acting, and insightful portrayals of historical events. It’s consistently ranked among Netflix’s most popular and critically acclaimed shows.
- Ozark: This dark and suspenseful series follows a financial advisor who must launder money for a Mexican drug cartel to save his family. Its gripping storyline and stellar performances from Jason Bateman and Laura Linney have made it a critical darling.
- Bridgerton: A Regency-era romance that’s both visually stunning and emotionally engaging. Its diverse cast and modernized take on historical romance have captivated audiences worldwide. According to Netflix, the first season was watched by 82 million households in its first 28 days.
Comedy That tickles your funny bone
For those seeking lighter fare, Netflix offers a diverse range of comedies, from sitcoms to stand-up specials.
- The Good Place: A philosophical comedy about a woman who mistakenly ends up in the “Good Place” after her death. Its clever writing, quirky characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a unique and enjoyable watch.
- Sex Education: A British comedy-drama that tackles teenage sexuality and relationships with humor and sensitivity. It’s praised for its diverse representation and its ability to address complex issues in an accessible way.
- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: A quirky and optimistic comedy about a woman who escapes from a doomsday cult and starts a new life in New York City. Its fast-paced humor and lovable characters make it a feel-good favorite.
Unveiling International Gems
Beyond Hollywood productions, Netflix has championed international shows, introducing viewers to captivating stories and diverse perspectives from around the world.
Thrillers From Around the Globe
These shows often feature unique cultural settings and gripping storylines that set them apart from typical thrillers.
- Money Heist (La Casa de Papel): A Spanish heist crime drama that follows a group of criminals as they plan and execute ambitious heists. Its intricate plot twists and charismatic characters have made it a global phenomenon.
- Dark: A German science fiction thriller that explores the disappearance of children in a small town and the mysteries that unravel across multiple generations. Its complex narrative and atmospheric visuals have garnered critical acclaim.
- Squid Game: A South Korean survival drama that pits contestants against each other in deadly games for a chance to win a large sum of money. Its shocking premise and social commentary have made it a global sensation, with over 142 million households watching it in its first month.
Drama with a global perspective
These series bring cultures and narratives together in compelling ways.
- Delhi Crime: An Indian crime drama that follows the Delhi Police as they investigate a brutal gang rape case. Its realistic portrayal of police work and its sensitive handling of a difficult subject matter have earned it critical acclaim.
- Fauda: An Israeli thriller that follows an undercover unit of the Israeli Defense Forces operating in Palestinian territories. Its intense action and complex characters provide a nuanced look at the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Power of Documentaries
Netflix’s documentary collection offers a diverse range of factual programming, from true crime stories to nature documentaries.
True Crime That Grips
These documentaries delve into real-life crimes, often uncovering shocking details and sparking public discussion.
- Making a Murderer: This controversial docu-series explores the case of Steven Avery, a man who was wrongly convicted of a crime and later accused of murder. It raises questions about the American justice system and has sparked widespread debate.
- Tiger King: A bizarre and captivating docu-series that follows the eccentric world of big cat owners in the United States. Its larger-than-life characters and outrageous storylines have made it a pop culture phenomenon.
- The Tinder Swindler: A documentary that tells the story of women who were conned out of large sums of money by a man they met on Tinder. Its compelling narrative and cautionary tale have resonated with audiences worldwide.
Informative and insightful documentaries
Gain new perspectives and expand your knowledge with these fascinating documentaries.
- Our Planet: A stunning nature documentary narrated by David Attenborough that showcases the beauty and fragility of the natural world. Its breathtaking visuals and environmental message have made it a must-watch.
- My Octopus Teacher: A heartwarming documentary about a filmmaker who develops an unusual friendship with an octopus. Its emotional story and stunning underwater footage have captivated audiences.
Action and Adventure: Thrills on Demand
For viewers seeking adrenaline-pumping entertainment, Netflix offers a range of action and adventure shows that deliver excitement and suspense.
Superhero Shows
- Daredevil: A gritty and realistic superhero series that follows Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer who fights crime as Daredevil. Its intense fight choreography and complex characters have made it a fan favorite.
- The Umbrella Academy: A dark comedy superhero series about a dysfunctional family of adopted siblings with extraordinary powers. Its unique premise and quirky characters have garnered a large following.
Action-Packed Adventures
- Cobra Kai: A continuation of the Karate Kid film series that follows the rivalry between Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence. Its blend of nostalgia, action, and humor has made it a surprising hit.
- Warrior Nun: A fantasy action series about a young woman who wakes up in a morgue with supernatural abilities and becomes part of an ancient order of warrior nuns. Its exciting action sequences and intriguing storyline have garnered a dedicated fan base.
Conclusion
Netflix’s extensive library of shows offers something for everyone. By exploring the different genres, international productions, documentaries, and action-packed series, viewers can discover hidden gems and find their next binge-worthy obsession. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond your comfort zone – you might just find your new favorite show. Consider using Netflix’s recommendation algorithm as a starting point, but also explore critic reviews and recommendations from friends. Happy watching!
