Top 15 Must-Binge Netflix Shows: Don't Miss Out!

Hearing the sound of your preferred streaming platform is like music to a TV enthusiast’s ears! But once you’ve managed to get past the login page, deciding on which Netflix series to watch can be a bit tricky. How do you make that choice?

To put it straightforwardly, Netflix has a vast collection of films, series, and even games nowadays. To be honest with you, while Netflix movies are decent, only a handful will make it onto our prestigious list of the greatest films (though there’s always a chance; The Gray Man 2 is on its way). As for their TV shows, they are truly exceptional. In fact, they’re so good that many have landed on our top TV shows list.

When it comes to choosing a show on Netflix, it can be difficult to decide. But don’t worry! Our dedicated TV & Movies team, who are always glued to their screens, has sifted through the Netflix library to identify the shows that truly deserve your valuable time. That way, you won’t find yourself wasting hours watching less-than-stellar productions like Fubar (I apologize, Arnold, but this one missed the mark).

Instead, consider exploring our top picks for Netflix series ahead of your next viewing marathon to show off your discerning television preferences to your roommates or significant other, or you could opt for watching Fubar and potentially come across as less knowledgeable.

15. Ripley

Release date: April 4, 2024
Genre: Thriller
Cast: Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, Johnny Flynn
How long is it? 1 season (8 episodes)

This series is based on Patricia Highsmith’s crime novel “The Talented Mr. Ripley”. It narrates the story of Tom Ripley, a struggling imposter, who gets recruited for an unusual task: finding the missing son of a prominent businessman.

What we appreciate about it: Ripley is an engaging reinvention of Tom Ripley’s story, blending intelligence, style, and understated complexity. The series, visually stunning, benefits greatly from Robert Elswit’s black-and-white cinematography, which mirrors Ripley’s complex moral ambiguity and enhances the beauty of Italy. However, what truly sets this show apart is Andrew Scott’s captivating performance. Scott masterfully portrays Ripley as both likable and detestable without any mistakes, leaving viewers just as enchanted by him as poor Dickie was.

14. Ozark

Release date: July 21, 2017
Genre: Thriller
Cast: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney
How long is it? 4 seasons (44 episodes)

Main Topic: Financial consultant Marty Byrde, who launders money for Mexican drug cartels, relocates his family to the Ozark region and soon clashes with regional criminals seeking a piece of his lucrative illicit business.

What makes it appealing: Although Ozark shares similarities with other TV series featuring a family man who secretly runs a criminal empire, it distinguishes itself by being more serious and straightforward compared to its counterparts like The Sopranos or Breaking Bad. Instead of creating a contrast between the glamour of crime and the ordinary life in suburbia, Ozark presents an overall somber atmosphere that sets it apart. However, despite the grim tone, you’ll find yourself so captivated by Jason Bateman and Laura Linney’s exceptional acting skills that you might not even realize how dark things have become.

13. Mindhunter

Release date: October 13, 2017
Genre: Crime
Cast: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
How long is it? 2 seasons (19 episodes)

Title Overview: “Mindhunter” delves into the lives of FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench, along with psychologist Wendy Carr, who interview convicted serial killers to gain insights that may aid in resolving open cases.

Why we’re drawn to it: Mindhunter, a Netflix series, stands out as a chilling and ambitious production that is exceptionally well-executed. The intricate direction, the vividly portrayed characters, and the captivating storylines work together seamlessly, making Manhunter a truly impressive show. Remarkably, the strength of this series lies in its characters, who, despite being based on familiar archetypes, are brought to life so authentically by the talented cast that they avoid appearing clichéd.

12. The Gentlemen

Release date: March 7, 2024
Genre: Action
Cast: Theo James, Kaya Scodelario, Daniel Ings
How long is it? 1 season (8 episodes)

As a passionate admirer, let me share with you the captivating plotline I recently encountered:

When I, Edward “Eddie” Horniman, the 14th Duke of Halstead, stepped foot back onto my ancestral grounds, little did I know that I was walking into the heart of a colossal drug empire. Unwillingly thrust into the treacherous criminal underworld, I now find myself battling to preserve not just my family’s honor, but also the very fabric of our home and heritage.

As a gamer, I can’t get enough of “The Gentlemen” – it’s like diving headfirst into a lavish, filthy world filled with every kind of shady business you could imagine, without any unnecessary distractions. It’s sharp and intense, featuring an outstanding ensemble cast, including Theo James and Kaya Scodelario who make a formidable duo. This movie is a fantastic sequel to the director’s 2019 film of the same name. To quote Fletcher, it’s simply stunning, absolutely stunning… top-notch TV.

Written by Cameron Frew

11. Nobody Wants This

Release date: September 26, 2024
Genre: Comedy
Cast: Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, Justine Lupe, Timothy Simons
How long is it? 1 season (10 episodes)

In a Nutshell: When Jane starts dating Rabbi Noah, they encounter challenges as they grapple with their vastly dissimilar backgrounds.

We love this show because it’s cozy and amusing. It’s the kind that you might start watching on a Friday night, only to find yourself unwittingly finishing all ten episodes in one go (based on personal experience). The reason for its remarkable addictiveness? The exceptional chemistry between Kristen Bell and Adam Brody.

10. Beef

Release date: April 6, 2023
Genre: Comedy-drama
Cast: Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Joseph Lee
How long is it? 1 season (10 episodes)

In essence: A road rage encounter between Danny and Amy sets off a series of tit-for-tat actions that could potentially wreck the valuable aspects of their lives.

We enjoy it because: Beef takes us by surprise with its unique blend of shock value and unexpected humor, albeit in a grim way. Initially, I thought it was going to be a lighthearted farce with increasing stakes. Instead, it became a rather unsettling commentary on the cycle of revenge, implying that retaliation can lead to blindness for all involved. However, even though the characters commit heinous acts, Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, aided by creator Lee Sung Jin’s excellent script, manage to keep them appealing and, most importantly, relatable.

9. Heartstopper

Release date: April 22, 2022
Genre: LGBTQ+
Cast: Kit Connor, Joe Locke, William Gao
How long is it? 3 seasons (24 episodes)

Title Explanation: “Heartstopper,” derived from a popular graphic novel, narrates the story of Charlie Spring and fellow student Nick Nelson as they navigate a budding romance over time.

Why I’m Hooked: Heartstopper, for me as a gamer, is an enchanting journey about love and personal growth that skillfully portrays the exhilarating ups and downs of teenage romance from a refreshing queer perspective. Some may argue it’s overly sentimental or lacks the grit found in other shows of its kind, but I find myself drawn to its tender storytelling and endearing performances. In this chaotic world, Heartstopper provides a welcome respite, offering a heartwarming love story that I can lose myself in, which is exactly what I need sometimes.

8. Cobra Kai

Release date: January 1, 2021
Genre: Action
Cast: Ralph Macchio, William Zabka, Courtney Henggeler, Xolo Maridueña, Tanner Buchanan
How long is it? 6 seasons (60 episodes)

Overview: Cobra Kai is a sequel to the original Karate Kid films, taking place 34 years later after Daniel LaRusso won the All-Valley Karate Tournament. Despite this victory, Johnny Lawrence, who was once his rival, seems to be struggling. However, an act of kindness towards his neighbor sparks a change as he reopens the old Cobra Kai dojo in an attempt to turn his life around.

Enjoy its appeal: Are you fond of striking and defending moves? Did your interest in Karate spark after witnessing Daniel San’s victory over Johnny? Do you appreciate unconventional tales of redemption that might change your perspective on former movie villains? If you nod to any of these questions, then Cobra Kai is a must-watch for you. Putting aside the playful debate, Cobra Kai is an entertaining journey that will captivate viewers who look back fondly and is also skillfully written to attract a fresh wave of karate enthusiasts.

7. Bridgerton

Release date: December 25, 2020
Genre: Historical drama
Cast: Nicola Coughlan, Luke Thompson, Ruth Gemmell
How long is it? 3 seasons (24 episodes)

During the refined Regency period, this Netflix show unfolds, focusing on the Bridgertons as they maneuver through the intricate world of upper-class society.

What makes it appealing: With its scandalous, dramatic, and lively nature, Bridgerton is a delightful blend of contemporary storytelling, lavish set design, and chilling soundtrack choices. Yes, it’s similar to Coronation Street (or Days of Our Lives for our American audience) but with a larger budget and more fashionable costumes, we can’t deny that we adore these juicy, gossipy stories about aristocratic romance, betrayal, and dancing.

6. Baby Reindeer

Release date: April 11, 2024
Genre: Crime-thriller
Cast: Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau, Tom Goodman-Hill
How long is it? 1 season (7 episodes)

The plot revolves around struggling comedian Donny Dunn, who experiences a life-altering event after showing kindness to a seemingly innocent woman named Martha.

The reason we find it compelling: Baby Reindeer delves deeply into how stalking can devastate lives and the chilling impact of abuse, making it impossible to look away even when you want to turn away from the distressing scenes. Richard Gadd’s skillfully crafted script provides a captivating perspective on the ordeals he faced (as Baby Reindeer is partially inspired by his real-life experiences with a stalker).

Indeed, I’d contend that the raw portrayal of himself by Gadd in this series adds to its strength; it’s a selfless act devoid of vanity that exposes his innermost feelings. To reveal further details might compromise the experience, but suffice it to say that Martha is not the only challenge Donny faces.

5. Squid Game

Release date: September 17, 2021
Genre: Thriller
Cast: Lee Jung-jae, Wi Ha-joon, Lee Byung-hun
How long is it? 2 seasons (16 episodes)

Main Theme: Debt-ridden gambling addict, Seong Gi-hun, is presented with an opportunity to clear his financial burdens by participating in a sequence of dangerous children’s games. The twist? The games have lethal consequences.

From a fan’s perspective: What draws us in: Squid Game offers a sharp critique of capitalism, posing the intriguing question – how far would I go for an easy win? Would I endure humiliation like being slapped? Would I waste food? Could I betray my closest friend and take a life? This gripping series keeps us hooked, questioning our own moral compass.

Watching Hwang Dong-hyuk’s series might initially seem excessive, but his sharp writing and captivating performances will entangle you in the turmoil, keeping you on the edge of your seat as friends and relatives betray each other ruthlessly to gain wealth. If you’re concerned that this description sounds too explicit, don’t worry. The show is cleverly crafted to hide its satire behind violence and action, but once you’ve participated in these games, you’ll never view the world in the same way again.

4. Bojack Horseman

Release date: August 22, 2014
Genre: Comedy
Cast: Will Arnett, Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie, Paul F. Tompkins, Aaron Paul
How long is it? 6 seasons (76 episodes)

Main Topic: Once a popular TV personality, the down-on-his-luck Bojack Horseman grapples with depression and alcoholism, leading to a disorganized life. However, when his agent insists on hiring a ghostwriter for his autobiography, Bojack, albeit at an excruciatingly slow pace, starts to show signs of improvement – so gradual that even glaciers seem to move faster than him.

Why I’m hooked: BoJack Horseman isn’t just about a horse talking through life crises – it’s a deep dive into the complexities of finding happiness, our propensity for self-sabotage, and the intricacies of relationships. This animated series is more than its quirky premise suggests; it’s a profound exploration of human nature in a uniquely entertaining package.

Absolutely, it can become quite intense at times, but there are plenty of hilarious moments that manage to lighten the mood amidst the existential turmoil. Unlike some other shows in this genre, it’s not overly self-righteous about nihilism (Wubalubbadubdub…). You might find yourself surprisingly drawn to Bojack and his friends, despite his flaws.

3. Stranger Things

Release date: July 15, 2016
Genre: Sci-fi
Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, David Harbour
How long is it? 4 seasons (34 episodes)

In a Nutshell: The disappearance of Will Buyers sets off a chain of events leading to a bizarre mystery encompassing psychokinetic children, parallel realms, and terrifying creatures.

What makes it appealing: Stranger Things, reminiscent of Amblin’s golden era on Netflix, is one of their top-performing shows, and it’s clear why. With a delightful ensemble of characters, an intriguing plot, and stunning visual effects, it checks all the boxes for a superb television show.

The unique flavor of this ice cream scoop lies in its environment. The 1980s, you see, is the ideal era for a series like this – an era before smartphones, when children could play outside all night, and when Cold War fears made us believe that monsters were lurking everywhere among us. However, the show’s main issue is its lengthy production time.

2. Better Call Saul

Release date: February 8, 2015
Genre: Crime-drama
Cast: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Rhea Seehorn
How long is it? 6 seasons (63 episodes)

Title Overview: Better Call Saul offers an in-depth look at Jimmy McGill’s transformation, chronicling his journey from an optimistic law student to the unsavory character known as Saul Goodman, a role he adopted before “Breaking Bad.

We appreciate the series because, as Samuel Johnson put it, ‘the road to Hell is paved with good intentions.’ Just like Better Call Saul illustrates, this phrase rings true as we watch a character study that demonstrates how failing to take responsibility for one’s actions can lead to disastrous consequences.

As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve got to say, even though things might seem grim at times, Vince Gilligan adds a touch of whimsy with an array of peculiar characters and relies heavily on Bob Odenkirk’s sharp comedic skills. This balance makes the show tackle heavy subjects without feeling overly somber (except for those rare moments). It cleverly makes you root for Saul, letting you share his victories against his perceived superiors. But then, just when you think he’s a hero, it yanks the rug out from under you, reminding us that Saul isn’t exactly a saint.

1. Breaking Bad

Release date: January 20, 2008
Genre: Crime-drama
Cast: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris, Betsy Brandt
How long is it? 5 seasons (62 episodes)

Main Topic: After receiving a devastating cancer prognosis, Walter White decides to secure his family’s future through unconventional methods. However, one might question whether Walt’s ambition to rule the Albuquerque meth empire is truly motivated by his love for his family or if there are hidden motives at play.

Why we enjoy it: You don’t need me to convince you that Breaking Bad is excellent; countless articles have already discussed its outstanding writing, acting, and direction. Instead, let me share what makes this show captivating for me. It’s not just the allure of the criminal underworld that draws me in; it’s the exploration of legacy. While Walter White claims he’s working to provide for his family financially, that’s merely an excuse. In reality, he’s a mediocre man who yearns to make a lasting impact before he passes away.

In essence, everything else serves as comfort for what little guilt he may feel left in his conscience. I find this an intriguing motive for a character because money, family, and everything else are insignificant compared to Walt himself. This explanation accounts for all of Walt’s strange actions and leaves the audience wondering. Unlike other TV characters with more identifiable motivations, Walt is a man moved by something we cannot comprehend, which makes for riveting television.

This version maintains the original meaning while aiming for clarity and readability.

2025-02-13 16:21

Top 15 Must-Binge Netflix Shows: Don’t Miss Out!