Choosing what to watch on Netflix can be a daunting task, as there are so many titles in every genre, from comedies to dramas to period dramas. Thankfully, we’ve now narrowed down some of the most interesting shows on the streaming service, including Netflix originals and acquired series. The hardest bit is deciding which one to start with.
If you’re looking for your next comfort drama, here’s our roundup of some of the best shows on Netflix. If you’d rather watch movies, here are our picks for the best Netflix originals.
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An engaging and clever retelling of Queen Elizabeth’s reign. “The Crown” touches on many themes beyond the monarchy, including politics, family and the turmoil of royal marriage – namely that of Charles and Diana. In addition to a stellar cast for six seasons, the show is supported by strong scripts and gripping storylines that stir emotions in viewers, regardless of how they actually feel about the British monarchy.
Breaking Bad(2008-2013)
Hailed as one of the best TV shows of all time, Breaking Bad has all the makings of a great show: suspenseful storylines, vibrant characters and shocking plot twists – many of which are… For the faint of heart. The show tells the story of high school chemistry teacher Walter White, who begins making meth when he is diagnosed with cancer and worried about supporting his family. But his skills in producing illegal substances took him down paths he never imagined.
Peaky Blinders (2013 – 2022)
Peaky Blinders tells the story of a British gang run by Thomas Shelby (Cillian Murphy) and his family after World War I. Looking beyond the streets, he is targeting promotion at Birmingham. The selling point of the show is not only its engaging storyline but also its stellar cast. For fans of period dramas and crime dramas, Peaky Blinders is a must-see. However, be warned: this gritty series is not for the squeamish.
Black Mirror (2011-present)
Black Mirror is a dark, dystopian vision of a world overwhelmed by technology and modern “progress.” A series of standalone episodes, each depicting a compelling and often disturbing imagining of their impact on our increasingly digital lives. (The anthology format itself can be a refreshing way to consume television in the binge-watching era.) It will haunt you and entertain you in the best possible way.
Good Place (2016 – 2020)
Not only is this show hilarious and witty, it will force you to reexamine deeper questions about life and what is inherently “good” or “bad.” In the show, Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell) finds herself in the afterlife and, surprisingly, the Good Place. But it turns out she was wrong to learn that she was actually there. This inspired Eleanor to embark on a mission to escape her old lifestyle. The twists and turns of the plot will surprise you, while the fun, unique characters will keep you coming back for more.
The comedy tells the story of Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams), a college dropout with no legal experience who manages to get a job with top New York lawyer Harvey Specter (Gabrielle Macht) got a job at a law firm. They become a formidable team, but must keep the fact that Mike lacks legal qualifications a secret. A testament to Suits’ brilliance is that it became the most-watched outsourced series upon its arrival on Netflix in 2023. Star power may also be a factor. In the ninth and final season, you need to travel to Peacock.
If you use TikTok, you may have seen this in your feed. Based on the heartbreaking novel by David Nicholls, One Day sees Emma Morley (Ambika Mode) and Dexter Mayhew (Leo Woodall) reunited on the same day spanning twenty years. It’s a unique form of storytelling that makes you reflect on time and relationships, and tugs at your heartstrings at all times.
Squid Games (2021-present)
This thriller had everyone buzzing as soon as it was released, and for good reason. Hundreds of people desperate for cash take part in a series of games that turn into a battle for survival. If you can handle the show’s grotesque and gory themes, it’s a fascinating piece of work. Then everyone can look forward to the second season.
To do this, you’ll need a box of tissues. This Is Us tells the story of the Pearson family, including Jake (Milo Ventimiglia), Rebecca (Mandy Moore) and their three children (Chrissy Metz , Sterling K. Brown and Justin Hartley). In exploring the impact of their upbringing on each of the Pearson children, This Is Us masters the art of flashbacks and flash-forwards and effectively explores issues surrounding race, adoption, alcoholism, family illness, and other underlying topics. question. Each episode will leave you moved, frustrated, or hopelessly wondering what will happen next.
A road rage incident between Danny Cao (Steven Yeun) and Amy Liu (Ali Wong) turns into a drawn-out feud, setting the stage for this riveting comedy, with stellar casting. The comedy just gets better. “Beef” stole the show at the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards, picking up eight awards and winning all three categories it was nominated for at the 81st Golden Globe Awards.
Monk brilliantly blends crime, drama and comedy. The series tells the story of Adrian Monk (Tony Shalhoub), an obsessive-compulsive private investigator who works with the San Francisco Police Department to solve unusual cases. It’s impossible to watch this show and not grow fond of the main character, and there’s clever writing from beginning to end. Perhaps the best feature of “Monk” is that it’s a comfort show, and sometimes that’s just what you need.
Some of the most influential shows are rooted in reality. Such is the case with “The Handmaiden,” which is based on Stephanie Rand’s memoir of the same name (some character names have been changed). It tells the story of Alex Russell (Margaret Qualley), who gets a job cleaning houses after getting out of an abusive relationship. As she and her young daughter struggle to make ends meet, the show paints a stark picture of poverty in America and explores the deep divide between haves and have-nots.
Stranger Things (2016-present)
Stranger Things is a fascinating mix of horror, drama, and nostalgia. The story takes place in a fictional town in Indiana in the 1980s, where residents begin to experience a series of strange events, including the disappearance of a young boy, and begin searching for answers.
The Queen’s Gambit(2020)
The miniseries feels like it’s based on a true story, thanks to the authentic writing and lifelike characters. In the 1960s, an orphan girl named Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy) discovers a secret to playing chess, which takes her to major tournaments and onto the world stage. But fame starts to take its toll on her as she’s forced to reevaluate what she really wants in life.
Money Heist(2017-2021)
In this riveting Spanish crime drama, a mastermind named “The Professor” rallies eight men to pull off an ambitious heist at the Royal Mint of Spain. The show uses riveting flashbacks and time jumps to keep you on your toes.
Never have I (2020 – 2023)
If you need a fun, light-hearted show to make you laugh, Never Have I Ever may be your answer. Devi Vishwakumar (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) is a first-generation Indian-American teen who struggles to reconcile her dual identities while navigating the typical challenges of high school and climbing the social ladder. No matter your age, there are themes that are relevant—or you may find yourself recalling the trauma of adolescence. But in a funny way.
Bridgerton (2020-present)
One of the most aesthetically pleasing shows on this list. Set in Regency-era England, Bridgerton follows the Bridgerton siblings as they search for love in high society and become the subject of anonymously written gossip pamphlets. There’s plenty of drama, beautiful costumes and lavish tea parties to keep you coming back for more. The first part of Season 3 will be available on May 16th, so catch up now.
Grace and Frankie (2015 – 2022)
Grace & Frankie is one of the funniest and most original series on Netflix, telling the story of two longtime rivals who finally lean on each other after learning that their husbands love each other. Come for the all-star cast—including Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Martin Sheen, and Sam Waterson—and stay for the refreshingly unique plot.