What’s the best way to spend your free time? Most people would say watching Netflix and binging on their favorite TV shows. There are thousands of series available for streaming, but which ones deserve your attention? We did the research and have compiled a list of 10 must-watch series on Netflix.
1. Stranger Things
If you haven’t heard of Stranger Things, you’re in for a treat. This 8-episode series is like your favorite 80s sci-fi movie come to life. The best part? Netflix just released its second season, so you can watch all 8 episodes in one weekend! Stranger Things won’t be like anything else you watch on Netflix and is perfect for anyone who wants something new to stream.
2. Orange Is the New Black
When it comes to the must-watch series, Orange is The New Black is always a fan favorite. The show depicts life in a women’s prison and covers an array of topics, including race, class, gender, and abuse. Given how topical these issues are right now — especially when it comes to cases of sexual assault at elite universities—it’s probably no surprise that OITNB was nominated for 12 Emmys last year.
3. 13 Reasons Why
Hannah Baker, a classmate, and crush who committed herself two weeks prior, left a box of cassette tapes for a young guy to locate. She outlines the 13 reasons why she chose to terminate her life on camera. Depression, bullying, sexual assault and harassment, rape culture, and graphic depictions of teenage drug usage are among the issues explored in the series. Due to its serious themes, it is not suitable for children or teenagers under the age of 17 and is best suited to adults. It has been tremendously eye-opening for me as an adult. However, one must proceed with caution because there are some situations that are unpleasant to see but correctly portray real-life events that we wish didn’t exist.
4. Riverdale
Based on Archie’s Comics, Riverdale takes place in a sleepy town where everyone has something to hide. From murder and drug rings to cults and gangs, nothing is as it seems. A perfect must-watch series for those that like a drama with a hint of teen romance. The second season just came out, so you won’t have to wait long for new episodes!
5. Daredevil
The first season of Daredevil was released in 2015 and it’s really well done. Charlie Cox plays Matt Murdock, a blind attorney who also moonlights as a vigilante that helps clean up his neighborhood. This is some gritty stuff with so much action and blood you’ll wonder why Hollywood has been playing it safe for so long. It is definitely one of my must-watch series on Netflix and I think it holds up nicely next to shows like The Wire or Breaking Bad. Well worth your time!
6. Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is one of those rare binge-worthy gems that takes place entirely in its own tiny world, with no meddling from a major network like NBC or HBO. The premise: A 29-year-old woman escapes her doomsday cult and starts life over in New York City. The cast: Ellie Kemper (The Office) as Kimmy; Tituss Burgess as Titus Andromedon, Kimmy’s gay roommate; Jane Krakowski as Jacqueline Voorhees, their wealthy employer; Carol Kane as Lillian, Titus’ landlord; and Sara Chase as Xan, Kimmy’s former best friend.
7. Jessica Jones
Marvel’s Jessica Jones is a show, unlike any other Marvel series that has been aired so far. Unlike other superheroes, Jessica is not trying to save others but rather herself and her sanity. Her dark past shapes everything in her life and without it, she wouldn’t be who she is today. More importantly, though, it makes her want to help people who have gone through similar experiences so they don’t suffer as much as she did. One of her biggest fights throughout Season 1 was with Kilgrave (the name he goes by in most of his interactions with Jessica), a man whose mind-control powers left many women utterly dependent on him.
8. House of Cards
When it comes to streaming TV, it’s all about original content. That’s why House of Cards is a must-watch series for Netflix subscribers: The show has been nominated for dozens of awards and earned critical acclaim, solidifying its status as an Emmy darling (and Emmy winner). But what really makes it worth watching? The enthralling narrative and top-notch acting are certainly compelling reasons to tune in—but another great feature is that each season is made up of just 13 episodes. Given how addictive the show can be, that’s one fewer episode than you have time for. If you’re looking for something new to add to your queue, start here.
9. Peaky Blinders
Steven Knight is the creator of the British crime drama television show Peaky Blinders. It is based in Birmingham, England, and recounts the crimes committed by the Peaky Blinders gang in the immediate years following World War One. An actual urban youth gang of the same name that operated in the city from the 1880s to the 1910s serves as the inspiration for the fictional group.
10. Chef’s Table
When it comes to food, few companies have had as much impact as Netflix. For those of us who can’t get enough of Chef’s Table, there are dozens more food and cooking programs to binge-watch (like Ugly Delicious). Or if you’re a true crime buff, you’ll want to check out Making a Murderer or documentaries like The Keepers. If you’re in need of some inspiration—or just want to laugh—look no further than Queer Eye or Bojack Horseman. And because we can’t get enough TV series—or movies for that matter—we’ll stop here. If there’s something else you think belongs on our list, let us know!
