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Thrillers, dramas and comedies – these are some of the best shows to stream from the comfort of your own Netflix account.
37 of the Best Shows to Watch on Netflix Right Now
Thrillers, dramas and comedies – these are some of the best shows to stream from the comfort of your own Netflix account.
Remember the days before streaming services, when you had to swap your slippers for real shoes on a cold Wednesday night and schlep out to the local Blockbuster or Video Ezy to hire something to watch? We don't either – who could be bothered wearing shoes?
Anyway, those days are long behind us. If you’re looking for the best shows to stream from the comfort of your own Netflix account, here are 37 binge-worthy suggestions. Not all of them are new, but they're all top-notch!
1. Boy Swallows Universe
An all-star Australian cast brings Trent Dalton's classic novel to life on screen in Boy Swallows Universe, starring Phoebe Tonkin, Simon Baker, Travis Fimmel, and Anthony LaPaglia. In a crime-meets-coming-of-age-story set in 1980s Brisbane, this seven-episode series follows 12-year-old Eli Bell as he grows up in an unstable household surrounded by drugs, crime, and tough love. A classic Australian book that looks set to become a classic series.1.
2. The Gentlemen
A spinoff of one of Guy Richie’s greatest films, The Gentlemen series promises to bring swagger to the screen over eight weed infused episodes. White Lotus’ hot-yet-douchebag-husband, Theo James, plays Eddie Horniman (the joke writes itself), the heir to his father’s estate which he soon discovers also happens to be part of a cannabis empire. If you were a fan of the film and worry the remake won’t do it justice – relax. Ritchie is at the helm as creator, co-writer, executive producer, and director of the first two episodes.
3. Beef
The brilliant new Netflix miniseries that is currently top of all the viewing charts, Beef is a drama about hard work – one character is trying to sell the business she has built so that she can finally take some time off; another is desperately trying to get his break – but it’s also about what hard work can do to a person. It’s a very smart series that has people binging for good reason.
4. The Crown
Is there a show more buzzy this month than The Crown? Because of the nature of this multi-Emmy award-winning franchise, which reboots its actors every two seasons, there’s been a long wait in between seasons of this show, as the new cast – which includes Elizabeth Debicki as Princess Diana, Dominic West as Prince Charles, Imelda Staunton as the Queen and Lesley Manville as Princess Margaret – film the new episodes.
5. Queen Charlotte
The ton is abuzz with news of a new Bridgerton show. Queen Charlotte is both a prequel and a sequel, following the young Queen Charlotte (India Amarteifio) in her courtship with the young King George (Corey Mylchreest), while flashing forward to the present-day Queen reflecting on her family and their achievements. There’s plenty of the present-day Queen, Lady Danbury and even Violet Bridgerton for the fans, but the prequel stuff is fantastic and India Amarteifio is a star. Bridgerton fans will swoon.
6. 3 Body Problem
Perhaps the most anticipated follow up in television history, everyone has wondered what GoT writers David Benioff and D.B. Weiss would come up with next. The answer is 3 Body Problem, an adaptation of Liu Cixin’s sci-fi novel that explores how a decision made in 1960s China impacts a group of scientists in the present, who must work together to protect humanity from its greatest threat. And what is that? You’ll have to watch to find out.
7. Ripley
In real life he goes by Andrew Scott, but to all those who Fleabag, he will forever be 'Hot Priest'. In this Netflix psychological thriller though, he goes by Tom Ripley, a New Yorker hired to convince a wealthy Italian’s son to return home. But, as we all know, The Talented Mr. Ripley doesn’t always play by the rules. Also starring Johnny Flynn and Dakota Fanning, this eight-episode series will have you glued to the couch all weekend.
8. You
When the manager of a bookstore falls madly in love with one of his customers, the result is anything but a normal love story. Starring OG Gossip Girl heartthrob Penn Badgely, Joe will go to the extreme to remove obstacles (or should we say people) that stand between him and his crush, Guinevere. This psychological thriller has 4 seasons that will literally keep you on the edge of your seat.
9. Unbelievable
Perhaps the most unbelievable part of this incredible new Netflix series is that it’s based on a true story. Whilst the treatment of a young victim who is accused of lying about her rape will make your blood boil, the persistence of two female detectives to bring her rapist to justice makes the outrage worthwhile. All eight episodes are out, so there’s this weekend sorted.
10. The Spy
Though most of us are used to seeing Sacha Baron Cohen in comedic roles and fluorescent lime mankinis, it turns out he’s more than capable of nailing a dramatic role, too. The Spy recounts the wild true story of Eli Cohen, who infiltrated the Syrian government in the 1960s. Also, speaking of conspiracies, does anyone else find it suspicious that Cohen shares the same last name as his character?
11. Terrace House
For something completely different, may we present to you one of our all-time favourite Netflix discoveries, Terrace House. It’s like the Japanese version of Big Brother, only the contestants are respectful and considerate of one another, and everyone can come and go, as they please. Honestly, it’s the most zen reality TV you’ll ever watch. If you’re a first-time viewer, there are quite a few seasons to catch up on, though we suggest skipping the Hawaii edition altogether and just bingeing on Japan.
12. American Factory
Did you know that the Obamas have a production company called Higher Ground? And with taste as good as Barack and Michelle’s, you just know everything they put out is going to be primo content. Their first documentary release, American Factory, offers an intriguing look at the culture clash between a Chinese-owned factory and its American employees. If you’re not hooked the first few minutes in, give this one a chance. It’s a slow burner that’s worth it in the end.
13. Schitt’s Creek
This one is for anybody a little late to the Rosebud Motel party. If you’re looking for some witty, mostly wholesome, truly lol-inducing light-hearted comedy, then it’s time to head up Schitt’s Creek without a paddle. The cast of characters is so endearing that it’s impossible to pick a favourite, and the only time this show has ever made us feel sad is when we found out the sixth season will be its last.
14. Happy Jail
Not only does Happy Jail deserve an award for the biggest oxymoron in a title, it also wins for uncovering a real life story much stranger than fiction. In this five-episode series, filmmakers are granted unprecedented access into the lives of inmates at CPDRC jail in the Philippines – the same jail that went viral for its ‘Thriller’ dance video in 2007.
15. Wild Wild Country
With just six episodes making up the series, Wild Wild Country is one you won't be able to stop once you start. A truly fascinating subject, tensions flare when a cult leader plans to build his idea of utopia in the desert in Oregon. Met with objections from other nearby locals, violence begins to break out as a result. Add this to your 'must-watch list' for something different.
16. The Queen's Gambit
The Queen's Gambit, follows orphan, Beth Harmon, as she navigates sexism, addiction and isolation as a chess prodigy during the Cold War era. With its captivating characters, iconic beauty and fashion references and vivid cinematics, even if chess isn’t usually a topic that would pique your interest, this story of female empowerment is one to watch.
17. Sex Education
This is the kind of show you can binge-watch in a week, or a few days if you clear your schedule. This aesthetically-pleasing high school drama that ensues in this British smash hit is full of heartwarming moments, cringe-worthy, awkward scenes and all the lush countryside scenery to swoon over.
18. Sweet Magnolias
This popular romance series follows three best friends in a South Carolina town whose friendship is the steady part of their lives, against a backdrop of work, family, romance and life. If you’re in need of a comforting show that feels familiar to classics like Gilmore Girls, Friday Night Lights, and Grace and Frankie, Sweet Magnolias is sure to hit the spot.
19. The Lincoln Lawyer
Adapted from the first of several novels featuring the character of Mickey Halle, a charismatic defence attorney who runs his business out of his Lincoln Continental sedan, after inheriting the practice from Hollywood lawyer Jerry Vincent. Mick takes on cases across Los Angeles, but nothing could ever prepare him for the case of a lifetime, which puts his practice and life at risk.
20. Heartstopper
The coming-of-age show we all fell in love with when it first premiered – the heartwarming, sweet, and totally lovely queer teen romance Heartstopper – tells the story of an unlikely friendship between Nick and Charlie and their experiences at an all-boys school.
21. Human Playground
No matter what your preference is for television shows, you’re bound to enjoy Human Playground. Explore the origins and evolution of play across the globe, from marathons in the desert, bullfighting, brutal bicycle races, and ice swimming. This six-part docuseries shows different activities that push people to the brink, physically and mentally. Including beautiful cinematography and captivating narration by Idris Elba, Human Playground is more than just a television show – it is a work of art.
22. Keep Sweet: Pray And Obey
Examining the life of Warren Jeffs and his involvement in the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Keep Sweet: Pray And Obey unveils the sickening trauma inflicted on the young women who were members of the FLDS at the same time. The four-episode series unpacks Jeffs' involvement in the church, and the insidious moves that were made to take advantage of his victims.
23. Never Have I Ever
Fans of Heartbreak High will love Never Have I Ever, Mindy Kaling’s coming-of-age series that is in its third season on Netflix, with a fourth also in the works. Never Have I Ever’s casting is impeccable, introducing us to a diverse crew of talented young actors just like Heartbreak High, while also representing a modern Indian American family.
24. Arrested Development
Prepare to laugh. This cult comedy classic created by Mitchell Hurwitz follows the dysfunctional Bluth Family, who are mostly made up of Orange County socialites that run a housing development company. The star of the show is Michael Bluth (played by Jason Bateman), who’s desperately trying to keep the family business afloat after his father George is sent to prison for embezzlement. If you’re looking for a show which will have you in stitches and doesn’t require your whole attention span, Arrested Development is a perfect choice.
25. Friends
Press play and switch off. If you're after a throwback show that was ahead of its time in terms of shrewd cultural commentary, this isn't it. Friends is like a time capsule and is best appreciated for its silliness, as well as the comedic performances of its six leads. There's a sweet spot if you're looking to binge just a few seasons—start in season four and stop after seven and you'll get the best of the show's writing and the most laughs.
26. Gilmore Girls
When Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham) was 16, she gave birth to baby Rory (Alexis Bledel). Now, 16 years later – and after years of estrangement from her own ritzy parents, who didn’t support her when she became a teen mum – Lorelai and Rory begin to rekindle those relationships, now that Rory is attending a posh high school and being thrown into the world her mother thought she had left behind in order to make a new life in the quaint Connecticut town Stars Hollow. Gilmore Girls remains some of television’s greatest comfort food, a series that is so easy to watch and warm that it’s like spending time with some of your best friends.
27. Orange Is the New Black
Based on Piper Kierman’s Memoir ‘Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison’ this drama-filled series will have you bingeing whole seasons in one weekend. Get to know a team of inmates and guards as they navigate prison life and wait for their sentences to end. There’s love, loss, and a whole lot of arguing. Grab your popcorn – this one’s a goodie!
28. Outlander
The first season of Outlander introduced us to Claire (Caitriona Balfe), who accidentally time travelled back from her present-day in post-WWII Scotland all the way back to 1743, to a country on the brink of civil war. There, she stumbles into the path of the dashing Jamie (Sam Heughan), and a time-travelling, multi-dimensional, era-spanning love story ensues. This romantic period drama is all-engaging and all-encompassing television, full of mystery and passion.
29. Dear Child
Based on Romy Hausmann’s chilling novel, this twisted six-part German series follows Lena, a mother who was kidnapped 13 years ago and has been living in high-security housing in complete isolation with her two children, Hannah and Jonathan. Her kidnapper controls every aspect of their lives, including when they can eat, sleep, and use the bathroom. The show begins with Lena’s daring escape and unravels from there. Fans of true crime and films like The Room will be transfixed by this series.
30. Yellowjackets, Season 1
Spooky subject matter? Tick. Nostalgia factor? Tick. Incredible young actors? Tick. And even more incredible older cast, some of whom are bringing with them the baggage of their own days of youth stardom? Tick, tick, tick. Stranger Things, The Last of Us and Yellowjackets are drawn from the same cloth and both would make fantastic viewing partners for each other. Yellowjackets is set in split timelines as a group of high school girls are stranded on a mountain en route to a soccer match; in the present day, the surviving members start receiving threatening blackmail. The cast for this show is the true secret weapon: Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci, Juliette Lewis and more. We love it.
31. Last Stop Larrimah
Crime junkies should add this documentary about a mystery murder to their watchlist, ASAP. Sharing the story of a tiny Aussie outback town Larrimah and its 11 inhabitants. When one of them vanishes inexplicably, suspicions arise, and a hidden history of internal conflicts is revealed among the remaining residents. Everyone is considered a suspect.
32. Formula 1: Drive to Survive
Before you roll your eyes and say “not another car show”, give at least one season of Drive to Survive a chance. Following the highs and lows of the drivers and teams in the multi-million dollar Formula 1 industry, Formula 1: Drive to Survive goes behind the scenes to give the viewer an insight into the elusive world of one of the richest and most dangerous sports. Whether you’re a fan of the sport already, or have never cared less, this is a show that everyone can sit down and enjoy.
33. The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story
If the stack of Emmys and Golden Globes this thriller has won doesn't entice you to watch, then the 90s-inspired costumes and sunset-hued Miami scenes just might. Working its way backwards, this limited series tells the story of spree killer Andrew Cunanan who is responsible for the murder of illustrious Italian designer Gianni Versace, among others.
34. Bad Vegan
After marrying an illusive man who claimed he could make her dog immortal, vegan restaurateur Sarma Melngailis finds her life veering off the rails. A tale of fame, fraud, and fugitives, this captivating docuseries recounts the insane tale of how Sarma illegally funnelled money out of her restaurant – so her new lover could pay it to a semi-divine entity offering eternal life.
35. Diagnosis
Based on her New York Times magazine column of the same name, Dr. Lisa Sanders crowdsources diagnoses for all kinds of rare conditions in this medical mystery docuseries. It’s like a real-life episode of House, but with much higher stakes because the patients are real and they’re racing against the clock. We probably wouldn’t recommend this one to any hypochondriacs out there, though, unless you want to spend the rest of the night frantically googling your common cold symptoms on WebMD.
36. When They See Us
Based on a true story (eek!), this emotional series chronicles five teens from Harlem as they battle the false accusation of a brutal attack in Central Park. Your heart will break as you step inside heated courtroom scenes and get a glimpse into the corruption and deceit of the police officials in charge of this case.
37. The Brothers Son
Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh (Everything Everywhere All at Once) was made for the role of Eileen, the matriarch and Boss B of a crime family mid-crisis. An eight-episode black comedy, The Brothers Son promises “Gangsters, martial arts, and at least one fight scene featuring a person dressed in an inflatable dinosaur costume”, and honestly, what more could you want in a series?
