If you are a Netflix subscriber you probably know what’s trending on the service. These television programs are featured prominently on your profile’s homepage. But if you’re like me, you are probably tired of the algorithm’s suggestions. It can sometimes feel overwhelming to be bombarded by all the options that Netflix prescribes. Here is one easy solution so that you can save the time of browsing.
I compiled a definitive list of Netflix Original shows that you should be watching or re-watching. In this list I have focused specifically on Netflix Original content to ensure that anyone who subscribes at any time can view these shows. Content that is not native to Netflix (Friends or Breaking Bad, for example) can be taken off the service at any time without much notice. Netflix has also been in the streaming business the longest so they have the most original content to choose from.
Though the following compilation is biased to my own personal viewing preferences, I believe there is something here for everyone. I hope you find a series you want to binge or binge again. If you think I have missed a program that should be included please let me know in the comments.
Untold
Untold is a series of documentary films that peel back the layers of popular sports controversies. I am not a big sports fan (I don’t follow any US or International Sports) but I still found these documentaries absolutely compelling. My favorites thus far are Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist and Untold: Caitlyn Jenner. The production quality of these films are top notch and the directors of each program successfully capture the distinct voice of the athlete. Untold narratives are expertly crafted and keep you hooked every step of the way. These elevated stories are thought-provoking portraits that question the role of sports in our culture. The films also reveal the impossible social pressures athletes face and how overtime they overcome the stigmas of their losses.
Narcos & Narcos: Mexico
This gritty crime saga portrays the life of drug lord Pablo Escobar and the DEA agents that chased him till his final days. Narcos is violent but its engaging storyline and compelling characters will keep you tethered to your couch. If you are not the type to flinch during a Quentin Tarantino film I would recommend you give it a try.
Similarly, if you enjoyed binging the original Narcos series I suggest you view Narcos: Mexico. Echoing Narcos original voice, Narcos: Mexico unpacks the Mexican drug trade, it’s establishment of cartels and the ensuing violence that continues to dominate media headlines and the priorities of our law enforcement.
Casa De Papel (Money Heist)
Casa De Papel or Money Heist is a Spanish language drama about a band of unlikely misfits conquering the financial system one trick at a time. This David versus Goliath story has you rooting for the robbers instead of the rescuers because they share their enlightened view on life. In opposition, the police chastise the robbers at every turn and sacrifice others so they can appear to be in control. Due to the popularity of the series, Casa De Papel charts the trials and tribulations of two heists, one at the Royal Mint of Spain and later the Bank of Spain over the course of five seasons. This series successfully captures the spirit of popular films like the Ocean’s franchise. Casa De Papel has a perfect mix of action and drama and keeps you on your toes each season.
Squid Game
After the groundbreaking success of Bong Joon-ho’s film Parasite, Korean dramas have a proven ability to cross into the mainstream American market. Squid Game is no exception, this 2021 Netflix standout is a compelling survivalist drama set in a bizarre game of chance. The film follows everyday people straddled by debt and misfortune, their low caste in life compel them to participate in a game of life and death. At first all are excited by the prospect of winning money but soon the realities of the game set in. The contestants are gambling with their lives and there is no turning back. This series also contains graphic scenes that are not for the faint of heart but if you don’t mind a degree of violence this show is for you. The series rewards its viewers with an engaging twist in the final episode and leaves us with more questions. There is currently only one season of Squid Game but after the phenomenal success Netflix has green-lit a season 2 which is currently in the early stages of production.
Stranger Things: Season 4
You have probably heard of this one but this list would not be complete if I did not mention it here. If you have somehow missed Stranger Things now is a good time to catch up with the rest of us. Stranger Things was released in 2016 and is one of Netflix’s flagship programs. With season 4 released in the summer of 2022, the series has continued to prove its worth by capturing the right amount of science fiction adventure, mystery and can’t turn away chills.
In the latest installment we finally discover the true source of evil that has been haunting Hawkins all these years. Thankfully our band of clever and resourceful high school heroes are ready to face this force once and for all. The final installment of this popular franchise is on its way and we just can’t wait.
