Let’s be real—sometimes the actual world can be a bit overwhelming. Deadlines, traffic, endless scrolling. You get the idea. That’s when fantasy TV comes to the rescue like a good ol’ gateway to another world, providing you with magic, monsters, and just enough enchantment to make the chaos disappear. Whether you need mystical kingdoms or tales with a mere hint of the supernatural, these programs will enable you to tune out—without tuning out completely. Here are 9 of the greatest fantasy TV shows to get lost in when reality requires a time-out. 

9. Once Upon a Time

Ever pictured fairy tale heroes and heroines strolling through your neighborhood? That’s the magic of Once Upon a Time. It takes all of those old characters we knew as kids and plants them in a contemporary town, complete with curses, secret identities, and a whole lot of charm. It’s smart, whimsical, and a wonderful reminder that even the grimmest tales can have a hopeful note. Ideal for those days when you want something cozy and old-school.

8. The Changeling

Directed in New York but painted with myth and mystery, The Changeling walks the line between hard-boiled reality and supernatural fantasy. It’s haunting, atmospheric, and full of surprises that leave you questioning what’s real and what’s not. It’s a slow burn, but when it catches you, you’ll be seeing the city in an entirely new way.

7. Lovecraft Country

Not for the faint of heart, Lovecraft Country mingles horror and fantasy so seamlessly that it’s as disturbing as it is intriguing. With monsters, hexes, and deeply ingrained societal phobias all coalescing into one big mess, it’s a reckless tale that lingers long after the end credits. If you prefer your fantasy with substance—and a dash of fear—this one’s worth it.

6. Shadow and Bone

This one ticks all the boxes: an original magical system, layered world-building, and characters you’ll love (or love to despise). Shadow and Bone brings epic battles, dark magic, and just enough romance to keep things engaging. It’s the type of show that finds you searching for fan theories at 2 a.m. You’ve been warned.

5. House of the Dragon

If palace intrigue and dragon-breathing monsters are up your alley, then House of the Dragon is for you. This prequel explores the Targaryen family before Game of Thrones, and let’s just say there’s drama. There’s struggle for power, betrayal, and dragon-sized drama—what’s not to watch? It’s the sort of show that makes your family drama seem relatively pussycat-like by comparison.

4. Outlander

Part history drama, part time-travel adventure, Outlander is a sweeping epic that whisks you from post-World War II England to the windswept Highlands of Scotland in the 18th century—and beyond. There’s romance, political scandal, and a generous dollop of magic added to the mix. If you’re up for something emotional and transportive, this one‘s a winner. 

3. Schitt’s Creek

Alright, so there ain’t no magic in the classical way—but Schitt’s Creek could very possibly be one of the most magical shows on television. It’s a tale of self-discovery, niceness, and finding happiness in the unlikeliest of places. With its offbeat characters and warm, fuzzy feel, it’s just straight-up feel-good TV. Occasionally, the escape we require isn’t into another realm, but into an improved version of our own.

2. Grace & Frankie

Who says fantasy can’t be rooted in reality? Grace & Frankie shows us that it’s possible to reinvent ourselves at any age, and sometimes that’s the most enchanting thing of all. It’s humorous, touching, and perpetually relatable. After all, bolting from reality doesn’t necessarily mean leaving it behind—it can mean discovering delight and excitement in the mundane.

1. Money Heist

Though not technically a fantasy, Money Heist contains all the excitement of one. Clever schemes, impenetrable loyalties, and people so intense you’ll be screaming at your TV—compulsive in the best sense. If you need a show that’ll hook you and won’t release you, this is it. Escapism does not always involve magic; sometimes, it’s about being swept up into something larger than life.

At the end of the day, fantasy TV isn’t just about spells and dragons. It’s about what it gives us: a pause, a breath, a little distance from the noise of real life. These shows offer safe spaces to feel big things, explore wild ideas, and process what we’re going through without getting overwhelmed. They remind us that anything is possible—even in a world that doesn’t feel very magical. But as with everything, there is a catch. Watch, enjoy, escape—but not forget to return home. The best stories are the ones that enable us to live our own lives a little bit better.

Let’s turn back the clock to one of the most scandalous and saddest pages in Hollywood history, the days of the blacklist. In the height of the Cold War, the world of showbiz became the epicenter of paranoia, political fear, and tarnished reputations. The Red Scare not only struck politicians, but it also reached actors, writers, and directors who were accused (oftentimes on flimsy evidence) of being Communist. Overnight, careers were ruined. Friendships exploded. The dream factory became a nightmare. So, in classic cinematic style, let’s take a look back at ten of the most well-known stars and writers whose lives and careers were turned upside down by the Hollywood blacklist, counting down to the largest casualties of them all. 

10. Uta Hagen

Before becoming one of America’s best acting teachers, Uta Hagen was an up-and-coming stage and screen actress. But her friendship with activist Paul Robeson and refusal to retreat from progressive causes were enough to make her a target. Named in the Red Channels pamphlet, she was blacklisted and surveilled by the FBI for decades. Work ceased, but Hagen made her exile pay, emerging as an iconic acting coach to icons Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. She would later remark that the blacklist “kept me pure.”

9. Burl Ives

Everyone remembers Burl Ives as the kindly voice of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, but his tale is not all jolly and holly. Ives was accused of Communist leanings after showing up to attend left-wing gatherings and landed on the blacklist. To rescue his career, he decided to play ball with HUAC and identify names, something that allowed him to return to work, but irreparably strained relationships with his folk-singing contemporaries, such as Pete Seeger. It’s a dramatic illustration of how survival in Hollywood came with a moral price tag.

8. Lena Horne

Lena Horne was glamorous, gifted, and gutsy, and her political convictions made her a target. Her work with civil rights organizations and her ties to leftist figures like Paul Robeson put her in the FBI’s crosshairs. When the blacklist hit, Hollywood shut its doors, and Horne turned to nightclub singing to keep her career alive. She eventually returned to the screen, but never stopped speaking out for justice and equality.

7. Lloyd Bridges

Lloyd Bridges was stymied by the blacklist before he became the comedic scene-stealer of Airplane!. Bridges’ association with the Actors’ Laboratory Theatre, alleged to be too friendly to Communist sympathizers, attracted HUAC’s wrath. Bridges testified truthfully and was subsequently cleared, but the taint stuck for years. It was a reminder that in those times, suspicion was sufficient to sidetrack a career.

6. John Garfield

Brooding, charismatic, and rebellious, John Garfield was the biggest star of his time. But when he refused to comply with HUAC and “name names,” his career was all but wrecked. The actor fought back vigorously, but it wasn’t enough. Blacklisted and subjected to constant pressure, Garfield succumbed to a heart attack at only 39. Many still think the witch hunt contributed to his premature demise.

5. Dorothy Parker

Quick-witted, witty, and politically provocative, Dorothy Parker had been on the FBI’s radar for a long time. Although never a member of the Communist Party, she was vocally anti-fascist and pro-many progressive causes. That was sufficient to get her blacklisted. When agents once wondered if she planned to overthrow the government, Parker responded wryly, “Listen, I can’t even get my dog to sit. Do I look like I could overthrow the government? Even in adversity, she had an unbreakable wit.

4. Orson Welles

Orson Welles—brilliance, agitator, and director of Citizen Kane-was never too outspoken for his own good. His left-wing leanings, combined with his denigration of capitalism and authority, put him on the FBI watch list. Under increasing scrutiny, Welles emigrated to Europe in 1948 and remained overseas for years. At one time, he was even included in a list of possible “subversives” to be held during a national emergency. The blacklist didn’t keep him quiet, but it forever changed the course of his career.

3. Dalton Trumbo

Few tales reveal the insanity of the blacklist better than Dalton Trumbo’s. One of Hollywood’s most successful screenwriters, Trumbo would not collaborate with HUAC, was almost a year in jail for contempt of Congress, and was blacklisted for more than a decade. But he continued to write using pseudonyms. Two of those clandestine efforts, Roman Holiday and The Brave One, even won Oscars he was unable to claim out loud. When Kirk Douglas and Otto Preminger insisted that he get credit for Spartacus and Exodus, it broke the blacklist.

2. Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin was not only the Little Tramp, but he was also one of the globe’s earliest global superstars. Yet his politics and refusal to cooperate with HUAC rendered him suspect. In promoting Limelight abroad, the American government withdrew his re-entry visa, effectively exiling him from the land he had contributed to making laugh. Chaplin returned to Switzerland, a silent casualty of America’s frenzy.

1. The Hollywood Ten

It began with them, the Hollywood Ten. These directors and writers, such as Dalton Trumbo, Edward Dmytryk, and Ring Lardner Jr., declined to answer HUAC’s queries in 1947. They were found in contempt of Congress, jailed, and blacklisted. Their act of defiance was a badge of honor for creative resistance, and their subsequent punishment a warning to anyone who should challenge. The Hollywood Ten lost more than their jobs; they lost their freedom, opening the way for years of fear throughout the industry.

The blacklist wasn’t merely about politics; it was about paranoia, power, and how fast art is consumed by fear. These women and men remind us that behind every glamorous movie poster is a greater story, one of courage, conviction, and the steep price of sticking by your principles.

Actors​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ in shows have the power to either throw the show or make it a hit. A great joke and a really nice theme song can be good, but if actors have no chemistry, then it is just a no-go. It is, however, a thing of value when the right bunch of people meet. We become these shows our marathons, picturing them when we talk with our friends, and even when we are in need. So, let us write down the 10 most ideal sitcom casts, ranging from insane to the ones that have been around for ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ages.

10. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

No show has ever so enthusiastically wrapped itself in chaos as this one. The gang—Charlie Day, Rob McElhenney, Glenn Howerton, Kaitlin Olson, and Danny DeVito—is evidence that you don’t have to have likable characters, only an ensemble cast who know their roles backward and forward. Their timing and rapport allow them to play the most absurd games and still be laugh-out-loud hilarious.

9. Game of Thrones

Alright, not a sitcom—but stick with me. Few series have pulled off such a large cast without a dud. From Peter Dinklage to Lena Headey and Gwendoline Christie, all of them made an impact, even with limited appearances. Evidence that ensemble excellence isn’t solely a comedy thing.

8. Six Feet Under

Another drama sneaking in, but the Fisher family had earned it. Michael C. Hall, Lauren Ambrose, Peter Krause, and Frances Conroy traded grief, dysfunction, and black humor with amazing authenticity. Their rapport made uncomfortable family dinners as memorable as the show’s emotional gut-punches.

7. Modern Family

This show succeeded because all the pieces of the puzzle counted. Ty Burrell, Sofía Vergara, Julie Bowen, Ed O’Neill, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Eric Stonestreet—and the kids—made three families become one gigantic comedic force. No one was a drag, and the younger cast members turned into scene-stealers in their own right.

6. Friends

The template for ensemble sitcoms. Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, and David Schwimmer made six New Yorkers famous. They contributed a distinct brand of comedy, and the supporting cast (Janice! Gunther!) contributed to the humor. Their chemistry is the reason the show continues to be replayed endlessly even today.

5. The Office (US)

Life at Dunder Mifflin shouldn’t have been amusing, but the ensemble made it unavoidable. Steve Carell grounded it as Michael Scott, but John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson, Jenna Fischer, Mindy Kaling, B.J. Novak, and the rest of the office infused it with heart, cringe, and humor. Even after the departure of Carell, the chemistry rendered the show reassuring and binge-worthy.

4. Frasier

Kelsey Grammer might have been the name in the top slot, but this was an actual ensemble effort. David Hyde Pierce, Jane Leeves, John Mahoney, and Peri Gilpin all gave their best, with each character solid enough to carry a story or steal a scene. Throw in recurring standbys like Bulldog and Gil, and the cast chemistry was just unmatched.

3. Married… With Children

The Bundys turned the “perfect sitcom family” cliche on its head. Ed O’Neill, Katey Sagal, Christina Applegate, and David Faustino dove into dysfunction with naughty abandon, building a raunchy but realistic family life. The neighbors and peripheral characters added to the offbeat humor.

2. Sanford and Son

Redd Foxx and Demond Wilson’s chemistry was comedic lightning, but the supporting cast—from Aunt Esther to Bubba—was equally flavorful. Foxx and LaWanda Page’s repartee is legendary, and the show’s influence on representation and sitcom television history remains today.

1. The Golden Girls

The pinnacle of ensemble sitcoms. Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, Betty White, and Estelle Getty were a dream team of timing, wit, and heart. Their camaraderie was genuine, their repartee iconic, and their skill at handling heavy subjects with warmth made the show ageless. Few ensembles have ever been so flawless.

When sitcom ensembles gel, they don’t just make you laugh—they become comfort TV that endures for generations. From dysfunctional families to unlikely best friends, these casts remind us why chemistry trumps all else.

Disney’s​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ standard animated canon is very well known, but really, not every treasure gets its time in the spotlight. For each Frozen or Lion King, some films have been lost in the shadows of the Disney library, i.e., either overshadowed, misrepresented, or being a little too weird for their time. These are the secret gems of the Disney vault, and they certainly deserve a double take. We are counting down from number ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ten.

10. Raya and the Last Dragon

It’s almost shocking how quickly this one got overlooked. Released in 2021, Raya and the Last Dragon wowed with its gorgeous visuals, slick action sequences, and heartfelt story about trust and unity. Yet thanks to Encanto dominating the cultural conversation, it never really got its due. If you’re a fan of fantasy adventures (or dragons), don’t sleep on this Southeast Asia–inspired gem.

9. Bolt

A superhero dog who doesn’t recognize his abilities is staged? That’s the set-up for Bolt, a witty 2008 adventure that blends Hollywood spoof with coast-to-coast sentiment. John Travolta narrates the befuddled puppy, Miley Cyrus voices his owner, and miraculously, it all succeeds. The critics adored it, but it seldom gets spoken of as one of Disney’s big guns—time to correct that.

8. Brother Bear

This beautifully hand-drawn Disney “in-between” film might not have received the same attention as Mulan or Tarzan, but it’s full of heart. Joaquin Phoenix plays Kenai, a young man who’s transformed into a bear by magic, and now must navigate the world in new ways. With sweeping vistas, a soulful Phil Collins score, and themes of brotherhood and respect for the natural world, this one needs more love.

7. Treasure Planet

A steampunk retelling of Treasure Island in space? Absolutely. Treasure Planet paired innovative animation with a surprisingly emotional father-son relationship, but it tanked at the box office. It’s since developed a devoted cult following—and deservedly so. This film was far ahead of its time.

6. Atlantis: The Lost Empire

Another attempt from the early 2000s, Atlantis replaced the songs with a futurist pulp tone of sci-fi action. The angular lines (courtesy of comic book artist Mike Mignola) and multicultural, offbeat cast lent it a unique flavor that Disney doesn’t often revisit. It wasn’t exactly a box-office winner, but to many fans, Atlantis is the pinnacle of underrated Disney.

5. The Emperor’s New Groove

This film wasn’t meant to be a comedy, but praise be, it turned out to be one. With David Spade’s snarky Kuzco, John Goodman’s down-to-earth Pacha, and Eartha Kitt’s crazed Yzma, The Emperor’s New Groove is Disney in its funniest and most meta form. Once underrated, it’s now gaining meme status—but still has the right to stand among Disney’s greatest comedies.

4. Oliver & Company

Before The Little Mermaid ushered in the Disney Renaissance, there was this hip ’80s reinterpretation of Oliver Twist. With a sassy kitten, a pack of dogs, and Billy Joel providing the voice of the always-cool Dodger, Oliver & Company is full of charm. The jazzy score and New York City backdrop make it a retro time capsule to revisit.

3. The Great Mouse Detective

This wry mystery may not be the most obvious Disney movie, but it was a significant stepping stone for the studio. With Basil of Baker Street (Disney’s take on Sherlock Holmes) and Vincent Price as the nefarious Ratigan, it’s clever, suspenseful, and culminates in a jaw-dropping Big Ben battle that combined traditional animation with early CGI. 

2. Robin Hood

Fox Robin Hood, wisecracking Prince John, and a supporting cast of forest outlaws—what’s not to adore? Robin Hood from Disney wasn’t a critical smash at its release, but its lighthearted charm and memorable songs have earned it some serious staying power. It’s a lazy, enjoyable, and relentlessly watchable retelling of the legend.

1. The Aristocats

Cats in Paris playing jazz? Winning formula already. The Aristocats was a success when it was originally released in 1970, but it’s been eclipsed over the years by newer, glitzier names. That’s too bad, because with the frolicking kittens, the chic animation, and Thomas O’Malley’s cat-cool stride, it’s one of Disney’s most charming happy-sappy movies.

So next time you’re scrolling Disney+ and feel like you’ve seen the usual suspects a hundred times, give these underrated gems a shot. They may not have the same fame as the blockbusters, but they’ve got heart, charm, and a unique place in Disney’s history.

We​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ all know it to be true: discovering a film suitable for a family of four in which everyone agrees is as difficult as defeating the final boss of a video game. The catalog of Prime Video is not facilitating the task either—you will find crazy movies from the ‘80s, a flood of sequels no one has asked for, and sometimes a hidden gem. But it’s okay, I’ve gone through everything, and I’ve taken out the real winners. No matter if your family consists of small kids, teens, or even adults who love movies, these 10 choices will definitely make the family movie night experience much better and less ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌stressful.

10. Bookworm (2024)

This charming New Zealand adventure is like an old family movie. There’s brazen Nell Fisher in search of the legend of the Canterbury panther, taking along her estranged father (Elijah Wood, ever Frodo to some of us) for the ride. It’s sweet, funny, and has just enough of the right mix of magic and family moments without ever being contrived.

9. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

Mario fans, this is for you. Packed with colorful chaos, familiar faces, and as many Easter eggs as parents will be able to shout out, it’s pure Mushroom Kingdom enjoyment. Chris Pratt voices Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy gives us a grittier-than-ever Peach, and Jack Black steals the movie as Bowser. Kids will laugh, parents will get the nostalgia kick—it’s a win-win.

8. Hotel Transylvania: Transformania (2022)

The monsters are back, with a twist: humans get monstrous, and monsters get human. Stage the chaos. The fourth and final film in the series brings the same goofy humor and vibrant animation fans love, along with a heartwarming message about not judging a book by its cover. It’s silly, entertaining, and perfect for younger children (or anyone still a kid at heart).

7. How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)

Few sequels prosper, but this one soars. Hiccup and Toothless return for a richer, more emotional experience that opens up their world nicely. With eye-popping animation and action that equals any live-action franchise, it’s one of those Marvel family movies that really makes kids and adults cry.

6. Troop Zero (2019)

In the 1970s, this quirky underdog story is about an oddball girl (McKenna Grace) who’s a fan and brings together a quirky Girl Scout troop to chase her ambition. Viola Davis and Jim Gaffigan add plenty of adult heft, but the children power this movie. It’s charming, funny, and a reminder that outsiders can shine brightest.

5. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)

Didn’t you think the Shrek franchise had gas in the tank? Think again. This sequel is a visually stunning, refreshingly deep journey into coming to terms with mortality and living life. It’s funny, warm, and simply stunning to look at—a sequel as good or better than the original.

4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)

Last, a Turtles reboot that gets it right. This animated origin story leans into the brothers’ relationship while encasing it in a bold, graffiti-inspired animation style that is modern and vibrant. It’s humorous, action-packed, and shows April O’Neil the respect she deserves. Whether a lifelong fan or introducing your children to the pizza-loving heroes, this one hits the mark.

3. IF (2024)

Directed by John Krasinski, this imaginative story explores what happens to abandoned imaginary friends. Cailey Fleming stars as a girl who can see “IFs” and goes out on a mission to reinstate them to their adult human selves, and Ryan Reynolds is along for the ride. It’s funny, it’s sweet, and it will likely have you thinking about your own childhood friends, a couple of them.

2. The Black Stallion (1979)

This sequel is proof that family movies can be breathtaking cinema as well. A young boy and a runaway horse, stranded together after a shipwreck, form an unbreakable bond that leads them to the racetrack. Poetically set and emotionally rich, it’s a more leisurely pace than most kids’ films today—but all the more reason that it’s ageless.

1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

Yes, it’s officially known as a Christmas movie, but really, it’s an anytime movie. Jimmy Stewart’s George Bailey learns just how much his life matters in this timeless, never-to-be-forgotten classic. Its themes of niceness, neighborhood, and hope are just as relevant today as they were nearly 80 years ago. Show it to your kids—it’s a story that will remain with them.

Prime Video’s lineup is a little hit-or-miss, but these films are the real treasures—fun, tear-jerking, and family-friendly for families of all shapes and sizes. Grab a blanket, dim the lights, and let movie night commence.

Honestly,​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ HBO Max has changed its branding more times than the sigil of a House in Westeros, but in the end, it’s still the place to find smart, addictive, and sometimes crazy TV. No matter if you want high-quality drama, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or dragons spewing fire for your weekday nights, the platform is there for you. Here are the top 10 shows you can binge right now – starting with 10, as waiting is always more ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌fun.

10. The Righteous Gemstones

Danny McBride’s televangelist sitcom is a delicious trainwreck you can’t look away from. John Goodman keeps the Gemstone family earthbound—kind of—while his children (Adam DeVine, Edi Patterson, and Walton Goggins) spin into greed, plots, and sheer anarchy. The last season just finished, but the chuckles (and jaw-drops) are worth revisiting.

9. Hacks

Jean Smart is a total force as Vegas stand-up legend Deborah Vance, delivering both keen-edged jabs and surprising vulnerability. Alongside Hannah Einbinder’s jaded young writer, the series has become one of HBO’s crown jewels, winning Emmys and remaining as sharp in season four as it was on debut.

8. The White Lotus

Rich individuals, poor decisions, stunning resorts—Mike White has solved the equation. Every season releases a new group of actors is released into heaven, only for chaos to descend into scandal and homicide. Season three’s Thai backdrop introduced new players such as Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, and Parker Posey, with Sam Rockwell even making a cameo appearance. Season four is in the works… just not until 2026.

7. The Last of Us

Last but not least, a video game adaptation done right. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey anchor this post-apocalyptic tale with equal doses of grit and heart. The second season jumps forward five years, delving into Joel and Ellie’s tense dynamic as new threats arise—bigger, badder infected. Come for the action, stay for the emotional gut punches.

6. House of the Dragon

If you’ve been missing your Westeros fix, this prequel scratches the itch. Set two centuries before Game of Thrones, the show chronicles the Targaryen family’s bloody unraveling. Expect political betrayals, shocking deaths, and, of course, fire-breathing dragons galore. It’s classic Thrones with a fresh coat of scales.

5. The Yogurt Shop Murders

This doc series addresses one of Austin’s most grim unsolved crimes—the 1991 killing of four teenage girls. Rather than sensationalizing, it centers on the families behind and the weight of the lingering questions left. With A24 and Emma Stone at the helm, it’s haunting and deeply human, making it a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts.

4. Succession

The Roy clan has provided us with some of the most cutting, vicious television of the past decade. From boardroom betrayals to meme-sparking zingers, Jesse Armstrong’s four-season tour de force illustrated that power and family don’t combine—at least not well. Although it concluded in 2023, its status as peak prestige TV is cemented.

3. Curb Your Enthusiasm

Larry David perfected cringe comedy before anyone else even tried. After 20+ years, Curb just wrapped its twelfth and final season, but the laughs remain timeless. And while this chapter is closed, David isn’t done with HBO—he’s already developing a new sketch series. Awkward encounters and overreactions guaranteed.

2. The Sopranos

No list would be complete without the mob boss who transformed television in an instant. Tony Soprano of James Gandolfini is both frightening and strangely sympathetic, and this blend of mafia soap and therapy sessions is endlessly fascinating. Its DNA permeates contemporary TV, and if you crave more, spin off into The Many Saints of Newark or the docu-series Wise Guy.

1. The Wire

David Simon’s The Wire isn’t HBO’s best—it’s one of the greatest shows ever produced, period. Every season destroys a different corner of Baltimore, from the narcotics trade to the schools to the media, and presents a searingly accurate portrait of American institutions. With writing and performances that are unsurpassed, it’s a master class in television storytelling.

From mobsters and dragons to stand-ups and plotting billionaires, HBO Max keeps showing us why it’s the streaming destination for TV that counts. Whether you’re in it for drama that reaches the stakes, biting comedy, or tales that just won’t quit your brain, this rundown has something to keep you stuck to the couch.

If​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ managing your streaming queue feels like you have a second job, then you are definitely not alone. As these platforms keep on launching brand-new series at a rate that it is almost impossible to say “skip intro” twice, falling into an endless scrolling trap is quite understandable. Nonetheless, you should not worry as we have done the tough part for you. In case you are looking for a nice comedy to cheer you up, a thriller that will hold your attention from the very beginning, or to watch an old favorite that you haven’t seen in a while, then you have with you a simple cheat sheet that gives you the best shows streaming at the moment. Less searching, more ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌watching.

1. Somebody Feed Phil (Netflix)

Food, travel, and Phil Rosenthal’s irrepressible enthusiasm—what’s not to adore? This world-traveling docuseries is half culinary hug and half love letter to culture. Phil’s affability makes each destination a home away from home, which makes this series the ideal feel-good vacation.

2. I Think You Should Leave (Netflix)

Tim Robinson’s crazy sketch comedy is unlike anything on television. A combination of both absurd and genius, it’s filled with lines you’ll be quoting (and replaying) in no time. If you’re a newbie to the show, caveat emptor: the rabbit hole is long—and LOL.

3. Ginny & Georgia (Netflix)

This family-thriller-coming-of-age hybrid delivers teen drama and adult depth in equal proportions. With snappy writing and complex characters, it’s a binge-worthy show that mingles heart, humor, and some heavy plot surprises.

4. The Residence (Netflix)

Hungry for a mystery with a dash of political intrigue? The Residence delivers big time. Based in the less-seen areas of the White House, this new drama is intelligent, suspenseful, and filled with secrets yet to be unraveled.

5. Sex and the City (Netflix)

Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda, and Samantha return—and their wit, wisdom, and wardrobe haven’t gotten any older. It’s your first time or your fifteenth repeat viewing, Sex and the City is still a comfort classic that’s as relevant (and binge-worthy) as ever.

6. Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Netflix)

The 99th precinct is always good for some laughs. With its lovable ensemble, quick-witted one-liners, and unexpectedly sincere moments, this sitcom is still a choice among comedy fans who enjoy clever writing with a lot of heart.

7. Paradise (Hulu)

Gorgeously shot, deeply emotional, and rich in intrigue, Paradise is that rare series that picks you up from the pilot episode—and doesn’t let go.

8. The Bear (Hulu)

Get inside the pressure cooker of a Chicago kitchen in this high-intensity dramedy. The Bear isn’t merely about food—it’s about loss, toughness, and family. It’s quick-witted, emotionally charged, and one of the most buzzed-about shows of the year, and for good reason.

9. Severance (Apple TV+)

What if you could keep your work life separate from your home life—literally? Severance makes that question into a stylishly haunting thriller about identity, memory, and corporate power. It’s thought-provoking, exquisite to watch, and impossible to look away from.

10. Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)

This is more than a feel-good sitcom—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Jason Sudeikis is amazing as the perpetually positive football coach who wins over hearts with humor and humility. Ted Lasso is wholesome, hilarious, and just what we all needed.

11. Succession (HBO Max)

Logan Roy and his profoundly dysfunctional family have brought some of the keenest dialogue and most ruthless power struggles in recent history. Succession bites, it’s brilliant, and as hooked as prestige drama comes. Long live the kingmakers.

12. The Last of Us (HBO Max)

Adapted from the popular video game, this post-apocalyptic drama is a narrative triumph. With stunning performances by Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, The Last of Us holds world-ending stakes at bay alongside profoundly human emotion.

Streaming Hacks to Avoid Scroll Fatigue

• Sort by mood: Feeling stressed out? Let your mood dictate—select comedies for a chill night, dramas for when you want to escape into a tale.
• Don’t sleep on hidden gems: Some of the best shows fly under the radar (hello, PEN15).
• Mix it up: Jumping between genres can keep your queue from going stale. One heavy drama followed by a sketch comedy? Balance restored.

There’s no shortage of great content out there—just too little time to waste on the wrong shows. With this curated list, you’re all set for your next big binge session. Happy streaming!

While​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ some films make news for raking in hundreds of millions on their opening weekend, what about the others? They fail miserably, only to be found again years later. What fails at the box office isn’t necessarily a failure with the audience in the long run. Quite a few movies that we consider to be must-watch were actually thought to be unsuccessful at some point. According to Martin Scorsese, one of the reasons that Hollywood is obsessed with numbers is that it often forgets the thing that matters the most: art is not always forthcoming with its ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌value.

Here’s a glance at ten infamous box office flops that went on to gain respect, affection, and in some instances, legendary status.

10. Better Man (2025)

Paramount’s Better Man already has a notoriety for its disastrous performance, only $1.9 million taken in against a $110 million cost. But this Robbie Williams musical, with its CGI chimpanzee, is so off-the-wall that it will have to build a cult following. Occasionally, crazy artistic gambles are recalled long after conservative wagers.

9. Under the Skin (2013)

Scarlett Johansson’s unsettling performance as an alien roaming Scotland made for a haunting, disturbing experience–if you happened to be among the handful who caught it. Raking in only $7.3 million on a budget of $13.3 million, it barely ticked at the box office. Over time, however, its dreamy atmosphere and gorgeous imagery have earned it a place as one of the top films of the century.

8. Office Space (1999)

Mike Judge’s send-up of corporate culture was anything but a success initially, with box office revenues barely breaking even. But after it made the transition to DVD, it turned into a phenomenon. From Milton’s stapler as red as his temperament to the ridiculous “flair” on waitresses’ uniforms, the movie is now a staple of workplace comedy culture.

7. The Iron Giant (1999)

Even though it received critical acclaim, Warner Bros. botched the release of this touching animated film. With a $50 million-plus budget and merely $31 million in worldwide box office revenue, it seemed like a flop. But since then, in the years since its initial release, The Iron Giant has become one of the crown jewels of animation, widely admired for its emotional complexity and anti-war themes.

6. Donnie Darko (2001)

Jake Gyllenhaal’s breakout performance as a troubled youth coping with time travel, visions of the apocalypse, and a disturbing rabbit costume didn’t hit the theatres, gaining barely more than half a million dollars in its initial run. Post-9/11 viewers weren’t ready. But DVD sales and midnight showings made it a cult classic, which galvanized an entire generation of fans.

5. Vertigo (1958)

Surprisingly, Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo was never regarded as a classic. Audiences reacted to it as slow and bizarre upon release, and it didn’t even make enough money. Now, though, it consistently sits atop critics’ lists as one of the all-time best films, admired for its psychological complexity and visual sophistication.

4. Blade Runner (1982)

Ridley Scott’s atmospheric sci-fi noir drama initially floundered. With $33 million at the box office (over a series of releases), it was no match for E.T. or Star Wars. Yet its stunning design and philosophical overtones have since set the standard for future cinema, filtering into anime, video games, and all the rest.

3. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Gene Wilder presented us with one of the greatest characters in cinema, but the film’s opening run only managed to recoup its $3 million cost. Even novelist Roald Dahl hated it. But eventually, its quirky combination of humor and darkness made it a cult classic, and now it’s enshrined as a national treasure in the National Film Registry.

2. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

It’s hard to believe now, but The Shawshank Redemption was underappreciated at the time of its release, grossing only $28.3 million against Forrest Gump and Pulp Fiction. It was resurrected on VHS and cable, where word-of-mouth made it one of the most beloved films ever created, with seven Oscar nominations.

1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

The greatest tale of a flop-to-legend, The Wizard of Oz, did not recoup its huge budget during its original release. But repeated TV showings helped make it a part of American life, and now it’s one of the most recognizable movies of all time. Ruby slippers, yellow brick roads, and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” are now ingrained in the DNA of cinema.

So the next time you hear about a movie tanking at the box office, keep in mind: a flop is not necessarily the end of the story. Sometimes it’s only the beginning of a much greater legacy.