Let’s be honest—finding something great to watch on Netflix can feel like wandering through a never-ending maze. For every blockbuster hit like Stranger Things or Squid Game, countless hidden gems never got the spotlight they deserved. If you’ve had enough of endless scrolling and want to dive into something truly worth your time, this list is for you. Here are 10 of the most underappreciated Netflix original shows you need to watch—counted down with a little dramatic edge, naturally.
10. Travelers
Time travel has been around, of course, but Travelers puts a clever spin on it. In this Canadian drama series, individuals from a decaying future send their consciousness into the present, taking over the bodies of people moments before they die. Their task? Stop humanity’s collapse—one choice at a time. What sets the show apart is its mix of exciting sci-fi set pieces and profound moral dilemmas. It’s incisive, emotional, and full of surprising moments that pack a punch.
9. The Glory
K-dramas have swept the globe off its feet, but The Glory stands out with a special mention. It’s ultimately a revenge story, but it is infused with emotional depth and real heartache. The series is centered around a woman who orchestrates patient, calculated payback against her high school tormentors, now adults themselves with their own lives. Grounded by strong performances—most notably by Song Hye-kyo—this show goes deep into trauma and recovery. It’s a slow fire, but it’s worth it in a major way.
8. Good Morning, Verônica
Social justice and true crime collide in Good Morning, Verônica. The series is based on a police secretary who finds herself drawn into two horrifically disturbing cases of abuse and corruption. It’s gritty, dark, and unapologetic in its exploration of systemic failures, particularly concerning domestic violence. Verônica’s dogged pursuit of justice makes this show not only suspenseful but worthwhile.
7. Caliphate
Tense and provocative, Caliphate is a Swedish thriller that explores the horrifying reality of extremism. The series interweaves the lives of several women who are associated with ISIS, and presents a grim portrait of radicalization and its long-term effects. It’s compelling from the opening frames, with a concise plot and realist performances that heighten the stakes to a very tangible reality. If you enjoy political thrillers with intellectual bite, this is a must-see.
6. Seven Seconds
From the opening episode, Seven Seconds hits like a gut punch. The story centers around the accidental killing of a Black teenager by a white cop—and the aftermath that follows. Regina King is phenomenal, delivering an award-winning performance as a grieving mother seeking answers. The show fearlessly explores systemic racism, accountability, and justice in America. It’s raw, emotional, and completely unforgettable.
5. Ghoul
Seeking horror with a bite? Ghoul is an Indian miniseries blending supernatural horror with biting political commentary. Set in a dystopian near-future, it’s about an interrogator who gets more than she expected when one of her prisoners is. Not exactly human. Creepy, atmospheric, and provocative, Ghoul is notable for using horror to tackle actual-world authoritarianism and religious extremism.
4. Dark
Few programs are so brain-twisting—and worth it—as Dark. This German series opens on two missing kids and unfolds as a convoluted, time-traveling mystery that stretches across generations. The scripting is precise, the mood is creepy, and the ideas of destiny, family, and will are richly philosophical. It requires your undivided attention, but what it pays back is a masterclass in storytelling.
3. Maniac
Maniac is as visually unpredictable as it is emotionally nuanced. Emma Stone and Jonah Hill play two strangers who are taking part in a bizarre drug study, each with their own set of emotional demons. What ensues is a psychedelic trip through numerous realities and splintered psyches. The series is offbeat, haunting, and beautifully made. If you enjoy storytelling that defies the norm, this one’s for you.
2. Kingdom
Zombies in historical Korea? Yes, please. Kingdom is a genre fusion that won’t work—but flat-out does. With action set in the Joseon Dynasty, it chronicles a crown prince attempting to learn what’s behind a lethal plague transforming victims into monsters. With breathtaking visuals, action-packed pacing, and complex political scheming, Kingdom sets the bar for both historical dramas and zombie horror.
1. Sense8
Leading the charge is Sense8, a groundbreaking, emotional sci-fi epic from The Matrix creators. The show explores eight strangers worldwide who become telepathically linked overnight. What starts as a high-concept sci-fi ride then becomes an emotionally rich tale about identity, love, and connection. It’s diverse, fearless, and full of heart—a tribute to what unites us, despite continents.
So the next time you’re in Netflix purgatory, bypass the no-brainers. These under-the-radar shows could surprise you—and possibly even take over as your new guilty pleasure obsession.