Netflix has become a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, producing a wide variety of original content that spans across genres. Whether you’re into drama, comedy, thriller, or documentaries, Netflix Originals offer something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of the best Netflix Originals to watch right now.
1. Stranger Things
One of Netflix’s most iconic Originals, Stranger Things blends ’80s nostalgia with supernatural horror, sci-fi, and heartwarming friendships. Set in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show follows a group of kids as they uncover dark secrets involving parallel universes, government experiments, and eerie creatures. With its gripping plotlines and unforgettable characters, Stranger Things has become a must-watch for fans of all ages.
2. The Witcher
Based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher is a dark fantasy drama that follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with supernatural abilities. With stunning visuals, rich world-building, and a compelling storyline, The Witcher is perfect for fans of epic fantasy tales like Game of Thrones. The show’s complex characters and intertwining storylines keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
3. The Crown
A historical drama about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, The Crown offers a dramatic and highly detailed portrayal of the British royal family. With stunning performances, particularly from Claire Foy and Olivia Colman, the show delves into the challenges faced by the queen during her reign, touching on political, personal, and historical events that shaped her reign. This is a perfect watch for those interested in history and politics.
4. Bridgerton
From the mind of Shonda Rhimes, Bridgerton is a period drama set in Regency-era London. It’s a fresh take on the classic British period drama, focusing on the lives, loves, and scandals of the wealthy Bridgerton family. The show is full of romance, intrigue, and visually stunning costumes, making it a hit among fans of drama and historical romance.
5. Money Heist (La Casa de Papel)
A Spanish-language thriller that quickly became a global sensation, Money Heist is about a group of robbers who carry out meticulously planned heists under the leadership of a mastermind known only as “The Professor.” Filled with suspense, intense action, and emotional twists, Money Heist keeps audiences hooked from the first episode to the very last.
6. Ozark
Ozark is a gripping crime drama that follows a financial planner, Marty Byrde, who relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money for a drug cartel. As Marty and his wife Wendy get deeper into the criminal world, they must make morally ambiguous decisions to protect their family. With powerful performances from Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, Ozark is a tense, edge-of-your-seat thriller.
7. Narcos
Narcos chronicles the rise and fall of the notorious Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, offering a brutal and realistic look at the drug trade in Latin America during the ’80s and ’90s. The show expertly blends historical facts with dramatic storytelling, making it an engaging and eye-opening watch for anyone interested in crime and history.
8. The Umbrella Academy
Based on the comic book series by Gerard Way, The Umbrella Academy follows a dysfunctional family of adopted superhero siblings who reunite to solve the mystery of their father’s death and prevent an impending apocalypse. This quirky show is full of action, humor, and heart, making it a standout among Netflix’s original series.
9. Unbelievable
Unbelievable is a true-crime drama based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning article “An Unbelievable Story of Rape.” It follows the harrowing story of a young woman who is accused of lying about a sexual assault and the two female detectives who uncover the truth. This powerful miniseries is a must-watch for those interested in thought-provoking and emotional true stories.
10. The Haunting of Hill House
A modern take on Shirley Jackson’s classic novel, The Haunting of Hill House is a chilling supernatural horror series. It follows the experiences of five adult siblings who look back on their traumatic childhood spent in a haunted mansion. The show masterfully combines horror with family drama, making it both emotionally compelling and terrifying.
11. Sex Education
This British comedy-drama follows socially awkward teenager Otis, whose mother is a sex therapist. As Otis navigates his own awkward teenage years, he begins offering sex advice to his classmates, leading to unexpected and hilarious situations. Sex Education is a fresh and honest take on the complexities of teenage sexuality, relationships, and identity.
12. Shadow and Bone
Based on the Grishaverse novels by Leigh Bardugo, Shadow and Bone is a fantasy drama set in a war-torn world where dark magic and light magic are at odds. The series follows Alina Starkov, a young soldier who discovers a power that could unite the fractured land. Full of intrigue, magic, and action, Shadow and Bone is perfect for fans of fantasy series like Game of Thrones and The Witcher.
13. Queer Eye
Queer Eye is a heartwarming and uplifting reality series in which the “Fab Five” — a group of five LGBTQ+ experts — help individuals transform their lives. Each episode features a makeover that includes not just physical appearance but also life advice, cooking tips, and emotional support. The show has received critical acclaim for its positive messages, humor, and heart.
14. Mindhunter
Mindhunter is a psychological crime drama based on the real-life work of FBI agents who developed criminal profiling in the 1970s. The series explores the minds of serial killers as agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench interview them to understand their motivations. Mindhunter is chilling, intelligent, and will keep you gripped with its deep dive into criminal psychology.
15. Cobra Kai
Cobra Kai is a nostalgic yet fresh continuation of the Karate Kid franchise. The show picks up decades after the original movie, following Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso as adults with complicated lives. With humor, heartfelt moments, and plenty of karate action, Cobra Kai is a delightful mix of nostalgia and new, compelling storylines.
Conclusion
These Netflix Originals are perfect for every type of viewer, offering everything from suspense and drama to comedy and fantasy. Whether you want to binge-watch a series or watch a thought-provoking documentary, Netflix has an ever-growing library of amazing content. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy these incredible series and films.
