30 Best TV Series on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, Jio Cinema, Apple TV+ To Watch Right Now
- Team Salis Mania
- 3 days ago
- 20 min read
Looking for your next binge-worthy show or movie across Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, Jio Cinema, Apple TV+, and more? Check out our expert recommendations for the best content to watch today!
MobLand
Streaming now: JioHotstar
IMDb: 8.4
Psychological Drama, Crime, Drama
MobLand is a British crime drama television series written and created by Ronan Bennett. The series stars Tom Hardy as Harry Da Souza, a fixer for the Harrigan crime family led by Conrad (Pierce Brosnan) and Maeve Harrigan (Helen Mirren). Paddy Considine also stars as Kevin Harrigan, son of Conrad and Maeve, and Harry's longtime working partner. Guy Ritchie, Anthony Byrne, Daniel Syrkin, and Lawrence Gough serve as directors for the first season. Jez Butterworth wrote the first eight episodes along with Bennett.
Andor
Streaming now: JioHotstar
IMDb: 8.4
Dark Fantasy, Dystopian Sci-Fi, Epic
“Andor” is a critically acclaimed television series set in the Star Wars universe. It premiered on Disney+ on September 21, 2022, and is a prequel to the film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). The show was developed by Tony Gilroy, who also co-wrote Rogue One.
Premise:
Andor follows Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna, during the early days of the Rebel Alliance. Set five years before the events of Rogue One, the series explores how ordinary people begin to rise against the tyranny of the Galactic Empire, and how Cassian evolves from a cynical loner into a key figure in the rebellion.
Key Details:
Genre: Sci-fi, Action, Drama
Seasons: 2
Episodes: 24
Tone: Grittier and more grounded than typical Star Wars fare, with a strong focus on political intrigue, espionage, and character development.
Cast Highlights:
Diego Luna as Cassian Andor
Stellan Skarsgård as Luthen Rael
Genevieve O’Reilly as Mon Mothma
Denise Gough, Kyle Soller, Adria Arjona, and others in supporting roles
Reception:
Andor received widespread critical praise for its writing, direction, performances, and mature storytelling. Many fans and critics consider it one of the best Star Wars TV series, particularly for its fresh approach to the universe without relying heavily on Jedi or the Force.
Black Mirror
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8.7
Cyber Thriller, Dystopian Sci-Fi, Psychological Drama
Black Mirror is a British science fiction anthology television series created by Charlie Brooker. It originally premiered on Channel 4 in the UK in 2011 and later moved to Netflix from its third season onward.
Overview:
Genre: Sci-fi, dystopian, drama, thriller
Creator: Charlie Brooker
Themes: Technology, society, morality, dystopia, media, privacy
Concept:
Each episode of Black Mirror is a standalone story, typically set in a near-future or alternative present. The show explores how modern and emerging technologies can have unintended, often dark consequences on individuals and society. The tone ranges from bleak and dystopian to satirical and speculative.
Seasons:
Season 1–2 (2011–2013): Aired on Channel 4.
Season 3–7 (2016–2025): Distributed by Netflix, with higher production values and international casts.
Reception:
Black Mirror is critically acclaimed for its writing, originality, and provocative themes, though some later seasons received mixed reviews compared to earlier ones. It has won several awards, including Emmys for episodes like “San Junipero” and “USS Callister.”
Pachinko
Streaming now: Apple TV+
IMDb: 8.3
Period Drama | Drama
Pachinko is an acclaimed American drama television series created by Soo Hugh, adapted from Min Jin Lee's 2017 bestselling novel of the same name. The series made its debut on Apple TV+ on March 25, 2022, garnering widespread critical praise for its stunning cinematography, powerful writing, and exceptional cast performances. The eagerly awaited second season was released on August 23, 2024.
Synopsis
Pachinko intricately follows the lives of four generations of a Korean family, spanning from 1915 to 1989. The story centers on Sunja, who, in 1931, makes the difficult decision to leave her family behind in Japanese-occupied Korea. She moves to Osaka’s Koreatown in Japan, where she attempts to build a new life amid harsh living conditions and pervasive discrimination against Korean immigrants. The series poignantly explores themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring impact of colonialism.
Production History
Apple Inc. acquired the rights to adapt the novel in August 2018, with a series order confirmed in April 2019. Soo Hugh took on multiple roles as showrunner, writer, and executive producer. The production was undertaken by the company Media Res in collaboration with Hugh.
The casting process was extensive, taking six to seven months of global searches to find the perfect actors to bring the novel’s characters to life. In October 2020, the main cast was revealed, featuring Lee Min-ho, Jin Ha, Anna Sawai, Minha Kim, Soji Arai, and Kaho Minami. South Korean directors Kogonada and Justin Chon were also brought on board to executive-produce and direct four episodes each.
Soo Hugh emphasized the rigorous casting process, noting that all actors were required to audition for their roles to ensure authenticity and a deep connection to their characters. The collaborative effort between an international team of actors, writers, and directors has resulted in a series that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant, capturing the complexities of history, culture, and human spirit.
Reacher
Streaming now: Amazon Prime Video
IMDb: 8
One-Person Army Action | Action | Crime
"Reacher" is an American action-crime series developed by Nick Santora for Amazon Prime Video, based on the best-selling Jack Reacher novels by Lee Child. Alan Ritchson stars as Jack Reacher, a former U.S. Army military policeman turned drifter. With his exceptional strength, sharp intellect, and combat skills, Reacher finds himself embroiled in dangerous situations as he crosses paths with criminals during his travels.
The first season, which premiered on February 4, 2022, adapts Child's debut novel, Killing Floor (1997). The second season, based on Bad Luck and Trouble (2007), ran from December 15, 2023, to January 19, 2024. In December 2023, Ritchson confirmed that filming for the third season—centered on Persuader (2003)—had already commenced. By October 2024, the series was renewed for a fourth season, even before the third season's release.
Fallout
Streaming now: Amazon Prime Video
IMDb: 8.4
Dystopian Sci-Fi | Survival | Action
Fallout is an American post-apocalyptic drama television series developed by Graham Wagner and Geneva Robertson-Dworet for Amazon Prime Video. The series is an adaptation of the iconic role-playing video game franchise created by Tim Cain and Leonard Boyarsky. It features an ensemble cast led by Ella Purnell, Aaron Moten, Kyle MacLachlan, Moisés Arias, Xelia Mendes-Jones, and Walton Goggins.
Amazon acquired the rights to adapt the beloved game series into a live-action format in 2020, officially announcing the project in July of that year. The show’s production is spearheaded by Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy's Kilter Films, with Bethesda Game Studios, the developers behind the franchise, joining as co-producers. Notably, Nolan directed the first three episodes, bringing his cinematic touch to the series. Bethesda’s Todd Howard, known for his pivotal role in shaping the game series, joined the production as an executive producer alongside Nolan and Joy. In January 2022, Robertson-Dworet and Wagner were brought on as showrunners, while Walton Goggins and Ella Purnell were cast in key roles in early 2022.
Fallout premiered on Prime Video on April 10, 2024, to widespread acclaim. Critics and fans praised the series for its stellar performances, particularly those of Purnell, Moten, and Goggins, as well as its compelling writing, striking visuals, and meticulous production design that captured the spirit of the source material. The show's faithful adaptation of the game's rich lore and world-building was especially lauded. Due to its strong reception, the series was swiftly renewed for a second season later in April.
In addition to its popularity among viewers, Fallout received critical recognition, garnering 16 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, including nods for Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Goggins.
Peaky Blinders
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8.7
Gangster | Period Drama | Crime
Peaky Blinders is a critically acclaimed British crime drama television series created by Steven Knight. The show is set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, during the 1920s. It aired its first season in 2013 and concluded with its sixth and final season in 2022.
Plot Overview
The series follows the rise of the Shelby family, particularly the ambitious and ruthless leader Tommy Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy). The Shelbys run a powerful criminal organization known as the Peaky Blinders, named after their signature flat caps with razor blades sewn into the brims. The show explores the family's quest for power, control, and expansion in a world filled with rival gangs, corrupt police, and political intrigue.
Key Themes
Crime and Violence: The show delves into the world of organized crime, gang warfare, and the brutal underworld of 1920s England.
Family Dynamics: The series explores loyalty, betrayal, and the complex relationships within the Shelby family.
Political and Social Issues: It touches on historical events and figures, weaving in themes like communism, fascism, and the impact of the Great War on society.
Psychological Struggles: Tommy Shelby grapples with PTSD from his experiences in World War I, as well as the moral consequences of his actions.
Main Characters
1. Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy): The cunning and determined leader of the Peaky Blinders, driven by his desire to expand the family's influence.
2. Arthur Shelby (Paul Anderson): Tommy's older brother, who struggles with anger issues and guilt from the war.
3. Polly Gray (Helen McCrory): The fierce matriarch of the Shelby family and the gang’s treasurer.
4. Ada Shelby (Sophie Rundle): Tommy's sister, who often challenges the family's criminal enterprises.
5. John Shelby (Joe Cole): A younger brother involved in the gang's operations.
6. Alfie Solomons (Tom Hardy): A charismatic Jewish gang leader from London who has a complicated relationship with Tommy.
Style and Aesthetics
The series is known for its stylized cinematography, gritty atmosphere, and modern soundtrack, which contrasts the historical setting with contemporary rock music from bands like Arctic Monkeys, Nick Cave, and The White Stripes.
The costumes, especially the iconic three-piece suits and flat caps, have become emblematic of the show's unique style.
Cultural Impact
"Peaky Blinders" has had a massive influence on fashion, popular culture, and media, inspiring everything from clothing lines to themed bars.
The show is praised for its strong writing, complex characters, and powerful performances, particularly by Cillian Murphy and the late Helen McCrory.
A planned Peaky Blinders movie is set to continue the story beyond the events of the final season.
Awards and Reception
"Peaky Blinders" received numerous awards, including BAFTAs, and is widely regarded as one of the best British TV shows of the 2010s. It has gained a global fanbase thanks to its gripping storytelling, rich historical context, and unforgettable characters.
The series is available on platforms like BBC iPlayer and Netflix (depending on the region).
The Last of Us
Streaming now: Jio Cinema
IMDb: 8.7
Dystopian Sci-Fi | Quest | Survival
"The Last of Us" is a critically acclaimed TV series based on the popular video game of the same name developed by Naughty Dog. The show, created by Craig Mazin (known for Chernobyl) and Neil Druckmann (the game's creator), debuted on HBO on January 15, 2023.
Plot Overview
The series is set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal outbreak caused by a mutated strain of the Cordyceps fungus, which turns humans into aggressive, zombie-like creatures. The story primarily follows:
Joel Miller (played by Pedro Pascal): A hardened survivor who lost everything in the early days of the outbreak.
Ellie Williams (played by Bella Ramsey): A 14-year-old girl who is seemingly immune to the Cordyceps infection, holding the key to humanity's survival.
Joel is tasked with smuggling Ellie out of a quarantine zone to a group called the Fireflies, who believe she might be the answer to finding a cure. Along their journey across a devastated United States, they form a deep bond as they face numerous dangers, including infected creatures and ruthless human factions.
Key Themes
Survival and Hope: The series delves into the human cost of survival, exploring themes of love, loss, and the lengths people go to protect those they care about.
Morality in Crisis: It questions the morality of decisions made during desperate times and the blurred lines between right and wrong in a lawless world.
Found Family: At its core, "The Last of Us" is a story about the unexpected bond between Joel and Ellie, who become like father and daughter despite their initial reluctance.
Notable Characters
Tess (Anna Torv): Joel's partner who helps him navigate the post-apocalyptic world.
Marlene (Merle Dandridge): The leader of the Fireflies and a key figure in Ellie's life.
Tommy Miller (Gabriel Luna): Joel's brother, who plays a significant role later in the story.
Bill & Frank (Nick Offerman & Murray Bartlett): Survivors who have built a life of their own amidst the chaos.
Production and Reception
The series was widely praised for its faithful adaptation of the game's narrative while also expanding on certain characters and storylines. The show captures the essence of the game's intense emotional storytelling, stunning visuals, and atmospheric settings. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey received high praise for their performances, bringing the beloved characters of Joel and Ellie to life with depth and nuance.
Differences from the Game
While the series stays true to the source material, there are some deviations to enhance the narrative for television:
Some episodes explore backstories of minor characters in greater detail (e.g., the episode focusing on Bill and Frank).
The infected's behavior and the origins of the outbreak are further developed to fit a TV audience.
Season 2
Following its success, HBO renewed the series for a second season, which is expected to delve into the story of The Last of Us Part II, the sequel to the original game. The next season is anticipated to explore darker and more complex themes as it follows the continuation of Joel and Ellie's journey.
Why You Should Watch It
"The Last of Us" is not just a story about the end of the world—it's a deep exploration of human connections, resilience, and sacrifice. With its rich storytelling, compelling characters, and high production values, it's a must-watch for fans of the game as well as newcomers to the series who enjoy post-apocalyptic dramas.
Shōgun
Streaming now: Disney+ Hotstar
IMDb: 8.6
Action Epic | Period Drama | War Epic
The new 2024 adaptation of Shōgun, based on James Clavell's 1975 novel, is a historical drama miniseries available on Hulu and FX. This adaptation explores the 17th-century cultural and political conflicts in feudal Japan, focusing on the interactions between an English navigator, John Blackthorne, and Japanese feudal lord Yoshii Toranaga. Blackthorne, portrayed by Cosmo Jarvis, is captured after landing in Japan and soon finds himself entangled in complex political intrigue and the clash of Western and Japanese traditions. Lord Toranaga, played by Hiroyuki Sanada, is a powerful leader engaged in fierce rivalries and strategies, mirroring historical figures of Japan’s warring states period.
The series stands out for its attention to historical detail, with elaborate costume and set designs that capture the period’s aesthetics. Additionally, characters like Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai), who serves as an interpreter and a bridge between cultures, add depth to the storyline. Directed by a team that includes Charlotte Brändström and Jonathan van Tulleken, Shōgun has been praised for its impressive cinematography and commitment to authenticity, bringing Clavell's epic tale to a new generation of viewers.
Stranger Things
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8.7
Dark Fantasy | Monster Horror | Supernatural Fantasy
"Stranger Things" is a popular sci-fi horror TV series created by the Duffer Brothers, released on Netflix in 2016. Set in the 1980s in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, the story follows a group of kids who encounter supernatural events after a young boy, Will Byers, mysteriously disappears.
As the kids search for Will, they meet Eleven, a girl with psychokinetic abilities who has escaped from a secret government lab. Together, they uncover a dark parallel universe called the "Upside Down," inhabited by monstrous creatures. The show's mix of 1980s nostalgia, supernatural horror, and heartfelt friendships gives it a unique appeal, drawing from classic influences like E.T., The Goonies, and Stephen King novels.
Over multiple seasons, Stranger Things delves deeper into government conspiracies, experiments, and the increasing threats from the Upside Down. Each season introduces new characters and creatures while building on the mysteries of Hawkins.
Heartstopper
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8.5
Coming-of-Age | Feel-Good Romance | Teen Drama
Heartstopper is a popular British teen drama series based on the graphic novels by Alice Oseman. The show, which premiered on Netflix, centers on the blossoming relationship between two teenage boys, Charlie Spring and Nick Nelson, as they navigate friendship, love, and self-discovery in a high school setting. Charlie, a sensitive and openly gay teenager, begins to develop feelings for Nick, a seemingly straight, kind-hearted rugby player, who then finds himself questioning his own sexuality.
The series stands out for its heartwarming portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes, focusing on acceptance, mental health, and the challenges of young love in a refreshing, genuine way. The story is widely praised for its positive representation, exploring issues like bullying, coming out, and friendship in a manner that feels both accessible and sensitive.
With its gentle pacing, vibrant visuals, and feel-good tone, Heartstopper has gained a strong fan following for its authenticity, often using graphic novel-inspired animations to highlight emotional moments, staying true to its comic origins. The show's lighthearted yet impactful storytelling has resonated with audiences globally, making it one of Netflix’s standout young adult series.
Slow Horses
Streaming now: Apple TV+
IMDb: 8.2
Dark Comedy | Spy | Drama
Slow Horses is a British espionage drama series based on Mick Herron's Slough House novels, starring Gary Oldman as the brilliant but gruff intelligence officer Jackson Lamb. The show centers around Slough House, a department of MI5 for agents who have failed in various ways and been sidelined to menial duties. Lamb leads this team of misfit spies, who are commonly referred to as "slow horses" due to their poor track record. Despite their failures, they often find themselves tackling real and dangerous cases, sometimes unearthing conspiracy and corruption within the intelligence community itself.
The series, produced by Apple TV+, has received praise for its dark humor, sharp dialogue, and nuanced portrayal of its characters, blending thrilling spy action with complex, flawed personalities. Slow Horses also features performances by Kristin Scott Thomas, Jack Lowden, and others, giving depth to the characters and adding to the tension and wit that define the show. The series was well-received by critics for its tight storytelling and Oldman’s standout performance as the antihero Jackson Lamb, known for his unorthodox methods and cutting humor.
Nobody Wants This
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8
Romantic Comedy | Comedy | Romance
Nobody Wants This is a Netflix romantic comedy series that tells the story of Joanne, a podcast host (played by Kristen Bell), who falls for Noah, a rabbi known for his good looks, played by Adam Brody. Their romance begins at a party, and throughout the ten episodes, they grapple with challenges arising from their different lifestyles and values. A significant storyline explores Joanne's consideration of converting to Judaism and the reactions of Noah's traditional family to their relationship.
The show is based on creator Erin Foster's real-life experiences, particularly her marriage to Simon Tikhman, though in real life, her husband is not a rabbi. Justine Lupe and Tovah Feldshuh also star as supporting characters, with Feldshuh playing Noah’s mother, who initially disapproves of Joanne. While there hasn’t been an official announcement of a second season, the show’s popularity and an open-ended finale suggest there might be more to come.
The Penguin
Streaming now: Jio Cinema
IMDb: 8.8
Gangster | Tragedy | Crime
The Penguin is an HBO Max miniseries based on Colin Farrell's portrayal of Oswald "Oz" Cobblepot from The Batman (2022) directed by Matt Reeves. The show, produced by Reeves himself, expands upon Gotham City's gritty underworld and Cobblepot's rise as a crime lord in the aftermath of The Batman. Directed by Craig Zobel with Lauren LeFranc as showrunner, The Penguin takes a dark, dramatic tone that delves into Gotham's criminal ecosystem, highlighting themes of power and corruption as Cobblepot works to seize control in a turbulent city.
Colin Farrell's return as The Penguin has been widely praised for its depth and intensity, with critics calling his performance “transformative” and Emmy-worthy. The series also features Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone, the ambitious daughter of Carmine Falcone, bringing another powerful character into the mix. With the story's sharp writing and layered themes, The Penguin offers a fresh perspective on Gotham’s criminal landscape, blending elements of noir and crime drama.
A Shop for Killers
Streaming now: Disney+ Hotstar
IMDb: 8
Korean Drama | Action | Drama
"A Shop for Killers" is a South Korean crime thriller series directed by Lee Kwon and Noh Kyu-yeop, with a script by Ji Ho-jin and Lee Kwon. It follows Jeong Jinman (played by Lee Dong-wook), a ruthless hitman navigating a world of betrayal and complex moral choices as he manages a hitman-for-hire business. The series features Kim Hye-jun as Jeong Ji-an, an assistant caught in deadly schemes. Released in early 2024, it combines intense action with psychological elements to explore themes of identity and survival in a world of crime.
Death's Game
Streaming now: Amazon Prime Video
IMDb: 8.5
Korean Drama | Drama | Fantasy
The Korean TV series Death's Game is a dark fantasy drama based on a popular webtoon by Lee Won-sik and Ggulchan. The story follows Choi Yi-jae, a man at rock bottom who contemplates suicide after a series of personal and financial setbacks. His decision to end his life attracts the attention of Death, portrayed by Parasite’s Park So-dam, who decides to teach him a lesson by condemning him to repeatedly experience death. Instead of a single end, Yi-jae is forced to reincarnate in 13 different lives, each time in the body of a different person who is on the verge of dying. He must try to survive each scenario; if he succeeds, he can continue living as that person.
This intense plot explores themes of mortality, purpose, and redemption, making it both thought-provoking and emotionally charged. Death's Game is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video in certain regions.
House of the Dragon
Streaming now: Jio Cinema
IMDb: 8.4
Fantasy Epic | Political Drama | Sword & Sorcery
House of the Dragon is a fantasy drama series set in the world of Game of Thrones and serves as a prequel to that series. Based on Fire & Blood by George R.R. Martin, the show dives into the history of House Targaryen, focusing on the events that led to the infamous civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. This Targaryen civil war is a brutal struggle for power within the family, taking place roughly 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones.
The plot revolves around the ruling Targaryens, exploring the complex relationships and power struggles among key figures, including King Viserys I Targaryen, his daughter Rhaenyra, and other family members who vie for control of the Iron Throne. As expected in the Game of Thrones universe, political intrigue, alliances, betrayals, and intense battles drive the story forward.
The series combines rich storytelling with striking visuals, particularly the dragons, which play a more prominent role in House of the Dragon. The show has been lauded for its performances, particularly from its lead cast, and for maintaining the high production values of Game of Thrones, along with a darker, more focused narrative style.
The Boys
Streaming now: Amazon Prime Video
IMDb: 8.7
Dark Comedy | Satire | Superhero
The Boys is an American superhero TV series developed by Eric Kripke, based on the comic book series of the same name by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson. The show is set in a world where superheroes, known as "Supes," are real and immensely popular but are often corrupted by power, fame, and corporate influence. These heroes are managed by a powerful corporation called Vought International, which profits from their image and controls their public personas.
The story primarily follows two groups:
1. The Boys: A vigilante team led by Billy Butcher, who despises the Supes, especially Homelander. The Boys aim to expose and take down corrupt heroes, often using violent and unconventional tactics.
2. The Seven: A group of elite superheroes led by the psychopathic and extremely powerful Homelander. They are marketed as ideal heroes but are often deeply flawed and dangerous individuals behind the scenes.
The series explores themes of corruption, celebrity culture, power abuse, and the consequences of unchecked authority. It is known for its dark humor, intense action, and graphic violence, along with its satirical take on the superhero genre. The Boys has been critically acclaimed for its writing, performances (especially Antony Starr as Homelander and Karl Urban as Butcher), and its biting commentary on modern society. The show has gained a strong fan base and has multiple seasons available on Amazon Prime Video.
Only Murders in the Building
Streaming now: Disney+ Hotstar
IMDb: 8.1
Bumbling Detective | Cozy Mystery | Whodunnit
Only Murders in the Building is a comedic mystery series that follows three strangers—Charles (played by Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez)—who share an obsession with true crime. When a murder occurs in their upscale New York City apartment building, the trio decides to investigate and document their findings in a true-crime podcast. As they dig deeper, secrets are uncovered, not only about the murder but also about each other.
The show combines humor and suspense, with each season bringing a new murder mystery to solve. It has been praised for its witty writing, the chemistry between its leads, and its fresh take on the crime genre with a modern twist. The series also explores themes of friendship, trust, and the peculiarities of urban life.
The Bear
Streaming now: Disney+ Hotstar
IMDb: 8.6
Psychological Drama | Workplace Drama | Comedy
The Bear is a critically acclaimed TV series that premiered in 2022 on FX and Hulu. The show centers around Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto (played by Jeremy Allen White), a talented young chef who returns to his hometown of Chicago after his brother's death to take over the family sandwich shop, The Original Beef of Chicagoland.
Carmy, who has a background working in fine dining, struggles to transform the failing sandwich shop while navigating his own grief, the shop’s chaotic staff, and the challenges of running a small business. The show blends dark humor with intense drama, offering a unique and authentic portrayal of the culinary world, complete with high-pressure kitchen dynamics, personal conflicts, and emotional depth.
The series has been praised for its strong performances, particularly by White, its realistic depiction of kitchen culture, and its exploration of themes like family, mental health, and redemption. It has resonated with both critics and viewers, earning accolades for its writing, direction, and ensemble cast.
The show is known for its fast-paced storytelling and intense, often claustrophobic atmosphere, reflecting the pressures of the restaurant industry.
Squid Game
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8
Conspiracy Thriller | Korean Drama | Psychological Drama
Squid Game is a South Korean survival drama television series created by Hwang Dong-hyuk. It was released on Netflix in September 2021 and quickly became one of the most-watched series on the platform worldwide.
The show revolves around 456 participants, all of whom are in deep financial debt. They are invited to compete in a series of deadly children's games for a chance to win a massive cash prize. However, the stakes are life or death. Each game is inspired by traditional Korean playground games, but with lethal consequences for those who fail. As the participants progress, they face moral dilemmas, form alliances, and betray each other in their desperate struggle for survival.
The series is notable for its intense social commentary on economic inequality, class struggles, and the desperation that people face under capitalism. It blends thriller elements with deep emotional drama, highlighting human nature and survival instincts.
Squid Game was praised for its originality, cinematography, and performances, particularly from lead actor Lee Jung-jae. It sparked a global cultural phenomenon, with fans creating memes, cosplays, and even real-life reenactments of the games (in non-lethal forms, of course). The series' popularity led to discussions about a potential sequel, which was eventually confirmed.
Crash Landing on You
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8.7
Feel-Good Romance | Korean Drama | Adventure
Crash Landing on You is a South Korean romantic drama series that aired in 2019. It tells the story of Yoon Se-ri, a wealthy South Korean businesswoman who accidentally crash-lands in North Korea while paragliding. She meets Ri Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean army officer who tries to hide and protect her. As they navigate the dangers of the North, the two develop a romantic relationship, despite the political divide and obstacles in their way.
The series was praised for its unique premise, strong performances by the lead actors Son Ye-jin (as Se-ri) and Hyun Bin (as Jeong-hyeok), and its blend of romance, comedy, and action. It became one of the highest-rated K-dramas in cable television history and gained a massive global following through Netflix. Fans also loved its portrayal of life in North Korea and the way it tackled issues of love, loyalty, and division.
Alchemy of Souls
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8.7
Dark Fantasy | Fantasy Epic | Korean Drama
Alchemy of Souls is a South Korean fantasy drama series that blends elements of magic, romance, and action. The series is set in the fictional country of Daeho, which doesn’t exist in history or on maps. It revolves around mages, soul-shifters, and powerful magical forces.
The main plot follows a young mage named Jang Uk, who comes from a noble family with a dark secret related to his birth. His destiny becomes entangled with a powerful assassin named Naksu, whose soul is accidentally trapped in the body of a blind and weak servant girl, Mu-deok. As Jang Uk and Mu-deok/Naksu train together, they navigate intense magical battles, hidden secrets, and complex political dynamics, all while developing a deep connection.
The series is notable for its beautiful cinematography, intricate world-building, and intense character development. It features action-packed sequences, elements of humor, and a deep exploration of love, duty, and identity. Alchemy of Souls is divided into two parts, with Part 1 focusing on setting up the world and characters and Part 2 deepening the plot and relationships.
The show gained massive popularity, praised for its fresh take on the fantasy genre and the chemistry between the lead actors.
Game of Thrones
Streaming now: Jio Cinema
IMDb: 9.2
Dark Fantasy | Epic | Fantasy Epic
Game of Thrones is an American fantasy television series based on George R.R. Martin's book series A Song of Ice and Fire. Created by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, it aired on HBO from 2011 to 2019, spanning eight seasons. The show is set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos and follows several noble families as they vie for control of the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms.
The main storylines revolve around political intrigue, war, and betrayal as houses like the Starks, Lannisters, and Targaryens fight for power. Major characters include Jon Snow (Kit Harington), Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke), Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage), and Arya Stark (Maisie Williams). The series is known for its shocking plot twists, morally complex characters, and high production values.
Game of Thrones became a cultural phenomenon due to its complex world-building, dramatic storytelling, and often brutal portrayal of medieval politics. However, the final season, particularly its rushed conclusion, sparked significant controversy among fans and critics. Despite this, the show remains one of the most-watched and talked-about TV series of all time, and it earned numerous awards, including multiple Emmys.
Vincenzo
Streaming now: Netflix
IMDb: 8.4
Korean Drama | Action | Comedy
Vincenzo is a 2021 South Korean television series that blends elements of dark comedy, crime, and action. The show stars Song Joong-ki as the title character, Vincenzo Cassano, an Italian-Korean lawyer and consigliere for a powerful mafia family. After a conflict with the mafia, Vincenzo flees Italy and returns to South Korea to recover a hidden stash of gold beneath Geumga Plaza. However, he becomes entangled with corrupt corporate schemes and a local law firm.
Alongside lawyer Hong Cha-young (played by Jeon Yeo-bin), Vincenzo embarks on a mission to take down Babel Group, a powerful conglomerate with a ruthless grip on South Korean society. Throughout the series, Vincenzo uses his mafia-style methods to seek justice, delivering both intense action and comedic moments. The show’s popularity stems from its mix of slick storytelling, morally complex characters, and its critique of corruption and power.
Vincenzo received widespread acclaim for its performances, especially Song Joong-ki's, and became one of the highest-rated Korean dramas of 2021.
