You’ve just experienced the sensory overload of Hawkins, Indiana, for the final time (for now). The credits roll on Stranger Things, and a familiar, hollow feeling sets in. What now? You’ve scrolled through Netflix’s “Popular on Netflix” row until your thumb aches, but nothing seems to hit the same spot. The algorithm, for all its power, often keeps pushing you toward the same handful of mega-hits you’ve already seen or decided against.
The truth is, Netflix’s greatest strength is also its most daunting challenge: its sheer volume of content. Buried beneath the tidal wave of new releases and algorithmically-chosen blockbusters are some of the most inventive, compelling, and brilliantly executed stories ever told for the screen. These are the underrated gems—the shows that may not have spawned a million memes or Halloween costumes but represent the pinnacle of modern television craftsmanship.
As a dedicated streaming expert and culture critic with over a decade of experience analyzing television narratives, I’ve made it my mission to dive deep into the Netflix library to find these hidden treasures. This article is the result of that curation, designed for the discerning viewer in the USA who is ready to discover their next obsession. We’re moving beyond the Upside Down to explore seven underrated Netflix Originals that deserve your next binge.
Why These Shows Fly Under the Radar
Before we dive in, it’s worth understanding why such high-quality television can remain in the shadows. Often, it’s not about quality, but about context:
- The “Quiet” Premise: They lack a high-concept, easily marketable logline like “kids on bikes vs. monsters from another dimension.”
- Genre-Bending: They don’t fit neatly into a single category, making them harder for the algorithm to pigeonhole and recommend.
- Awards vs. Popularity: Some of these shows are critical darlings with dedicated fan bases but never achieved the breakout, cross-over success of a Stranger Things or Wednesday.
- Non-English Language: While this barrier is thankfully eroding, subtitled shows still require an extra step for some viewers, causing them to be overlooked despite universal acclaim.
The seven shows on this list have been selected for their exceptional writing, acting, direction, and unique ability to leave a lasting impression. They represent a diverse range of genres—from mind-bending sci-fi and heartfelt dramedies to historical epics and pulse-pounding thrillers. Let’s begin.
1. Dark (2017-2020)
The Underrated Gem That Redefined Time Travel
- Genre: Sci-Fi Thriller, Mystery, Drama
- Seasons: 3 (A complete, planned story)
- Perfect for fans of: Stranger Things‘ mystery, Lost‘s complexity, The OA‘s ambition.
If you loved the 80s nostalgia and small-town mystery of Stranger Things, then Dark is your essential, albeit much more mature, next watch. Hailing from Germany, this is not just a show; it’s a meticulously crafted puzzle box that makes most other time-travel narratives look simplistic.
The Premise: In the small, rain-drenched German town of Winden, the disappearance of two children opens a Pandora’s box of secrets, lies, and a time-travel conspiracy that spans four generations. The story intricately connects four estranged families as they unravel a knotty timeline involving a local nuclear power plant, a mysterious cave system, and a shadowy organization.
Why It’s a Masterpiece and Underrated:
While Dark has a fervent cult following, its linguistic and narrative complexity prevented it from becoming a true mainstream hit in the USA. This is its loss, as it is arguably one of the most perfectly constructed stories in television history.
- The Ultimate Payoff: The three-season arc was planned from the start. Unlike shows that meander or write themselves into corners, every single line of dialogue, every character motivation, and every seemingly minor detail in Season 1 pays off by the series’ stunning conclusion. The satisfaction of seeing the puzzle click completely into place is unparalleled.
- Intellectual and Emotional Depth: This isn’t sci-fi just for the spectacle. It grapples with profound philosophical questions about free will vs. determinism, the nature of time, and the inescapable cycles of trauma and inheritance. The line, “The beginning is the end, and the end is the beginning,” is not just a tagline—it’s the show’s thesis.
- A Casting Miracle: The show features a vast ensemble cast playing younger and older versions of the same characters across different eras. The casting is so uncannily accurate that you will believe in the reality of these characters’ lives across decades.
A Beginner’s Guide to Binging:
- Pay Attention: This is not a background show. Put your phone away and immerse yourself.
- Use the Official Guide (Sparingly): Netflix provides an official companion site that offers family trees and timelines for each episode. Use it only if you’re utterly lost, as discovering the connections yourself is part of the joy.
- Trust the Process: The first few episodes require you to learn many names and faces. Stick with it. By the end of Season 1, you’ll be completely hooked.
2. The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
The Underrated Character Study You Probably Overlooked
- Genre: Coming-of-Age, Period Drama
- Seasons: 1 (Limited Series)
- Perfect for fans of: Character-driven stories like Maid, the stylistic flair of Mad Men, underdog sports narratives.
Yes, The Queen’s Gambit won a ton of awards and was a massive hit upon release. So why is it on an “underrated” list? Because in the long tail of streaming, its quiet, profound brilliance is often overshadowed by flashier, more serialized genre fare. Many viewers see “a show about chess” and scroll on, which is a monumental mistake.
The Premise: In the 1950s and 60s, Beth Harmon, a nine-year-old orphaned girl, reveals an astonishing talent for chess. The series follows her meteoric rise through the male-dominated world of competitive chess, all while she battles personal demons and addiction.
Why It’s a Masterpiece and Underrated:
The premise undersells the sheer electricity of this series. It’s not really about chess; it’s about genius, trauma, and the cost of greatness.
- A Star-Making Performance: Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a career-defining performance. She conveys more with a single, steely gaze than most actors do with pages of dialogue. Her Beth Harmon is fragile, ferocious, arrogant, and vulnerable—often in the same scene.
- Cinematic and Stylish: Forget dusty libraries and quiet games. Director Scott Frank films chess with the kinetic energy of a duel. The 1960s period design is flawlessly executed, from the mod fashion to the stunning mid-century modern interiors, making every frame a visual treat.
- A Surprisingly Thrilling Narrative: The series masterfully builds tension around chess tournaments, making the quiet click of pieces on a board feel as high-stakes as any car chase or superhero battle. You will find yourself on the edge of your seat, holding your breath over a game you may not even fully understand.
A Beginner’s Guide to Binging:
- Don’t Fear the Chess: You don’t need to know how to play. The show is about the players, the psychology, and the pressure.
- Binge at Your Own Pace: As a limited series with a clear arc, it’s perfect for a weekend binge, but its seven episodes are so rich they also reward slower viewing.
- Appreciate the Soundtrack: The music, a mix of period-perfect classics and a haunting original score, is a character in itself.
3. Mindhunter (2017-2019)
The Underrated Procedural That Gets Inside Your Head
- Genre: Crime Thriller, Psychological Drama, Period Piece
- Seasons: 2
- Perfect for fans of: True Detective, Silence of the Lambs, Zodiac.
From the masterful director David Fincher, Mindhunter is a slow-burn, cerebral thriller that trades car chases and forensic gore for chilling conversations in quiet rooms. It’s a show for those who are fascinated by the “why” of evil, not just the “who” or “how.”
The Premise: Set in the late 1970s, the series follows two FBI agents, Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany), and psychologist Wendy Carr (Anna Torv), as they pioneer the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit. They travel the country interviewing incarcerated serial killers like Edmund Kemper, Charles Manson, and BTK to understand their motives and develop profiling techniques to solve ongoing cases.
Why It’s a Masterpiece and Underrated:
Mindhunter was critically adored but never achieved the viewer numbers of other Netflix hits. Its pacing is deliberate, and its focus is on dialogue and psychology over action. For the right viewer, it’s a hypnotic and terrifying experience.
- The Interviews are the Action: The scenes with the serial killers are some of the most tense and brilliantly acted on television. Cameron Britton’s portrayal of Edmund Kemper is particularly unsettling—a giant of a man who is articulate, self-aware, and horrifically calm while describing his atrocities.
- A Foundation of Modern Crime Drama: The show is a fascinating origin story for the criminal profiling techniques we now take for granted in shows like Criminal Minds. You see the birth of terms like “serial killer” and the initial skepticism these agents faced.
- Fincher’s Meticulous Craft: Every frame is composed with Fincher’s signature precision. The 1970s aesthetic is not just a backdrop but a vital part of the story, reflecting the institutional cynicism and societal unease of the era.
A Beginner’s Guide to Binging:
- Embrace the Pace: This is a patient, novelistic show. Let the atmosphere and character development wash over you.
- Pay Attention to the BTK Thread: Intercut with the main narrative are vignettes of the BTK Killer. This isn’t a random subplot; it’s a brilliant narrative device showing the birth of a monster the FBI’s new methods will one day be used to catch.
- A Note on the Ending: The show is technically on an indefinite hold, but Season 2 concludes its central arc in a deeply satisfying way. It is absolutely worth watching.
4. Russian Doll (2019-2022)
The Underrated Groundhog Day with a Bleeding Heart
- Genre: Sci-Fi Dramedy, Mystery
- Seasons: 2
- Perfect for fans of: Groundhog Day, The Good Place, Fleabag.
On the surface, Russian Doll has a familiar hook: a woman stuck in a time loop, reliving her own death at a party over and over. But to dismiss it as just another Groundhog Day clone is to miss one of the most inventive, funny, and deeply human stories of the last decade.
The Premise: Cynical, sharp-witted game developer Nadia Vulvokov (Natasha Lyonne) keeps dying and restarting at the exact same moment in her 36th birthday party. As she tries to break the cycle, she uncovers deeper truths about herself, her past, and her connection to another person, Alan (Charlie Barnett), who is stuck in his own loop.
Why It’s a Masterpiece and Underrated:
While Season 1 was a critical smash, its complex, metaphysical themes and rapid-fire, intellectual dialogue kept it from the very top of the charts. It’s a show that demands your full attention.
- Natasha Lyonne’s Tour de Force: The show is a vehicle for Lyonne’s unique talent. Her performance is a masterclass in using wit as a defense mechanism, slowly peeling back the layers to reveal profound vulnerability and pain.
- More Than a Gimmick: The time loop is merely the mechanism to explore themes of trauma, addiction, self-sabotage, and the interconnectedness of human experience. It’s a show about the loops we get stuck in psychologically, made literal.
- Perfect Pacing: The first season is only eight 25-minute episodes. It’s a tight, perfectly paced narrative with zero filler. Season 2 ambitiously expands the concept into a multi-generational exploration of inherited trauma, using time travel in a wholly original way.
A Beginner’s Guide to Binging:
- Binge Quickly: The short runtimes and propulsive mystery make it ideal for a one-or-two-sitting binge.
- Listen Closely: The dialogue is dense, witty, and packed with philosophical and literary references.
- Season 2 is Different: Don’t expect more of the same. Season 2 is a wilder, more historical ride that deepens the characters in surprising ways.
5. The End of the F*ing World** (2017-2019)
The Underrated Bittersweet Road Trip You’ll Never Forget
- Genre: Dark Comedy, Crime Drama, Coming-of-Age
- Seasons: 2
- Perfect for fans of: Fleabag, I Am Not Okay With This, quirky indie films.
This British import is a pitch-black comedy that is as violent and cynical as it is tender and romantic. Based on a graphic novel, it’s a brutally honest and strangely sweet look at two dysfunctional teenagers searching for connection in a world that seems to have no place for them.
The Premise: James is a 17-year-old who believes he’s a psychopath. Alyssa is a rebellious, sharp-tongued classmate bored with her mundane life. James decides to use Alyssa as his first practice victim for murder, and the two embark on a spontaneous road trip that quickly spirals into a cross-country crime spree after a violent act of self-defense.
Why It’s a Masterpiece and Underrated:
Its bleak tone and unlikable protagonists (at first glance) can be a barrier to entry. But beneath the surface is one of the most poignant and well-observed love stories of recent years.
- Exceptional Character Arcs: Over its two short seasons (16 episodes total), James and Alyssa undergo profound transformations. What begins as a twisted partnership evolves into a deep, codependent, and ultimately life-saving bond.
- A Unique Narrative Voice: The show is driven by the internal monologues of its two leads, which are hilarious, heartbreaking, and brutally honest. Their external bravado constantly clashes with their internal vulnerability.
- Perfect Length: The story is told with incredible efficiency. There are no wasted moments. It says what it needs to say and ends beautifully, twice over.
A Beginner’s Guide to Binging:
- Stick With the Tone: The first episode is deliberately jarring. Allow the show’s unique rhythm and heart to reveal itself.
- Appreciate the Aesthetic: The 1960s-inspired cinematography and fantastic soundtrack create a timeless, slightly surreal atmosphere that perfectly complements the story.
- Season 2 is a Necessary Coda: While Season 1 works as a perfect standalone, Season 2 is a masterful exploration of grief, guilt, and recovery that provides a more hopeful and complete conclusion.
Read more: The Ultimate Ranking: Every Season of ‘Stranger Things’ From Worst to Best
6. Unbelievable (2019)
The Underrated True-Crime Drama That Will Enrage and Inspire You
- Genre: Crime Drama, True Story
- Seasons: 1 (Limited Series)
- Perfect for fans of: When They See Us, Mare of Easttown, investigative podcasts.
Based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning ProPublica article, Unbelievable is one of the most important and harrowing shows you will ever watch. It is a difficult but essential viewing experience that meticulously dissects the failings of the justice system while celebrating the tenacity of those who fight for truth.
The Premise: The series tells two parallel stories. In 2008, teenager Marie Adler (Kaitlyn Dever) reports being raped, but is badgered by detectives into recanting her statement and is charged with filing a false report. Years later, in a different state, two tenacious female detectives (Toni Collette and Merritt Wever) discover they are investigating a serial rapist and begin to connect the dots.
Why It’s a Masterpiece and Underrated:
As a limited series based on a heavy real-life subject, it didn’t have the staying power of an ongoing drama. However, its impact is profound.
- A Devastating Portrayal of Institutional Failure: The first three episodes, which detail Marie’s ordeal with the system that is supposed to protect her, are some of the most infuriating and heartbreaking television ever produced. Kaitlyn Dever’s performance is a raw, unflinching masterpiece.
- A Hopeful Counter-Narrative: The story of detectives Grace Rasmussen and Karen Duvall provides the hope and catharsis. The chemistry between Collette and Wever is phenomenal; they portray competent, empathetic, and dogged professionals whose work is a form of justice.
- Respectful and Purposeful: The show handles its sensitive subject matter with immense care. The crimes are suggested rather than graphically depicted, focusing the narrative on the emotional and psychological impact on the survivors and the meticulous process of the investigation.
A Beginner’s Guide to Binging:
- Prepare Yourself Emotionally: This is not an easy watch. Be in the right headspace for a serious and emotionally draining story.
- It’s a Limited Series: The story is complete in eight episodes. There is no need for a second season, making it a perfectly contained and satisfying binge.
- Appreciate the Craft: The writing, directing, and acting are all top-tier, serving a story that is both a scathing indictment and a powerful tribute.
7. The Crown (2016-2023)
The Underrated Historical Epic Hiding in Plain Sight
- Genre: Historical Drama, Biographical
- Seasons: 6
- Perfect for fans of: The Queen, Downton Abbey, political dramas.
“The Crown? Underrated?” Hear me out. While it’s an awards juggernaut, many American viewers are put off by the premise of a “show about the British Royal Family.” They assume it’s a dry, stuffy period piece. In reality, The Crown is one of the most sumptuous, brilliantly acted, and psychologically astute family dramas ever made—it just happens to be about the world’s most famous family.
The Premise: The series follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, charting the political and personal events that shaped the second half of the 20th century and into the 21st. It explores the immense personal sacrifice required to wear the crown and the constant tension between the individual and the institution.
Why It’s a Masterpiece and Underrated:
For viewers who give it a chance, The Crown reveals itself as a masterclass in television production.
- A Staggering Production: This is one of the most expensive television shows ever made, and every penny is on the screen. The sets, costumes, and locations are breathtakingly authentic, creating a truly immersive experience.
- The Acting Chameleons: The show’s unique structure—re-casting its main characters every two seasons—allows it to explore different eras of their lives with fresh depth. From Claire Foy’s youthful uncertainty to Olivia Colman’s weary stoicism and Imelda Staunton’s final reckoning, each performance is a revelation.
- The Universal Family Drama: At its core, The Crown is about themes anyone can relate to: marital strife, sibling rivalry, the burden of duty, the grief of losing a parent, and the struggle to raise children. The fact that these conflicts play out in palaces and involve world leaders only raises the stakes.
A Beginner’s Guide to Binging:
- Start from the Beginning: The chronological narrative is essential for understanding the character arcs.
- Don’t Get Bogged Down in “Accuracy”: Creator Peter Morgan is clear that the show is a “drama based on historical events.” It takes creative license to explore emotional truths. Enjoy it as a brilliant drama, not a documentary.
- Appreciate the “Monologues”: The show is famous for its powerful, beautifully written speeches delivered by its stellar cast. They are acting clinics.
Conclusion: Your New Binge Awaits
The end of a beloved show like Stranger Things can feel like a loss, but it’s also an opportunity—a chance to discover a new world, fall in love with new characters, and be reminded of the incredible power of storytelling. The seven shows listed above are more than just ways to pass the time; they are profound, entertaining, and unforgettable experiences that represent the very best of what Netflix has to offer beyond its blockbuster homepage.
So, the next time you find yourself endlessly scrolling, remember this list. Take a chance on the German time-travel saga, the chess prodigy, or the cynical teen on a road trip. You might just find that your next all-time favorite show has been waiting for you all along.
Read more: From Stand-Up Specials to Sitcoms: How Netflix Became America’s Home for Comedy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: I’ve seen some of these on Netflix, but the algorithm never strongly recommended them. Why not?
The algorithm is primarily driven by mass viewership data and similarity to what you’ve already watched. It’s excellent at reinforcing existing tastes but poor at introducing true diversity. A complex German sci-fi show (Dark) and a British dark comedy (The End of the F**ing World*) have very different audience signatures, making them harder for the algorithm to confidently cross-promote to a Stranger Things fan without explicit human curation.
Q2: Are these shows appropriate to watch with my family?
It varies greatly. Here’s a quick guide:
- Family-Friendly (Teens and up): The Queen’s Gambit (some smoking, drinking, and adult themes).
- Mature Teens/Adults: The Crown (some sexual situations, complex themes).
- Strictly for Adults: Dark (violence, suicide, complex themes), Mindhunter (graphic descriptions of violence, disturbing imagery), Russian Doll (drug use, sexual content, language), The End of the F**ing World* (violence, sexual content, dark themes), Unbelievable (intense depictions of sexual assault and trauma).
Q3: I prefer to watch shows that are already finished so I get a complete story. Which of these fit that bill?
All of these shows offer satisfying stopping points:
- Complete and Concluded: Dark (3 seasons), The Queen’s Gambit (Limited Series), The End of the F**ing World* (2 seasons), Unbelievable (Limited Series), The Crown (6 seasons).
- Effectively Concluded (on indefinite hold): Mindhunter (2 seasons). While there was potential for more, Season 2 ends its core investigation in a satisfying way.
- Could Continue, But Seasons are Self-Contained: Russian Doll. Each season has a distinct thematic arc that resolves.
Q4: I’m not a big fan of reading subtitles. Which of these are in English?
- Primarily in English: The Queen’s Gambit, Mindhunter, Russian Doll, The End of the F**ing World*, Unbelievable, The Crown.
- In German (requires subtitles or dubbing): Dark. I strongly recommend the original German audio with English subtitles for the most authentic and powerful performance.
Q5: As an American viewer, will I miss cultural context in some of these non-US shows?
Not at all. While Dark and The End of the F**ing World* are set in Germany and the UK respectively, their core themes—family, love, loss, identity, time—are universal. The Crown provides all the context you need within the show itself. Great storytelling transcends borders.
