Hidden Gems: Netflix Shows You’ve Been Missing Out On
Hey mama!
I know life is busy—between school runs, meal prep, and trying to keep the house from looking like a tornado hit it, finding time to sit down and really watch something on Netflix can feel like a luxury. But here’s the thing: when you do finally get a few minutes to yourself (or, let’s be honest, those late-night binge sessions when the kids are asleep), you want something good, right?
But sometimes it feels like we’ve all seen the same trending shows over and over—Bridgerton, Stranger Things, The Crown… You know the ones. What about the lesser-known gems that don’t get enough love but are totally worth your time?
I’ve rounded up a list of underrated Netflix shows that you’re probably missing out on. These aren’t the ones everyone’s talking about, but they’re so good and deserve a spot on your watchlist. So grab your cozy blanket and a snack, and let’s dive in!
1. The Midnight Club (2022)
If you’re into spooky vibes and love a good mystery, The Midnight Club is a must-watch. It’s a series about a group of terminally ill teenagers at a hospice who form a secret club where they tell each other scary stories. Think The Haunting of Hill House meets The Breakfast Club.
Why You’ll Love It:
- It’s eerie and emotional.
- Great characters and some unexpected twists.
- A perfect mix of mystery, horror, and teen drama.
References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Midnight_Club
2. The Chair (2021)
If you’re a fan of witty, quirky dramas with a dash of humor, The Chair is right up your alley. Starring Sandra Oh (yes, Grey’s Anatomy fans, she’s back!), this show is set at a prestigious university where Sandra plays the first woman of color to head the English department. The show delves into academia’s crazy politics, generational differences, and just trying to keep it all together when life feels like it’s falling apart.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Smart, funny, and relatable.
- Sandra Oh is brilliant as always.
- Short episodes, so it’s perfect for a quick binge!
References: https://agoodmovietowatch.com/netflix/most-underrated-shows/
3. Unorthodox (2020)
This limited series follows a young woman who escapes her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn and starts a new life in Berlin. It’s a compelling story of self-discovery, freedom, and the complexities of cultural identity. Unorthodox is based on a true story, and it’ll pull you in from the very first episode.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Heart-wrenching and inspiring.
- A deep dive into the clash between tradition and personal freedom.
- Gorgeous cinematography and fantastic performances.
References: https://agoodmovietowatch.com/netflix/most-underrated-shows/
4. The Get Down (2016-2017)
If you love music, culture, and some serious style, The Get Down is a show you need to check out. Set in 1970s New York City, it follows a group of teens trying to make it big in the music world during the rise of hip hop, disco, and punk. It’s got everything—amazing music, stunning visuals, and a gripping story.
Why You’ll Love It:
- A fresh take on the coming-of-age genre.
- The soundtrack is chef’s kiss.
- Stylish and visually striking.
References: - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Get_Down
5. Dark (2017-2020)
Okay, so Dark is a bit more well-known, but I still feel like it doesn’t get the full credit it deserves. This German sci-fi thriller about time travel and the intertwined fates of four families is mind-bending, beautifully shot, and so addictive. It’s one of those shows where you’ll need to pay attention—blink and you might miss something crucial.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Intricate and unpredictable storytelling.
- Atmospheric and intense.
- If you’re into mysteries and mind-benders, this is for you.
6. Sense8 (2015-2018)
Created by the Wachowskis (yep, the same geniuses behind The Matrix), Sense8 is a beautifully unique show about eight strangers from different parts of the world who find themselves mentally and emotionally connected. It’s a sci-fi drama that explores themes of identity, love, and human connection. Though it has a bit of a cult following, it’s still underrated in my book.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Diverse, thought-provoking, and so visually stunning.
- A bit of everything—action, drama, sci-fi, and romance.
- Groundbreaking representation of different cultures, gender identities, and relationships.
7. Crashing (2016-2017)
This British comedy is created by and stars Phoebe Waller-Bridge (you know, the genius behind Fleabag). It follows a group of twenty-somethings who live in an abandoned hospital as property guardians. It’s funny, awkward, and surprisingly deep. If you love dry humor and quirky characters, this one’s for you.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s humor is next level.
- The characters are charming, flawed, and so real.
- It’s a perfect mix of comedy and heartfelt moments.
8. The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)
If you’re into historical dramas and epic battles (hello, Game of Thrones fans), The Last Kingdom is a must-watch. It’s based on The Saxon Stories series and follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon nobleman raised by Vikings. It’s packed with action, drama, and rich historical detail.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Intense battles and compelling characters.
- Perfect for fans of historical fiction.
- A deeper dive into Viking history.
9. GLOW (2017-2019)
Okay, so I’m really sad this one got canceled, but if you haven’t watched it yet, GLOW is a hilarious and empowering show about the world of women’s professional wrestling in the 1980s. It’s got fantastic performances, especially from Alison Brie, and a ton of heart.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Funny, feminist, and nostalgic.
- Strong female characters who kick butt.
- A celebration of friendship and finding your place.
10. Atypical (2017-2021)
This coming-of-age dramedy follows Sam, a teenager on the autism spectrum, as he navigates high school, relationships, and his search for independence. It’s funny, heartfelt, and really well done, with some great performances. If you love character-driven stories, this one will hit you right in the feels.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Smart, empathetic, and funny.
- A beautiful exploration of family dynamics.
- A fresh take on coming-of-age stories.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, mama—some seriously underrated Netflix shows you need to add to your list. These hidden gems may not have the massive followings of other popular series, but they are well worth the watch. Trust me, you won’t regret giving them a try!
What’s your go-to Netflix binge right now? Or have you already watched some of these shows? I’d love to hear your thoughts and swap recommendations—drop them in the comments below!
Now, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and get ready for some amazing TV time. You deserve it! 📺🍿💖