Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the choices on Netflix these days? You are absolutely not alone, you know. It’s like standing in front of an endless buffet of entertainment, and sometimes, that can make it tough to pick just one thing to settle into. Whether you are after something to make you laugh, something to keep you on the edge of your seat, or perhaps a story that really makes you think, finding the best things to watch on Netflix can sometimes feel like a real quest.

There are so many fantastic shows and movies constantly popping up, and it’s easy for some truly great ones to slip by unnoticed. People are often asking, "What was the best choice for this purpose?" when it comes to their evening viewing, and that’s a very good question to ponder. We all want to make the most of our leisure time, don't we?

This guide is here to help you cut through the noise, offering a carefully selected list of recommendations that many people consider truly exceptional. We’ve looked at a wide range of genres, so you're pretty much guaranteed to find something that catches your eye, something you might just like best, better than anything else you've seen in a while, perhaps. Let’s explore some incredible stories and experiences waiting for you right now.

Table of Contents

• Drama Series That Really Stick With You
  • The Crown
  • Stranger Things
  • The Queen's Gambit
  • Ozark
• Comedies to Brighten Your Day
  • Schitt's Creek
  • Kim's Convenience
  • Never Have I Ever
• Thrillers and Mysteries That Keep You Guessing
  • Dark
  • Mindhunter
  • The Haunting of Hill House
• Sci-Fi and Fantasy for the Imaginative Mind
  • Arcane
  • The Witcher
  • Love, Death & Robots
• Documentaries That Open Your Eyes
  • My Octopus Teacher
  • Our Planet
  • American Factory
• Hidden Gems You Might Have Missed
  • Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
  • The Good Place
  • I Am Not Okay With This
• International Hits Worth the Subtitles
  • Squid Game
  • Lupin
  • Money Heist
• Making Your Next Choice

Drama Series That Really Stick With You

When you're searching for something with real depth, a story that stays with you long after the credits roll, drama series on Netflix are often a fantastic pick. These shows, you know, really dig into human experiences, relationships, and often big historical moments. They can be incredibly immersive, and that's a big part of their charm.

The Crown

This series, it's almost like a peek behind the curtain of the British royal family. It beautifully tells the story of Queen Elizabeth II's reign, showing the political rivalries and romances that shaped the 20th century. Each season brings new actors to portray the characters as they age, and that's a pretty neat way to keep things fresh. It's a show that many find themselves truly captivated by, often considered one of the best for its historical sweep and detailed performances.

Stranger Things

If you like your drama with a generous helping of 80s nostalgia, sci-fi thrills, and a touch of horror, then this is definitely one to consider. It follows a group of young friends in a small town who uncover supernatural mysteries and secret government experiments. The characters are very, very lovable, and the suspense is just incredible. It's truly a phenomenon, drawing in viewers of all ages, and it seems to get better with each new chapter.

The Queen's Gambit

This limited series became a massive hit for a good reason, you see. It tells the story of Beth Harmon, an orphaned chess prodigy on her path to becoming the world's greatest player. The visuals are stunning, the story is compelling, and the performances are just superb. Even if you don't know much about chess, this show makes the game incredibly exciting, and it's a powerful story about genius and overcoming personal struggles. Many people would say this was the best ever in its category when it first came out.

Ozark

For those who prefer their drama a bit darker and more intense, Ozark is an absolute must-watch. It follows the Byrde family as they relocate to the Ozarks to launder money for a Mexican drug cartel. The tension is pretty much constant, and the characters are always making incredibly difficult choices. It’s a series that keeps you guessing at every turn, and you're always wondering what new trouble they'll get into. It’s a very gripping watch, honestly.

Comedies to Brighten Your Day

Sometimes, all you need is a good laugh, and Netflix has some truly wonderful comedy series that can instantly lift your spirits. These shows are great for unwinding after a long day or for just enjoying some lighthearted fun. It's really about finding what kind of humor you like best, you know?

Schitt's Creek

This show is, in a way, a masterclass in character development and heartwarming humor. It starts with a wealthy family losing everything and being forced to move to a small town they once bought as a joke. What begins as a fish-out-of-water story blossoms into something genuinely touching and hilarious. The writing is incredibly sharp, and the performances are just brilliant. It’s a series that really grew on people, becoming a beloved favorite for many, and it just gets better as it goes along.

Kim's Convenience

A charming and very funny series about a Korean-Canadian family running a convenience store in Toronto. It’s full of relatable family dynamics, cultural observations, and plenty of laughs. The characters are so endearing, and their interactions are always a delight. It’s a feel-good show that offers a fresh perspective, and you’ll quickly find yourself rooting for the Kims. It's a pretty sweet show, honestly.

Never Have I Ever

This coming-of-age comedy, created by Mindy Kaling, follows Devi Vishwakumar, a first-generation Indian-American teenager dealing with high school drama, family expectations, and trying to improve her social standing. It’s witty, heartfelt, and incredibly relatable for anyone who remembers the awkwardness of being a teenager. The voiceover narration is particularly charming, and it’s a show that manages to be both funny and quite moving. It’s a really strong choice for a lighthearted binge.

Thrillers and Mysteries That Keep You Guessing

For those who love a good puzzle, a twisty plot, or a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Netflix has an excellent collection of thrillers and mysteries. These are the kinds of shows that you just can't stop watching, as you're always trying to figure out what's going to happen next, or who did it, or why. They truly offer a course of action for an exciting night in.

Dark

This German science fiction thriller is incredibly complex and mind-bending. It involves time travel, multiple timelines, and interconnected families in a small town where children start to disappear. You really need to pay attention to piece together the mystery, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The atmosphere is very, very eerie, and the story is just brilliantly constructed. Many consider it one of the best ever for its intricate plot and deep philosophical themes. It’s a show that will challenge you, but in a good way.

Mindhunter

If you're fascinated by the psychology of criminals, then Mindhunter is probably going to be right up your alley. It follows two FBI agents in the late 1970s who interview imprisoned serial killers to understand how they think, hoping to apply this knowledge to solve ongoing cases. The conversations with the killers are chillingly accurate, and the show has a very distinct, moody atmosphere. It's a bit slow-burn, but the tension and the performances are just captivating. It’s honestly a very unique show.

The Haunting of Hill House

This isn't just a scary show; it’s a deeply emotional family drama wrapped in a ghost story. It tells the story of the Crain family, both in the past when they lived in the titular haunted house, and in the present as they deal with the lingering trauma. It’s genuinely terrifying at times, but also incredibly poignant and well-acted. The way it weaves together the timelines is pretty clever, and it’s often praised for its ability to scare you while also making you feel deeply for the characters. It's a truly powerful experience.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy for the Imaginative Mind

For those who love to escape into worlds beyond our own, with magic, advanced technology, or creatures of myth, Netflix offers some truly impressive sci-fi and fantasy productions. These shows can transport you to incredible places and introduce you to unforgettable characters. It’s about finding that story that makes you feel like you're really there, you know, experiencing something completely different.

Arcane

Even if you're not familiar with the video game it's based on, Arcane is a visually stunning animated series that tells a compelling story. It explores the origins of two iconic League of Legends champions, sisters Vi and Jinx, caught on opposing sides of a conflict between two very different cities. The animation style is just breathtaking, and the storytelling is incredibly mature and emotional. It’s a show that really pushes the boundaries of what animated series can be, and it’s widely considered one of the best for its artistry and depth. It’s a real treat for the eyes and the mind.

The Witcher

Based on the popular books and video games, The Witcher follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire, as his destiny becomes intertwined with a powerful sorceress and a young princess. It’s a sprawling fantasy epic with thrilling action sequences, intricate lore, and a very charismatic lead performance. If you enjoy dragons, magic, and complex political intrigue, this show will likely be a great fit for you. It’s a big, adventurous story that many people just love.

Love, Death & Robots

This is an anthology series that’s truly unique. Each episode is a standalone story, ranging from sci-fi to fantasy to horror, and each is presented in a different animation style, often from different studios. The quality of the animation is consistently top-notch, and the stories are often thought-provoking, shocking, or darkly humorous. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something short, impactful, and visually diverse. You never quite know what you’re going to get, but it’s always interesting, and sometimes, it’s just stunning.

Documentaries That Open Your Eyes

Netflix has become a fantastic place for documentaries, offering a wide range of topics that can educate, inspire, or simply make you see the world in a new way. These are often the best things to watch on Netflix if you're looking for something informative and thought-provoking. They can truly expand your perspective, you know?

My Octopus Teacher

This Oscar-winning documentary is a beautiful and deeply moving story about a filmmaker who forms an unusual bond with a wild octopus in a South African kelp forest. It’s a stunning look at the natural world and the unexpected connections we can form with other living beings. The cinematography is just gorgeous, and the narrative is incredibly heartfelt. It’s a very unique and touching film that many people have found truly special. It’s a rather amazing story, honestly.

Our Planet

Narrated by the iconic David Attenborough, this nature documentary series is absolutely breathtaking. It showcases the incredible beauty and diversity of Earth's natural habitats and the challenges facing them due to climate change. The visuals are stunning, and the insights into animal behavior and ecosystems are just fascinating. It’s an essential watch for anyone who cares about the environment or simply appreciates incredible wildlife footage. It's pretty much considered the best of its kind.

American Factory

Another Oscar winner, this documentary explores the cultural clash when a Chinese billionaire opens a factory in an abandoned General Motors plant in Ohio, employing thousands of American workers. It offers a nuanced look at globalization, labor, and the challenges of cultural integration. It’s a very timely and insightful film that sparks a lot of discussion. It’s a good example of how documentaries can really make you think about bigger issues, you know.

Hidden Gems You Might Have Missed

With so much content, some truly excellent shows and movies sometimes don't get as much fanfare as the blockbusters. These are the ones that, arguably, deserve a bit more attention, offering unique stories or perspectives that you might just love. It’s about discovering something new that could become your next favorite, something that truly stands out.

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

This powerful film features incredible performances, including Chadwick Boseman's final role, and Viola Davis as the legendary "Mother of the Blues," Ma Rainey. Set in 1920s Chicago, it captures a single tense recording session and explores themes of race, art, and exploitation. The dialogue is sharp, and the music is just phenomenal. It’s a very intense and moving drama that often gets overlooked in broader discussions, but it's a truly impactful watch. It’s a pretty strong contender for one of the best performances you'll see.

The Good Place

While it gained popularity, it's still a show that some might not have gotten around to. This comedy series starts with Eleanor Shellstrop mistakenly ending up in the "Good Place" after she dies, despite being a pretty bad person. She tries to hide her true nature while learning to be good. It’s incredibly clever, philosophical, and laugh-out-loud funny, with twists that genuinely surprise you. It’s a feel-good show that also makes you think about ethics and what it means to be a good person. It's honestly a very smart comedy.

I Am Not Okay With This

This short, quirky series blends coming-of-age drama with superhero origins and dark humor. It follows Sydney Novak, a teenager dealing with the usual high school struggles, plus the added complication of developing telekinetic powers. It has a very distinct style, a great soundtrack, and a compelling lead performance. It’s a quick binge that leaves a lasting impression, and it’s a shame it only had one season. It’s a bit of a unique take on the genre, and quite engaging.

International Hits Worth the Subtitles

Netflix has truly opened up the world of international television, bringing incredible stories from different cultures right to our screens. Don't let subtitles deter you; some of the best storytelling is happening outside of Hollywood. You might just find your next obsession among these global sensations, something that feels completely fresh and exciting.

Squid Game

This South Korean survival drama took the world by storm, and for good reason. It tells the story of hundreds of cash-strapped contestants who accept an invitation to compete in children's games for a tempting prize, but with deadly consequences. It’s incredibly intense, visually striking, and offers sharp social commentary. It’s a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, and it's honestly a very powerful experience. It truly was the best ever in terms of global impact when it launched.

Lupin

This French mystery thriller is pure fun and charm. It follows Assane Diop, a master thief inspired by the adventures of Arsène Lupin, a gentleman burglar. He uses his skills to avenge his father for an injustice inflicted by a wealthy family. It’s stylish, clever, and incredibly entertaining, with a charismatic lead performance. Each episode is a new caper, and you’re always wondering how Assane will pull off his next trick. It’s a really engaging watch, and very enjoyable.

Money Heist

Another global phenomenon from Spain, this series follows a group of unique robbers who plan and execute elaborate heists, led by a mysterious mastermind known as "The Professor." It’s full of twists, turns, high stakes, and incredibly memorable characters. The tension is pretty much relentless, and the plot is constantly surprising. It’s a show that keeps you guessing and cheering for the unlikely heroes. It’s a truly addictive watch, and many consider it one of the best for its sheer excitement.

Making Your Next Choice

Hopefully, this list gives you a great starting point for finding your next favorite show or movie on Netflix. There's so much incredible content available, and sometimes, all you need is a little nudge in the right direction. Remember, the best way to use these recommendations is to simply pick one that sounds interesting and give it a try. You might discover something truly special that you like best, you know, even better than anything else you've watched recently.

Whether you're looking for a deep drama, a hearty laugh, a thrilling mystery, or a mind-bending sci-fi adventure, Netflix has something for everyone. So, go ahead, explore these options, and find what speaks to you. What was the best choice for this purpose? Well, that's entirely up to you and what you're in the mood for tonight. Learn more about finding great entertainment on our site, and perhaps link to this page for more movie suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Watch on Netflix

Q: What are the most popular shows on Netflix right now?
A: The popularity of shows on Netflix can change pretty quickly, but typically, new releases that get a lot of buzz, or long-running favorites like "Stranger Things" and "The Crown," tend to stay high on the trending lists. You can always check the "Top 10" section directly on your Netflix app for the most current popular picks in your area, which is a really good way to see what everyone else is watching, you know.

Q: How do I find new shows that match my taste?
A: Netflix's recommendation system is actually pretty smart, based on what you've watched before and rated. To find new shows that match your taste, try rating the movies and series you've already seen. The more you rate, the better Netflix gets at suggesting things you might like. Also, exploring genres you enjoy, or checking out lists like this one, can help you discover new favorites. It's almost like a personalized guide.

Q: Are there good family-friendly options on Netflix?
A: Absolutely! Netflix has a very wide selection of family-friendly movies and shows, from animated features to live-action series suitable for all ages. You can use the Kids' profiles to ensure content is appropriate, and there are many well-loved titles like "The Mitchells vs. The Machines," "Over the Moon," and various nature documentaries that are perfect for family viewing. It's a great way to find something everyone can enjoy together.