Has it ever happened to you that you will just cancel your Netflix subscription, but a series show or movie grabs your attention? Since 2013, Netflix has been a powerhouse of content production. In 2021, their original work shone brightly, winning almost 44 Emmy awards, more than any other production company. This success is a testament to the quality of their content.
Netflix has produced various original series, including dramas, sci-fi, animations, sketch comedy, documentaries, and coming-of-age stories. Without further ado, let’s examine them.
The Best Original Netflix Series of All Time
Money Heist (2017 – 2021)
“Money Heist” is a popular Spanish heist drama series on Netflix. Initially on the brink of cancellation, it became one of the streaming platform’s biggest hits. The show follows a group of criminals recruited by a mastermind called “The Professor” (Álvaro Morte). In the first season, their detailed planning leads to a successful robbery of the Royal Mint of Spain, where they print billions of euros before making a thrilling getaway.
While the series offers exciting action sequences, shootouts, and high stakes, its focus gradually shifts towards evolving relationships and intriguing character arcs. The ensemble cast, including Úrsula Corberó (Tokyo), Itziar Ituño (Lisbon), and Pedro Alonso (Berlin), captivates viewers and draws them into the storylines. As the show progresses, it explores the dynamics between the characters, fueling the drama that has garnered a massive fanbase and inspired spin-offs.
The Dragon Prince (2018 – )
An animated fantasy series that takes place in the magical land of Xadia. The story follows two human princes, Ezran and Callum, and an elven assassin named Rayla, who form an unlikely alliance. Together, they undertake a dangerous quest to return a stolen dragon egg to its rightful home, hoping to prevent an all-out war between humans and magical creatures.
As they journey through dangerous lands, the characters face numerous challenges and mythical beings and discover the true nature of their world. They learn about friendship, loyalty, and overcoming prejudice along the way.
Wednesday Season 1
With 252.1 million views, it is Netflix’s most-watched series. It’s a quirky and light-hearted coming-of-age story about Wednesday Addams, the beloved daughter of the spooky and eccentric Addams family. Unlike her family, Wednesday is a teenager attending a regular high school, where she navigates the challenges of fitting in and embracing her unique personality.
She finds herself caught up in misadventures alongside her loyal friends, discovering her strengths and learning valuable life lessons. The show captures the essence of Wednesday’s dark humor and unconventional charm while exploring themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and embracing one’s individuality.
Part of the show’s popularity is due to a viral dance performed by Ortega, which garnered a lot of attention on social media (even more impressive because she had COVID-19 at the time). Although the show shakes up the formula of the thoughtful Addams Family that many people are familiar with, Wednesday keeps the creepy fun of the oddball family alive.
Kingdom (2019- 2020)
Netflix does it again with excellent directing and casting, and everything is up to the mark. Netflix’s first Korean-language series stands out from other zombie narratives by transporting the outbreak to the 16th century. Spanning 12 episodes and a sequel in particular, the show depicts the devastating impact of a flesh-eating virus on a kingdom. With limited resources, survivors must rely on armour, swords, bows, and arrows to defend themselves against the undead.
Combining elements of zombie horror, historical drama, and political thriller, the series into the intense competition between rival factions competing for the throne. This captivating blend of genres breathes new life into the subgenre, offering a fresh perspective, particularly for those seeking a departure from the modern-day shenanigans of The Walking Dead universe.
Arcane (2021-present)
If you have watched Legends of Legends or are interested in watching it, then Arcane is for you. Arcane explores the delicate balance between the affluent city of Piltover and the darker underbelly of Zaun. Tensions escalated between these city-states when the invention of “hextech” allowed individuals to harness magical energy in Piltover.
At the same time, Zaun wrestles with the dangerous drug “shimmer” that transforms humans into monsters. This rivalry tears apart families and friendships, shedding light on the relationships that shaped beloved champions from League of Legends, such as Vi, Jinx, Caitlyn, Jayce, Viktor, and Ekko.
The series brings these characters to life, delving into their origins and the connections that define them. With its accessible storytelling, “Arcane” immerses viewers in a fascinating world of magic, conflict, and personal growth.
Squid Game (2021-present)
The Korean drama became Netflix’s most successful series launch with its alluring premise, passionate performances, and immaculate production design, captivating global audiences upon its release. “Squid Game” centres around a group of desperate individuals who participate -212*in a mysterious survival game for a chance to win a massive cash prize.
The participants, each facing their financial struggles, find themselves trapped in a high-stakes competition where failure means death. As they navigate a series of deadly challenges, the game’s true nature and organisers slowly reveal. The plot follows their fight for survival, the alliances formed, and the moral difficulties they face in their quest for wealth and survival.
With its intense and suspenseful storyline, “Squid Game” captivates viewers. It explores themes of human nature, greed, and the lengths people will go to to change their circumstances.
Stranger Things
“Stranger Things” is a delightful homage to ’80s nostalgia, drawing inspiration from iconic storytellers like John Carpenter, Steven Spielberg, Stephen King, and Red Dawn. The series captivated audiences with its charming ensemble cast of D&D-loving kids, led by the talented Millie Bobby Brown as the telekinetic Eleven. With its mysterious parallel dimension, sinister scientists, and suspenseful horror moments, the show became a binge-watching sensation, expertly leaving viewers on the edge of their seats with each cliffhanger.
Not only did we witness the young stars grow on-screen, but the adult actors, particularly Winona Ryder and David Harbour, brought depth and gravitas to their roles. Season 4, currently in production, promises to expand the story beyond the confines of Hawkins, Indiana, further heightening our anticipation.
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Castlevania
Have you played “Castlevania” successfully captures the essence of the beloved video game series it is based on, impressing even skeptical fans? The show masterfully portrays the dark and gothic world with stunning, thrilling, and captivating visuals. The story revolves around Trevor Belmont, the last surviving member of the disgraced Belmont clan, who must confront the formidable vampire Count Dracula. With the help of the mage Sypha Belnades and the dhampir Alucard, Trevor fights to save humanity from extinction.
“Castlevania” expertly combines horror, action, and fantasy, making it accessible to longtime fans and newcomers alike. The series strikes a perfect balance, delivering the right intensity without overwhelming viewers. While its sequel, “Castlevania: Nocturne,” may not reach the same heights as the original, it still offers an enjoyable experience for those who appreciate the series. Overall, “Castlevania” is a dark and thrilling animated show that immerses audiences in its rich world and leaves them craving more.
Bridgerton
When “Bridgerton” hit Netflix in 2020, it quickly became a massive hit, claiming the title of the most-watched series. Currently ranking as the 6th-most-watched original show on the platform, it’s easy to see why. Season 1 was a delightful treat, with breakout star Regé-Jean Page captivating audiences and even earning a spot as a host on “Saturday Night Live.”
Nonetheless, “Bridgerton” Season 2 continued to prove its staying power. The new chapter focused on Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) and his romantic journey with Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley). It expanded on the beloved Regency-era world, drawing viewers back into its captivating charm. Despite the absence of Page, the show’s second season proved its success was no chance, offering another dose of romance and intrigue for fans to enjoy.
Also Read: Bridgerton Season 3 From Trailer to Release Date Everything You Need to Know
The Crown
“The Crown” has garnered numerous awards since its debut in 2016, and it’s easy to understand why. The series chronicles the remarkable reign of Queen Elizabeth II, captivating audiences with its superb writing, stellar performances, and breathtaking cinematography. Even those typically uninterested in historical dramas are drawn to this show’s charm. Its ability to engage viewers and bring history to life sets it apart, making “The Crown” a truly exceptional and widely appreciated television experience.
Also read: 18 Best Royal Family Shows on Netflix: Comprehensive Guide
Young Royals
It was shocking for the critics that a teen drama with a royal touch would gain so much appreciation from the audience. Young Royals is set in the fictional elite boarding school Hillerska. It focuses on Prince Wilhelm’s life as he deals with the pressures of his royal duties and conflicting personal desires (LGBTQ). Wilhelm soon finds himself torn between his duties and his undeniable feelings for a fellow student, Simon.
This series showcases what happens when a person has to deal with all at a time and the mental pressure they have to face.
Also Read: The Best Original Netflix Series of All Time
One Piece (2023 – )
The 2023 live-action adaptation of “One Piece” has been widely complimented as one of the best manga adaptations. This thrilling fantasy adventure series follows Monkey D. Luffy (played by Iñaki Godoy) and his crew of pirates on a dangerous journey across the seas in search of the legendary treasure.
The show captivates audiences with its talented ensemble cast, stunning visuals, and impressive production quality. What sets “One Piece” apart is its faithfulness to the source material, resonating with dedicated fans and newcomers alike. Anticipation is high for the upcoming season as viewers eagerly await the continuation of this epic tale.
Baby Reindeer
If we go into detail about “Baby Reindeer”, it’s a harrowing true story that initially appears to be sensual true-crime material. It revolves around a woman who frequents a pub and forms a connection with a compassionate young bartender. However, as the tale evolves, she becomes the target of an aggressive stalker, receiving hundreds of misspelled and threatening emails daily.
While this is the foundation, the production goes beyond a simple narrative, delivering a raw, emotionally intricate, and darkly humorous exploration of shame, empathy, and victimhood. By the end, viewers may be unsure of their exact sentiments, but one thing is certain: “Baby Reindeer” will linger in their thoughts, prompting introspection and contemplation.
F for Family (2015 — 2021)
The sitcom “F is for Family,” created by stand-up comedian and actor Bill Burr, alongside Simpsons writer Michael Price, is a gem that pays homage to classic ’70s shows like “All in the Family” with a generous sprinkle of vulgarity. Set in the Rust Belt of Pennsylvania, the animated series follows a suburban family, reminiscent of popular sitcoms such as “King of the Hill,” “The Simpsons,” and “Family Guy.”
What sets “F is for Family” apart is its exploration of latent issues from the era that continue to shape society today. It is into the decline of labor and union power, the onset of economic stagnation, the development of gender norms and sexuality, and the shifting dynamics of the American Dream. The show’s ability to tackle these themes with both tenderness and humour while crafting well-rounded characters is a testament to its exceptional writing and talented cast, which includes Burr, Laura Dern, Justin Long, Sam Rockwell, Haley Reinhart, and Debi Derryberry.
Russian Doll (2019 — 2022)
Russian Doll is a perfectly constructed show. The story follows Nadia Vulvokov (hilariously played by Natasha Lyonne), a game developer stuck in a time loop where she keeps dying and reliving the same night on her birthday. Each moment over both seasons is significant, and every piece of dialogue is crucial to decoding the mystery at the heart of the story.
Russian Doll is a cerebral tale filled with mind-bending twists and a surprisingly funny show, thanks to the work of female comedians like Amy Poehler, Leslye Headland, Rebecca Henderson, and Greta Lee. The show is an achieving black comedy that plays between feelings of ecstatic joy and nihilistic depression in equal measure.
The Queen’s Gambit
Release at the peak of the Quarantine period, “The Queen’s Gambit” gained much attention from viewers. Later, it made history by winning 11 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. After that, it became the first show on a streaming service to win the category. The series follows the journey of Beth Harmon, a young orphan with a remarkable talent for chess. Set in the 1950s and 1960s, the series explores Beth’s rise in the male-dominated world of competitive chess as she navigates personal struggles and addiction.
With a mentor’s guidance and determination to become the best, Beth faces numerous challenges, both on and off the chessboard. The story delves into her complex relationships, her sacrifices for her passion, and the impact of her extraordinary abilities on her life.
Midnight Mass (2021)
Mike Flanagan’s work, “Midnight Mass,” gained popularity for its gripping storytelling and thought-provoking themes. The story is about a young man named Riley who returns to the island to live with his parents after making time for a drunk-driving accident that killed a person. While meeting up with old friends and doing some soul-searching, he receives counselling from the new priest, Father Paul.
The story revolves around the mysterious arrival of a charismatic priest on a small island community, which coincides with a series of unexplained events and miracles. As tensions escalate, the residents grapple with faith, redemption, and the consequences of their choices.
Ozark (2017 — 2022)
Created by Bill Dubuque and Mark Williams, tells the story of a financial advisor named Jason Bateman, who finds himself entangled in a dangerous world of crime and corruption, putting his family at risk. To repay a debt to a drug lord, they resettle to the Missouri Ozarks, inadvertently affecting the lives of the locals for better or worse while laundering money.
With an exceptional cast including Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, and Julia Garner, “Ozark” stands out for its strong writing, maintaining a gripping narrative and just the right amount of tension. The series finale delivers a dramatic conclusion, leaving viewers with lingering questions. The show skillfully balances intrigue and suspense, making it a captivating watch that keeps audiences hooked.
Narcos (2015 — 2017)
Narcos is a famous Netflix series about drug dealings, propelling Chilean actor Pedro Pascal to fame after his breakthrough role in Game of Thrones. Set in 1970s Colombia, the series is based on the true story of a DEA agent tracking notorious cocaine trafficker Pablo Escobar. Pascal shines in his portrayal of Javier Peña, an undercover Colombian agent who collaborates with an American DEA agent to dismantle Escobar’s empire.
What sets “Narcos” apart is its epic nature, firmly establishing itself as one of the highest-rated crime shows ever. Pascal’s performance as Agent Peña is widely praised, but the show’s success extends beyond his role. The series masterfully blends real-life interviews and archival footage from the era with its filmed scenes, creating a compelling and authentic portrayal of the events in 1970s Colombia. “Narcos” is a unique and engaging crime drama that captivates audiences with its realism and gripping storytelling.
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Mindhunter (2017 — 2019)
“Mindhunter” is a gripping series based on the true crime book “Mindhunter: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit.” It follows two agents and a psychologist as they delve into the minds of serial killers through interviews, aiming to gain insight and potentially solve future cases. The show, driven by renowned director David Fincher, has garnered a cult following among true crime fans due to its partly factual nature.
Jonathan Groff delivers a career-best performance, accompanied by seasoned actors Anna Torv and Holt McCallany. Despite its excellence, the show was unfortunately cancelled after its second season, primarily due to the high costs of creating a convincing period setting. However, there is hope, as Fincher has expressed interest in continuing the story outside of Netflix.
Dark (2017 — 2020)
This German Sci-fi drama proves that Drama must not be in English to be highly acclaimed. “Dark,” a German sci-fi series, intricately interweaves together time travel and the enigma of missing children in a small town. Its ambitious premise follows characters across different past, present, and future periods. The show’s success stems from its commitment to its concept, treating it with utmost seriousness and delivering a captivating and thought-provoking sci-fi experience.
The series delves into complex philosophical themes and requires viewers to pay close attention to details to comprehend its intricacies fully. Yet, the effort invested is rewarded, as “Dark” is regarded as one of the most compelling and fascinating time-travel shows ever created. It explores profound subjects like death and determinism, skillfully manipulating time and destiny to unravel the layers of its captivating mystery.
BoJack Horseman (2014 — 2020)
It must have been a comedy show about a talking horse from its first appearance, but it is more than that. It’s an animated adult series. It’s not like previous shows, as it openly discusses depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and the long, dark struggle to come back from the lowest places in life.
The story is awarded by Esquire as the boldest cartoon episode in decades. It revolves around the life of its titular character, a washed-up and self-destructive humanoid horse from a 1990s sitcom. The darkly humorous animated series explores themes of depression, addiction, and celebrity culture as BoJack navigates personal and professional challenges while searching for meaning and redemption.
Orange is the New Black
Netflix’s most-watched original series changed the game from episode one. Though subsequent seasons had flaws, OITNB wooed us all from the beginning with its smart writing and memorable characters. Ultimately, it’s up to you whether you consider it a drama or a comedy. After all, it won an Emmy for both.
Lupin
Assane Diop, played by Omar Sy, is a master thief who is effortlessly charismatic on TV. The stylish adventures of French literary hero Arsène Lupin, which combines the light fingers of Thomas Crown with the smarts of Sherlock Holmes, have been slow to catch up with the world. However, Netflix’s smash-hit two-parter, where Diop channels Lupin in the name of revenge, has brought the non-French-speaking world up to speed. Even those who don’t like subtitles will enjoy the show’s super-sexy Parisian backdrops and hairpin plot twists.
Sex Education
Sex Education is a popular Netflix series that attracts the interest of young people about sex and relationships. The show follows a socially awkward teenager and his mother, who is a sex therapist (played by the talented Gillian Anderson). The series has received acclaim for its subtle humour and positive portrayal of sexuality, both commercially and critically. Rarely can British humour easily captivate an American audience. Still, Sex Education has managed to cross over thanks to its warm-hearted John Hughes-inspired high-school antics and its anything-goes approach to the awkwardness of teen sexuality.
House of Cards
Netflix’s first original series, House of Cards, was a hit from the start. Created by David Fincher, the political drama starred Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright, offering a unique look at politicians’ ruthless nature. However, the series began to lose appeal towards the end, becoming more melodramatic and implausible each season.
When revelations about Spacey’s off-camera conduct emerged, the show’s quality had already declined. While it will always be remembered for Spacey’s scandal, it should be remembered that the series had already begun to falter before that.
Have you watched any of The Best Original Netflix Series of All Time? If yes, comment which one.
