Are you really getting your money's worth from your Netflix subscription? If you haven't binged these five shows, the answer might be a hard no. It's all too easy to fall into the trap of rewatching the same old comfort shows after a long day. In fact, studies show that a whopping 60% of our TV time is spent revisiting familiar favorites or catching up on older series. But here's the thing: Netflix is brimming with incredible shows you might be missing out on. So, we've combined Rotten Tomatoes scores with insights from HELLO!'s top TV experts to bring you a list of five unmissable series that deserve your attention – before you waste another evening endlessly scrolling!
1. Stranger Things: A Nostalgic Sci-Fi Adventure
If you're a sucker for '80s nostalgia, Stranger Things is an absolute must-watch. With a stellar 92% Rotten Tomatoes score, this sci-fi mystery has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Starring Winona Ryder and David Harbour, and launching the careers of young talents like Millie Bobby Brown and Finn Wolfhard, the show masterfully blends sci-fi, mystery, and suspense. The story kicks off in 1983 when Will Byers vanishes, and Eleven escapes from a top-secret lab. As the town searches for Will, they uncover dark conspiracies and face a terrifying monster from another dimension. But here's where it gets controversial: is the show's success due to its nostalgic appeal, or is it genuinely groundbreaking storytelling?
2. Nobody Wants This: A Romcom with Unmatched Chemistry
With a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score, Nobody Wants This has won over both critics and viewers alike. The romantic chemistry between Kristen Bell and Adam Brody is off the charts, and the dynamic between Joanne and her sister Morgan feels incredibly relatable. The series follows an agnostic podcast host and an unconventional rabbi who meet at a party and instantly connect. But their differing outlooks on life, modern obstacles, and meddling families threaten to keep them apart. And this is the part most people miss: the show's exploration of faith, love, and family dynamics adds depth to what could have been a typical romcom.
3. Bridgerton: Scandalous Romance in Regency London
As one of Netflix's most beloved period dramas, Bridgerton boasts an 84% Rotten Tomatoes score and has captivated audiences with its mix of romance, scandal, and modern orchestral covers of pop songs. Set in Regency-era London, the series follows the Bridgerton siblings as they navigate love, friendships, and rivalry. Season two, in particular, is a masterclass in yearning and tension. But here's a thought-provoking question: does the show's popularity stem from its glamorous setting, or is it the complex characters and relationships that keep us hooked?
4. Heartstopper: A Heartfelt Hug in TV Form
With an almost-perfect 98% Rotten Tomatoes score, Heartstopper is the feel-good show we all need. Featuring a stellar cast, including Olivia Colman and Johnathan Bailey, this series tells the story of Charlie and Nick, two boys who become friends and eventually fall in love. As they navigate self-discovery and acceptance, their journey is both relatable and inspiring. But here's where it gets controversial: while the show is praised for its positive representation, some argue that it idealizes teenage relationships. What do you think?
5. Dept. Q: A Gritty Crime Drama That Keeps You Guessing
HELLO!'s Acting TV Editor Nicky Morris calls Dept. Q the best series she's watched this year, and it's easy to see why. With an 88% Rotten Tomatoes score, this Danish crime drama is a standout. Led by the engaging DCI Carl Morck, the maverick team tackles cold cases from the basement of an Edinburgh police station. The show's dark humor, propulsive plot, and complex characters make it a must-watch. But this is the part most people miss: the series not only delves into the mysteries of the cases but also explores the personal struggles of the detectives themselves. Isn't that what makes a crime drama truly compelling?
Now that you've discovered these hidden gems, it's time to put down the remote and start bingeing. But before you go, we want to hear from you: Which of these shows are you most excited to watch? And do you think Netflix is still worth the subscription fee, or are there too many hidden costs – like wasted evenings scrolling? Let us know in the comments!
