Netflix is the quintessential go-to streaming platform for millions of users worldwide. You must have heard about its high-rated TV shows and original series such as Stranger Things, Orange is the New Black, Money Heist, and Narcos. But, what about the other lesser-known hidden gems on Netflix that have remained unnoticed and unexplored?
Well, we have rounded up a list of top 10 hidden gems on Netflix that you probably haven’t watched yet. These TV shows and movies have received critical acclaim but have somehow flown under the radar of mainstream attention. So, take your time and explore these underrated titles that are compelling, intriguing, and offer compelling narratives to keep you hooked.
1. Maniac (2018)
For fans of science fiction and offbeat humor, Maniac is the perfect TV show to watch on Netflix. Created by Cary Joji Fukunaga, the man behind True Detective and Beasts of No Nation, this series follows two strangers, played by Jonah Hill and Emma Stone, who enter into a mysterious drug trial that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. Prepare to be transported into a world where anything is possible, and the only limit is the imagination.
2. Gerald’s Game (2017)
Stephen King’s novels have been adapted into movies countless times, but Gerald’s Game is one Netflix original production that deserves more attention. The film tells the story of a woman who becomes trapped in her bed after her husband dies suddenly during a sex game. It’s a psychological thriller that explores themes of memory, trauma, and survival in an unflinching way.
3. I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore (2017)
Dark comedies are not always everyone’s cup of tea, but I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore has all the elements which will leave you in splits. This film follows Ruth (Melanie Lynskey), a nurse who becomes fed up with the countless minor injustices she experiences in her daily life. So, she decides to take matters into her hands, but things quickly spiral out of control, and soon, she finds herself in way over her head.
4. Bojack Horseman (2014-2020)
Cartoons are not just for children anymore. Bojack Horseman is an animated series designed for adults, exploring complex themes like depression, addiction, and trauma with a blend of humor and drama. The show follows BoJack, a washed-up Hollywood star voiced by Will Arnett, as he tries to cope with his past and present, and navigate his way through life in an increasingly cynical world.
5. The End of the F***ing World (2017-2019)
Based on the comic book by Charles Forsman, The End of the F***ing World follows two teenagers, James (Alex Lawther) and Alyssa (Jessica Barden), who embark on a dark and twisted adventure. James is convinced he’s a psychopath, and Alyssa is searching for something to feel alive, and as the two explore their emotions and feelings, they soon realize that they are in way over their heads.
6. The Ritual (2017)
Horror movies are always a safe bet, but The Ritual takes things to a whole new level. The film follows a group of friends who decide to go on a hiking trip in Sweden to honor their deceased friend, but things take a turn for the worse when they stumble upon a mysterious cult in the woods. It’s a haunting and terrifying film that will keep you up at night.
7. Queen of the South (2016- )
For fans of action and crime drama, Queen of the South is a TV show that deserves more attention. The series follows Teresa Mendoza (Alice Braga), a woman who escapes poverty in Mexico to become one of the most powerful drug lords in America. It’s tough, gritty, and an adrenaline-fueled ride.
8. Dark (2017-2020)
Dark is a German sci-fi series that has been compared to Stranger Things for its unique blend of mystery, horror, and time travel. The show follows a set of families in the small town of Winden, as they grapple with the disappearance of children and an intricate, interwoven web of secrets and lies. It’s an intense and addictive series with unexpected twists, turns, and revelations.
9. Mindhunter (2017-2019)
Mindhunter is a Netflix original series produced and directed by David Fincher, the brilliant filmmaker behind movies like Fight Club, The Social Network, and Gone Girl. The show is a true-crime drama that follows two FBI agents, played by Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany, as they investigate some of the most notorious murderers and serial killers in the late 1970s. It’s a compelling and disturbing series, based on the book by John E. Douglas.
10. The Invitation (2015)
The Invitation is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing right up until the very end. The film follows Will (Logan Marshall-Green), who is invited to a dinner party by his ex-wife, Eden (Tammy Blanchard), and her new husband. As the night progresses, Will begins to suspect that something sinister is at play, and he must navigate through a maze of memories, paranoia, and unpredictability to uncover the truth.
FAQs
Q. What are the tips to discover hidden gems on Netflix?
A. Here are some tips to discover hidden gems on Netflix:
1. Use keyword searches
2. Check out Netflix’s suggested “Hidden Gems” category
3. Browse through the lists created by Netflix users.
4. Read reviews and ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb.
5. Check out recommendations from friends or family members who have similar tastes.
Q. Are hidden gems on Netflix worth watching?
A. Absolutely! Hidden gems on Netflix might not have the same amount of hype and marketing as the blockbuster shows, but they offer a unique and refreshing glimpse into the world of cinema. There is a wide range of undiscovered content on the platform, from indie movies to foreign dramas, and each title offers a unique perspective on the genre it represents.
Q. How to decide which show or movie to watch on Netflix?
A. Choosing what to watch on Netflix can be overwhelming, but here are some tips:
1. Identify your preferences
2. Read the plot summaries and watch trailers before making a decision
3. Check out reviews (both critic and user-based) on platforms such as Rotten Tomatoes.
4. Recognize the genre, actors, or directors you particularly enjoy and explore the search results.
5. Try something new- don’t be afraid to take a risk and watch a movie from an unknown director or a TV show in a language different from your native tongue.
Q. Is it worth subscribing to Netflix to watch such hidden gems?
A. Netflix’s provides a vast array of titles, and undoubtedly watching hidden gems on Netflix is worth the subscription. The hidden gems on Netflix offer stories that break away from the conventional or mainstream setup, providing a chance for exploring unique genres and stories which are a delightful departure from the usual. So, if you want to expand your cinematic horizon and explore uncharted waters, Netflix is the platform to subscribe to.
Best Practices, Tips, and Tricks
1. Utilize Netflix’s search filters – Netflix has a fantastic interface that lets you browse titles based on various criteria, such as genre, language, year of release, and more. Use these filters to narrow down your choices and find the perfect hidden gem based on your preferences.
2. Read reviews and ratings before watching – It’s always best to read reviews and ratings from trusted critics or users. This way, you can get a glimpse of what you’re in for; it helps you analyze if the content caters to your preferences and understands what to expect.
3. Try something new – The beauty of Netflix is that it offers an endless supply of content from all over the world. With so many options, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. So, take chances and try something new that you have never watched before.
4. Explore other regions – Netflix operates in various countries, and each region or country has a distinctive catalog of titles. So, if you want to explore more hidden gems that are not available in your region, use a VPN and explore the content that different Netflix regions have to offer.
5. Create a watch list – With thousands of titles available on Netflix, it’s always best to keep track of the content you want to watch. So create a watch list of titles that you recommend once you have explored them, or ones that you want to watch soon. This way, you can browse through your list of recommendations and never run out of new content to watch.
To plenty around, Netflix is not just about the mainstream originals, but also offers hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From cinematic masterpieces, thought-provoking documentaries to twisted thrillers, there is something for everyone. So, use the tips and tricks shared above and dive into the undiscovered world of Netflix!
