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The 50 best Netflix Australia TV shows
Overwhelmed by the sheer number of TV shows available on Netflix? Here are our top picks to get you started.
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Netflix has undoubtedly been the game-changer in the world of streaming entertainment. With an enormous volume of original and classic content, including Netflix's library of television shows, there is literally something for everyone.
From political drama to 80s-inspired sci-fi to the best superhero TV shows and everything in between, Netflix has been consistently knocking it out of the park. What's not always quite so easy is determining what to watch.
From classics you may have missed through to some brand new entries, here are our 50 top Netflix TV shows in Australia (in no particular order). They have been determined by a mix of critic reviews, audience responses and the expertise and opinion of our writer.
1. Squid Game
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Wi Ha-joon, Jung Ho-yeon
A South Korean survival drama, Squid Game took the world by storm and is on track to becoming the most popular Netflix series of all time.
The plot follows a group of people struggling with debt who accept to play a set of children's games with deadly consequences. If they win, they have a chance to walk away with an impressive sum of money. If they lose, they won't walk away at all.
The series is inventive, gory and thought-provoking. It's also quite addictive, so you might want to clear your schedule before tuning in. Once you've finished it all, check out our guide on shows like Squid Game.
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2. The Chair
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Sandra Oh, Jay Duplass, Bob Balaban, Holland Taylor, Nana Mensah
The Chair centres on the English department chair at a major university, played flawlessly by Sandra Oh. As the first woman of colour to hold the position, she has to navigate a tricky landscape of low enrollment rates, teacher scandals and other issues related to the competitive world of academics.
An engaging comedy-drama, The Chair has a fun cast and tackles timely themes. At only 6 episodes, it's quick and enjoyable.
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1 seasons
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3. Shadow and Bone
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Jessie Mei Li, Ben Barnes, Archie Renaux, Amita Suman, Kit Young, Freddy Carter
Based on the Grishaverse novels by Leigh Bardugo, Shadow and Bone is a fantasy series set in a war-torn country where a huge piece of land is covered in darkness. When a mapmaker unleashes the tremendous power to summon light, the people have hope once again. Unfortunately, ruthless forces conspire to maintain the status quo.
Sumptuous and immersive, the show has an exceptional ensemble cast and welcomes viewers to a world filled with magic and political intrigue. You'll be hooked in no time. In excellent news, the series has been renewed for a second season!
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1 seasons
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4. The Serpent
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Tahar Rahim, Billy Howle, Jenna Coleman
The Serpent tells the real-life story of Charles Sobhraj – a murderer, thief and master of disguise who was active back in the 70s. Posing as a gem dealer, he and his girlfriend committed a series of crimes along Asia's so-called hippie trail before Sobhraj was eventually brought to justice.
With gorgeous costumes and solid performances, The Serpent is a thrill for true-crime enthusiasts. Watch it when you're in the mood for something gloomy yet seductive.
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1 seasons
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5. Ginny & Georgia
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Brianne Howey, Antonia Gentry, Diesel La Torraca
Ginny & Georgia revolves around a teen daughter and her young mother, who move to a new town to start fresh. Soon, the mother's dark past catches up with them, leading to unexpected developments.
Quirky and fun, Ginny & Georgia successfully juggles multiple storylines, managing to make you care for these characters almost instantly. It's like a darker Gilmore Girls. The pop culture references are there, but dark secrets constantly loom just under the surface.
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1 seasons
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6. Behind Her Eyes
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Simona Brown, Eve Hewson, Tom Bateman
In Behind Her Eyes, a single mother enters a world of twisted mind games when she begins an affair with her psychiatrist boss. Like that wasn't enough, she also befriends his wife for good measure.
Based on the polarising book of the same name, this psychological thriller is a fun ride. Make it until the end and you'll be rewarded with a twist we can almost guarantee you won't see coming.
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7. Lupin
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Omar Sy, Vincent Londez, Ludivine Sagnier
A thrilling addition to Netflix's ever-expanding catalogue of international TV series, Lupin is pure joy from start to finish. The action revolves around gentleman thief Assane Diop who, inspired by the adventures of Arsène Lupin, sets out to right a past wrong and avenge his father.
Lupin is a quick binge, boasting a memorable performance from Omar Sy in the lead role. Plus, it's a roller-coaster of action, thievery and human drama. The plot twists will have you engrossed in no time.
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2 seasons
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8. Sweet Tooth
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Nonso Anozie, Christian Convery, Stefania LaVie Owen, Dania Ramirez
Sweet Tooth is set in a post-apocalyptic world where hybrids – which are a mix of two species - exist.
The action centres on one such hybrid, a young boy who is half deer, half human. Hybrids are feared and hunted, so the boy lived in isolation for most of his life. Until one day, when he forms an unexpected bond with a loner and the two embark on a memorable adventure as they search for safety.
Based on that description alone, Sweet Tooth might sound depressing. Rest assured, it's not. The series has a lot of heart and is surprisingly entertaining, making it a treat for fantasy fans of all ages. It will return with a second season, so there's plenty more excitement to come.
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9. Bridgerton
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, Nicola Coughlan, Jonathan Bailey
Bridgerton's main themes? Love, lust and betrayal. Based on the popular Bridgerton novels by Julia Quinn, the series is set in Regency London and centres on the eldest daughter of the Bridgerton family, who enters the competitive marriage market. When all her suitors are deemed not worthy, a rebellious duke is there to sweep her off her feet.
Produced by Shonda Rhimes, Bridgerton is an addictive and charming series which is sure to appeal to romance enthusiasts. Add wonderful performances and gorgeous sets into the mix and we've got a winner.
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10. The Crown
Year of release: 2016
Cast: Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, Imelda Staunton, Emma Corrin, Gillian Anderson
Now with 4 seasons under its belt, The Crown remains one of Netflix's most acclaimed original shows. A dramatisation about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the series chronicles the intrigues, love lives and machinations behind the great events that shaped the second half of the 20th century.
The Crown has a tremendous cast and excellent production values. While it may take some historical liberties, it also delivers an engaging narrative. Plus, seeing Emma Corrin flawlessly portray Princess Diana in season 4 is a real treat.
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4 seasons
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11. The Queen's Gambit
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Chloe Pirrie, Bill Camp, Marielle Heller
A polished and magnetic miniseries, The Queen's Gambit centres on prodigious introvert Beth Harmon. Orphaned at 9, she discovers and masters the game of chess in 1960s USA. Too bad child stardom comes at a steep price.
If you like period dramas, this is a must. The Queen's Gambit is not only beautifully shot and rich in detail, but it boasts a nuanced performance from Anya Taylor-Joy and tells a complex, spell-binding story. Believe the hype – it really is that good.
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12. Lucifer
Year of release: 2016
Cast: Tom Ellis, Lauren German, Kevin Alejandro, D.B. Woodside
Lucifer Morningstar has decided he's had enough of being the dutiful servant in Hell and proceeds to spend time on Earth to better understand humanity. He runs a club in Los Angeles and soon gets involved with the local police, assisting them in solving tricky criminal cases.
Lucifer initially aired on Fox in the US before being cancelled after 3 seasons. Shortly after, Netflix picked it up, to fans' delight. All episodes are now available to stream.
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6 seasons
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4 seasons
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13. Teenage Bounty Hunters
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Maddie Phillips, Anjelica Bette Fellini, Kadeem Hardison, Virginia Williams
This quirky comedy follows twin sisters Blair and Sterling, who balance teen life at an elite Southern high school with an unlikely new career as bounty hunters. A bunch of over-the-top adventures follow as they dive into the world of bail-skipping baddies and suburban secrets.
Witty and stylish, the show will win you over in no time thanks to the chemistry between the 2 leads. If you're on the lookout for a funny and unpredictable series, add this to your watchlist ASAP.
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1 seasons
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14. Cobra Kai
Year of release: 2018
Cast: Ralph Macchio, William Zabka, Xolo Maridueña, Courtney Henggeler
Decades after their 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament bout, now middle-aged Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence find themselves martial-arts rivals once again! When Johnny seeks redemption by reopening the infamous Cobra Kai dojo, he comes head-to-head with Daniel, now successful but struggling after the loss of mentor Mr Miyagi.
Cobra Kai is set 34 years after the original Karate Kid film and used to stream on YouTube Premium before it was acquired by Netflix. Funny, compelling and thoughtful, the show doesn't disappoint, even in a world saturated with revivals. Whether or not you're a fan of the original film, you'll be hooked in no time.
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4 seasons
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2 seasons
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15. Snowpiercer
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Jennifer Connelly, Daveed Diggs, Mickey Sumner, Sheila Vand
Set years after the world has become a frozen wasteland, Snowpiercer centres on what's left of humanity – a group of people who inhabit a gigantic, perpetually moving train that circles the globe. The series is based on Bong Joon-ho's gripping film of the same name.
A dystopian thriller, Snowpiercer was a long time in the making. Now that it's finally here, we're happy to report that the series is stylish and perfectly cast. If you're in the mood for an immersive and well-crafted sci-fi story, the show is a great ride, no pun intended.
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3 seasons
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16. Never Have I Ever
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Jaren Lewison, Darren Barnet, Poorna Jagannathan
This charming comedy co-created by Mindy Kaling follows the complicated life of a first-generation Indian-American teenager. That's putting things simply, as the series has so much heart you'll likely fall in love with it from the very first scene.
Never Have I Ever is inspired by Kaling's own early life and stars newcomer Maitreyi Ramakrishnan as an overachieving high school sophomore. She's perfect in the lead role, supported by a tremendous ensemble cast. Tune in immediately. Two seasons are available, with a third one on the way.
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2 seasons
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17. After Life
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Ricky Gervais, Tom Basden, Tony Way, Diane Morgan
Created, produced and directed by Ricky Gervais, who also stars, After Life follows a man who decides to do and say whatever he wants following his wife's death. As you might expect, this ends up being trickier than he envisioned.
The series seamlessly switches from dark comedy to moving drama at a moment's notice, offering a thoughtful exploration of grief, depression and resilience. It also boasts some wonderful performances, especially from Gervais himself. Better still, season 3 will premiere in January.
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2 seasons
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18. Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Joe Exotic, Carole Baskin, Bhagavan Antle, Howard Baskin, John Finlay
This true-crime documentary, which took the Internet by storm, is an exploration of big cat breeding and its bizarre underworld. The series centres on Joe Exotic, gun-toting polygamist and country western singer who presides over an Oklahoma roadside zoo. Things take a dark turn when Joe gets arrested for an unbelievable murder-for-hire plot following a rivalry with an animal activist, Carole Baskin.
The story is bonkers and bizarre – so if you're looking for an entertaining binge, you can't go wrong with Tiger King. Then, you might be able to answer the question that's been on everyone's mind. Did Carole feed her husband to the tigers? We need answers ASAP. Tiger King season 2 is now streaming.
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2 seasons
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19. Ozark
Year of release: 2018
Cast: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Sofia Hublitz, Skylar Gaertner
Ozark is a compelling Netflix drama with a fairly straightforward premise: it follows a married couple forced to relocate their family to the Ozarks to launder money for a Mexican drug cartel. But while the plot is intriguing on its own, what really makes the series stand out is the excellent performances from Bateman and Linney, who only get better with each episode.
The show goes from dark to darker, making it an addictive watch. If you can stand the tension, following the pair as they struggle to get away with crime-related endeavours is highly satisfying. Ozark will be back with season 4 on 21 January.
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4 seasons
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20. Locke & Key
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Darby Stanchfield, Connor Jessup, Emilia Jones, Jackson Robert Scott, Laysla De Oliveira
Based on the graphic novels from Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodríguez, this inventive show revolves around 3 siblings who move into a house filled with reality-bending keys following their father's murder. However, it's not all fun and games, especially when it turns out that a demonic entity is on the lookout for the keys as well.
Spooky and entertaining, Locke & Key will prove a worthy binge for fantasy lovers. Regardless of whether you've read the source material or not, the series is dark, full of twists and intriguing. Season 2 is now streaming.
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2 seasons
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21. The Witcher
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Henry Cavill, Anya Chalotra, Freya Allan
Based on the book series of the same name by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski, this ambitious Netflix original stars Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia, a lonely Witcher or monster hunter who roams the Continent slaying beasts. But when his path intertwines with a powerful sorceress and a mysterious princess, he'll have to finally embrace his fate.
Epic in scale and boasting some truly excellent fight scenes, The Witcher is a treat for fantasy lovers. Cavill offers a memorable performance, there's a catchy song you won't be able to get out of your head after episode 2 and the visuals are mesmerising. If you're looking for a show full of magic and gore, you just stumbled upon the perfect binge. Season 2 is cnow streaming.
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2 seasons
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22. Unbelievable
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Toni Collette, Merritt Wever and Kaitlyn Dever
Based on true events, this powerful and unflinching show revolves around a series of sexual assaults which took place in Washington and Colorado in the US. After a teen reports a rape and then recants her story, her life changes forever. 3 years later, 2 detectives join forces to follow the evidence that might finally lead to some answers.
This critically acclaimed miniseries is based on the 2015 news article An Unbelievable Story of Rape. Sometimes heartbreaking, other times infuriating, but ultimately just a tiny bit hopeful, Unbelievable tells the stories of survivors with care and gravity. In the era of peak TV, it's easy to overlook this initially bleak offering. We strongly advise you give it a stream.
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23. Mindhunter
Year of release: 2017
Cast: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
This thrilling Netflix series, based on true events, follows FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench, who start interviewing dangerous killers in order to better understand what goes on in their heads. Based on the true-crime book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit, the show basically shows us the early days of the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit, which was just coming together in the 70s.
Slick and chilling, Mindhunter is one of Netflix's most addictive original shows, featuring a tremendous cast and showing us how now common terms like "serial killer" first came to life. If you're into crime shows, you don't want to miss this.
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2 seasons
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24. La Casa de Papel/Money Heist
Year of release: 2017
Cast: Úrsula Corberó, Itziar Ituño, Álvaro Morte, Miguel Herrán, Paco Tous, Pedro Alonso
Known in English as Money Heist, this Spanish Netflix original revolves around an elaborate heist that takes place over several days at the Royal Mint of Spain. A group of thieves take hostages and lock themselves into the facility, all part of an elaborate plan to escape with millions of euros.
Melodramatic and highly addictive, this drama is the kind of show best enjoyed binged, so there's no wonder it made its way onto Netflix's generous library of foreign content. Soon after, it even became the most-watched foreign series on the service. If you don't mind subtitles, you'll be in for a delicious tale full of twists, manipulation and revolt. The final season of La Casa de Papel is now available.
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5 seasons
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25. Dark
Year of release: 2018
Cast: Louis Hofmann, Daan Lennard Liebrenz, Ella Lee, Angela Winkler
An intricate mystery-drama, this German series is sure to appeal to Stranger Things fans. The disappearance of 2 children from a small town leads to the exploration of the sinful past of the establishment, alongside with the reveal of the fractured relationship between 4 families as they struggle to figure out what happened to the kids.
Tense and beautifully crafted, this tale reveals itself slowly, keeping the viewer engaged every step of the way. You'll be glued to the screen, eager to discover all the secrets this deeply troubled town worked so hard to bury. In the end, your patience will be rewarded. And then some.
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3 seasons
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26. When They See Us
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Asante Blackk, Caleel Harris, Ethan Herisse, Jharrel Jerome, Marquis Rodriguez
Created, co-written and directed by Ava DuVernay, this powerful miniseries exposes the breakdown of the US criminal justice system during the infamous Central Park Five case. It follows 5 teens from Harlem who become trapped in a nightmare when they're falsely accused of a brutal attack.
Stirring and immersive, When They See Us puts a lot on emphasis on what the boys and their families endured over their decades-long ordeal, shining light on all the ways in which the system failed them. Turns out, justice truly can be blind.
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1 seasons
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27. Dead to Me
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Christina Applegate, Linda Cardellini
A darkly funny exploration of grief, Dead to Me follows Jen, a sardonic widow who recently lost her husband and is determined to solve the crime. She meets Judy, an optimistic free spirit, at a support group, and they become unlikely friends. As the pair bond, Judy tries to shield Jen from a shocking secret that could destroy her life.
Dead to Me is a terrific character study of 2 complex women with a complicated relationship, with both Applegate and Cardellini delivering nuanced performances. It's an unpredictable and absorbing show, with occasional humour and tons of suspense meant to keep you on the edge of your seat. In short – it's a story best enjoyed binged.
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2 seasons
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28. The Umbrella Academy
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Elliot Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda, Emmy Raver-Lampman, Robert Sheehan, Aidan Gallagher, Mary J. Blige
Funny and compulsively watchable, The Umbrella Academy was one of the most anticipated Netflix shows of 2019. Thankfully, it delivers. On 1 day in 1989, 43 infants are inexplicably born to random, unconnected women. 7 of them are adopted by a billionaire who creates the Umbrella Academy and prepares his kids to save the world, but the team disbands in their teen years.
Fast-forward to the present and the band reunites to solve a mystery surrounding their adoptive father's death, with a global apocalypse also looming. Talk about responsibilities! The Umbrella Academy is the perfect blend of comedy and drama, offering a memorable soundtrack and a compelling ensemble cast. You won't regret spending a weekend in the show's delightful company.
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2 seasons
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29. One Day at a Time
Year of release: 2017
Cast: Justina Machado, Todd Grinnell, Isabella Gomez, Marcel Ruiz, Stephen Tobolowsky, Rita Moreno
This charming Netflix comedy is inspired by Norman Lear's 1975 series of the same name. One Day at a Time follows Penelope, head of her Cuban-American family and a newly single Army veteran. Together with her mother and kids, she navigates life through good times and bad, knowing that her family will always have her back, even when they're not particularly gracious about it.
Thanks to clever writing and amazing performances, One Day at a Time breathes new life into the family sitcom genre. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll empathise with these people more than you'd expect. The series is a triumph for Netflix – add it to your watch list ASAP.
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3 seasons
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30. Russian Doll
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Natasha Lyonne, Charlie Barnett, Greta Lee, Yul Vazquez, Elizabeth Ashley
Russian Doll follows a woman who gets caught in a strange time loop, forced to relive the same day. She dies at the end of every night only to wake up unharmed and go through the process all over again.
This series may seem repetitive at first glance, but rest assured – Russian Doll is so inventive that it's impossible to get bored, whether you choose to binge it in one session or pace yourself. It only gets more ambitious and complex as it goes on, so we can pretty much bet you'll be on the edge of your seat. As a nice bonus, Natasha Lyonne is extremely compelling in the main role.
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1 seasons
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31. Sex Education
Year of release: 2019
Cast: Gillian Anderson, Asa Butterfield, Emma Mackey, Ncuti Gatwa, Connor Swindells
Sex Education centres on Otis, a socially awkward and inexperienced high school student who has a sex therapist for a mum. After growing up surrounded by manuals and videos about sex, as well as having to endure multiple tedious conversations with his mum, Otis became a reluctant expert on the subject. To gain status at school, he decides to team up with a whip-smart girl and set up an underground sex therapy clinic for fellow students.
One of the most informative and sweetest teen comedies about sex, Sex Education is an often hilarious, always exciting series that feels fresh and honest. You can enjoy it regardless of age. Season 3 is now streaming.
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3 seasons
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32. You
Year of release: 2018
Cast: Penn Badgley, Elizabeth Lail, Shay Mitchell
You follows Joe, a brilliant bookstore clerk who one day crosses paths with Beck, an aspiring young writer. He develops an unhealthy crush and proceeds to use his Internet and real-life stalking skills to make Beck fall for him. Not only that, but he's willing to go to great lengths to make sure that the girl he fancies only has eyes for him.
The best kind of unsettling, You is a highly addictive TV show, so make sure you set aside enough time to devour this delicious offering. Both thrilling and trashy, the series will definitely make you think about how you can better protect your privacy, especially online. Season 3 is now streaming. The series has been renewed for season 4.
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3 seasons
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2 seasons
33. The Kominsky Method
Year of release: 2018
Cast: Michael Douglas, Alan Arkin, Nancy Travis, Sarah Baker
Created by Chuck Lorre, The Kominsky Method follows 2 ageing best friends as they navigate the later years of their lives in Los Angeles. One was once a famous actor, currently an acting teacher, while the other is his agent. They find themselves tackling life's inevitable curve balls in a city that values youth and beauty above all else.
The Kominsky Method is full of heart and humour, but it's not a laugh-out-loud sitcom. Instead, it approaches issues like ageing and showbiz with grace and emotion. The jokes will make you chuckle every now and then, but the best part about this Netflix show is seeing Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin play off each other on screen. Their friendship, although not without drama, rings true, so you'll be cheering on both of them in no time.
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3 seasons
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2 seasons
34. Riverdale
Year of release: 2017
Cast: KJ Apa, Camila Mendes, Lili Reinhart, Cole Sprouse
Based on the classic Archie comics, Riverdale follows a group of teens who have a tendency to get into all sorts of trouble. Archie, Veronica, Betty and Jughead navigate teen life while also dealing with larger than life murders and scandals. Turns out, the small town they live in isn't quite as peaceful as one might assume at first glance.
Atmospheric and fun, Riverdale is highly addictive, proving once again that well-crafted teen shows will never lose their charm. Rest assured – adults will be mesmerised as well. If the relationship drama doesn't get to you, the odd mysteries certainly will. Season 6 is now streaming.
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6 seasons
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5 seasons
35. The Haunting of Hill House
Year of release: 2018
Cast: Michiel Huisman, Timothy Hutton, Carla Gugino, Henry Thomas
Craving some horror? The Haunting of Hill House will be right up your alley. A reimagining of the classic Shirley Jackson novel, this spooky Netflix original show centres on 5 siblings who grew up in what became the most famous haunted house in the country. They left it long ago, but the memories of what went down there continue to haunt them. Facing a tragedy, they need to reunite and finally confront their past.
Dark and terrifying, The Haunting of Hill House is a smooth blend of family drama and horror thrills, all delivered to you in an incredibly stylish package. Caution – you might end up sleeping with the lights on.
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1 seasons
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1 seasons
36. Stranger Things
Year of release: 2016
Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Finn Wolfhard, Caleb McLaughlin
It's rare to see a show so lovingly dedicated to the 80s. Often TV shows, movies and books lean on nostalgia without weaving them into the narrative in any meaningful way. That's far from the case in Stranger Things. The Duffer Brothers' sci-fi/thriller/horror isn't just a love letter, it stands alone as one of the greatest television shows today, thanks to its talented and diverse cast and its gripping season arc.
When a young Dungeons & Dragons nerd Will Byers vanishes from a quiet, rural town, his family, friends and community band together to bring him back from a mysterious and terrifying world. Each character has a hand to play in finding Will, but their individual journeys are just as important and entertaining to watch. Stranger Things Season 4 will premiere sometime in 2022.
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3 seasons
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37. Master of None
Year of release: 2015
Cast: Aziz Ansari, Eric Wareheim, Lena Waithe, Noël Wells
Master of None is the kind of show that might turn people off in its first few episodes. In place of a traditional, run-of-the-mill season arc, Aziz Ansari's comedy/drama often runs off in tangents focused on minor characters (and sometimes characters that aren't even part of the recurring cast). While this might seem a little off-track to begin with, some of these episodes are Master of None's best. Ansari's Dev runs the gamut of work and relationship troubles many have experienced firsthand with hilarious and sometimes devastating accuracy. But where Master of None truly shines is during the episodes that are less about the characters and more about an issue, place or celebration.
If you haven't checked it out yet (or tried and put it down) we wholeheartedly recommend sticking it out. Ansari's musings on love, work and life in the city are hilarious, poetic and brimming with heart.
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3 seasons
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38. Black Mirror
Year of release: 2011
Cast: Hannah John-Kamen, Jon Hamm, Hayley Atwell, Daniel Kaluuya
The fact that a third season of Charlie Brooker's Black Mirror series wasn't picked up sooner is criminal. Thankfully, Netflix is in the business of righting the entertainment industry's wrongs and worked with Brooker to create season 3, 4 and 5 of Black Mirror. Brooker's clever writing and biting satire are complemented by Netflix's fat stacks of cash, which has helped bring on some huge talent, like Bryce Dallas Howard and Jerome Flynn in leading roles as well as big-name directors such as Joe Wright and Dan Trachtenberg.
Season 3 wasn't just a revival. It brought us some of the best episodes the show has ever seen (San Junipero is some of the best television out there, hands down). What followed was just as good.
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5 seasons
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39. Rick and Morty
Year of release: 2013
Cast: Justin Roiland, Spencer Grammer, Chris Parnell, Sarah Chalke
While it's not a Netflix original, Rick and Morty more or less calls Netflix home in Australia. It is without a doubt the most popular animation on television at the moment (and for good reason). Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland's Rick and Morty is an absurd, offbeat comedy that follows the misadventures of the shy youngster Morty and his diabolical and perpetually drunk grandfather, Rick Sanchez.
Rick and Morty rockets between risky and gut-busting hilarity to some surprisingly meaningful and touching life lessons (though Rick has a habit of shooting down anything hopeful).
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5 seasons
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5 seasons
6 seasons
40. Orange Is the New Black
Year of release: 2013
Cast: Taylor Schilling, Uzo Aduba, Laura Prepon, Danielle Brooks
OITNB, as it's affectionately called, is loosely based on the real-life prison experiences of Piper Kerman. Basically, the show can be summarised as follows: A woman goes to prison, thinks it will be fine because she's white and middle class, turns out she was very much mistaken. The exceptional ensemble cast is what really drives this show, which has attracted praise for telling the stories of African-American and Hispanic women, while at the same time criticism for needing a white woman leading the show to do it.
You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll vaguely wonder about committing a minor crime so you too can go to prison and write about it.
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7 seasons
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7 seasons
7 seasons
7 seasons
41. BoJack Horseman
Year of release: 2014
Cast: Will Arnett, Aaron Paul, Alison Brie, Amy Sedaris
Imagine every live-action character Will Arnett has ever played blended together into an anthropomorphic horse and you have BoJack Horseman. This story of a washed-up equine actor seemed at first to be Netflix's Family Guy or American Dad. However, it's so much more than that. BoJack is eternally chauvinistic and narcissistic, but unlike most sitcoms or cartoons, Bojack's character actually goes through a lot of growth and characterisation. Thanks to a strong cast of supporting characters like Alison Brie's Diane, Lisa Kudrow's Wanda and Paul F. Tompkins's Mr. Peanutbutter.
It's not exactly what you would expect from a bizarre comedy about talking animals, but that's what you get with BoJack.
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6 seasons
1 seasons
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42. Marvel's Daredevil
Year of release: 2015
Cast: Charlie Cox, Deborah Ann Woll, Elden Henson, Rosario Dawson
While Marvel's Jessica Jones and Luke Cage come in at a close second, Marvel's Daredevil is still the strongest of all Netflix's superhero shows. That's thanks firstly to an incredibly strong origin story in its first season and an explosive second season that introduces 2 of the most interesting characters in the small-screen universe, Punisher and Elektra.
Sure, Jessica Jones is the stronger character here and deserves a good mention on this list, but Daredevil's perfectly choreographed fight scenes and high-stakes story arcs make it the most engaging out of The Defenders' respective shows.
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3 seasons
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2 seasons
2 seasons
5 seasons
43. Sense8
Year of release: 2015
Cast: Jamie Clayton, Max Riemelt, Miguel Ángel Silvestre, Brian J. Smith
Vale Sense8. One of Netflix's first victims (we're not really counting Marco Polo here), Sense8's compelling story of 8 mentally connected individuals from across the globe was cancelled after its second season, despite growing a large cult following.
It seems as popular as it was, Netflix just couldn't keep up with globetrotting sensates and cancelled the series in 2017. Still, if you're looking for an immersive and compelling show to binge, you can't go wrong with this.
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2 seasons
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44. Narcos
Year of release: 2015
Cast: Wagner Moura, Pedro Pascal, Boyd Holbrook, Alberto Ammann, Paulina Gaitan
Raw and gritty, this acclaimed series chronicles the real-life stories of the drug kingpins of the late 1980s. At the same time, it focuses on the efforts of law enforcement to meet them head-on in brutal, bloody conflict. The first 2 seasons follow the infamous Pablo Escobar, who made billions from the production and sale of cocaine. Season 3, meanwhile, picks up after the fall of the kingpin and sees the DEA take on the Cali Cartel.
Narcos doesn't give you too many characters to root for, but it's definitely addictive and illuminating, even if you're already familiar with much of Escobar's life. The series is stylish and action-packed, with top-notch performances and intense storytelling. Not recommended for the faint of heart.
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3 seasons
1 seasons
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45. Jessica Jones
Year of release: 2015
Cast: Krysten Ritter, Mike Colter, Rachael Taylor, David Tennant, Eka Darville, Carrie-Anne Moss
In a television landscape overfilled with superhero shows, Jessica Jones stands out from the crowd due to its focus on the more human aspects of being a super-human. The show follows the titular heroine as she struggles to make it as a private investigator and deals with severe repercussions after being controlled by a villain. It's more aftermath than origin story, which is a nice change for the Marvel universe.
Jessica Jones is dark and captivating, boasting brilliant performances from both Krysten Ritter and David Tennant. You won't be blown back by the special effects – instead, you'll be pulled in thanks to rich character drama and clever storytelling. At its core, the show is a tale of a woman confronting the abuser who almost ruined her life, which always makes for compelling television.
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3 seasons
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1 seasons
1 seasons
1 seasons
46. The Good Place
Year of release: 2016
Cast: Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, William Jackson Harper, Jameela Jamil, Manny Jacinto
Once in a blue moon, a show so whimsical comes along that you have to drop everything and tune in immediately. The Good Place is just that kind of show. Hilarious, original and fun. The premise? Eleanor wakes up and finds out that she has died and ended up in an afterlife called the Good Place. Problem is she wasn't what you'd call a good person, so she was probably sent there by mistake. As a result, she has to hide her naturally bad habits from those around in order to avoid being kicked out.
The Good Place is a charming comedy about the afterlife. It's hilarious and lively, it's weird and subversive, it's well-written and brilliantly casted. You'll be hooked from episode 1.
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4 seasons
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5 seasons
4 seasons
4 seasons
47. Outer Banks
Year of release: 2020
Cast: Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, Madison Bailey, Jonathan Daviss
A series that took the Internet by storm in 2020, Outer Banks shows no signs of slowing down in its sophomore season. The action revolves around a group of teens who are looking into the disappearance of their ringleader's dad, while also hunting for treasure.
If that premise sounds like fun, we're happy to report that it is. Outer Banks has an appealing cast and enough sense of adventure to keep viewers engaged, especially when it dials up the melodrama. If you're looking for a relaxing binge, this one delivers.
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2 seasons
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48. Maid
Year of release: 2021
Cast: Margaret Qualley, Nick Robinson, Anika Noni Rose, Andie MacDowell
Maid centres on a young mother who escapes an abusive relationship. Struggling to make ends meet, she begins to work as a maid while battling to keep custody of her daughter. All in order to escape poverty and build a better future for her child.
Compelling and well-acted, Maid is a drama that will stay with you for a long time. Not only does it gracefully showcase the damaging effects of emotional abuse, it also gives you a resilient heroine worth cheering for.
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1 seasons
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49. Cowboy Bebop
Year of release: 2021
Cast: John Cho, Mustafa Shakir, Daniella Pineda
A live-action adaptation of the popular anime of the same name, Cowboy Bebop follows a team of bounty hunters as they chase criminals across the galaxy. At the same time, we learn more about these space cowboys and their troubled past.
With exciting visuals and a top-notch cast, the show is a welcome sci-fi escape that will have you hooked in no time. Plus, the soundtrack is the stuff of dreams.
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1 seasons
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50. Lost in Space
Year of release: 2018
Cast: Molly Parker, Toby Stephens, Maxwell Jenkins, Taylor Russell
Lost in Space revolves around the Robinsons, a family of space colonists. Years after an event threatens the survival of humans, they are sent to colonise the Alpha Centauri planetary system. However, they end up crash-landing on an unknown planet. We follow them as they struggle to adapt to their new circumstances.
With dazzling visuals and fun performances, Lost in Space is an immersive and addictive experience – especially if you're a sci-fi fan. All episodes are now streaming. We suggest you indulge in a satisfying binge.
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3 seasons
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3 seasons
1 seasons
What changed on our list?
New additions
- Lost in Space
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