The 50 best TV shows you can stream on Stan

Australia's homegrown streaming service has a lot going for it. From a generous roster of shows fast-tracked from the US to original content such as No Activity, horror spin-off Wolf Creek, raucous comedy The Other Guy and shock comedy Twisted Metal, Stan has proven itself a force to be reckoned with.

Here are the best TV shows you can stream on Stan to see if you think the service is right for you.

• How do we come up with our list?

  For our best show and movie recommendations we look at a combination of titles' IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes scores (where available), what's popular on the service's app and the expert and critical opinion of our writers, who have over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry.

Try before you buy with these free trials and deals

Hacks has a tight script, clever humour and a generous amount of insight into the comedy world. It's also a series about women bonding across generational lines, which is always a plus.

Genre fans will immediately notice that Poker Face pays homage to classic detective shows while also coming across as quirky and fresh. Add some eclectic guest stars into the mix and you've got yourself a memorable binge.

Station Eleven is a beautiful story about art and resilience. Stick with it and it will reward you in many ways.

Made for Love is hilarious, thought-provoking, clever and satirical. As a nice bonus, Cristin Milioti is an absolute delight in the lead role.

Full of heart and humour, Bump is a show about people just trying to do their best. It's also quite binge-worthy, so don't start watching unless you have plenty of free time ahead.

This highly acclaimed series from award-winning writer Russell T Davies focuses on London's vibrant gay scene, showing the importance of found families and the confusion and heartbreak AIDS caused over the course of a decade. To call it must-watch TV would be an understatement.

This gripping crime series is a must-see for anyone who appreciates exhilarating action and nuanced character drama. Add some excellent performances into the mix and you've got yourself a first-rate show you won't be able to look away from.

With beautiful backdrops and an engaging cast, Yellowstone is sure to appeal to western enthusiasts. For everyone else, the melodramatic storylines make for an appealing addition. If you’re a fan of complicated families, this will be right up your alley.

The show has a wicked sense of humour and a stellar cast, which makes it a delicious and addictive binge. The story may be different than what you remember from the history books, but there's enough satire here to make you chuckle.

Normal People is an emotional series about love and class, perfectly anchored by 2 compelling performances. The show does justice to the source material, but is also very accessible to those who are unfamiliar with the book. If you're looking to lose yourself in a tender and moving story, you can't go wrong with this one.

The concept may sound overdone, but the execution is fresh and heartwarming. Everything's Gonna Be Okay is funny, sweet, charming and poignant, making it a must-see title – at least for viewers who love witty sad-coms.

Hilarious and insightful, the series explores themes that manage to come off as revolutionary by simply highlighting the American Muslim experience. Thanks to complex characters and clever writing, Ramy stands out from the crowd and ends up being more than your typical comedy. It's a real treat.

Grim and powerful, The Handmaid's Tale is the kind of show that makes you both uncomfortable and unable to look away. Elisabeth Moss gives a riveting performance in the lead role, backed up by a terrific supporting cast. As difficult to watch as it may be at times, the series is masterfully made. You should definitely give it a go.

Throughout the (main) course of Hannibal the pair form an effective criminal profiler partnership but it slowly becomes apparent that Lecter's brilliant mind has gone to the dark side. The good news is that as the seasons progress, each course is more delicious than the last. Go in expecting polished presentation, plenty of gore and even the rare sprinkling of twisted humour. Bon appétit.

Spin-off series can either go very well (hello, Frasier) or they can be total disasters (we're looking at you, Joey). We're happy to report that Better Call Saul falls into the first category. We're not going to argue that it's better than Breaking Bad, but we strongly advise you to give it a go whether you've seen the original or not. The spin-off is an engaging and stunning drama that successfully stands on its own.

With an intriguing premise and great performances from everyone involved, Bloom is a quick binge that will capture your attention from the start. Stylish and engaging, this enthralling series should definitely earn a spot on your watchlist.

Despite revolving around the world of fashion magazines, The Bold Type's main focus is the strong friendship between the 3 main characters, who have each other’s backs no matter what. Smart and bubbly, the show doesn't shy away from tackling hot-button themes such as gun control or sexual assault, but it does so in a thoughtful manner, ultimately offering a message of courage and hope. It's refreshing to watch women supporting women instead of working to tear each other down.

No Activity is a dark comedy centred on mundane human interactions, but that doesn't make it any less watchable. Neither does the fact that the dialogue features a lot of improvisation, which leads to some hilarious bits.

As far as revenge-driven TV series go, Wolf Creek is one of the best. Audiences will be happy to get reacquainted with the fascinating character Mick Taylor. The series as a whole is gripping enough to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The writing is sharp, the performances are great and the fast-paced story doesn't disappoint. If you're into shows that explore themes related to greed and power, Billions will be right up your alley.

This show largely benefits from Okine's natural charisma, with Harriet Dyer also pulling off an amazing performance as the main character's no-filter BFF. All in all, if you're looking for a pleasant way to spend a weekend, watching The Other Guy is a safe bet.

A noir mystery drama like no other, Veronica Mars greatly benefits from sharp writing, heavy subject matter and a nuanced performance from Kristen Bell. It's fun, addictive, compelling and smart. More importantly, despite being released in 2004, the show stands the test of time, so you'll enjoy it just as much today.

The Office gave us memorable pranks, hilarious moments and a Jim/Pam romance worth cheering for. The first season is a mixed bag, but later instalments are worthy of praise and multiple rewatch sessions. It's perfect to revisit the show or tune in for the first time. Especially if you had a crappy day at work.

The power of this influential series lies in its characters. Sure, the action sequences and plot twists are great, but the depth and complexity of the characters is what ultimately makes Breaking Bad so compelling. The show remains a pop culture phenomenon long after after it first aired.

With episodes varying from thrilling to heartfelt, Supernatural is highly entertaining. Its meta instalments always manage to stand out from the crowd.

Charming and funny, Parks and Recreation will grow on you. It's an uplifting series that isn't afraid to give its characters room to evolve. Treat yo' self and watch it.

RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under is vibrant and fun, which makes it the perfect reality competition to watch when you unwind after a long day. If you have a glass of bubbly to keep you company, even better.

Girls5eva is sharp and nostalgic, with a gifted cast and catchy tunes. It's ideal if you're looking for a comforting show to help you escape reality.

With a memorable performance from Joshua Jackson as the titular Dr. Death, this polished series is so well-done and terrifying that it might give you nightmares. Consider yourself warned.

A top-notch miniseries with outstanding performances, the show is fresh and inventive. If you're tired of run-of-the-mill crime dramas, Landscapers will take your breath away.

A terrific comedy-drama, we strongly recommend checking out Wolf Like Me. Josh Gad and Isla Fisher are great together.

With amazing performances and an intriguing plot, The Tourist is the kind of thriller that draws you in from episode 1 and keeps you furiously pressing play on the next episode. There's a good chance you'll binge-watch this in a single sitting.

Bel-Air offers a gloomy, realistic spin on the story fans might know from the sitcom. It stands on its own as a glossy drama and highly benefits from having a charming lead in Jabari Banks. All in all, it's well worth your time.

A funny workplace comedy, Minx has a great cast and doesn't take itself too seriously. Being set at an erotic magazine means that it also features all sorts of nudity. Consider yourself warned.

Gaslit is filled with amazing acting, which makes it a treat for viewers who enjoy tour-de-force performances. With such great names in the cast, pressing play seems almost mandatory.

With a new setting and new characters, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon breathes life into a franchise long thought past revival.

Given the intriguing premise, From is the kind of show that you'll be unable to stop watching until the very last end credits roll.

Considering Killing It is from the creators of Brooklyn Nine-Nine you know this show has a good pedigree and expect a lot of laughs. And snakes. Lots of snakes.

A series that successfully stands on its own, Power Book III: Raising Kanan is a fun watch for those new to the growing Power universe as well. With fantastic performances and gripping storylines, it's entertaining TV.

Bali 2002 isn't an easy watch, but it acts as a reminder that you can still find hope amid despair. Covering both the lead-up to and aftermath of the bombings, it's the kind of series that will stay with you for a while.

Coming from the producers of Married At First Sight, this dating series brings on the drama – big time! If you love reality TV, Love Triangle is a must-watch.

Add American Auto to the long list of enjoyable and relatable workplace sitcoms. There’s a great cast, including a standout performance from Aussie Harriet Dyer.

The show isn't afraid to explore dark themes, perfectly using humour to its advantage. Billie Piper offers a performance for the ages.

With an appealing cast and intriguing premise, Black Snow immediately draws you in. You won't be able to look away until you finally get some answers.

For those seeking a fresh portrayal of teenhood, this compelling and thought-provoking show will feel like a breath of fresh air.

A witty dark comedy with a strong ensemble cast, Lucky Hank isn't what we'd call a crowd-pleaser. However, if you vibe with it you'll be in for a treat.

If you like dark comedy series, definitely stream this Aussie gem to combine laughs with a powerful message.

Featuring a mix of quality UK and Australian actors, it's a fine local production from award-winning creatives.

If you love dramas with great ensemble casts, then definitely check out this group of up-and-coming actors alongside many noticeable faces from our TV screens.

The creators of this series have also worked on Deadpool and Zombieland, so expect a similar level of irreverent and shock comedy.

What changed on our list?

New additions

• American Auto

We removed

• Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin

Image: Stan