Netflix is home to a vast array of content, but some hidden gems never quite make it into the spotlight. While many shows dominate the top charts, a few underrated Netflix series are often overlooked despite their compelling stories, strong performances, and unique concepts. In this article, we’ll explore five underrated Netflix series that you should add to your watchlist.
1. What Makes These Series Underrated?
It’s easy to get lost in the massive library of Netflix content, and some great shows simply fly under the radar. So, what makes these series underrated? They often don’t get the mainstream attention they deserve, despite offering quality entertainment and creative brilliance.
1.1 Hidden Gems That Need More Attention
Many of the underrated Netflix series have strong, unique storytelling that hasn’t been widely recognized. These shows may not have the broad appeal of top-tier titles, but they manage to engage audiences who are looking for something different. Often, the reason behind their underrated status is simply due to poor marketing, timing, or just being overshadowed by more popular shows.
1.2 How Netflix’s Algorithm Affects Visibility
Netflix’s recommendation algorithm can sometimes favor more mainstream options, leaving hidden gems buried beneath a mountain of popular titles. This often leads to talented shows failing to find their audience, despite offering top-notch writing, acting, and production values. As a result, some of the best Netflix original shows remain overlooked.
2. The 5 Underrated Netflix Series You Shouldn’t Miss
Here are five underrated Netflix series that are worth your attention. These shows might not have garnered the massive following of others, but they certainly deserve more recognition for their gripping plots, exceptional character development, and incredible performances.
2.1 The OA (2016-2019)
The OA is a fascinating blend of mystery, sci-fi, and drama, following the story of a young woman who mysteriously returns after being missing for seven years. With its mind-bending plot and a mix of supernatural elements, this series explores themes of identity, belief, and the afterlife. Despite a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim, it remains underrated, especially given its complex, genre-blending narrative.
The OA blends mystery and sci-fi with a thought-provoking storyline.
The series’ imaginative world-building and emotional depth make it a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and science fiction. Although The OA was canceled prematurely, it remains one of the most innovative shows Netflix has produced.
2.2 Dark (2017-2020)
Dark is a German sci-fi thriller that captivated audiences with its complex narrative about time travel, family secrets, and a mysterious small town. The series delves into themes of fate, destiny, and the consequences of time manipulation, making it a standout in the sci-fi genre.
Dark is a thrilling sci-fi series that explores time travel and family secrets.
With intricate plots and a large ensemble cast, Dark demands full attention and rewards its viewers with a masterfully woven storyline. Despite its praise, Dark never achieved mainstream popularity, making it one of Netflix’s most underrated offerings.
2.3 The Society (2019)
A modern twist on Lord of the Flies, The Society follows a group of teenagers who are mysteriously transported to a replica of their town, with no adults left behind. As the teenagers must navigate survival, leadership struggles, and morality, this show offers a fresh take on the dystopian genre.
The Society explores survival and social dynamics in a dystopian world.
Although it captured the interest of many viewers, The Society was unfortunately canceled after one season, leaving fans disappointed. Nevertheless, the intriguing plot and powerful performances from the young cast make this a must-see for fans of teen dramas and thrillers.
2.4 The 3rd Day (2020)
A psychological thriller that blends elements of horror and mystery, The 3rd Day tells the story of a man and woman who find themselves entangled in strange events on a mysterious island. With a surreal, eerie atmosphere, the show captures the tension of isolation and explores human nature in the face of a mysterious cult.
The 3rd Day was widely praised for its atmospheric tension, and the performances of Naomie Harris and Jude Law elevate the show’s impact. Despite its gripping narrative and psychological depth, it remains an underrated gem.
2.5 Unorthodox (2020)
Based on the memoir by Deborah Feldman, Unorthodox follows the story of a young woman’s escape from her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn, New York. With its delicate handling of cultural identity, religion, and freedom, the show is both emotionally intense and visually stunning.
Unorthodox tells a powerful story of escape and self-discovery.
Despite its critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Emmy nominations, Unorthodox didn’t achieve the massive recognition that many other shows did. Its profound emotional journey makes it one of the most important and underrated series on Netflix.
3. Why These Underrated Netflix Shows Deserve More Recognition
There’s no shortage of compelling narratives, exceptional character development, and top-tier production in the underrated Netflix series discussed above. These shows often get lost in the shuffle, but they have much to offer.
3.1 Unique Plotlines and Characters
One reason these shows are so appealing is their original storylines and complex characters. Shows like The OA and Dark explore new dimensions of storytelling, with deeply intertwined plots that require full attention. Their thought-provoking themes and layered narratives are precisely what make them stand out from mainstream fare.
3.2 High Production Values
Despite not being in the limelight, these underrated series have some of the highest production values available. From stunning visuals and cinematography in Unorthodox to the intense atmosphere in The 3rd Day, these shows have all the makings of a visually compelling experience, even if they didn’t make it to the top of Netflix’s trending page.
This concludes the first half of our exploration of the 5 underrated Netflix series worth watching. Stay tuned for the second half, where we’ll dive deeper into the challenges these shows faced in gaining recognition, and explore how to find even more hidden gems on Netflix that deserve your attention.
4. How Netflix’s Streaming Environment Affects Discoverability
While Netflix has revolutionized the way we consume entertainment, its vast catalog can sometimes make it challenging for underrated shows to stand out. With so many options available at the touch of a button, some hidden gems may not receive the attention they deserve.
4.1 Netflix’s Algorithm and Content Discovery
Netflix’s recommendation system is based on algorithms that promote shows users are more likely to watch based on their previous viewing habits. While this system is effective at surfacing popular content, it often limits the visibility of shows like The OA or The Society, which don’t always fit neatly into mainstream preferences.
This algorithmic prioritization means that some fantastic series may remain buried under Netflix’s massive recommendation engine, making them harder for new viewers to discover without external recommendations.
Netflix’s algorithm can often overshadow hidden gems.
4.2 The Importance of Word-of-Mouth
For many underrated Netflix series, word-of-mouth is a crucial factor in gaining visibility. As social media platforms and online forums become increasingly popular for discussions about TV shows, fans of hidden gems play a key role in spreading the word. Whether through Reddit discussions, Twitter trends, or YouTube reviews, these organic channels are vital for shows that don’t get massive marketing campaigns.
Shows like The 3rd Day and Unorthodox might not have generated widespread mainstream buzz, but positive recommendations from viewers and critics have made a difference in growing their fanbases.
5. How to Discover More Underrated Netflix Shows
If you’re looking to explore more underrated Netflix series that have flown under the radar, there are several ways to find hidden gems that Netflix’s algorithm might overlook.
5.1 Explore Niche Genres
One of the best ways to discover underrated shows is by exploring niche genres that interest you. Netflix often groups series into categories like foreign films, psychological thrillers, or indie dramas, which can lead you to shows that may not be part of the mainstream conversation.
If you enjoy darker themes, shows like Dark or The 3rd Day offer compelling narratives with rich character development that may not be immediately obvious in Netflix’s default recommendations.
5.2 Use External Sources for Recommendations
Another great way to discover hidden gems is by looking at external resources like review sites, blogs, and social media platforms. Websites like Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, and IMDb can provide in-depth reviews and recommendations based on critical reception, helping you discover shows that are critically acclaimed but not widely known.
In addition, following YouTube channels, Reddit threads, and Twitter influencers who specialize in Netflix recommendations can open your eyes to series you might not otherwise encounter.
6. Conclusion: Underrated Netflix Series Are Worth Your Time
While Netflix is home to many popular series, there are plenty of underrated gems waiting to be discovered. Shows like The OA, Dark, and Unorthodox offer compelling storytelling, intriguing characters, and high production quality that deserve more attention.
By exploring niche genres, reading external reviews, and seeking recommendations from fellow viewers, you can uncover some of the best underrated Netflix series. These hidden gems not only offer unique viewing experiences but also give you a chance to enjoy something fresh and original in a sea of popular content.
FAQs
What are some underrated Netflix series?
Some underrated Netflix series include The OA, Dark, The 3rd Day, Unorthodox, and The Society. These shows may not have received widespread attention but are highly regarded by those who have watched them.
Why are some Netflix series underrated?
A show may be considered underrated due to a lack of marketing, poor timing of release, or limited audience appeal. However, many of these series excel in storytelling, acting, and production but simply don’t get the visibility they deserve.
How can I find more underrated Netflix shows?
You can discover more underrated Netflix shows by exploring niche genres, reading external reviews, or looking for recommendations on social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and YouTube.
In conclusion, Netflix is filled with hidden gems that are waiting for you to discover. By stepping outside the mainstream options and diving into underrated series, you can find some of the most engaging and innovative shows available. Happy watching!
