Netflix, the giant in streaming TV shows and movies, offers an overwhelming selection that often makes choosing your next binge-watch a daunting task. To navigate this vast entertainment landscape, we've meticulously ranked the top 20 Netflix TV shows in 2019. This guide provides a snapshot of each show, making it easier to decide which ones deserve a spot on your watchlist. Dive in to uncover the standout series that captured viewers' hearts and dominated screens worldwide in 2019.
Discover Your Next Obsession: A Guide to the Best of Netflix
1. Stranger Things, Season 3
Summer in Hawkins brings new threats from the Upside Down, challenging the group's friendships and courage. The season intertwines personal growth with supernatural mysteries, deepening character arcs amidst 1980s nostalgia. This season, featuring a new mall setting, elevates the series with its thrilling narrative, emotional depth, and climactic battle against otherworldly forces. It's a masterful blend of horror, humor, and heart.
2. The Crown, Season 3
This season spans 1964 to 1977 with a new cast, exploring Queen Elizabeth II's reign during significant political and social change. Olivia Colman steps into the role of the queen, portraying her as she navigates the challenges of a modernizing Britain and evolving family dynamics. This season delves into historical events like the Apollo 11 moon landing and the Aberfan disaster, offering a nuanced look at the balance between duty and personal desire. The impeccable production and performances continue to captivate audiences.
3. Mindhunter, Season 2
The FBI's Behavioral Science Unit delves deeper into the psychology of serial killers, focusing on the Atlanta child murders. Agents Ford and Tench, alongside psychologist Wendy Carr, employ groundbreaking profiling techniques to understand and catch killers. This season broadens the narrative scope, offering a disturbing glimpse into real-life monsters while exploring the personal costs of such intensive work. Its historical detail and psychological drama blend remain intellectually engaging and chillingly captivating.
4. The Witcher, Season 1
Henry Cavill stars Geralt of Rivia in this epic fantasy series based on popular books and games. The narrative weaves together the fates of Geralt, a sorceress and a princess with a dangerous secret, set against a backdrop of political intrigue and dark magic. The season is celebrated for its complex characters, richly built world, and thrilling action sequences. It's a visually stunning saga that has quickly garnered a massive following for portraying heroism, destiny, and the grey areas in between.
5. Sex Education, Season 1
This British comedy-drama offers a candid and humorous take on teenage sexuality, seen through the eyes of Otis Milburn, an awkward teenager who starts an underground sex therapy clinic at his school. The show is praised for its refreshing honesty, diverse characters, and thoughtful exploration of issues facing today's youth. With standout performances, especially by Asa Butterfield and Gillian Anderson, it balances comedy with poignant moments, making it a hit among viewers.
6. BoJack Horseman, Season 6 Part 1
The first half of BoJack's final season addresses the consequences of the titular character's actions, focusing on themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the struggle for identity. This season combines dark humor with deep emotional storytelling, showcasing the complexities of its characters and their journeys toward self-acceptance. It sets the stage for the series' conclusion, reflecting on the impact of fame, addiction, and the search for happiness.
7. Ozark, Season 3
The Byrde family's descent into the criminal world deepens, with Marty and Wendy's relationship strained by power struggles and ethical dilemmas. This season ramps the stakes with political manipulations, cartel dynamics, and personal betrayals, highlighting the cost of their choices. The performances, especially by Laura Linney and Jason Bateman, are riveting, making "Ozark" a compelling study of morality and survival.
8. Russian Doll, Season 1
Natasha Lyonne co-created and stars in this innovative series about a woman who keeps dying and reliving the same night in an ongoing time loop. The show blends existential questions with biting humor and a mystery that unravels beautifully across the season. It's a metaphysical exploration of self, trauma, and connection, lauded for its originality, wit, and Lyonne's performance.
9. Dead to Me, Season 1
Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini form an unlikely friendship through grief in this dark comedy. The series deftly handles themes of loss, forgiveness, and dark secrets, with a twisty plot that keeps viewers guessing. Its success lies in the chemistry between the leads and the blend of humor with emotional depth, making it both heartrending and hilarious.
10. Unbelievable, Miniseries
This gripping drama, based on true events, follows the investigation of a serial rapist, juxtaposing the story of a young woman accused of lying about her rape with the detectives working to uncover the truth. The series is a powerful examination of the criminal justice system's treatment of victims, driven by outstanding performances from Kaitlyn Dever, Toni Collette, and Merritt Wever. "Unbelievable" is a harrowing and inspiring story of resilience and justice.
11. When They See Us, Miniseries
Directed by Ava DuVernay, this miniseries dramatizes the true story of the Central Park Five, five black and Latino teenagers wrongfully convicted of rape. It's a profound critique of racial injustice, the criminal justice system, and the media, showcasing the human cost of systemic bias and corruption. The emotional performances and powerful storytelling make it an essential and moving watch.
12. The Umbrella Academy, Season 1
Adapted from the comic book series, this show follows a dysfunctional family of adopted siblings with superpowers who reunite to solve the mystery of their father's death and prevent an apocalypse. Combining action, comedy, and drama elements, the series stands out for its unique characters, imaginative plot, and visual style. It's a quirky, engaging addition to the superhero genre, exploring family, destiny, and belonging themes.
13. You, Season 2
Joe Goldberg's obsessive tendencies resurface in Los Angeles, where he fixates on Love Quinn, encapsulating the dark side of love and obsession in the digital age. The season builds on the psychological thriller aspects, exploring Joe's complex psyche and past traumas. It's a disturbing yet fascinating narrative that critiques the romanticization of toxic relationships, making viewers question their sympathies.
14. The Kominsky Method, Season 2
Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin return as acting coach Sandy Kominsky and his agent Norman Newlander, navigating the challenges of aging in Hollywood with humor and grace. The series balances comedy with touching moments of friendship, loss, and the realities of getting older. Its sharp writing and strong performances, particularly from its lead actors, provide a poignant look at life's later stages.
15. The Dark Crystal, Season 1
Age of Resistance, Season 1: This prequel to the 1982 Jim Henson film is a technical marvel, using puppetry to bring the fantasy world of Thra to life. The series expands the original lore, blending magical storytelling with themes of resistance and environmentalism. It's a visually stunning, ambitious project that appeals to new viewers and longtime fans, celebrated for its creativity, complex narrative, and emotional depth.
16. Atypical, Season 3
This heartfelt series continues to follow Sam, a teenager on the autism spectrum, as he navigates the challenges of independence, relationships, and understanding his place in the world. The season deepens the exploration of family dynamics, personal growth, and acceptance, focusing on inclusivity and the diversity of human experience. It's lauded for its authentic portrayal of autism, strong character development, and warm humor.
17. Derry Girls, Season 2
Set in Northern Ireland during the 1990s, this "Derry Girls" season returns with more hilarious misadventures of Erin and her friends against the backdrop of the Troubles. The show combines sharp wit with a dose of history, exploring teenage life, friendship, and family. Its universal themes, relatable characters, and comedic timing make it a standout, offering laughter and a unique perspective on a specific time and place.
18. Lucifer, Season 4
Revived by Netflix, "Lucifer" Season 4 enriches its narrative, exploring Lucifer Morningstar's struggle with identity and divinity after Detective Chloe Decker learns of his true nature. The season introduces new celestial challenges, including Eve's arrival, complicating Lucifer's love life and moral dilemmas. Enhanced by Netflix's creative freedom, the series deepens its blend of humor, romance, and supernatural investigation. The cast excels, delivering character-driven stories that captivate and entertain.
19. Peaky Blinders, Season 5
The Shelby family faces new challenges as they navigate the financial crash of 1929, with Tommy Shelby confronting old and new enemies. This season deepens the crime drama's complex narrative, exploring power, loyalty, and ambition themes. Its stylish direction, compelling performances, and atmospheric setting continue to captivate audiences, solidifying its status as a gritty, engaging historical drama.
20. Queer Eye, Season 4
The Fab Five return to transform the lives of the deserving, offering makeovers that are as much about interior change as they are about exterior. This season continues to deliver emotional and inspiring stories, highlighting self-esteem, identity, and acceptance issues. The show's charm lies in its empathy, positivity, and the genuine connections formed, making it a feel-good series that champions love and self-care.
This curated list represents the diversity and quality of Netflix's offerings in 2019, showcasing a wide range of genres and stories that captivated audiences worldwide.
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