In the age of streaming giants and endless content, it’s easy for fantastic shows to get lost in the shuffle. But fear not, explorer of the small screen! We’re here to unveil some underrated series, those lesser-known gems that deserve a place on your watchlist.
1. The Good Place (2016-2020)
This quirky comedy takes the afterlife and flips it on its head. Eleanor Shellstrop, a not-so-good person, mistakenly ends up in a heaven-like utopia. What follows is a hilarious and heartwarming exploration of morality, growth, and the power of friendship.
2. Black Sails (2014-2017)
Ahoy, mateys! Set during the Golden Age of Piracy, Black Sails delves into the ruthless world of Captain Flint and his crew. It’s a thrilling and beautifully shot historical drama with complex characters and a surprising amount of heart.
3. Legion (2017-2019)
Buckle up for a mind-bending trip! Legion dives into the psyche of David Haller, a man diagnosed with schizophrenia who discovers he might be a mutant. Prepare for stunning visuals, a unique narrative style, and a show that isn’t afraid to get weird.
4. The IT Crowd (2006-2013)
This British sitcom is a cult classic for a reason. Set in the hilariously dysfunctional IT department of a large corporation, The IT Crowd follows the antics of socially awkward tech geniuses and their clueless manager.
5. The Good Doctor (2017-Present)
Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism, joins a prestigious hospital. Despite facing prejudice, Shaun uses his extraordinary medical talent and unwavering dedication to save lives. This heartwarming drama is both medically engaging and emotionally resonant.
6. Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency (2016-2017)
This show is like falling down a rabbit hole of the absurd. Based on the novels by Douglas Adams (The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy), Dirk Gently follows a holistic detective who believes everything is interconnected. It’s a hilarious and imaginative ride, but sadly cancelled after only two seasons.
7. Patriot (2017-2020)
A dark comedy with a deadpan sense of humor, Patriot follows John Keane, an introvert working for an intelligence agency. He’s sent undercover in Europe to prevent a nuclear incident, but his emotional baggage and general awkwardness make the mission hilariously difficult.
8. The OA (2016-2019)
This sci-fi mystery series follows Prairie Johnson, a blind woman who returns home after disappearing seven years ago. Now she can see, but she’s shrouded in secrecy and cryptic messages. The OA is a thought-provoking show cancelled after only two seasons, but its loyal fanbase continues to hope for a return.
9. Halt and Catch Fire (2014-2017)
This period drama dives into the world of the early personal computer revolution in 1980s Texas. It follows a team of ambitious individuals who create a groundbreaking computer, navigating the cutthroat world of tech giants and their own internal conflicts. Packed with fascinating characters and a glimpse into the birth of the modern tech world, Halt and Catch Fire is a hidden gem for fans of historical dramas and tales of innovation.
10. Pen15 (2019-Present)
Don’t let the cringe-worthy middle school title fool you. Pen15 is a hilarious and surprisingly poignant comedy that takes viewers back to the awkward and angst-ridden world of 2000s middle school. Following two best friends, Maya and Anna, the show captures the highs and lows of adolescence with sharp humor and a surprising amount of emotional depth.
Conclusion
With this diverse range of options, there’s truly something for everyone. So, the next time you’re craving a captivating story but feel lost in the sea of content, remember these hidden gems. Dive into a world of pirates, explore the complexities of the human mind, or revisit the awkward (and sometimes hilarious) days of middle school. After all, the best shows are often the ones you least expect. Happy streaming!
