Underrated Netflix Webseries: Discover Your Next Obsession
Netflix, the streaming behemoth, overflows with content. While blockbuster series dominate headlines, a wealth of hidden gems remain largely undiscovered. These underrated webseries offer compelling narratives, innovative storytelling, and exceptional performances, often exceeding the quality of their more popular counterparts. This guide aims to illuminate these overlooked treasures, providing detailed insights to help you find your next binge-worthy obsession.
1. Maniac (2018): A Psychedelic Journey into the Mind
Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga (of “True Detective” fame), “Maniac” is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating exploration of mental health and human connection. Emma Stone and Jonah Hill deliver career-defining performances as Annie Landsberg and Owen Milgrim, two strangers participating in a mysterious pharmaceutical trial promising to cure all mental ills.
The trial plunges them into a series of interconnected dream realities, each a meticulously crafted genre pastiche, from a 1940s film noir to a Tolkien-esque fantasy epic. These alternate realities force Annie and Owen to confront their deepest traumas and unresolved conflicts. The series masterfully blends dark humor, psychological drama, and surreal visuals to create a truly unique and unforgettable viewing experience.
Beyond its aesthetic brilliance, “Maniac” delves into complex themes of trauma, grief, and the search for meaning. The show’s depiction of mental illness is nuanced and empathetic, avoiding simplistic portrayals and instead highlighting the profound impact of past experiences on present realities. The chemistry between Stone and Hill is electric, their performances conveying a deep sense of vulnerability and connection amidst the chaotic dreamscapes.
Why it’s underrated: Its unconventional narrative structure and challenging themes might deter casual viewers. The series demands active engagement and a willingness to embrace its surreal nature.
2. Russian Doll (2019-Present): A Time Loop with Heart
Natasha Lyonne stars as Nadia Vulvokov, a cynical and chain-smoking software engineer who finds herself trapped in a time loop, reliving her 36th birthday party only to die each time in increasingly bizarre ways. As Nadia unravels the mystery behind her predicament, she encounters Alan Zaveri (Charlie Barnett), a similarly trapped individual grappling with his own existential crisis.
“Russian Doll” is more than just a clever time loop story. It’s a poignant exploration of trauma, self-destruction, and the importance of human connection. Nadia and Alan must confront their past mistakes and learn to forgive themselves and others in order to break free from the cycle.
Lyonne’s performance is captivating, injecting Nadia with a sardonic wit and vulnerability that makes her instantly relatable. The series is also notable for its sharp writing, dark humor, and its exploration of complex themes with surprising depth. The second season expands the time loop concept in intriguing ways, delving into family history and the legacy of trauma across generations.
Why it’s underrated: Its initial marketing may have pigeonholed it as a purely comedic series, overlooking its deeper thematic resonance.
3. Dark (2017-2020): A German Time-Traveling Mystery
This German-language series is a mind-bending, multi-generational mystery that rivals “Stranger Things” in its intricate plot and atmospheric setting. Set in the fictional town of Winden, Germany, “Dark” follows the disappearance of two young children, which unravels a complex web of secrets connecting four families across three different time periods: 1953, 1986, and 2019.
As the characters investigate the disappearances, they uncover a hidden network of caves and a time-traveling device that throws their lives into chaos. “Dark” is a masterclass in suspense, gradually revealing its intricate plot with each episode. The series explores complex themes of fate, free will, and the consequences of our actions across time.
Its intricate plot requires close attention, but the payoff is immense. The show’s atmospheric cinematography, haunting score, and compelling performances create a truly immersive and unforgettable viewing experience. The series also stands out for its philosophical depth, exploring the nature of time and the human condition.
Why it’s underrated: The German language and intricate plot can be intimidating for some viewers. However, the subtitles are well-written, and the effort required to follow the story is well worth it.
4. Alias Grace (2017): A Haunting Adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s Novel
Based on Margaret Atwood’s novel of the same name, “Alias Grace” tells the story of Grace Marks (Sarah Gadon), a young Irish immigrant working as a housemaid in 1840s Canada. Grace is convicted of the murder of her employer and his housekeeper, but she claims to have no memory of the events.
Dr. Simon Jordan (Edward Holcroft), a young psychiatrist, is hired to assess Grace’s sanity and determine whether she is truly guilty or a victim of circumstance. As Dr. Jordan delves into Grace’s past, he uncovers a web of secrets, betrayals, and repressed trauma.
“Alias Grace” is a haunting and atmospheric period drama that explores themes of gender, class, and the power of memory. Gadon delivers a tour-de-force performance as Grace, portraying her with a captivating blend of innocence and cunning. The series is meticulously crafted, with stunning costumes, sets, and cinematography.
Why it’s underrated: Its slow-burn narrative and focus on psychological drama may not appeal to viewers seeking instant gratification.
5. Atypical (2017-2021): A Coming-of-Age Story with a Unique Perspective
“Atypical” follows Sam Gardner (Keir Gilchrist), an 18-year-old on the autism spectrum who decides he wants to find a girlfriend. As Sam navigates the challenges of dating and relationships, his family members also face their own personal struggles.
The series offers a refreshing and nuanced portrayal of autism, avoiding stereotypes and showcasing Sam’s unique perspective on the world. “Atypical” is also a heartwarming and relatable coming-of-age story that explores themes of family, love, and self-discovery.
Gilchrist delivers a compelling performance as Sam, capturing his quirks and vulnerabilities with sensitivity and authenticity. The series also features strong performances from Jennifer Jason Leigh as Sam’s overprotective mother and Michael Rapaport as his well-meaning but sometimes clueless father.
Why it’s underrated: Its initial marketing may have downplayed its broader appeal, focusing solely on its depiction of autism.
6. Crazyhead (2016): A British Comedy with a Supernatural Twist
This British comedy-horror series follows Amy (Susan Wokoma), a young woman who can see demons. She teams up with Raquel (Cara Theobold), a self-proclaimed demon hunter, to fight the forces of evil.
“Crazyhead” is a darkly funny and action-packed series that blends horror elements with sharp wit and relatable characters. Amy and Raquel are an unlikely duo, but their friendship is the heart of the show. The series explores themes of mental health, female friendship, and the struggle to find your place in the world.
Wokoma and Theobold deliver standout performances, their chemistry creating a dynamic and hilarious partnership. The series is also notable for its clever writing and its willingness to take risks.
Why it’s underrated: Its short run (only six episodes) and niche genre blend may have limited its exposure.
**7. The End of the F*ing World (2017-2019): A Darkly Comic Road Trip
This British dark comedy-drama follows James (Alex Lawther), a self-proclaimed psychopath, and Alyssa (Jessica Barden), a rebellious teenager, as they embark on a road trip across England. James plans to kill Alyssa, but their journey takes unexpected turns as they confront their past traumas and develop a complicated relationship.
“The End of the F***ing World” is a darkly funny and emotionally resonant series that explores themes of alienation, mental health, and the search for connection. Lawther and Barden deliver captivating performances, their chemistry creating a compelling and unsettling dynamic.
The series is visually striking, with a distinctive aesthetic that complements its dark and quirky tone. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of indie pop and classic rock.
Why it’s underrated: Its dark themes and unconventional romance may not appeal to all viewers.
8. Unbelievable (2019): A Gripping True-Crime Drama
Based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning article, “Unbelievable” tells the story of Marie Adler (Kaitlyn Dever), a teenager who is sexually assaulted but is then accused of fabricating her story by the police. Years later, two female detectives (Toni Collette and Merritt Wever) investigate a series of similar rapes in different states and begin to suspect that Marie may have been telling the truth all along.
“Unbelievable” is a powerful and unflinching drama that explores the devastating impact of sexual assault and the systemic failures that often prevent victims from receiving justice. Dever delivers a heartbreaking performance as Marie, capturing her vulnerability and resilience. Collette and Wever are equally compelling as the detectives who refuse to give up on the case.
The series is meticulously researched and sensitively handled, avoiding sensationalism and focusing on the experiences of the survivors. “Unbelievable” is a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime or social justice.
Why it’s underrated: Its difficult subject matter may deter some viewers, but the series is ultimately a story of hope and resilience.
9. GLOW (2017-2019): A Sparkling Comedy-Drama About Women’s Wrestling
