The 45 best Netflix shows to watch in March 2023

Looking for the best Netflix shows to stream? You've come to the right place.

In this guide, you'll find 45 of the best TV series on the world's best streaming service. Each one has been handpicked by TechRadar's resident experts, too, so you know they all come with glowing recommendations.

To help you out further, we've grouped our choices together based on their genre. So, if you're after some tasty new dramas to stream, simply navigate to the drama section to find your next Netflix binge watch. You can thank us later.

Here, then, are the best shows to stream on Netflix in March 2023.

Best animated shows on Netflix

Arcane

Developed by Riot Games, Arcane is a prequel series set in the beloved world of League of Legends (LoL). Set before the events of the fan favorite MOBA, Arcane follows Vi, Jinx, Jayce, and other characters as they embark on their respective journeys towards becoming the heroes and villains of Riot's multiplayer game.

With its all-star cast, beautifully unique visuals from French studio Fortiche Productions, and a tale that's built on explosive action and heart breaking narratives, Arcane isn't just a show that services LoL fans. No matter if you're a diehard fan or a relative newcomer to the franchise, it'll wow you in equal measure. And, with a Arcane season 2 on the way, there will be more awesome story beats and animation for fans to check out soon.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

BoJack Horseman

Yes, Bojack Horseman is hilarious. Yes, it’s the best thing Will Arnett has done since Arrested Development. And yes, it should be the next thing you watch if you are into anthropomorphic comedy about a once great TV star who has fallen on hard times. It’s all of that, but it’s also a pretty accurate portrayal of depression and should be celebrated as such.

For those who are worried it may be too dark for them, fear not – there's loads of slapstick humour, word play, and stunning animation to keep everything balanced.

Seasons on Netflix: 6

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Based on CD Projekt Red's Cyberpunk 2077 videogame, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is an anime spin-off series that delivers gratuitous violence, high-octane action, and mature themes in spades. The 10-episode series comes from Studio Trigger, a Tokyo-based studio whose other fan favorite works include Little Witch Academia, Star Wars: Visions, and Kill la Kill. 

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is a majestic looking show packed with fraught relationships, frenetic and brutally gory set-pieces, and thought provoking material that ask what it means to be human in a sci-fi dystopia riddled with immeasurable sociopolitical issues.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Love, Death & Robots

Like most (if not all) anthologies, the quality of Adult CG animated anthology Love, Death and Robots varies between episodes. But taken as a larger work, this show has a lot to give. The ideas vary wildly between comedy, horror, action, and drama, with a dark touch at the heart of the series – what happens if a home-cleaning unit starts trying to kill its owner? What happens if a yoghurt tries to secure world domination? Sometimes, an episode is as simple as a woman being on the run from a killer after witnessing a horrible murder.

The episodes are super short, so you'll fire through it in a weekend if you can stomach the good and bad (though mostly bad) things that happen to its eclectic cast of characters. Love, Death and Robots offers some of the best sci-fi thrills on Netflix. And, if you're keen to learn our thoughts on each entry, this handy ranked list of every Love, Death and Robots story should be top of your agenda.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

Best comedy shows on Netflix

Community

This NBC comedy favourite returned to Netflix UK in 2020 after an extended absence. This sitcom about a community college study group starts as a more conventional show about its ramshackle educational setting, but reaches the next level when it starts experimenting with pop culture parodies and high-concept episodes.

If you're new to the show, keep watching until season 1's action extravaganza 'Modern Warfare', which firmly establishes Community's identity for later years. Some seasons are fantastic (2, 3 and 5), some are just quite good (1 and 6) and one is worth avoiding entirely (4). 

Seasons on Netflix: 6

Murderville

Based on a BBC Three TV show called Murder in Successville, Murderville follows Will Arnett's eccentric detective Terry Seattle as he looks to solve a new murder-mystery case in the series' six episodes.

The major twist on the comedy whodunit show is Seattle teams up with a new celebrity in each episode. Aside from a brief rundown about the case that they need to solve, Seattle and his guest star partner have no script to read from, either. In order to solve the crime, then, they must improvise – a situation that bears plenty of comedy fruit for viewers to lose themselves in. A Holiday-themed special called Who Killed Santa Clause? was released in December 2022.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Russian Doll

Orange Is The New Black's Natasha Lyonne stars in this dark comedy as Nadia, a wisecracking New Yorker who keeps dying and reliving her 36th birthday party in a surreal time loop – much like Groundhog Day. 

With its cynical and witty examination of living and dying, Russian Doll switches rapidly between laugh-out-loud hilarity and devastating sadness, all the while exploring such an existential topic through a sci-fi lens. It's a must-watch and one of the best Netflix shows to date.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Seinfeld

Seinfeld is a show about friends Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer, and the various preposterous social situations and awkward encounters that make up their lives. Famously known as a sitcom about nothing, it goes against the feel-good underpinning of its '90s contemporaries and insists its characters never learn any lessons.

That means it's still wickedly funny years later. The first two seasons of Seinfeld are a bumpy ride, but from season 4 onwards there's never a bad episode. Check out our best Seinfeld episodes for recommendations on our favorites.

Seasons on Netflix: 9

Sex Education

Sex Education feels like a beautiful culmination of Netflix’s push for progressive and diverse programming. Set in the picturesque British countryside, itfollows the misadventures of the students, faculty, and parents of Moordale Secondary School as they navigate the turbulent waters of sexuality. 

The show has resonated deeply with fans thanks to its balance of heart warming character work and informative approach to topical issues such as varied sexual identities, gendered power structures, family dynamics, and much more. Gillian Anderson and Asa Butterfield lead a stellar cast of fresh faces in this unmissable deep dive into the various ways we express ourselves as sexual beings. Sex Education season 4 is currently in development, so we'll be seeing more of one of the best Netflix shows again soon.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

The IT Crowd

Looking for a sitcom stuffed full of quintessential British humor? Look no further than The IT Crowd.

The four season extravaganza, which aired between 2006 and 2010 on UK TV network Channel 4, is packed with brilliant jokes and sequences that have been immortalized in gifs and memes in the years that have followed. Seen that gif of a fire extinguisher on fire? It's from The IT Crowd. Or the one where someone shouts "I made a mistake!"? Yep, that's from The IT Crowd, too. If you're a fan of geeky, computer-based jokes and are looking for a show you can binge in an entire weekend – there are only 24 episodes of 30 minutes apiece, plus an hour long special to watch – this'll tide you over and then some.

Seasons on Netflix: 4 (plus that 60-minute special)

That '90s Show

Looking for a blast of sitcom nostalgia? That '90s Show, a follow-up to acclaimed series That '70s Show, might be the tonic for you.

Set during the summer of 1995, the show focuses on Leia Forman – daughter of That '70s Show's Eric Forman and Donna Pinciotti – as she bonds with numerous other Wisconsin-based teens. The series' stand out stars are Red and Kitty Forman (played once more by Kurtwood Smith and Debra Jo Rupp), though, with Leia's grandparents acting as the glue that hold the whole schtick together.

It takes a few episodes to get running, but That '90s Show, which has been renewed for a second season, delivers some heart-warming laughs and plenty of nostalgic moments for fans of the original to enjoy.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Best crime shows on Netflix

Better Call Saul

How do you follow up on one of the biggest shows in history? This is how. Better Call Saul is a prequel masterclass to the famous Breaking Bad, filling in the murky backstory of the garishly-dressed hustler lawyer, Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman, and gradually crafting characters engrossing, unpredictable, and engaging enough to justify its existence in its own right.

This tale of Jimmy's descent into the criminal, drug-infested circles of Albuquerque takes place eight years before that of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, and is often slower and less action-packed than Breaking Bad.

Seasons on Netflix: 6

Breaking Bad

Arguably one of the best TV shows ever made, Breaking Bad is a stunning piece of work that every TV aficionado should stream at least once in their life.

Following Walter White's journey from insipid chemistry tutor to crystal meth criminal overlord is a fascinating watch in its own right, but it's the show's other major players (and how their arcs are affected by Walter's increasingly unhinged state) that make Breaking Bad an instant classic. You'll fall in love with Jesse Pinkman, have a love-hate relationship with Skyler White, marvel at Gus Fring's menacing persona, and wonder what on earth happened to Huell. A spellbinding piece of television that deserves all the plaudits it continues to get.

Seasons on Netflix: 5

Kaleidoscope

Netflix loves experimental content – and Kaleidoscope is the latest entry in the streamer's burgeoning back catalog.

Kaleidscope stars Giancarlo Espositio (The Mandalorian, Breaking Bad) as Leo, a criminal mastermind who leads a team of no good-but-lovable individuals in a heist 25 years in the making. The twist? Viewers are randomly assigned an order to watch Kaleidoscope's episodes in, giving you a unique, non-linear experience. Will you solve its engrossing puzzle before you reach its final episode?

Once you're done, be sure to check out our Kaleidoscope ending explained article for the lowdown on each character's fate, the possibility of a second season, and more.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Mindhunter

David Fincher is no stranger to Netflix, since he directed the first ever episode of House of Cards, but Mindhunter is Fincher going ... well, full Fincher. It's based on John Douglas' book of the same name and charts the life of an FBI profiler whose job it is to track serial killers. It's set in the '70s and, later, the early '80s, and sees its trifecta of lead characters interviewing famous serial killers in often tense encounters.

Fincher is extremely hands-on, too, directing four episodes of season one and three of season two. Unfortunately, season 3 is almost certainly not happening, so don't expect more episodes at any point.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Money Heist

Don't let the strangely goofy name put you off. Money Heist, or La Casa del Papel as it's known in Spanish-speaking countries, is a thrilling heist drama about a group of criminals. Brought together by an enigmatic figure called The Professor to rob the Royal Mint of Spain, Money Heist is full of dense characterization, big twists, and career-making performances in an unusual and clever heist show that'll grip you right away. 

While it's been a huge hit with Spanish-speaking viewers, Money Heist has found a big audience in English-speaking nations, too. Whatever you do, though, make sure you switch the default dub off and listen to the original Spanish audio with subtitles. It'll add to the viewing experience, trust us.

Seasons on Netflix: 3 (divided into five parts)

Ozark

Netflix's Breaking Bad-esque family crime thriller was popular before the pandemic – then the arrival of a new season in 2020 seemed to supercharge interest in the show. 

Jason Bateman plays Marty Byrde, a financial advisor who drags his family to the Missouri Ozarks in order to launder hundreds of millions of dollars, and keep a cartel boss off his back. Laura Linney plays his wife, Wendy, who arguably develops more than any other character over the course of its twist-heavy run. It's not always an easy viewing experience, but Ozark is a solid prestige drama with a great ensemble cast.

Seasons on Netflix: 4

Best drama shows on Netflix

Bridgerton

This bold and sexually-charged Netflix period drama, based on Julia Quinn’s romance novels, follows a coterie of young socialites as they navigate a season of balls, betrothals, and betrayals in 1813 London. Oh, and they attempt to outmanoeuvre the mysterious Lady Whistledown, whose ‘gossip sheets’ are able to make or break a debutante’s reputation overnight.

It’s largely a blast, with sharp screenwriting, costumes, and backdrops bursting with colour, as well as playful covers of Taylor Swift or Ariana Grande on period-appropriate instruments. Its diverse casting is a relief, too, underlining Bridgerton’s willingness to modernise and shake up an often stuffy genre. It’s not all smooth sailing, particularly in its troublesome treatment of sexual assault in one unfortunately memorable episode in season 1. Still, is inclusion in our best Netflix shows list is a necessity. 

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Cobra Kai

Once a YouTube original, Netflix snapped up the rights to Karate Kid continuation TV show Cobra Kai and turned it into a smash hit. Set 34 years after Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) was defeated by Danny LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), the former opens the Cobra Kai dojo once more to teach a new generation of kids how to fight. This sparks Johnny and Danny's old rivalry, and the action spins out from there.

If you love Karate Kid, this show is a lot of fun, and both its leads are in surprisingly great condition considering they're each performing fight stunts in their fifties. It's truly one of the best Netflix shows around and it'll end with its sixth season, which was recently greenlit.

Seasons on Netflix: 5

Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

Based on true events, Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story is a truly unsettling watch that many Netflix subscribers have been shocked by.

The shocking crime biopic dramatizes events where infamous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer gruesomely murdered 17 innocent victims – and got away with doing so for nearly 15 years, despite the increasingly desperate and vociferous pleas of those who knew what he had done.

Unsurprisingly, it's a very grim and deeply disturbing watch. Evan Peters delivers a discomforting performance as Dahmer, with the show's supporting cast equally captivating as the individuals swept up in this macabre tale of human cruelty, dereliction of duty, and broken sociopolitical systems.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Ginny and Georgia

How would you react to finding out that your mother is a murderer, especially if you're a teenager who's trying to figure, well, everything out about life? That's the basic premise of Ginny and Georgia, a dark comedy-drama series that's proven to be very popular among Netflix viewers.

It's a show often weighed down by the scope of its ambition, but it's nonetheless entertaining to watch. Ginny and Georgia's multidimensional characters, plus the show's underlying themes, help it to stand out from similarly positioned series. One to try out if you're a fan of You or The Gilmore Girls.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Outer Banks

Outer Banks wasn't expected to do much on Netflix when it originally debuted in April 2020. However, the teen mystery drama series has become a major hit for the streaming giant, particularly among 18-25 year olds.

It's easy to see why, too. Its attractive cast, intriguing synopsis (and subsequently interesting story arcs and character development), and thrilling action-adventure sensibilities have helped it become a Netflix mainstay. Unsurprisingly, given its popularity, a fourth season has already been greenlit.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

Squid Game

Squid Game is Netflix's biggest TV show ever, breaking all kinds of records that even Stranger Things can't beat. This South Korean drama comes from the mind of director Hwang Dong-hyuk, and follows a group of indebted citizens invited to risk their lives in a mysterious survival game. 

Given the excited furore that has erupted around the show, you probably knew that already. Like Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite before it, Squid Game plays on the concept of class division as a catalyst for violence, satirizing reality television by having 456 contestants duke it out in a series of child-friendly games with deadly twists. It definitely leans on tropes first established by Battle Royale (which itself inspired The Hunger Games series), but this show is nonetheless an original and exhilarating way to while away your evenings. 

Squid Game season 2 in currently in development, as is a satirical series (from original creator Hwang Song-hyuk) about its actual development, so one of the best Netflix series of all-time will return in multiple capacities.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Sweet Tooth

This post-apocalyptic fantasy series is about a half-human, half-deer boy who travels across the ruined world with a hardened protector – searching for a new life amid the ruins of America. If you're in the mood for something that just about counts as warm family viewing but has an edge, don't miss Sweet Tooth. If you enjoy it, check out Jeff Lemire's wonderful comics that the show is based on afterwards.

It became a monster hit for Netflix and, unsurprisingly, Sweet Tooth season 2 is on the way.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

The Crown

This wildly popular show charts the British Royal Family's history throughout Queen Elizabeth II's seven-decade reign, with Peter Morgan on showrunning duties. At £100 million for its first two seasons, it was one of the most expensive TV series ever made, which means there's enough pomp and ceremony to keep those pining for a Downton Abbey replacement happy.

The Crown season 5 sees Elizabeth Debicki and Dominic West take center stage as Diana and Charles – and controversially explores the breakdown on their relationship, as well as the gripping drama surrounding the British Royals. It's as engrossing as ever, and six seasons are planned in total. Imelda Staunton will play the late Queen Elizabeth in the series' final season, as she does in season 5, in one of the best Netflix shows ever made.

Seasons on Netflix: 5

The Lincoln Lawyer

Based on Michael Connolly's 2008 novel series, The Lincoln Lawyer stars Manuel Garcia-Ruffalo as Mickey Haller, a defence attorney (and recovering addict) who picks up legal cases across Los Angeles from the back of his Lincoln Town car.

The show released to little fanfare but it went on to become one of the best Netflix shows of 2022. Just like its protagonist, The Lincoln Lawyer has become something of an underdog in the streaming world. No wonder it's been renewed it for a second season and is considered one of the best Netflix shows around.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

The Queen's Gambit

This miniseries is a real treat. While the subject of chess might not sound exciting, The Queen's Gambit manages to weave it together with a tale of self-actualization, romance, and drug abuse. Anya Taylor-Joy stars as Beth Harmon, an orphan trained to play chess by a talented janitor, before she challenges the very male-dominated chess scene with her skills. Essentially, her talents land her a slightly better life, but not without a price. 

Even if you don't really know how to play chess, these competitive scenes are exciting to watch, and Taylor-Joy does a great job of bringing to life a character whose exceptional talents hide the fact that she's constantly grappling with addiction. Seven episodes is just the right number and it's easily one of the best Netflix shows ever made.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Top Boy

Executively produced by Canadian Grammy-winning artist Drake, Top Boy is a gritty and grounded crime drama about gangs vying for control of London's streets in the show's fictional and escalating drug war. It's an at-times harrowing watch, but one that feels necessary as it shines a spotlight on the drugs trade in London and how similar criminal empires exist across the globe. 

Currently, Netflix only has the rights to the two seasons it's developed, so you'll have to look elsewhere for the two seasons that previously (and exclusively) aired on Channel 4 in the UK. A third and final season has been announced, so get caught up on seasons 1 and 2 ahead of its last outing.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Best fantasy shows on Netflix

Shadow and Bone

Netflix has enjoyed plenty of success with its fantasy TV offerings in recent times. Shadow and Bone, then, had plenty to live up to in a genre that also contains The Witcher, but it more than holds its own with an adventurous and twisting plot, investable characters, and lots of drama.

It can take a couple of episodes to get into Shadow and Bone, and there could have been a bit more in the way of action. Once you're hooked by its story and characters, though, it's a world you can easily get lost in – and one you'll want to. Shadow and Bone season 2 arrives on March 16.

Seasons on Netflix: 1 

The Sandman

The Sandman is a stunning example of how a legendary comic book series – or any reading-based material – should be adapted. Based on Neil Gaiman's iconic dark fantasy works, it tells the tale of Morpheus (Tom Sturridge), aka Dream/the titular Sandman, one of seven immortal beings called the Endless and ruler of the Dream Dimension, who sets out to retrieve his magical items and restore his kingdom to its former glory after 100 years of captivity on Earth.

The Sandman's story may sound pretty simplistic, but it's so much more than that. It weaves a multi-narrative tapestry full of thrilling drama, captivating characters, fantasy-based horror, and rich thematic resonance.  Netflix has renewed The Sandman for a second season.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

The Witcher

The Witcher is a TV adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski's best-selling books, which have also been adapted into a series of popular games. Henry Cavill plays monster hunter Geralt of Rivia in a story that spans decades and wars between nations. And, with season 2 uniting him with other fan favorite characters from the novels, the show's second outing is even better than the first.

The Witcher doesn't quite feel like 'prestige' TV in the way Game of Thrones tried to be, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's an enjoyable, funny, action-packed and dramatic fantasy series that'll delight fans and more casual viewers. The Witcher season 3 has finished filming and will launch on Netflix in summer 2023, although it'll be Henry Cavill's last appearance – he won't return for The Witcher season 4.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Best history shows on Netflix

Vikings Valhalla

Set 100 years after events depicted in Vikings, the joint History Channel-Prime Video series, Vikings Valhalla focuses on the final decades of the Viking era, which will culminate in their final defeat during the Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066.

Netflix's quasi-sequel doesn't reinvent much of what viewers will have previously seen. However, if you were a fan of Vikings' historical drama, regular clashing of metal, and study of character and sociopolitics, Vikings Valhalla is worth checking out. And so is our season 1 chat with the show's cast, as well as our exclusive season 2 talks with showrunner Jeb Stuart and the series' main actors. Season 3 has been confirmed by Netflix, too.

Seasons on Netflix: 2

Best reality shows on Netflix

Bling Empire

Bling Empire is a reality TV show that follows a number of wealthy Asian socialites who enjoy the lavish lifestyle on offer in one of the US' most prestigious cities. Think of it as a real-life version of acclaimed movie Crazy Rich Asians, and you'll get the idea.

We admit that Bling Empire isn't our idea of a good time, but it must be doing something right (or, rather, be popular enough) to carry on being renewed. The series' first spin-off – Bling Empire: New York – is available to stream now, too, so reality TV fans have got more drama-based shenanigans to pour over.

Seasons on Netflix: 3 (4 if you include the New York spin-off)

Best rom-com shows on Netflix

Emily in Paris

This rom-com series is sure to scratch that dramedy itch for fans of a certain disposition.

Lily Collins stars as the titular Emily Cooper, an aspiring marketing executive who moves to Paris (how surprising) to provide an American perspective for French marketing firm Savoir. During her stay in the capital, Emily struggles to navigate her work, love, and social lives, all the while dealing with the culture shock of living in a European nation.

Emily in Paris' critical reception has steadily declined with each season, but it remains a big hitter for Netflix. One of the best Netflix shows (for certain viewers, anyway) to load up no matter what time of year it is.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

Heartstopper

Based on Alice Oseman's graphic novel series of the same name, Heartstopper is a romantic coming-of-age tale that's been hailed as one of the best Netflix series of recent times.

Heartstopper stars Joe Locke as Charlie Spring, a gentle schoolboy who strikes up an unlikely friendship with Kit Connor's rugby-obsessed Nick Nelson. It isn't long before the pair realize that a blossoming romance is developing between them, however, forcing them to confront (and accept) who they are and what they want out of life and a relationship.

It's an empathetic, sweet, relatable, and emotional tale about self-discovery, friendship, teen love, and queerness. Based on its immense popularity, it seems that Heartstopper is worth the hype. Good job that Heartstopper seasons 2 and 3 are on the way.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Best sci-fi shows on Netflix

Manifest

After its cancellation over on US network NBC, Netflix picked up the rings to this cult classic sci-fi supernatural series so fans (and the cast) could get plot and character closure in a fourth and final season.

After their flight experiences some brief but significant turbulence, the passengers on board Montego Air Flight 828 land in New York to find five and a half years have shockingly passed – with their family, friends, and the media presuming them dead.

Given its parallels to another supernatural-style show in Lost, it's unsurprising why Manifest has accrued a devout following since its September 2018 debut. It's full of compelling twists and turns, with Manifest's major players trying to get to the bottom of the mystery behind their disappearances. Season 4 part 1 – comprises 10 episodes – is available now, while part 2 arrives at a later date.

Seasons on Netflix: 1 (currently, season 4 is the only one Netflix has the rights for)

Best spy series on Netflix

Treason

Everyone loves a good spy movie or TV show – but what about a family drama dressed up as a espionage thriller miniseries?

That's Treason's calling card. Starring Charlie Cox (Daredevil), Treason tells the tale of MI6 deputy chief Adam Lawrence, who goes on the run with his family when his past catches up with him, which threaten his wife and kids' safety and makes him an enemy of the state.

Treason has enough narrative twists and turns (and other subversive elements) to make it compelling, while its cast are all on great form. It feels a tad undercooked in some areas but, if you're a fan of James Bond movies and other spy-centric productions, Treason will fill that espionage genre void in your life.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Best superhero shows on Netflix

The Umbrella Academy

Based on the comic books written by My Chemical Romance's Gerard Way and illustrated by Gabriel Bá, The Umbrella Academy is Netflix's self-developed superhero original. And it's a fantastic watch to boot.

After 43 babies are born to women who showed no signs of pregnancy, seven are adopted by billionaire Sir Reginald Hargreeves, who trains them to save the world using their powers. After the family becomes estranged, they are reunited once more when their father dies and are forced to come to terms with their past and the danger that lurks in their future. 

Starring Elliot Page and an amazing ensemble, The Umbrella Academy is flamboyant, dark, and gratifyingly violent: all the ingredients you need for a great superhero series. Read our spoiler-free review on the show's third season before finding out why one of the best Netflix shows is only returning for one final season.

Seasons on Netflix: 3

Best supernatural shows on Netflix

1899

An epic, supernatural horror period drama, 1899 comes from the creators of Dark, a criminally underrated sci-fi mystery thriller that might be one of the best Netflix series of all-time (depending on who you talk to).

Dark will be given a run for its money with 1899 in the "what the heck is going on!?" stakes, too. It's a spectacularly twisty and turny story, which sees the passengers of a London steamship – the Kerberos – encounter a mysterious ship adrift in the open sea. The plot and character arcs that play out will have you guessing about its wider puzzle right up until its final episode, which is unfortunately its last entry – 1899 has been cancelled after a single season.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Lockwood & Co

Based on Jonathan Stroud's book series of the same name, Lockwood & Co is a supernatural detective series that's far more thrilling, dramatic, and spooky than it deserves to be.

Bridgerton alumnus Ruby Stokes stars as Lucy Carlyle, a psychic-skilled teenager who joins an independent ghosthunting start-up – the titular Lockwood & Co – to, well, fight ghosts. Joining forces with the charismatic and mysterious Anthony Lockwood (Cameron Chapman) and socially awkward researcher George Karim (Ali Hadji-Heshmati), Lucy soon discovers that The Problem – the 50-year-old cause behind the emergence of ghouls and spirits – is far more wide-ranging and complex than everyone realizes.

In our Lockwood & Co review, we called it "ghoulishly good fun", adding it's "one of Netflix's better eldritch-tinged TV series". Read our chat with its showrunner and main cast, too, to find out why Lockwood & Co is more than a mere mash-up of Sherlock, Doctor Who, and Ghostbusters.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Midnight Mass

Midnight Mass is about a young man (Zach Gilford) who returns to his secluded island home of Crockett to serve a parole sentence. At the same time, a new priest (Hamish Linklater) arrives just as miraculous events start occurring across the island – leading the whole community to embrace religion in an unprecedented fashion. Something dark, however, lurks beneath the surface of this place.

There's a touch of Wicker Man-esque folk horror to this series, which honestly takes a little too long to start getting scary (three episodes, in fact), but it's well worth binging this miniseries. Even though some of its discussions around religion are entirely played out, the characterization here is sharp – and Linklater absolutely steals scenes as a new community leader who you don't feel like you can trust. 

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Stranger Things

Stranger Things is a brilliant homage to '80s pop culture. Leaning heavily on Steven Spielberg, John Carpenter and Stephen King – so much King, in fact – the story revolves around a small town, a group of friends, a missing person, and a dodgy science lab. Writing anything else would give away the myriad twists in a show that is full of creepy fun, superhero-esque action, thrilling mysteries, and devilishly gruesome horror.

Work on Stranger Things season 5 is underway, which will be the mainline series' final installment. It's one of the best Netflix shows ever and, once you're hooked, we're sure you'll agree.

Seasons on Netflix: 4

Wednesday

Positioned as a pseudo-sequel to the beloved live-action Addams Family movies, Wednesday is a gothic, sinister, and comedy-based sleuth-style show that's become the second most-watched Netflix English language show of all-time. Unsurprisingly, a second season is all but confirmed.

Jenna Ortega (Scream VI) stars as the titular character, who must use her quirky skillset to solve a murder mystery plot and a secret concerning her own family at Nevermore Academy, all the while trying to fit in with her classmates and deal with the plight of being a teenager. No pressure, then.

Ortega revels in her role as the antisocial but intelligent Wednesday, though some critics have suggested its teen romance and murder mystery fare are slightly formulaic. Still, it's a terrific watch if you're a fan of The Addams Family, dark comedy, or Tim Burton (who directs the series).

Seasons on Netflix: 1

Best thriller series on Netflix

The Watcher

From acclaimed creator Ryan Murphy, The Watcher is the superb addition to Netflix's thriller-centric back catalog.

Inspired by true events, it tells the story of the Brannock family, who begin receiving regular, ominous letters from someone calling themselves 'the Watcher' after the family moves into their new New Jersey home. As they become increasingly concerned about the anonymous individual, sinister neighborhood secrets start to make themselves known, threatening the Brannocks' safety and sanity.

The Watcher is packed with spooky jump scares, taut thriller moments, and foreboding and creeping sense of terror. It's arguably not as strong as some of Murphy's other TV offerings, but its unsettling nature makes for a pleasing rollercoaster of emotions.

Seasons on Netflix: 1

You

You tells the story of Joe Goldberg, a New York bookstore manager who becomes infatuated with aspiring writer Guinevere Beck. What ensues is a toxic behavioral journey where Goldberg removes any obstacle in his way in his pursuit of Beck – a chase that winds up turning Goldberg into a city-jumping, identity-changing individual who constantly tries to escape his past, only to find himself falling into old habits.

Just know that this knotty, twist-heavy and sometimes outrageous show is perfect if you're in the right frame of mind for it. Somehow, despite focusing on a character that's so toxic on paper, it manages to keep you engaged with every beat.

Seasons on Netflix: 4