First launched as a DVD e-commerce platform in 1997, Netflix has evolved into the most-subscribed video-on-demand streaming service in the world. In early 2025, the company announced it had surpassed 300 million subscribers globally, after adding a record 18.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2024—totaling 41 million new subscribers for the year.
This success is driven by a mix of globally appealing originals like “Stranger Things” and localized productions that achieve worldwide acclaim, as seen with “Squid Game.” The same strategy applies to films, with titles like “Bird Box” and “The Platform” becoming international hits thanks to Netflix’s targeted yet expansive approach.
With such a vast library, choosing what to watch on a casual binge night can be overwhelming. Still, some titles consistently stand out. Here are 25 that never fail to entertain.
Narcos
IMDb
A crime drama that follows the rise and fall of notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar and the Medellín cartel in Colombia, renowned for its raw depiction of the drug trade and its far-reaching consequences.
Dark
Netflix
A German science fiction thriller that involves time travel, family secrets, and a small town’s interconnectedness across several generations. Noted for its intricate narrative and mind-bending time travel concepts.
The Queen’s Gambit
Netflix
A drama series that follows an orphaned chess prodigy on her quest to become a world-class player, all while grappling with addiction and inner turmoil. Widely praised for its storytelling, performances, and nuanced portrayal of the chess world.
Stranger Things
Netflix
A sci-fi horror series set in the 1980s, following a group of kids as they confront supernatural forces and uncover a parallel dimension known as the Upside Down. Created by the Duffer Brothers, it blends nostalgia, mystery, and suspense with a distinctly retro flair.
Cobra Kai
IMDb
A martial arts dramedy that picks up decades after the “Karate Kid” films, reigniting the rivalry between Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso. Celebrated for its nostalgic appeal, strong character arcs, and well-executed fight scenes.
Money Heist (La Casa de Papel)
IMDb
A Spanish heist crime drama centered around a group of robbers executing intricate heists on the Royal Mint of Spain and Bank of Spain. The show gained international acclaim for its intense plot and complex characters and has spun off various sequels and prequel series.
The Crown
IMDb
A historical drama portraying the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and significant events in British history. Created by Peter Morgan, the show is renowned for its accurate portrayal of historical events and compelling performances.
BoJack Horseman
IMDb
An animated series centered on BoJack Horseman, a washed-up sitcom star navigating fame, addiction, and existential despair. Acclaimed for its dark humor, emotional depth, and unflinching portrayal of mental health.
Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams
Netflix
If you’re familiar with Asian cinema, you know that director Joko Anwar is one of its most celebrated figures, renowned for his mastery across a wide range of genres. In 2024, he brought his brilliance to Netflix with “Joko Anwar’s Nightmares and Daydreams,” an anthology about ordinary people thrust into supernatural predicaments. The series follows characters who take extreme measures to protect their money, loved ones, or themselves, only to face unimaginable threats from otherworldly realms.
One Hundred Years of Solitude
IMDb
Gabriel García Márquez’s most acclaimed novel unexpectedly came to life in late 2024, yet it has garnered praise as if it had been on the platform for months. The show portrays the story of seven generations of the Buendía family in the magical town of Macondo. If you enjoyed the intricate connections and complex family ties in “Dark,” this is a must-watch.
The Haunting of Hill House
Netflix)
A horror drama series that follows a family as they confront traumatic events from their past linked to their haunted childhood home. Notable for its chilling atmosphere, compelling storytelling, and well-developed characters.
13 Reasons Why
Netflix
A drama series tackling sensitive topics like mental health and suicide, revolving around a high school student’s suicide and the aftermath. Generated discussion on important social issues but also faced controversy for its depiction of suicide.
The Helicopter Heist
Netflix
The failure of “The Helicopter Heist” to break into Netflix’s global Top 10 has left critics scratching their heads. This Swedish action-thriller miniseries dramatizes the real-life 2009 Västberga robbery in Stockholm, where a crew of thieves executed a daring helicopter raid, stealing nearly 39 million kronor (about $4.88 million) from a cash depot.
Love
Netflix
“Love” is an excellent comedy focusing on all the issues that go into a relationship. From meeting someone, convincing them to date you, and then being in a relationship. Gillian Jacobs plays the unpredictable drug addict Mickey Dobbs, while Paul Rust plays the nerdy but equally complex Gus Cruikshank. Together they should be a trainwreck but somehow work.
Peaky Blinders
Netflix
A historical crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, focusing on the rise of the Shelby crime family. Known for its stylish cinematography, strong performances, and gritty narrative.
Lucifer
Netflix
A fantasy procedural centered on Lucifer Morningstar, the Devil, who abandons Hell to run a nightclub in Los Angeles—and unexpectedly starts helping the LAPD solve crimes. Praised for its clever premise, sharp writing, and the magnetic performance of its lead.
Black Mirror
Netflix
An anthology series that delves into the dark side of technology and its impact on modern society. With each episode telling a standalone story, it offers a thought-provoking and often unsettling viewing experience.
Mindhunter
Netflix
A psychological crime thriller based on true events, following FBI agents as they probe the minds of serial killers to uncover what drives them. Praised for its intense psychological insight and chilling portrayals of real-life criminals.
Adolescence
Netflix
This title revolves around the arrest of 13-year-old Jamie Miller for the murder of a classmate. The series unfolds in gripping real time, with each episode filmed in a single take. If you love edge-of-your-seat, nail-biting dramas mixed with crime, this one’s a must-watch.
The Good Place
Netflix
A fantasy sitcom that explores ethics and the afterlife as a morally flawed woman wakes up in a seemingly perfect heaven. Celebrated for its sharp humor, thought-provoking themes, and clever plot twists.
The Umbrella Academy
Netflix
A superhero series about a dysfunctional family of adopted siblings, each with distinct powers, reunited to unravel a global mystery. Praised for its mix of superhero action, complex family dynamics, and darkly comedic tone.
Queer Eye
Netflix
A reality series featuring the “Fab Five” as they transform lives through makeovers in grooming, fashion, food and wine, culture, and design. Celebrated for its uplifting spirit, heartfelt moments, and meaningful impact on its participants.
Altered Carbon
Netflix
A cyberpunk sci-fi series set in a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, raising profound questions about identity, mortality, and the soul. Known for its striking visuals and intricate, thought-provoking narrative.
The Witcher
Netflix
A fantasy drama based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s book series, following Geralt of Rivia, a solitary monster hunter navigating a war-torn, magic-filled world. Acclaimed for its thrilling action, rich world-building, and Henry Cavill’s standout performance.
Breaking Bad
Netflix
A critically acclaimed drama that charts the descent of a high school chemistry teacher into a ruthless meth kingpin. Renowned for its gripping narrative, moral complexity, and masterful character development.
