As we put together the current issue, the most watched TV show in Britain is Netflix’s ADOLESCENCE. This got us thinking: Netflix has a great history of limited series, what are some of the best? So this issue we recommend a few of them, with hopefully something for everyone. Who has Netflix. Who likes just one series of something. And isn’t a young child as most of these are strictly for adults. 

Here then are eight shows to add to your watchlist—some brand new, some you may have missed, all absolutely worth your time.

ADOLESCENCE

The most talked about TV show this year and probably the best. If you don’t know much you likely know that each episode is absurdly impressive and shot in just one take, no cuts. You might also know that stars the ever-wonderful Stephen Graham and that it focuses on a raw, messy, and brutal incident. Without going into too much of the specifics, perhaps the real strength of the show is how it refuses to pander to audiences: things are tough, and it doesn’t shy away from that reality, questions are asked, answers aren’t easily given up, and we see people in their most vulnerable with little in the way of comfort. A masterpiece and a vital watch for all adults.

BABY REINDEER

A psychological drama with an unsettling edge BABY REINDEER takes the concept of obsession and twists it into something darkly compelling. Based on real-life events, the series explores the blurred lines between fascination and fear, with gut-wrenching tension building from the first episode. If you’re drawn to stories about power, manipulation, and deeply flawed characters, this one’s a must-watch, just don’t expect it to be easy. 

ZERO DAY

TV shows don’t come much bigger than ZERO DAY starring Robert De Niro in his first leading TV role. This political thriller rarely goes where you expect it to, and the twisting and engaging sub-plots propel the series through each episode at a rapid pace. Throughout the series we get a gripping deep-dive into political paranoia, cyber warfare, and conspiracy at the highest levels of government. Clearly written and designed to hit many current political themes, it manages to cleverly straddle the line of being eerily relevant to the current world but also have just enough sense of the dystopian to not feel too-alarming. Just yet. 

BEEF

What happens when a petty road rage incident spirals into an all-consuming feud? BEEF is a darkly comedic drama that explores anger, resentment, and personal baggage in the most unpredictable ways. Starring Ali Wong and Steven Yeun, this series is both hilariously absurd and deeply moving, proving that even the smallest grudges can take on a life of their own. Expect brilliant performances and some unexpectedly profound moments as the series moves and develops in ways you could never anticipate. 

THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER

If modern horror is your thing, this reimagining of Edgar Allan Poe’s classic gothic tale is essential viewing. Brought to life by Mike Flanagan who was also responsible for THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE, THE HAUNTING OF BLY MANOR and the equally superb, MIDNIGHT MASS, THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER blends psychological horror, family drama, and supernatural chills into a beautifully eerie package. With sharp social commentary woven into its haunting visuals, this is horror with depth and a nasty edge. 

THE QUEEN’S GAMBIT

Yes, everyone was talking about THE QUEEN’S GAMBIT when it was released, but if you somehow missed it, now’s the time to catch up. Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a mesmerizing performance as chess prodigy Beth Harmon, whose rise to the top is as thrilling as any sports drama. Stylish, intelligent, and utterly addictive, this is a show that makes chess look like the most glamorous, high-stakes game in the world. If you enjoyed films like ROCKY, WHIPLASH, 8 MILE and BLACK SWAN, you’ll recognise the “tortured genius rises to the top” narrative and love every moment, 

WHEN THEY SEE US

Ava DuVernay’s WHEN THEY SEE US is not an easy watch, but it’s an essential one. Based on the true story of the Central Park Five, this powerful miniseries lays bare the failures of the justice system and the devastating impact on the wrongly accused young men. With incredible performances and deeply affecting storytelling, this is a show that lingers long after the credits roll and a vital commentary on modern America.

RIPLEY

Patricia Highsmith’s THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY has been adapted before, but this new take is a stylish and psychologically intense exploration of deception and ambition. (As an aside, this might be the best looking TV show I’ve had the pleasure to watch and I still think about individual shots and moments in the show frequently). With a brooding atmosphere and a protagonist you can’t quite trust, RIPLEY is a masterclass in slow-burning tension. Expect stunning cinematography, morally complex characters, and a story that keeps you guessing.