Top 10 Netflix Original Series
10. The Haunting of Bly Manor
Full disclaimer, this series will break your heart. You will cry… a lot. It gets compared to Flanagan’s other instalment of The Haunting anthology, Hill House, because some fans were expecting this series to be just as scary. However, what people need to appreciate is that a haunting can mean a number of different things. While there are ghosts in this story, the series actually explores its characters being haunted by love. Bly Manor is a more gothic take on the horror genre, based on the novel The Turn of the Screw by Henry James, and follows a young au pair as she takes care of two young children who have recently suffered a tragic loss. As I said, it is utterly heartbreaking throughout, but it is an extremely beautiful series, so is worth the pain.
Created by Lauren Schmidt Hissrich
Since the series first aired, I have heard a number of people compare it to another TV fantasy epic, Game of Thrones. However, I think a much closer comparison would be to Lord of the Rings. This show is pure fantasy in the production design, the acting, and the characters themselves, which is no surprise given it was both a book and a video game before the series was made. We follow a witcher, Geralt of Rivia, on varying different quests, but with one ultimate goal. While he is, in a way, the titular character, the show also focuses on Yennefer, a powerful mage, and Ciri, a runaway Princess. The three characters are linked by destiny and must unite together. I definitely don’t think this will be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you appreciate fantasy then it doesn’t get much more genre-defining than this.
This wonderfully quirky comedy has only gotten more popular with each new series, and rightly so. It is a very modern telling of the classic coming-of-age narrative, which is what gives the show its appeal. We see the lives and relationships of teenagers as they figure out becoming young adults. However, we also follow their parents and how they cope with raising hormonal teenagers whilst dealing with their own trials and tribulations. Each character, even the least likeable ones, have something about them that makes you root for them. While romance is undeniably the central focus of the show, it is actually the beautiful and unexpected friendships which shine through. This is a loveable and uplifting show, certain to put you in a good mood.
Created by Liz Flahive & Carly Mensch
Unfortunately, this glorious show got cancelled right in the middle of its prime, but the three seasons that are available are nothing short of brilliant. With a spectacular ensemble of women leading this talented cast, carrying scenes filled with hilarity and drama equally, there's nothing this show doesn't have. I mean, come one, women wrestlers... in the 80s... what more could you want? The show has some really interesting commentary of the politics of the era, and of the acting industry in relation to gender and race, and it's all mixed in seamlessly with immensely funny comedy. Oh, and as if it couldn't get any cooler, it is based off a real 80s wrestling show of the same name. I am seriously going to need another network to pick this show up, because it is such a sore loss for TV now that it's gone.
Created by Hwang Dong-hyuk
No introduction needed for this smash hit. That being said, if you have been living under a rock this past year, the story follows Gi-hun, a divorced father who is having major money problems and is offered the opportunity to win a fortune by playing school games… with a dark twist. This one is for all you gore lovers out there. However, it isn’t all about the horror, as the series also creates the perfect narrative for the topic of economic struggle, addiction in all its forms, and the unexpected bonds the different players form as the series develops. This show is not for the faint of heart, and definitely not for children. Be prepared to dry your tears.
Another absolute knock out by Mike Flanagan, this series is a wonderfully unique take on the supernatural. Without giving too much away, the story takes place on a very small island where everyone knows everyone. When a new priest arrives, strange happenings occur which puts people’s religious faith into question. There are a number of other central themes and plot lines, but religion is at the forefront of everyone’s lives on the island. With an unquestionable standout performance from Hamish Linklater as the priest, this series is quite the breath of fresh air for the narrative of religion and supernatural myths. I truly believe Mike Flanagan can do no wrong, so there is nothing to lose in watching this very intriguing series.
Life’s ultimate question - “where do we go when we die?” - gets an interesting answer with this hilarious, beautiful series. We follow a group of unassuming misfits who find themselves in ‘The Good Place’ following their respective deaths, however, one person doesn’t believe she belongs there. This show perfectly encapsulates the ethics of life in a wonderfully eccentric way, filled with unlikely friendships, excellent plot twists, and a remarkable cast. The thing that I love and respect most about this show, is that it didn’t overstay its welcome. With a humble four seasons, it tells its story wonderfully and doesn’t feel like it is filled with anything unnecessary. The cast have an adorable chemistry fit a comedy of this style, portraying characters that you instantly fall in love with. 10/10 would recommend.
3. Orange is the New Black
This is yet another series that needs no introduction for Netflix fanatics. With a long run to boast about, and numerous awards in its name, Orange is the New Black will be on people’s radar for many years to come. If you have yet to watch the series, we follow many different characters and their time in women’s federal prison. The cast is a large ensemble oozing with talent in both comedy and drama alike, with the series’ main genre being a large debate topic during its run. While it has many funny moments, there is no denying that this series is pure drama, with many emotional storylines littered throughout. If you give this one a go, you’ll have diverse characters to fall in love with, and a handful of wonderful “villains” to hate too. Entertainment all round.
Created by Scott Frank & Allan Scott
Firstly, I highly recommend reading the book of the same name, written by Walter Tevis. In doing this, it will greatly increase your appreciation for this series, not that it isn’t exquisite without reading the book. I highly doubt I’m the only person who fell in love with chess while following the protagonist, Beth Harmon, and her love for the game. I still don’t understand the rules at all, but I see a beauty to it now that I didn’t before. Never have I been more surprised to be so invested in a series. It left me very pleasantly surprised, with a wonderful ensemble led by Anya Taylor-Joy. There is only one word to describe it - perfection.
1. The Haunting of Hill House
The predecessor to the aforementioned Bly Manor, The Haunting of Hill House is one of the most well-structured and beautifully told stories I have ever seen. Based on the book of the same name by Shirley Jackson, this interpretation tells the heartbreaking story of a family torn apart by their haunted house. While it is, primarily, a ghost story, the series’ underlying focus is on how the house effects each member of the Crain family throughout their lives, even after moving away. It aptly represents mental illness and the effects of childhood trauma, and wraps it up neatly in a paranormal horror story, with stunning performances by the entire cast. If you’re looking for a good scare and a good cry, give this amazing series a watch.
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