The sad fact of the matter is that, with all of the available streaming services, network offerings, and major studio releases, there’s actually no way to keep up with the content that’s pouring out of Hollywood right now. We know we’re missing great things, but unless our friends or family start talking about them and push them our way, how will we know?
That’s where we come in – we’ve rounded up 14 great shows that have probably flown under your radar until now, so take a gander and maybe add a few to your to be watched list!
14. The Crown (Netflix)
This historical drama retells the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, and as the series progresses, we get to really sink into the mid-century era, meaning the vibe is extremely similar to a Queen’s Gambit feel.
You’ll get it all with this one – romance, political rivalries, and great performances – and it’s pretty much all real.
13. Emma (HBO Max)
If you loved the star of The Queen’s Gambit, Anna Taylor-Joy, you’ll be in luck with this newest remake of Jane Austen, because it stars Taylor-Joy in the titular role.
For those of you who haven’t read the book (or seen Clueless), the story follows Emma as she uses her matchmaking skills to benefit her friends and family, usually doing more harm than good.
Even if you’ve seen remakes before, this one is fresh and feels new enough to make you smile.
12. Alias Grace (Netflix)
Margaret Atwood wrote the book, and the miniseries follows her character Grace Marks, an Irish immigrant convicted of murder.
The story is told largely through flashbacks, but is done well enough to avoid feeling busy or confused.
Like most of Atwood’s work it can be a bit dark, but worth it.
11. Godless (Netflix)
Another miniseries, this one revolves around an 1880s town in New Mexico.
A mining accident killed most of the men in La Belle, leaving it governed and populated mostly by women.
When Roy Goode seeks refuge there from known outlaw Frank Griffin and chaos (and a little romance) soon ensues.
10. The English Game (Netflix)
This is a fictional drama that’s meant to look like a documentary, and chronicles the beginnings of the sport of soccer.
The writing is lighthearted and entertaining, an easy, snackable watch.
If you’re into soccer (or not), you’ll be able to digest it easily.
9. Queen of Katwe (Disney+)
With Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo starring, it’s hard to believe this one hasn’t gotten more attention. The biographical drama is about a Ugandan girl whose life is changed by learning to play chess.
Through the game, she earns a new life for herself, and the story is as feel-good as they come.
8. Endgame (Amazon Prime)
Another chess-related offering that’s sure to scratch your Queen’s Gambit itch, this series follows a former chess champion who now uses those same analytical skills to solve crimes.
It’s a fantastic premise and the writing and performances really deliver on it, too.
7. The Devil All the Time (Netflix)
This one is heavy, I’ll admit, but with Tom Holland, Bill Skarsgård, Robert Pattinson, Sebastian Stan, and Henry Melling (Dudley Dursley) rounding out the cast, it’s a must watch.
The cast of characters are not good people whose lives begin to intertwine, and though dark, the characterizations are worth it.
6. Thoroughbreds (Amazon Prime)
Anna Taylor-Joy stars again, along with the late Anton Yelchin, in this dark comedy set in a wealthy Connecticut suburb.
The two female leads conspire to kill one of their stepfather’s, hiring a drug dealer to do the deed.
You’ll be on the edge of your seat the whole time, and we mean that in a good way.
5. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (Starz)
If you can’t get enough of Fred Rogers, you’ll want to watch this movie, which follows investigative journalist Lloyd Vogel as he profiles the man himself.
Lloyd’s own skepticism is challenged, then finally overcome by Mr. Rogers’ gentle encouragement and it will bring you back to those calming childhood afternoons.
4. The Marvelous Ms. Maisel (Amazon Prime)
You might have heard people talking about this one from time to time, and for good reason.
This series, set in the mid-century, follows an “ordinary” housewife who learns she has a penchant for stand-up comedy.
The cast of characters is adorable and vast, and combined with a tight script and quick jokes, makes this one easy to binge.
3. Mrs. America (Hulu)
This miniseries is about strong women – Gloria Steinem, Shirley Chisholm, and Bella Abzug – on their way to achieving the great things they all deserve.
If you love stories about women who get where they’re going because they absolutely deserve to be there, you can’t miss this.
2. Years and Years (HBO Max)
Another miniseries, this one following a family over the course of 15 years following a fateful night in 2019.
The characters’ lives change due to political technological, and personal advances in the world, and explores the good and bad events that could very well shape our future.
1. The Great (Hulu)
This fictionalized retelling of Catherine the Great bends genres and has you feeling the full range of human emotions, sometimes all in one episode.
It stars Elle Fanning in the title role, and her performance depicting the charming, beautiful, and deceitful Catherine is as good as anyone could ask for – you might even find yourself rooting for Catherine to succeed.
Argh, so my own list just got a little longer, too.
What’s the undiscovered gem you’re always foisting on family and friends? Share it with us in the comments!
