68 Shows You Need to Watch

It’s happened again. You ran out of shows to watch. Now you’re stuck scrolling endlessly through Netflix, Amazon Prime, & Hulu for a new series. Everything you click just seems….meh. The dreaded ‘You Pick Something‘ argument of 2020 has begun and you’re about ready to throttle a bowl of popcorn at your significant other. Where’s the FLAVOR? Despite the thousands of shows available, you can’t find a single one that interests you. Been there, watched that. How about we fast forward and give you a list of enticing shows that WE love? Easy-peasy, right? So pick your genre and get to watching!

Comedy

Horror

• The Haunting of Hill House – Netflix
  • One of the best horror series available. It kept me on the edge of my seat and second guessing myself every episode. The jump scares are on point and I’m fairly certain I spent a good chunk of the series hiding under my blanket. I’m a horror buff and it’s hard to impress or scare me. A new season is due to come out this year and I am itching to watch. Season two will follow a new haunting and I’m hoping it will be as riveting as the first season.
• Chilling Adventures of Sabrina – Netflix
  • I was hesitant to start this series after viewing the trailer. Growing up, I thought Sabrina the Teenage Witch was a decent show, but nothing spectacular. For this reason, I had low expectations for the newer adaptation. Originally, I expected a comedy with some witchy elements, but I soon found myself watching a cutting edge teen drama. The new Sabrina Spellman is nothing like the one from my younger years. Needless to say, I’m hooked and have binge watched every season.
• Hannibal – Amazon Prime
  • This show will take you on a roller coaster you can’t even imagine. You’ll watch characters develop in ways that make your head hurt and second guess yourself every episode. I will warn you that is is not for those who are squeamish (I’m talking gory deaths and graphic post-mortem examinations). If you like psychological thrillers, however, this is right up your alley. It is a wonderful horror series that I highly recommend.
• Light as a Feather – Hulu
  • I wouldn’t necessarily say this show has been scary thus far, but it does have a lot of horror elements to it that I enjoyed. It follows a group of teenagers as they struggle to save one another from an ancient curse. I would say more, but I don’t want to spoil it for you. It has a little romance and some drama, which make for a nice balance in the show.
• Penny Dreadful – Netflix
  • One of the best horror shows out there (in my personal opinion)! You’ll find some of your favorite horror story characters, such as Dr. Frankenstein, in this series. Explore the dark corners of London during the Victorian era as a battle begins against terrifying, non-human entities. Having the perfect mix of drama and horror, this show is perfect for a Netflix and chill marathon with your crew.
• American Horror Story – Netflix
  • This series has a bit of a mixed review from me. Each season is a new concept and story line, which means that you basically start a new story every season. Some of the seasons connect, but overall you can watch most of the seasons independently. Everyone who watches this series tends to have their favorite and least favorite seasons. I particularly enjoyed Asylum and Roanoke, but I did not enjoy Cult. More than likely you’ll find yourself enjoying one season over another. One consistent aspect that you can expect from the series is that every season rotates through the same actors. Depending on the season, some actors may not be present or new actors may be introduced. Overall, I find the series to be an enjoyable horror show.
• V Wars – Netflix
  • Dog Dad actually convinced me to watch this show with the promise of pizza (obviously I caved). I have to say, I’m glad we gave it a chance! It is exactly what you would expect based on the title: a vampire series. However, these are not sparkly and beautiful vampires. Instead, they are lethal weapons with unimaginable strength and power. We recently wrapped up season one and I have to say, it was pretty good. Not over the top amazing, but a good show worth watching.
• Locke and Key – Netflix
  • Join the Locke children as they battle demonic entities while discovering what the keys in their home unlock. I wouldn’t say this series is scary, but it is in the supernatural realm. Currently, there is only one season and a second season has not been announced thus far. It isn’t the top of my list, but it held my attention.
• Bates Motel – Netflix
  • This show loves to give me the heebie-geebies. I still haven’t caught up all the way, but what I’ve seen so far has me hooked. It is based on the characters from the 1960 movie, Psycho directed by Alfred Hitchcock. You know the one with the iconic shower scene? Well, this series follows Norman as a teenager living with his mother, Norma. It is definitely a psychological horror worth watching if that is your cup of tea.
• The Strain – Hulu
  • A viral outbreak is posing a risk to humanity. Vampires like you’ve never seen before lurk in the dark depths of the city, plotting for world domination. Research a cure with Dr. Goodweather, the head of the Center for Disease Control Canary Team, as he finds himself face to face with ancient vampires. This show is a must if you are into vampires. I will warn you, however, that they aren’t beautiful like the ones in Twilight.
• The Walking Dead – Netflix
  • This one is for Dog Dad. For some reason, I never ended up enjoying this series, but Dog Dad absolutely LOVES it. It has love triangles, family drama, fight scenes and (of course) zombies galore. There are a lot of episodes to catch up on, but if you have the time then it may be perfect for you. Can you handle the zombie apocalypse?
• Castle Rock – Hulu
  • We haven’t actually binged this show yet, which means I can’t wholeheartedly recommend it to you. However, It’s been on our watch list for a while and I wanted to share it with you. I’ve heard great things ,which means I’ll be reporting back with my own opinions soon (Hello, Hulu and hot pockets). If you have watched it or give it a try, let me know what you think!

Sci-Fi / Fantasy / Dystopian

• Westworld – Hulu
  • Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in the wild wild west? In Westworld, you can. Enter this futuristic amusement park and you can become whoever you want in the wild wild west. More importantly, you can do whatever you want. Perfect, right? Sure, until the robots start to ‘malfunction.’ My parents and I love this show (which means we hooked my husband on it too). It is a must watch from me.
• Defiance – Amazon Prime
  • Humans and aliens now live together on Earth in this futuristic show. The town of Defiance and it’s inhabitants strive to maintain peace in their community, but a series of events makes this extremely difficult. Politics, war and romance all play a crucial role in the development of this story. We have enjoyed the progression of this show and would watch it again.
• Altered Carbon – Netflix
  • What if you never died? Furthermore, what if you could change absolutely anything about yourself at the drop of a hat? Welcome to the universe of Altered Carbon. With death no longer being permanent, you know trouble is brewing in this universe. Accompany Takeshi Kovacs as he is resurrected to solve the murder of a wealthy business man. You better buckle up buttercup because you’re in for a crazy ride with this show.
• Black Mirror – Netflix
  • Each episode of this show will blow your mind. Seasons one through four are my favorite because a new story is explored in each episode. One resounding theme in this series is highlighting the good and bad influences technology can have in this futuristic universe. Technology is at every turn and you’ll have to decide how you feel about that while watching this series. Not going to lie though, it may make your brain hurt trying to figure out what is real.
• Lost in Space – Netflix
  • We just finished binge watching this show over the weekend and I couldn’t be happier about it. Talk about childhood nostalgia because Lost in Space directed by Stephen Hopkins was one of my favorite movies growing up. This series has aliens, robots, futuristic technology, and just about anything you think a good science fiction show should have. Just like in the classic movie, the Robinson family crash lands on an alien planet. You’ll follow along as they try to escape the hazardous planet and reach safety.
• The Handmaid’s Tale – Hulu
  • Woman are viewed as below men in this dystopian dictatorship. Forced to live as a concubine, the main character shares her unjust fate with the audience. More times than I can count, this show has made my blood boil and tears threaten to drop. As a woman, many episodes were incredibly difficult for me to watch. The show has a large number of graphic and violent scenes. Be aware that violence is no stranger to these characters.
• Good Omens – Amazon prime
  • When an angel and a demon team up to save the world, there’s bound to be some hiccups. Albeit a little cheesy, I enjoyed this series. It has a good mix of comedy, drama and fantasy. Hold onto your horses, the spawn of Satan is coming and he’s bringing the apocalypse with him.
• Stranger Things – Netflix
  • If you haven’t watched Stranger Things yet, what are you waiting for?! Set in the 1980s, a group of teens find themselves facing evil supernatural beings in their small town of Hawkins, Indiana. Did I mention the government is involvement? You’ll laugh and smile, but you’ll also have your fare share of jump scares. I don’t want to spoil too much for you, but I will say it is a great show worth watching.
• The Expanse – Netflix
  • Tensions are high between Earth and Mars leaving them in a consistent state of distrust. War is brewing and suspicious occurrences continue to take place. Travel the solar system and discover the truth it holds. Dog Dad and I cannot recommend this show enough! Space ships, alien planets and futuristic technology are just the tip of the iceberg for this show.
• The 100 – Netflix
  • Nearly 100 years ago, nuclear war destroyed life as we know it. With Earth being uninhabitable, a spaceship houses the last of humanity. Dwindling supplies on the ship result in desperate measures being taken. Deciding to send 100 delinquents back to Earth, leadership hopes that they will restore the population and ensure humanity’s survival. What awaits, however, are deadly and unexpected surprises. A great series that we recommend without a doubt!
• Carnival Row – Amazon Prime
  • The homes of mystical creatures have been invaded by mankind. Forced to adapt to the human society, they are treated as second class citizens by many. Despite all odds, a human and faerie fall in love. We held off on watching this series for a while and I regret waiting. It is a great show! If you like mythical creatures and political drama, this series is for you.
• Once Upon a Time – Netflix
  • If you are a Disney fan, this series will be right up your alley. Set in the town of Storybrooke, you’ll be surprised to find that many of the townspeople are from your favorite childhood fairy tales. Curses, enchanted forests and more await you in this magical series. My husband’s Mother and I adore this series. It can be beautiful and full of whimsy, but also dark. Indulge your Disney side and sail away to Storybrooke.
• October Faction – Netflix
  • A Husband and wife team of monster hunters return to their hometown after the passing of a family member. What they hoped would be a quick visit turns into something more as they find their quaint home town crawling with monsters. As a family gifted with unique abilities, they find themselves struggling to maintain appearances as a normal family. We haven’t finished all of the currently released seasons yet, but it is great so far. Whether you are partial to vampires or werewolves, you’ll get your fix with this series.
• The Witcher – Netflix
  • We just started this series and I am invested. When I played the video game, I fell in love with the story. Obviously, I had to start the show. Journey with the witcher as he fights creatures worthy of nightmares. Although I’m not too far into season one yet, if this series is anything like the game, it’ll be well worth your time.

Historical Drama

• Vikings – Netflix
  • ONE OF MY FAVORITE SHOWS EVER! This show is a masterpiece. It’s brutal and the fight scenes are vicious, but it is fascinating. Each character has a story that will suck you in. There will be characters you love and ones you hate (more like loath). Sail with the vikings as they aim to conquer. It’s a show you really can’t miss and is totally binge worthy (Just check it’s rating on Rotten Tomatoes).
• The Last Kingdom – Netflix
  • A war wages as the vikings seek to obtain the kingdom’s crown and ultimately rule over all. Loyalties will be tested as the battle begins. This show is packed full of action and it’ll give you subtle Game of Thrones vibes. We just caught up with the last episode and definitely recommend the series. So ready yourselves for war.
• Deadwood – Neflix
  • A town lacking law and bursting with new residents who are seeking richest. Sounds like a recipe for trouble. Set in the wild west, you can expect standoffs and townspeople taking the law into their own hands. My Dad thoroughly enjoys this series and convinced me to watch it. I was not disappointed. This is a historical, western drama worth watching.

Drama / Thriller

• Thirteen – Amazon Prime
  • Kidnapped and imprisoned for thirteen years, this series centers around Ivy Moxam as she finally escapes her captor. If you are a fan of Law and Order: Special Victims Unit and British dramas, this will be your cup of tea (I was captivated from the get go). I won’t give you any spoilers, but I can say there are many unexpected developments throughout the season. With that being said, there is only one season with five episodes. I think it is the perfect show for binging on a long weekend.
• Killing Eve – Hulu
  • You may recognize the lead actress in this series, Jodie Comer, from Thirteen (which I recommended above). Her character is a trip. Assassinations and under the table deals are her specialty. Eventually, her paths cross with a social security operative named Eve and it’s all down hill from there. Obsessed with each other, it’s a never ending battle between these characters. If you are into spies and action, I would recommend this to you.
• You – Netflix
  • I can’t rave about this series enough! As soon as the newest season dropped, I binged it in a day. You’ll laugh, but also scream in frustration at these characters. Joe, one of the leads, will make you feel secondhand embarrassment so many times. After watching how he uses social media to tap into the lives of complete strangers, you will be dwelling on all the information you have shared on your social media. The series has endless plot twists to keep you captivated, but I won’t ruin them for you. It is a must see series in my opinion.
• The Blacklist – Netflix
  • An FBI agent finds herself as the head negotiator to an infamous criminal and it turns her life upside down. I was a devoted fan of this show throughout nursing school. On the weekends, I found my self discussing theories about upcoming episodes with my parents. If you like action and drama, this show has a nice balance of each.
• The Good Doctor – Hulu
  • Being in the medical field, it is extremely difficult for me to watch medical dramas. I mean, you can only see the IV drip chamber taped to a patient’s hand so many times before you give up. If medical dramas made me roll my eyes any harder, they’d probably get stuck. This show, however, is an exception for me. Although it is very unrealistic and the scenarios are a bit far fetched at times, it is a great show. The main character has a special place in my heart and if you enjoy medical dramas, I definitely recommend this series.
• Prison Wives – Amazon Prime
  • Not to be confused with the reality TV series, this British drama follows a young wife as her life is turned upside down. Pregnant and a husband arrested for murder, Gemma struggles to cope. With a healthy mix of humor and drama, I have been enjoying this show thus far.
• Revenge – Amazon prime/Hulu
  • Albeit a little cheesy, I found myself binge watching this show in college. Emily, the lead character, is an intelligent woman who will stop at nothing to avenge her father’s wrongful arrest. Discover the real perpetrators as Emily seeks justice for her father. It’s a great drama filled with suspense and did I mention there’s a dash of romance too?
• The Americans – Amazon Prime
  • Russian spies, need I say more? Living undercover in America, this family faces some pretty intense situations. The episodes can turn dark and violent fairly quick, but it just adds to the drama. My parents really enjoyed this show and it definitely held my attention.
• Peaky Blinders – Netflix
  • Post World War I, the Shelby family finds themselves at odds with the local authorities. Their gang, the Peaky Blinders, holds a great deal of power in the city of Birmingham. Join the ranks as the power struggle between law enforcement and the gang peaks. Having started this show on a friend’s recommendation, we weren’t let down. A healthy mix of history and gang drama, made it our cup of tea (English breakfast tea to be exact). It isn’t a show with endless fight scenes and action, but it is bursting with layered characters.
• The Frankenstein Chronicles – Netflix
  • Children are being stolen and murdered. Inspector Marlott’s job is to find out who is behind these crimes. Join as he searches for the individual stealing the deceased and attempting to re-animate them. Being a spin the classic novel, this series had me intrigued at the title. Having just wrapped up watching season one, I can say this show is worth watching.

Reality

• Cheer – Netflix
  • My husband and I never used to have an interest in cheerleading, but man did that change. We have a great deal of respect for the hard work and dedication cheerleaders put into their performances. During this series, featured cheerleaders share their backgrounds and explain how cheer has changed their life. It is very moving and shows how sports (plus an amazing support team) can change a life. Regardless if you are a cheerleader or have never cheered a day in your life, this is a great series.
• Marching Orders – Netflix
  • Where my marching band peeps at? This is the series for you! Watch the grueling tryouts, strict training and stunning performances by the Bethune–Cookman University (BCU) marching band. If you enjoyed the movie Drumline directed by Charles Stone III, then you will enjoy this. The episodes are short and sweet, which means I totally binged this series.
• Magic for Humans – Netflix
  • I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this series is surprisingly entertaining. Watch magic tricks and attempt to figure them out afterwards. Is it a trick of the hand? Perhaps an illusion? I can never seem to figure out half of them, but it’s still fun to try! Kids would probably enjoy this show as well.
• 7 Days Out – Netflix
  • Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at some of the world’s largest events? This series shows you exactly what goes on seven days out. Each episode focuses on a different event and the seven days leading up to it. The first episode focuses on the Westminister Dog Show, but you can watch the episodes in any order you like.
• 90 Day Fiance – Hulu
  • If you don’t like drama, this may not be your cup of tea. It is, however, my guilty pleasure! Dating internationally, the couples featured on this show are working towards obtaining a K-1 visa. From that point on, they have 90 days to marry. Depending on the couple and their circumstances, things can get pretty hectic.
• Meat Eater – Netflix
  • Hunting and fishing shows aren’t normally my cup of tea, but my Dad loves them. I decided to add this just for him. Out of the hunting/fishing shows we’ve watched together, this one is the most interesting to me. Honestly, It may just be the hunting dog, Ruby, that has my attention though.

Docu Series

• Evil Genius – Netflix
  • The notorious “pizza bomber” case is examined in this series. It is absolutely fascinating and you’ll find yourself anxious for answers. I highly recommend watching with friends or family because it is a conversation starter for sure. Be aware that this series does show shocking and graphic footage from the case.
• The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez – Netflix
  • The heartbreaking story of a young boy’s murder. I will warn you, as the series does, that there is discussion of abuse and traumatic descriptions of the child’s death. I was crying minutes into the first episode. It is not a lighthearted documentary at all and you will be exposed to unimaginable cruelty towards a child.
• Making a Murderer – Netflix
  • A story of corrupt law enforcement and two imprisoned men. This series is filmed over a thirteen year period and is startling to watch. I’ll let you form your own opinions about the story, but I definitely recommend this series. Given the nature of the series, there are scenes with graphic content, such as blood.
• Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez – Netflix
  • Is this famous NFL player also a murderer? Explore the life of Aaron Hernandez as the chilling evidence linking him to the murder of Odin Llyod is presented. This series is only three episodes and the ending will shock you.

Sitcoms

• The Office – Netflix
  • Join the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company as they stumble their way through the work day. You can enjoy the American or British version of the series (both are great). The show is a bit slow to start and the humor is dry, but I like it. Not to mention, there are tons of episodes to keep you entertained. My husband, however, is not a fan.
• That 70s Show – Netflix
  • Venture back to the 70s and get groovy with a group of friends as they attempt to navigate through their teen years. The quirky characters in this show will have you laughing out loud. I highly recommend this to anyone who needs a laugh.
• Parks and Recreation – Netflix
  • Deputy of the Parks and Recreation department, the main character finds herself floundering for success. Join this eccentric crew as they attempt to successfully do their job. I’m still very behind on this series, but it is great! Any show with Amy Poehler in it gets a win from me.

Anime

• Tokyo Ghoul – Hulu
  • Ghouls are flesh eating beings with supernatural powers. In this anime, they walk among us. A college student finds himself as the victim in a ghoul attack and by an unpredictable turn of events, he becomes part ghoul himself. Learning to cope with this new life, he finds himself ostracized by both humans and ghouls. Action and horror combine in this series to be the perfect package. I’ve watched this series twice if that tells you how much I’ve enjoyed it.
• My Hero Academia – Hulu
  • In a world where superpowers, also known as quirks, are now the norm, the lead character discovers he was born without a quirk. Despite all odds, he strives to be like his superhero idol, All Might. I won’t ruin the plot for you, but the lead character finds himself enrolled in a prestigious high school that trains students to become heroes. It is the story of how a quirkless boy becomes the number one hero. This series has given me laughter, action and even some cringy moments. It is totally binge worthy if you are an anime fan.
• Ouran High Host Club – Netflix/Hulu
  • Romantic comedy coming right up! This series will have you smiling so hard your cheeks hurt. The characters are quirky and over dramatic, but that’s what makes it great. Follow along as an unsuspecting scholarship student finds herself coerced into joining her school’s host club. If over the top characters aren’t your cup of tea, this might not be the anime for you.
• The Seven Deadly Sins – Netflix
  • Honestly, I don’t quite know how to explain this anime without getting too into the plot. To keep it short, it is centered around the adventures of the seven deadly sins. Full of fantasy and exciting endeavors, we enjoyed this series.
• Sword Art Online – Netflix
  • What if you could enter a virtual reality with your mind? You could play and experience everything with the five senses without having to leave your home. The catch? If you die in the game, you die in real life. My husband loves this anime! Personally, it reminds me a bit of the .hack franchise (which is amazing by the way). If you’re a gamer or just enjoy science fiction, this is a wonderful series.
• Attack on Titan – Netflix/Hulu
  • Towering, man-eating creatures live outside the walls that protect civilization. These titans are hunted by elite teams in order to protect humanity. Join the lead characters as they work to become soldiers that will save humanity from the titans. When I first stumbled upon this anime, I couldn’t stop watching it. Every episode left me wanting to know more and when I finished a season, i eagerly awaited another. If you enjoy action and don’t mind gore, this is the anime for you.
• FullMetal Alchemist -Netflix
  • The laws of equal exchange in alchemy cannot be bent. The Elric brothers find this out the hard way after a failed alchemy attempt leaves them with physical damage. Determined to rectify their situation, they set on a quest for the philosopher stone. I grew up watching this anime on late night television every weekend. It’s a childhood classic for me. In addition to the series, you may also enjoy the movies.
• Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba – Hulu
  • Family slaughtered by demons, two siblings struggle to adjust to their new life. With one of the siblings transforming into a demon, life becomes complicated. Eventually, the siblings encounter a demon slayer who can help them regain control of their lives. Needless to say, this anime is epic! An action packed dark fantasy that is well worth your time.

That’s our list! Well…not the entire list, but it’s a start! Having watched each of these series, you can trust that this is our honest opinion. Did you like this (hate this)? Do you want more lists? If so, let us know in the comments down below! This is just the tip of the iceberg on the series we could recommend (Really though, we could go on for days).

Going to give one of these series a try? Have you already seen some of them? We love discussing shows and movies. Dog Dad was actually a film major before he joined the Army (which means he is game to talk shows all day)! Let us know your thoughts!

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