With the rise of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, binge-watching TV shows has become a popular way to pass the time. Whether you’re looking for a new show to start or just need something to keep you entertained for a few hours, there’s no shortage of options out there. To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve put together a list of the best TV shows to binge-watch. From dramas to comedies, and everything in between, these shows are sure to keep you glued to your screen.
Dead Ringers
IMDb rating: 7.3/10 | Genre: Horror, Drama, Thriller | Lead Cast: Jeremy Irons, Geneviève Bujold, Heidi von Palleske | Director: David Cronenberg
Dead Ringers is a 1988 psychological thriller film directed by David Cronenberg. It follows the story of Beverly and Elliot Mantle, identical twin gynecologists who share everything from their profession to their women. Their twisted relationship spirals out of control when Beverly becomes addicted to drugs and descends into madness. This leads to a horrific climax.
In 2023, a TV series adaptation of Dead Ringers was released. The new series stars Rachel Weisz in the dual role of Beverly and Elliot Mantle. They deliver a powerful and captivating performance that explores the depths of codependent relationships and addiction.
As the series progresses, it delves deeper into the psychological complexities of the characters. It reveals the disturbing and destructive consequences of their actions. Dead Ringers is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. And those looking for a thought-provoking exploration of addiction, obsession, and the human psyche. This is truly one of the best shows to watch for a good time.
Breaking Bad
IMDb rating: 9.5/10 | Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller | Lead Cast: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn | Creator: Vince Gilligan
Breaking Bad is an American television series that follows the story of Walter White. He is a high school chemistry teacher living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. After being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, Walter decides to use his chemistry expertise. This is to cook and sell methamphetamine in order to provide for his family’s financial future. With the help of his former student, Jesse Pinkman, Walter starts a meth empire. Together, they navigate the dangerous criminal underworld and facing numerous obstacles along the way.
As Walter becomes more and more deeply involved in the drug trade, he begins to transform into a ruthless and manipulative figure. He is willing to do whatever it takes to protect his operation and stay one step ahead of the law. Meanwhile, Jesse struggles with the moral implications of their actions. He tries to balance his criminal life with his relationships and personal demons.
Breaking Bad is a critically acclaimed series that delves deep into complex themes of morality, family, and power. It follows the transformation of its characters from ordinary people into dangerous criminals.
Game of Thrones
IMDb rating: 9.2/10 | Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy | Lead Cast: Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage | Directors: Various
In the mythical land of Westeros, several noble families fight for control of the Iron Throne. This is the seat of the King of the Seven Kingdoms. As the series begins, the King’s Hand, Jon Arryn, dies mysteriously, prompting King Robert Baratheon to ask his old friend and Warden of the North, Lord Eddard Stark, to replace him.
However, the power struggle is far from over. As the different houses scheme and battle for power, an ancient evil is awakened beyond the wall in the frozen wastes of the north. Game of Thrones is a tale of power, politics, love, and betrayal. This is one of the most interesting, best shows to watch.
Mad Men
IMDb rating: 8.6 | Genre: Drama | Lead Cast: Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss, Vincent Kartheiser | Creator: Matthew Weiner
Mad Men is a captivating drama series that transports viewers to the bustling world of advertising in 1960s New York City. The show centers around the life of Don Draper. He is a suave and enigmatic advertising executive who is as charming as he is mysterious. As the series unfolds, we witness the cutthroat nature of the advertising industry and the impact it has on the lives of those who work in it.
Alongside Draper, the show features a diverse cast of characters, including Peggy Olson, a young and ambitious secretary who is determined to make her way in a male-dominated workplace. It also showcases Pete Campbell, a competitive account executive who will stop at nothing to get ahead. The characters navigate the ups and downs of their personal and professional lives. Hence, they must also grapple with the rapidly changing social and cultural landscape of the 1960s.
The Office
IMDb rating: 8.9/10 | Genre: Comedy | Lead Cast: Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski | Directors: Various
The Office is an American mockumentary sitcom that follows the everyday lives of the employees working at the Scranton. This is a Pennsylvania branch of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company. The show is led by the regional manager, Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell. It also includes his diverse group of employees, including salespeople Jim and Dwight, receptionist Pam, and accountant Kevin.
Over the course of nine seasons, the series explores the relationships, conflicts, and humor that arise in the mundane environment of an office. Additionally, it also delves into deeper themes of purpose and fulfillment in one’s career and personal life. The Office has become a beloved and iconic television series that continues to captivate audiences today. This is the most loved, best shows to watch of all time.
Parks and Recreation
IMDb rating: 8.6/10 | Genre: Comedy | Lead Cast: Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones, Nick Offerman | Creator: Greg Daniels, Michael Schur
Parks and Recreation is a popular American mockumentary sitcom that follows the daily operations of the Parks and Recreation Department in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana. Led by the well-meaning but sometimes clueless deputy director Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler), the department tries to improve and maintain the city’s parks and public spaces, despite dealing with various bureaucratic obstacles, budget cuts, and personal conflicts.
Throughout the series, Leslie navigates the ups and downs of her career while also trying to maintain her personal life, including her relationships with her coworkers, friends, and love interests. Alongside Leslie are a diverse and hilarious cast of characters, including her best friend and fellow government employee Ann Perkins (Rashida Jones), the sarcastic and apathetic April Ludgate (Aubrey Plaza), the affable but dimwitted Andy Dwyer (Chris Pratt), the overconfident but lovable Tom Haverford (Aziz Ansari), the gruff and no-nonsense Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman), and many more.
Stranger Things
IMDb rating: 8.7/10 | Genre: Sci-Fi, Horror, Drama | Lead Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder | Directors: The Duffer Brothers
In the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, in 1983, a young boy named Will Byers mysteriously disappears without a trace. As his family and friends search for him, they encounter a mysterious girl with telekinetic abilities, who they name Eleven. They soon discover that Will’s disappearance is linked to supernatural forces, including a parallel dimension called the Upside Down, where a dangerous monster lurks.
As the characters try to unravel the mystery, they face dangerous government agents, secret experiments, and powerful entities that threaten their lives and the safety of their town. Along the way, they form unlikely alliances and uncover shocking secrets about their community and themselves. With a mix of sci-fi, horror, and 80s nostalgia, Stranger Things is a thrilling and captivating series that has captured audiences around the world. This is one of the most thrilling, best shows to watch.
The Crown
IMDb rating: 8.6 | Genre: Drama, History | Lead Cast: Olivia Colman, Tobias Menzies, Helena Bonham Carter | Creator: Peter Morgan
The Crown is a historical drama series that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. This is from her ascension to the throne in 1952 to modern times. With a focus on both the personal and public life of the Queen and her family, the series delves into the intricacies and complexities of the monarchy. It also showcases the political and social issues that have shaped modern Britain.
The show’s impeccable attention to detail and stunning production values transport viewers into the world of British royalty. The Crown offers a rich and captivating look into one of the most fascinating periods in British history. It also explores the universal themes of duty, sacrifice, and family that are relevant to audiences around the world.
The Mandalorian
IMDb rating: 8.8/10 | Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi | Lead Cast: Pedro Pascal, Gina Carano, Carl Weathers | Director: Various
In a galaxy far, far away, a lone bounty hunter known only as the Mandalorian navigates the dangerous and lawless outer reaches of the universe. This show is set five years after the fall of the Empire and before the emergence of the First Order. The Mandalorian takes on a new mission to capture a valuable target that turns out to be a mysterious and powerful infant of the same species as legendary Jedi Master Yoda.
Along the way, the Mandalorian encounters a cast of characters, both friend and foe. This includes former Imperial sharpshooter Cara Dune, bounty hunter guild leader Greef Karga, and the enigmatic ex-Imperial scientist Dr. Pershing. As the Mandalorian battles his way through treacherous terrain and dangerous enemies, he learns the importance of protecting and nurturing this child. He ultimately setting off on a journey that will shape the destiny of the galaxy forever.
The Sopranos elaborate
IMDb rating: 9.2/10 | Genre: Crime, Drama | Lead Cast: James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli | Director: Various
The Sopranos is a critically acclaimed and groundbreaking crime drama series. This follows the life of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey-based mob boss. He struggles to balance his family life with his criminal activities. The show explores themes of power, loyalty, family dynamics, mental health, and morality. This is all when Tony navigates the complex and violent world of organized crime.
Throughout the series, viewers are taken on a journey through Tony’s life. This is all as he grapples with his own inner demons, including anxiety and depression. All while trying to maintain his position of power and authority within his crime family. The show also delves into the lives of Tony’s family members. This includes his wife Carmela, his children Meadow and AJ, and his mother Livia. Each face their own struggles and challenges. This is one of the most interesting, best shows to watch.
It’s A Wrap!
So there you have it, our list of the best TV shows to binge-watch. Whether you’re in the mood for drama, comedy, sci-fi, or something else entirely, these shows are sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. So grab some popcorn, get comfortable on the couch, and start streaming. If you are a fan of Korean stars, you can hop over to the Best K-Dramas in 2023 with Deadly Serial Killers