5 Underrated Netflix Shows Everyone Should Be Streaming

By Holly Buskirk

Netflix has become one of the biggest streaming services known to date, but it hasn’t always been that way. Netflix used to strictly ship DVDs to your house, and once you have watched the movie, you would simply ship it back. Little did the public know, Netflix would rise to become a billion dollar company with over 100 original TV shows and six Academy Award winnings. While we all know of Netflix hits such as Stranger Things, You, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Orange is the New Black, there are many hidden diamonds in the rough. Here is a list of the five most underrated Netflix shows everyone should be streaming. 

1. Atypical

Atypical is a show that follows the life of a teenage boy who is on the autism spectrum. The show is a beautiful portrayal of the hardships families and children face as they grow within themselves and as a whole. This series is a coming-of-age drama created by Robin Rashid, with three seasons ranging from 26-38 minutes long. Atypical, has an uncommon Rotten Tomatoes rating of 100% on the Tomatometer and three award nominations. Grab a buddy, a nice warm blanket and some comfort food, because you will go through a train ride of emotions.

2. The Abyss

The Abyss is one of many Korean original shows on Netflix. The story follows the journey of two young adults who were given a second shot at life. The Abyss is a scifi-fantasy crime romance show following two recently resurrected friends. These friends fight to find and arrest the person who had murdered them before more people are harmed. This show combines many elements into 16 hour-long episodes. I do recommend taking a deep breath before you watch this show, because it is bound to take it away.  

3. The Politician

The Politician isn’t as political as it may sound. The show follows a teenage boy, portrayed by Golden Globe Nominee, Ben Platt, on his dramatic journey to becoming class president. The show is a light hearted comedy for the most part, but there is a trigger warning for the first episode. The show deals with the struggles high-class teenangers face with college, friendships and heartache. The show is directed by Ryan Murphy and has a 7.5/10 on IMDB. This show does deal with some serious topics, but it is worth the eight episode binge. 

4. The Umbrella Academy

The Umbrella Academy is a crazy and adventurous ride about six superheroes, and one extraordinary girl facing the end of the world. The story was written by My Chemical Romance frontman, Gerard Way, and it scored a 75% on Rotten Tomatoes. The Umbrella Academy is a non stop ride of comedy with characters you will grow to love. It’s just a fun show through and through, and it deserves to be up there as one of the best Netflix Original shows. 

5. Russian Doll

Russian Doll, starring Orange is the New Black’s Natasha Lyonne is last on this list. The eight-episode show is about a young woman named Nadia who gets struck with the case of Groundhog’s Day as she continues to die and relive the same day over and over again. This mystery series was nominated for a Golden Globe and has won 3 Emmys. Russian Doll was created by Natasha Lyonne herself and Amy Poehler. This dark comedy takes your mind through an adventurous journey as Nadia tries to figure out why she can’t stop her inevitable death. This is a fun series to watch with some close friends for a night time binge. 

Netflix has acquired a long list of reputable television originals and continues to surprise us with new and amazing content daily. While I only listed five TV shows, there are still a handful of hidden gems Netflix has created. Some of my honorable mentions are, Haunting of Hill House, Sex Education, The Witcher, Ozark and Mindhunter. So when you are in need of a good series binge, make sure to grab some friends and stream one of these amazing shows! Don’t forget to bring the snacks!