Top Netflix Series of 2018

We’ve had a stellar year for Netflix series, with the relaunch of BoJack Horseman and a new season of Big Mouth both proving hugely popular. And yet those aren’t the only shows worth watching right now, with the platform’s huge back catalogue containing some real gems too.

There are a few key categories that Netflix excels at: animated comedies, political thrillers and the occasional dramedy. It’s no surprise that the latter is home to some of the year’s best, from Nick Kroll’s brilliant cartoon romp Big Mouth through to the eerily ahead-of-its-time look at cutthroat politics in House of Cards – which, thankfully, has returned for a second season this year.

It’s also home to a few crime dramas, from the slick and sharp Mindhunter through to the genuinely affecting GLOW, the semi-fictionalised doc about the ultra-camp women’s wrestling league of the '80s. It may seem like a saccharine affair if you go in expecting crass humour, but GLOW proves there’s real heart at the core of this tale of female empowerment.

The same can be said for the opulent period drama A Nearly Normal Family, from Weeds creator Jenji Kohan. Set in a polished suburban neighbourhood, the drama isn’t afraid to take its share of risks. The result is an absorbing and often disturbing look at family dynamics that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

While we’re on the topic of period dramas, fans of the eponymous children’s books might want to check out the three seasons of Lemony Snicket’s spooky TV adaptation. ดูหนังออนไลน์ imovie-hd puts his sinister stamp on the character of Count Olaf, who leads a group of orphans through some seriously Edward Gorey-esque landscapes.

At the other end of the spectrum, there’s You, the psychological thriller that had everyone gripped at the beginning of 2018. Penn Badgley’s creepy obsession with Guinevere Beck left us all squirming in our seats, and the first season re-opens the wounds every now and then with its unsettling plot twists.

Another drama that will stay with you after the credits are up is the limited series Maid, which stars Margaret Qualley as Alex, a single mother who escapes an abusive relationship by moving into a shelter and taking on work as a house cleaner for wealthy clients. The series also features a strong supporting cast, including Andie MacDowell and Nick Robinson.

There are plenty of dramedies to be found on the platform too, with the latest being a powerful and moving look at sex trafficking in the UK. Based on a true story, Safe also features the terrific performances of Tom Hollander and Ben Schnetzer, as well as the compelling and raw script from writer-director Sarah Kellerman.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more lighthearted, though, there’s always this year’s hit comedy-drama Orange Is the New Black. The show is a testament to the power of diversity and the ability for a well-written and talented cast to captivate audiences.

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Pub: 20 Jan 2024 04:12 UTC
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