Top 10 Streaming Shows That Will Keep You Glued to the Screen
The rise of streaming platforms has turned the way we consume entertainment upside down. Instead of cable TV and DVDs, we can now enjoy an endless array of TV shows and movies at our fingertips, watching them anytime and anywhere we want. However, with so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide what to watch. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 streaming shows that will keep you glued to the screen.
1. The Crown
Netflix’s historical drama series The Crown chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II from her early days as the head of the British monarchy. The lavish production boasts breathtaking cinematography, expertly crafted sets, and a standout cast, including Claire Foy (who plays the young queen) and Matt Smith (who portrays Prince Philip). The series has won numerous awards, including the Golden Globe for Best Drama Television Series and Best Actress.
2. Stranger Things
If you’re in the mood for some nostalgia and a good scare, Stranger Things is the show for you. Set in the 1980s, the sci-fi horror series follows a group of friends as they explore the supernatural world following the disappearance of their friend. The show’s talented young actors, including Finn Wolfhard and Millie Bobby Brown, have quickly become fan favorites, while the show’s soundtrack and visuals have been critically acclaimed.
3. Game of Thrones
It’s impossible to talk about the top streaming shows without mentioning Game of Thrones. The HBO epic fantasy series, based on George R.R. Martin’s books, captivated audiences with its complex characters, epic battles, and shocking plot twists. Featuring an all-star cast, including Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, and Peter Dinklage, the show set records for viewership and earned numerous accolades, including a total of 59 Primetime Emmy Awards.
4. The Handmaid’s Tale
Based on Margaret Atwood’s novel of the same name, Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale depicts a dystopian future in which women are treated as property of the state. The show’s chilling portrayal of a society that strips women of their rights is both compelling and disturbing. The Handmaid’s Tale is not an easy watch, but its themes of resilience and survival make it a must-see for viewers who appreciate high-quality, thought-provoking television.
5. Breaking Bad
Few shows have amassed the kind of critical and popular acclaim that Breaking Bad did during its five seasons. The AMC drama series follows the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher, played by Bryan Cranston, into a ruthless methamphetamine manufacturer. The show’s unique blend of dark humor, intense action, and complex characters make it a perennial favorite among viewers.
6. Narcos
Netflix’s Narcos is a tense and gripping series based on the life of real-life drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the efforts of the DEA and Colombian police to bring him to justice. The series, which stars Brazilian actor Wagner Moura as Escobar, paints a vivid picture of the gritty world of drug trafficking. It’s an action-packed, suspenseful journey that will keep you at the edge of your seat.
7. Better Call Saul
If you loved Breaking Bad and can’t get enough of its criminal underworld, then look no further than Better Call Saul. The AMC prequel spins off from the original show and details the rise of lawyer Jimmy McGill (played by Bob Odenkirk) as he transforms into the moral-void persona of criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. It features well-written characters, jaw-dropping plot twists, and nods to the original show that will satisfy every fan.
8. Fleabag
Amazon Prime Video’s Fleabag is a vibrant and unique comedy-drama, created and starred by Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The show follows the life of a young woman in London, who is trying to navigate her way through grief, trauma, and complex relationships. Its witty writing, nuanced performances, and boundary-pushing fourth wall breaks make it one of the best comedies in recent memory.
9. Black Mirror
Black Mirror is a British sci-fi anthology series that examines the potential consequences of modern society’s obsession with technology. Each episode is a self-contained story that is often dark, eerie, and thought-provoking. With themes ranging from social media addiction to virtual reality, Black Mirror is a reminder of how the future can be both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
10. Chernobyl
HBO’s Chernobyl is a gripping miniseries that explores the aftermath of the infamous nuclear disaster in 1986. The show’s meticulous attention to detail, intense atmosphere, and emotionally charged storytelling made it a critical and commercial darling. It’s an eye-opener reminder about the human cost of a man-made disaster.
FAQs:
1. What streaming platforms are these shows available on?
The Crown, Stranger Things, Black Mirror, and The Handmaid’s Tale are available on Netflix. Game of Thrones, Better Call Saul, and Chernobyl can be found on HBO, while Breaking Bad and Fleabag are available on Amazon Prime Video. Narcos is also available on Netflix.
2. What are some other streaming shows that are worth watching?
There are many great streaming shows out there that can keep you entertained for hours. Some recommendations include The Haunting of Bly Manor, Ozark, Succession, Mindhunter, and The Queen’s Gambit.
3. Do you need to watch all the episodes of a series to enjoy it?
While watching every episode is the best way to experience a series, it’s not always necessary. Some shows like Black Mirror or Better Call Saul are anthology series, meaning each episode or season tells its own story and can be enjoyed independently. However, for narrative-heavy shows like Game of Thrones or The Crown, watching every episode is recommended.
Best Practices, Tips, and Tricks:
1. Keep your options open. With so many great shows to choose from across multiple platforms, it can be tempting to stick with what you know. However, branching out and trying new shows can lead to discovering hidden gems that you would never have known existed.
2. Don’t be afraid to jump in mid-season. Not all shows require you to watch from the beginning, so if there’s a show that has sparked your curiosity but you’re intimidated by the episode count, just jump into the latest season. You can always go back and watch the earlier episodes later.
3. Binge-watching is not always the best way to enjoy a show. While it can be tempting to marathon through a series, be mindful of how much you’re watching. Too much of a good thing can lead to burnout and make it hard to appreciate the nuances of a show.
4. Take breaks between shows. After finishing a series, take some time to reflect on what you’ve watched before diving into the next one. This gives you time to process the themes and characters, and also prevents you from getting overwhelmed.
In conclusion, streaming services provide a whole new world of entertainment at your fingertips, and this list of top 10 streaming shows will keep you glued to the screen. From drama to horror to comedy, there’s a streaming show for everyone. Remember to keep an open mind when trying new shows and be mindful of your viewing habits so as not to burn out. With these tips and tricks, you can get the most out of your streaming experience.