7 Underrated Netflix Shows You’ve Probably Forgotten About

Netflix seems particularly fond of investing vast sums in standalone action movies and terminating series with niche but passionate fan bases (apparently due to their metrics, which can be a bit baffling). The never-ending scroll on Wikipedia’s ‘Ended Series’ page on Netflix underscores the fact that no show is immune from being axed. With this in mind, here are 7 underappreciated Netflix shows that may have slipped your memory due to the passage of time or disappointment at their premature cancellation. Although many Netflix series don’t get to wrap up their storylines completely, there’s still nothing quite like them.

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I must admit that Netflix pours an astounding amount of funds into its original content, often taking risks with at least one season of quality entertainment that’s as satisfying as a bag of fresh popcorn – and sometimes even more, if you’re fortunate. While some of the shows on this platform may be light and fluffy, others offer a deeper, more substantial viewing experience beyond just being ‘popcorn TV.’

Regrettably, due to algorithms and user preferences, many of these remarkable series have slipped off the radar and out of sight for most Netflix viewers. Yet, they are shows that deserve a second chance and a reminder to the world that they were once created. Even if it’s just for a fleeting moment, let us revisit these hidden gems and celebrate their existence.

Sense8

In Netflix’s early days, a series like Sense8 might have been produced, although Apple could potentially consider it now. Created by The Wachowskis and J. Michael Straczynski, who had previously worked on Babylon 5, Sense8 blended the sci-fi elements and styles of both creators. Since its release between 2015 and 2018 (only two seasons), it has shown great potential, despite a short run. It stands out in science fiction TV, as the science aspect is not its main focus. Instead, the relationships between the characters, known as sensates, are what truly matter. Among the early Netflix series, Sense8 is one worth revisiting.

Frontier

The series titled “Frontier” (2016-2018) was jointly produced by Discovery Canada and Netflix. Instead of adhering strictly to historical accuracy, it introduced a more sensational tone to the depiction of the fur trade in the late 1700s or early 1800s. In contrast to other shows that handle this era with precision and respect, “Frontier” opted for a more playful approach, given its cast which included Jason Momoa and numerous Canadian actors. This led to a more entertaining take on series such as “Turn: Washington’s Spies,” “John Adams,” and even “Outlander.

If not for the allure of Apple TV+’s unconventional series “See,” starring Jason Momoa, “Frontier” might have continued for a few more seasons. Offering a variety of appeals, “Frontier” catered to diverse tastes: if you enjoyed watching young British actors in passionate arguments, there was plenty of that. For those who preferred Momoa’s rugged and brooding portrayal, coupled with frequent injuries, they had it covered. And for audiences interested in seeing two talented Canadian actors reenact “My Fair Lady” alongside a young Brit, portraying a gay couple along the way – well, “Frontier” certainly delivered on that unique twist. Despite its often illogical plotlines, “Frontier” never failed to provide an element of excitement. At least it offered something different.

Santa Clarita Diet

There seems to be a lack of horror-themed sitcoms, and if the central couple were portrayed by Drew Barrymore, a living zombie, and Timothy Olyphant, her devoted husband (post his role in Justified), it would certainly make an intriguing combination! The show Santa Clarita Diet, at first glance, seemed daring for its casual handling of the gruesome aspects associated with becoming a flesh-craving undead being. However, as the series progressed, it became evident that beneath all the blood and gore, there was a deep-rooted love story unfolding. Santa Clarita Diet, which premiered in 2017, alongside other humorous entries on this list, demonstrated Netflix’s prowess in creating comedic content. In fact, it might even be argued that they excel more at comedy than drama!

GLOW

From its triumphant premiere in 2017 until its untimely termination amidst the pandemic and production in 2020, GLOW has left an indelible mark on viewers who will remember it fondly. However, with audiences missing out on a conclusive ending, its popularity among the masses might be waning. Nevertheless, during its tenure, GLOW was one of the funniest and most feminist shows on television, offering Alison Brie more diverse roles than Annie Edison in Community. It also provided Betty Gilpin ample opportunities to display her martial arts skills, while introducing us to a versatile ensemble of character actresses. The show recognized that sometimes, the best response to adversity is to confront it head-on, particularly when you’re a motley crew of extraordinary female wrestlers.

Dear White People

In 2014, the film adaptation of “Dear White People” became quite popular. The Netflix series, smartly, picked up where the initial movie left off (despite having to replace original actors Tessa Thompson and Tyler James Williams), and brought back director and writer Justin Simien as well. Winchester University served as a perfect backdrop for a full four-season comedy series, which aired from 2017 to 2021. Among the three Netflix comedies that debuted in 2017, “Dear White People” had the longest run. It was frequently amusing and insightful, offering a sharp critique of millennial college life during an era that has since passed.

Perhaps the beloved series vanished from contemporary consciousness due to a two-year gap between seasons three and four, coupled with the shift in campus life post-2020. It’s a shame, but I eagerly anticipate the opportunity for Simien, who has just wrapped up the remake of The Haunted Mansion, to continue crafting comedies in the future. Although it seems that he missed out on a Disney+ series titled Lando, there’s good news: he’s developing a humorous Star Trek project instead!

Giri/Haji

Netflix boasts numerous “one-off” series in its lineup; however, unlike most of these miniseries, “Giri/Haji” (2020) did not fall into that category. A crime thriller jointly produced by the BBC and Netflix, this unique partnership didn’t seem to extend further. The show was a bilingual production, with scenes set in both London and Tokyo, which perhaps proved too complex for the average Netflix viewer. Despite receiving acclaim from critics, it failed to gain significant popularity. Starring Kelly Macdonald and Takehiro Hira in leading roles, “Giri/Haji” is a gripping series that deserves recognition as a bold, well-executed experiment. It premiered during a challenging period for global productions to thrive.

Locke & Key

Locke & Key managed to air all three seasons that its creators had envisioned. Despite frequently being overshadowed by Stranger Things, it still made an impressive comic book adaptation during its time. It premiered just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, which could have contributed to its longevity. Although a complex narrative, the young cast brought energy and vitality to the mysteries of the first season. The series improved in its second season, although the third and final season didn’t receive as many positive reviews. Given that it had been stuck in development limbo since 2010, it’s an astonishing tale of resilience.

2025-03-24 04:44