That eternal struggle. The evening is here, you’re at home, you want to watch something, and Netflix just throws a mountain of content at you. Know the feeling? Yeah. You sit there, scrolling, and half an hour is gone, and you’ve picked absolutely nothing. You just get stuck in that endless scroll…
Anyway, to save you some time, I sat down, did some thinking, went through my personal lists, and decided to put together a selection that will definitely get you out of that rut. There’s some serious stuff here, some less so, some old, some new. Everything I love.
What to Watch on Netflix: Series and Movies That Will Hook You
Honestly, I’m always surprised when people say, “There’s nothing good on Netflix.” How can that be? There’s a ton of stuff! You just need to know where to look. So I’m gonna show you where to start so you don’t regret the time you’ve spent. Think of this as my personal recommendation, not from some know-it-all blogger, but from a friend. So, ready to dive in?
Series
Mindhunter (2017)
- Director: David Fincher, Andrew Dominik, Asif Kapadia, Tobias Lindholm, Carl Franklin
- Starring: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
- Genre: Crime drama, thriller
- Runtime: 2 Seasons
- IMDb: 8.6/10
- Author’s Rating: 9.5/10
Short Summary: FBI agents create a new approach to investigations by interviewing serial killers to understand their psychology. It’s tense, atmospheric, and sometimes creepy as hell.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The episode where Holden Ford meets Ed Kemper. That dialogue… it gives you goosebumps. It really feels like you’re sitting right there with them.
Author’s Comment: C’mon, it’s Fincher, guys. Do I need to explain more? This is a show that makes you think and analyze. There are no car chases or shootouts. All the tension is in the conversations. And that makes it even scarier. It’s not just a “crime drama,” it’s a psychological experiment, and you’re part of it. A really, really great show, in my opinion.
Stranger Things (2016)
- Director: The Duffer Brothers
- Starring: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown
- Genre: Sci-fi, horror, drama
- Runtime: 4 Seasons
- IMDb: 8.7/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.0/10
Short Summary: In a small town, strange things start happening after a boy disappears. A group of friends and a girl with supernatural powers try to figure out what’s going on.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The end of the first season, where the kids save Eleven, and she disappears. Or when Max is floating above the cemetery in season four to Kate Bush’s music. That… that’s just epic.
Author’s Comment: This show is pure joy and 80s nostalgia. If you, like me, love those nods to Spielberg, Stephen King, and all that stuff, you’ll love it. It’s like being a kid again, when you were sure there was something under your bed. Super atmospheric, very heartfelt. Especially if you watch it in the evening with some chips and a soda. Pure chill, you know?
The Crown (2016)
- Director: Benjamin Caron, Philip Martin, Stephen Daldry
- Starring: Olivia Colman, Matt Smith, Claire Foy, Elizabeth Debicki, Imelda Staunton
- Genre: Historical drama
- Runtime: 5 Seasons
- IMDb: 8.7/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.5/10
Short Summary: The life of the British royal family, from Queen Elizabeth II’s wedding to modern times. Intrigue, politics, personal drama. Everything you’d expect.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The death of Winston Churchill. It’s so beautifully and sadly done that it’s impossible not to get a little teary. Even as a dude, I was just… yeah, it’s powerful.
Author’s Comment: Who would have thought the lives of British monarchs could be so captivating? The show is made with such quality that you just get lost in it. You literally see history unfolding. And the acting… that’s a whole other level of art. It feels like they were really living those roles. So, what can I say? If you love history, drama, and just high-quality filmmaking, this is your show.
The Witcher (2019)
- Director: Alik Sakharov, Charlotte Brändström, Marc Jobst, Lauren Schmidt Hissrich
- Starring: Henry Cavill, Freya Allan, Anya Chalotra
- Genre: Fantasy, action, adventure
- Runtime: 3 Seasons
- IMDb: 8.0/10
- Author’s Rating: 7.5/10
Short Summary: Monster hunter Geralt of Rivia tries to find his place in a world where humans are often worse than beasts. Destiny brings him together with a powerful sorceress and a princess with an unusual fate.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The one where Geralt fights a monster in the first season. It’s like something out of a fairy tale. The choreography and visuals are so cool. A real fantasy action flick.
Author’s Comment: Yeah, I know it had its problems with the later seasons, but the first one is something special. I read Sapkowski’s books and played the game, and I have to admit, Cavill is the perfect Geralt. He really lived that role. If you like fantasy, swords, magic, and a bit of a crude sense of humor, you’ll enjoy this.
Ozark (2017)
- Director: Jason Bateman, Amanda Marsalis, Ellen Kuras
- Starring: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Sofia Hublitz, Julia Garner
- Genre: Crime drama, thriller
- Runtime: 4 Seasons
- IMDb: 8.5/10
- Author’s Rating: 9.0/10
Short Summary: A financial advisor who launders money for a Mexican drug cartel is forced to move his family to the Ozarks to set up a new scheme. But things aren’t so simple there…
Scene That Blew My Mind: The episode where Ruth, you know, that girl who works with them, finds out who killed her uncles. It’s just… well, you’ll see. Her acting is a masterpiece on its own.
Author’s Comment: This show is just pure tension. Every episode keeps you on the edge of your seat, and you never know what’s going to happen next. The actors… Bateman is unreal. And Julia Garner, who plays Ruth, she just steals every scene. This is, like, a must-see if you’re into crime but not the usual stuff.
The Umbrella Academy (2019)
- Director: Stephen Surjik, Andrew Bernstein, Jeremy Webb
- Starring: Elliot Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda, Emmy Raver-Lampman
- Genre: Superhero, drama, comedy
- Runtime: 3 Seasons
- IMDb: 7.9/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.0/10
Short Summary: The members of a dysfunctional superhero family reunite to solve the mystery of their father’s death. And, of course, to stop the end of the world. Again.
Scene That Blew My Mind: When they all dance to “I Think We’re Alone Now.” It’s so weird, but so cool, and right away you know this is gonna be something different.
Author’s Comment: This isn’t your typical superhero show. It’s… quirky, funny, a little sad. Not everything is perfect, the characters have a ton of issues, and they fight a lot. But that’s exactly what makes it so engaging. It’s a fun kind of chaos, you know? You can watch it and just relax. Highly recommend if you’re tired of all the serious superhero blockbusters.
Money Heist (2017)
- Director: Álex Pina
- Starring: Úrsula Corberó, Álvaro Morte, Itziar Ituño, Pedro Alonso
- Genre: Crime thriller, action
- Runtime: 5 Seasons
- IMDb: 8.2/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.0/10
Short Summary: A group of criminals, led by the mysterious Professor, plans the biggest heist in history. No, not just a heist, a full-on operation.
Scene That Blew My Mind: When they sing “Bella Ciao.” It’s just… you know. It’s like their anthem. And it’s so cool, really cool.
Author’s Comment: This is a show you start watching and simply can’t stop. The tension, the intrigue, the constant “surprises.” You literally find yourself rooting for the robbers. It’s a Spanish show, and it’s full of passion and emotion! Sometimes they go a little over the top, but that’s their style. It’s very addictive, and if you’re wondering what to watch on Netflix and have no idea… well, start with this one.
The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
- Director: Scott Frank
- Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Harry Melling
- Genre: Drama
- Runtime: 1 Season
- IMDb: 8.5/10
- Author’s Rating: 9.0/10
Short Summary: The story of a chess prodigy orphan who takes the chess world by storm while battling addiction and her own inner demons.
Scene That Blew My Mind: When Beth Harmon imagines the chess pieces on the ceiling. That scene is so visually beautiful and unique. And the final game, of course.
Author’s Comment: Who would have thought a show about chess could be so interesting? It’s basically a game, right? But it’s filmed in such a way that you can’t look away. It’s about a genius, about addiction, and about loneliness. Anya Taylor-Joy is just unreal. I was honestly blown away when I finished it. It’s a masterpiece. And those aren’t just empty words.
Movies
The Irishman (2019)
- Director: Martin Scorsese
- Starring: Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci
- Genre: Crime drama
- Runtime: 3 hr 29 min
- IMDb: 7.8/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.5/10
Short Summary: A chronicle of the life of hitman Frank Sheeran, his ties to the Mafia, and politicians. An epic saga of a life full of choices and losses. All the things Scorsese loves.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The episode where Joe Pesci’s character, Russell, just talks. No flash, no shouting. It’s so scary it’s unsettling. And the ending, of course.
Author’s Comment: Yeah, the movie is long. But it’s Scorsese. It’s a classic you just have to watch. He got the whole gang back together, all old guys, but so talented! It’s not just a crime film; it’s a… a memory film. About old age, regrets, and how life slips by. I just sat there watching them, thinking, “These are geniuses.” This is a movie that sticks with you.
The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)
- Director: Aaron Sorkin
- Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen, Eddie Redmayne, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Mark Rylance
- Genre: Historical drama, thriller
- Runtime: 2 hr 9 min
- IMDb: 7.7/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.0/10
Short Summary: The film about the trial of a group of activists accused of conspiracy and inciting riots during anti-Vietnam War protests in 1968.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The final scene when one of the defendants reads the names of those who fell in Vietnam. It’s such a powerful emotional scene that it just puts a lump in your throat.
Author’s Comment: Sorkin is a master of dialogue, that’s for sure. The film is dynamic, smart, and has humor, but it’s very serious. It’s got political satire, drama, and a great story. The cast is just amazing! Sacha Baron Cohen… who would have thought he could act like that? This is a film that makes you think about truth, power, and what was and what is. It’s a total must-see.
Roma (2018)
- Director: Alfonso Cuarón
- Starring: Yalitza Aparicio, Marina de Tavira, Fernando Guedaín
- Genre: Drama
- Runtime: 2 hr 15 min
- IMDb: 7.7/10
- Author’s Rating: 9.5/10
Short Summary: A film about the life of an ordinary family in Mexico City in the 70s. More specifically, about the maid who lives with them. Black and white, very meditative.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The scene on the beach where Cleo, the maid, saves the children. The tension is incredible, and then there’s this catharsis. Just… tears.
Author’s Comment: This movie is a work of art. When I watched it, I just forgot it was a film. It felt like I was living and breathing there myself. Cuarón… he’s a genius, no doubt. This is a film about the mundane, but it’s so beautifully shot and so genuine. Not for popcorn, but for the soul. Just sit down and watch it. It’s worth it.
Marriage Story (2019)
- Director: Noah Baumbach
- Starring: Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson, Laura Dern
- Genre: Drama, comedy
- Runtime: 2 hr 17 min
- IMDb: 7.9/10
- Author’s Rating: 9.0/10
Short Summary: The story of a couple’s divorce, with love, hate, drama, and comedy all mixed in. A film about how people who once loved each other become strangers. Or do they?
Scene That Blew My Mind: The fight scene between Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson. It’s… something else. It’s so realistic that I was sitting there remembering my own family arguments. You know, when the words just fly out, and you can’t stop.
Author’s Comment: This is a movie about life, raw and unfiltered. Sometimes it’s funny, sometimes it hurts. The actors… they just live. Especially Adam Driver. It’s such a powerful performance, you just want to applaud. It’s a film about emotions, relationships, and how life isn’t always black and white. A really, really great movie. A must-watch.
Don’t Look Up (2021)
- Director: Adam McKay
- Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Jonah Hill
- Genre: Satirical comedy, sci-fi
- Runtime: 2 hr 25 min
- IMDb: 7.2/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.5/10
Short Summary: Two astronomers discover a comet on a direct path to destroy Earth. But no one takes them seriously, especially the U.S. President.
Scene That Blew My Mind: The scene where DiCaprio just loses it on live TV. Such an emotional outburst, it took my breath away. It was so, so powerful.
Author’s Comment: Well, this is McKay, the guy who made “The Big Short.” This movie is a satire that really hits hard. It’s about modern society, politicians, and the media. It’s… a little angry, but so true. And the actors—it’s a star-studded cast! If you love sarcasm and want to laugh but also be forced to think, this is your film. Very relevant, very cool.
All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)
- Director: Edward Berger
- Starring: Felix Kammerer, Albrecht Schuch, Aaron Hilmer
- Genre: War drama
- Runtime: 2 hr 27 min
- IMDb: 7.8/10
- Author’s Rating: 9.0/10
Short Summary: A film about a young German soldier who ends up on the front lines of World War I. It’s about life, death, and how war breaks people.
Scene That Blew My Mind: When they’re in the trench and the attack starts. The chaos and the horror are so real, you can physically feel the fear. And the ending, of course.
Author’s Comment: This film isn’t about heroism. It’s about horror and pain. It’s brutal, but it’s honest. There are no fancy embellishments, no romance. Just dirt, blood, and death. It’s filmed fantastically. I sat there thinking… how can anyone fight in a war if it’s this terrifying? This is probably one of the best war movies I’ve ever seen. Highly recommend, but be ready, it’s a tough watch.
Dolemite Is My Name (2019)
- Director: Craig Brewer
- Starring: Eddie Murphy, Wesley Snipes, Keegan-Michael Key
- Genre: Biographical comedy, drama
- Runtime: 1 hr 58 min
- IMDb: 7.3/10
- Author’s Rating: 8.0/10
Short Summary: Eddie Murphy plays Rudy Ray Moore, a comedian who can’t seem to make it big. So he creates the Dolemite persona to make his own blaxploitation films.
Scene That Blew My Mind: When Dolemite first takes the stage and starts performing. It’s so funny, but at the same time, you see this guy finding his path.
Author’s Comment: This is a movie that just lifts your spirits. It’s Eddie Murphy’s comeback! He’s absolutely brilliant here. It’s such a kind, honest, and funny story about a guy who never gave up and believed in himself. And Wesley Snipes is in it too! A very funny and heartwarming movie. If you’re tired of all the serious stuff, this is what you need. I was smiling after I finished it, for real.
Final Thoughts
Each of these movies and series I’ve included here is special in its own way. Maybe they don’t have one thing in common, but… they all share a **depth and sincerity**. Each one, regardless of genre, tells an important story. And they’re not just “background noise”; you have to actually watch them. They’re genuine.
I hope my list helps you decide what to watch on Netflix and that you find something new for yourself. Because, you know, there aren’t many genuine moments in life, and watching a movie is one of them. When you can just sit, turn off the lights, and just exist in another reality for a while. Enjoy the show!
“A movie that doesn’t make you think is just popcorn.”
That’s not a quote from a famous critic; it’s my own opinion that has become, like, my motto. Because a movie that only entertains is quickly forgotten. But one that makes you think stays with you for a long time. And those are the exact movies I tried to gather here.
If you liked the list, share it with your friends! So they don’t have to suffer choosing either.
Author — ReelPoint
Think… Watch… Feel.
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