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Best Anthology Series On Netflix Of All Time

Alright, folks, let’s talk anthology series on Netflix! Imagine walking into your favorite diner and finding a menu that changes every time you visit. That’s the beauty of an anthology series—each episode or season serves up a new story, like a never-ending buffet of suspense, drama, or downright weirdness.

If you’re the type who loves a good plot twist but hates getting tangled up in a long, winding storyline, then anthology series are your new best friends. These shows are like those magical mystery boxes you see on the internet—full of surprises you never knew you needed until you saw them. One minute you’re in a noir detective story, and the next, you’re face-to-face with a mind-bending thriller.In this blog, we’re diving headfirst into the best anthology series Netflix has to offer. From spine-chilling tales that’ll keep you up at night to quirky episodes that’ll tickle your funny bone, we’ve got it all. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up, because we’re about to explore the best anthology series that will make you say, “Just one more episode!”

Detailed Table of Top 10 Greatest Anthology Series On Netflix Of All Time

RankWeb SeriesRuntimeCreated byStar CastCinematographyRelease DateIMDB RatingFamous Quotes
1Black Mirror (2011)
(Season 6)
40–89 minutesCharlie BrookerDaniel Kaluuya, 
Bryce Dallas Howard, 
Jon Hamm, 
Hayley Atwell, 
Domhnall Gleeson, 
Mackenzie Davis, 
Gugu Mbatha-Raw, 
Rory Kinnear, 
Jodie Whittaker, 
Anthony Mackie, 
Miley Cyrus, 
Andrea Riseborough, 
Andrew Scott, 
Letitia Wright, 
Wyatt Russell
Jakob Ihre, 
Gus Palmer, 
Martijn van Broekhuizen, 
Tim Maurice-Jones, 
Seamus McGarvey
21 October 20168.7/10I’m not a good person, but I’m not a bad person.
2The Haunting of Hill House (2018) 
(Season 1)
42–71 minutesMike FlanaganMichiel Huisman, 
Carla Gugino, 
Henry Thomas, 
Elizabeth Reaser, 
Oliver Jackson-Cohen, 
Kate Siegel, 
Victoria Pedretti, 
Lulu Wilson, 
Mckenna Grace, 
Paxton Singleton, 
Julian Hilliard, 
Violet McGraw, 
Timothy Hutton
Michael FimognariOctober 12, 20188.5/10People die all the time. It’s part of life. It’s part of the deal. But it’s still not okay.
3Criminal: UK (2019) 
(Season 2)
41–48 minutesGeorge Kay, 
Jim Field Smith
Katherine Kelly, 
Lee Ingleby, 
Mark Stanley, 
Rochenda Sandall, 
Shubham Saraf, 
Nicholas Pinnock, 
Aymen Hamdouchi
Bart Sienkiewicz20 September 20197.7/10You’re not the only one who’s desperate.
4Dead Set (2008) 
(Season 1)
25-45 minutesCharlie BrookerJaime Winstone, 
Andy Nyman, 
Riz Ahmed, 
Chizzy Akudolu, 
Liz May Brice, 
Warren Brown, 
Shelley Conn, 
Beth Cordingly, 
Adam Deacon, 
Kevin Eldon, 
Raj Ghatak, 
Kathleen McDermott, 
Davina McCall
Tat Radcliffe31 October 20087.6/10It’s like the end of the world out there.
5Criminal: Germany (2019) 
(Season 1)
41–45 minutesGeorge Kay, 
Jim Field Smith
Eva Meckbach, 
Sylvester Groth, 
Florence Kasumba
Nick Remy Matthews20 September 20197.6/10The truth is often more complicated than the lie.
6Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings (2019) 
(Season 1)
56–85 minutesDolly PartonDolly Parton, 
Julianne Hough, 
Kimberly Williams-Paisley, 
Ginnifer Goodwin, 
Kathleen Turner, 
Melissa Leo
Stephen CampbellNovember 22, 20197.6/10You can’t always choose the path you walk, but you can choose how you walk it.
7The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020) 
(Season 1)
46–66 minutesMike FlanaganVictoria Pedretti, 
Oliver Jackson-Cohen, 
Amelia Eve, 
T’Nia Miller, 
Rahul Kohli, 
Tahirah Sharif, 
Amelie Bea Smith, 
Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, 
Henry Thomas
James Kniest, 
Maxime Alexandre
October 9, 20207.4/10You can’t outrun your past, no matter how fast you run.
8Tales of the City (2019) 
(Season 1)
46–60 minutesLauren MorelliLaura Linney, 
Elliot Page[a], 
Paul Gross, 
Murray Bartlett, 
Charlie Barnett, 
Garcia, 
May Hong, 
Olympia Dukakis, 
Barbara Garrick
Federico CescaJune 7, 20197.4/10Sometimes the hardest thing is to let go of the past and accept that the future is still waiting for you.
9Criminal: France (2019) 
(Season 1)
37–42 minutesGeorge Kay, 
Jim Field Smith
Margot Bancilhon [fr], 
Laurent Lucas, 
Stéphane Jobert [fr]
Patrick Ghiringhelli20 September 20197.2/10You have to know what you’re willing to sacrifice to achieve your goals.
10Criminal: Spain (2019) 
(Season 1)
39–41 minutesGeorge Kay, 
Jim Field Smith
Emma Suárez, 
Jorge Bosch [es], 
Álvaro Cervantes
Pau Castejón20 September 20196.9/10There is nothing more dangerous than a man who has nothing to lose.

1.Black Mirror (2011)

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Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Runtime: 40–89 minutes per episode
Created by: Charlie Brooker
Stars Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Bryce Dallas Howard, Jon Hamm, Hayley Atwell, Domhnall Gleeson, Mackenzie Davis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Rory Kinnear, Jodie Whittaker, Anthony Mackie, Miley Cyrus, Andrea Riseborough, Andrew Scott, Letitia Wright, Wyatt Russell
Cinematography: Jakob Ihre, Gus Palmer, Martijn van Broekhuizen, Tim Maurice-Jones, Seamus McGarvey
Original Release Date: October 21, 2016
IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%
JustWatch Rating: 96%
Famous Quote: “I’m not a good person, but I’m not a bad person.”

Summary:

Step into the dark, twisted carnival of human folly that is Black Mirror. Created by the brilliant (and slightly ominous) Charlie Brooker, this anthology series is the digital age’s answer to The Twilight Zone, but with more existential dread and fewer happy endings.

Imagine waking up in a world where your every swipe, like, and tweet could determine your social status, or worse, your fate. Welcome to Black Mirror, where each episode is a standalone exploration of society’s deepest fears and highest hopes, all wrapped up in a sleek, tech-infused package.

Season 6 brings us more tales of woe and wonder, starring a roster of A-list talent that would make any casting director drool. Daniel Kaluuya kicks things off with a performance that’s as gripping as a smartphone addiction. Bryce Dallas Howard stars in an episode that makes you rethink every selfie you’ve ever posted. Then there’s Jon Hamm, who brings a chilling charisma that might make you reconsider those holiday e-cards.

Hayley Atwell and Domhnall Gleeson deliver emotional performances that tug at your heartstrings like a sad violin playing over a buffering YouTube video. Mackenzie Davis and Gugu Mbatha-Raw show us a love story that transcends time, space, and data plans. Rory Kinnear, Jodie Whittaker, Anthony Mackie, and even pop icon Miley Cyrus join in the dark fun, each contributing to the series’ haunting allure.

The cinematography team, featuring Jakob Ihre, Gus Palmer, Martijn van Broekhuizen, Tim Maurice-Jones, and Seamus McGarvey, creates visuals so stunning you’ll forget to check your notifications. Every shot is meticulously crafted to draw you into a world that feels both eerily familiar and disturbingly alien.

Season 6 keeps you on the edge of your seat, whether it’s pondering the ethical dilemmas of advanced technology or simply marveling at how much trouble one can get into with a virtual assistant. Each episode is a masterclass in storytelling, blending drama, mystery, and crime into a concoction that’s as addictive as your favorite app.

The famous quote, “I’m not a good person, but I’m not a bad person,” encapsulates the moral ambiguity that Black Mirror revels in. It’s a show that holds up a mirror (pun intended) to our society, reflecting our flaws and fantasies in equal measure.

So, if you’re ready to dive into a binge-watching session that will leave you questioning reality and perhaps your life choices, Black Mirror is your go-to guide. Just remember to unplug every now and then. You wouldn’t want to end up in an episode of your own.

2.The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

Photo by imdb

Genres: Drama, Horror, Mystery
Runtime: 42–71 minutes per episode
Created by: Mike Flanagan
Stars Cast: Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Henry Thomas, Elizabeth Reaser, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Kate Siegel, Victoria Pedretti, Lulu Wilson, Mckenna Grace, Paxton Singleton, Julian Hilliard, Violet McGraw, Timothy Hutton
Cinematography: Michael Fimognari
Original Release Date: October 12, 2018
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
JustWatch Rating: 95%
Famous Quote: “People die all the time. It’s part of life. It’s part of the deal. But it’s still not okay.”

Summary:

Picture this: you’re cozied up on your couch, the lights are dim, and you’re about to embark on a journey into a house that’s more twisted than a pretzel factory during a power outage. Welcome to The Haunting of Hill House, where family drama meets supernatural spookiness in a match made in horror heaven.

Created by the master of suspense himself, Mike Flanagan, this series is like a haunted house ride for your emotions. With episodes ranging from 42 to 71 minutes, it’s like a horror buffet—there’s something for everyone, and you’ll be scared silly before you know it.

Leading the charge is Michiel Huisman, who plays Steven Crain, the eldest sibling and the self-proclaimed skeptic. He’s joined by the formidable Carla Gugino as Olivia Crain, the matriarch with a heart as big as her collection of creepy premonitions. Henry Thomas steps in as Hugh Crain, the father who’s just trying to hold it all together while the walls literally start closing in.

The Crain kids, played by a stellar cast including Elizabeth Reaser, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Kate Siegel, Victoria Pedretti, Lulu Wilson, Mckenna Grace, Paxton Singleton, Julian Hilliard, and Violet McGraw, each bring their own flavor of fear and backstory that’ll have you hooked faster than you can say “Boo!”

The cinematography by Michael Fimognari is nothing short of cinematic wizardry. Each shot is crafted to pull you deeper into the labyrinth of Hill House, making you feel every creak, whisper, and shadow lurking just out of sight.

Released on October 12, 2018, this series quickly became a Halloween favorite, scoring an impressive 8.5/10 on IMDb, a spine-tingling 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, and a ghoulishly good 95% on JustWatch. With a quote like, “People die all the time. It’s part of life. It’s part of the deal. But it’s still not okay,” you know you’re in for a philosophical fright fest.

The Haunting of Hill House isn’t just about jump scares and eerie apparitions; it’s a deep dive into the trauma and terror that bind the Crain family. Each episode peels back layers of their past, revealing that sometimes the scariest ghosts are the ones we carry inside us.

So, if you’re ready to confront your fears, unravel dark family secrets, and perhaps sleep with the lights on for a week, then Hill House is calling your name. Just remember, in this house, the past never stays dead, and the walls have ears—and sometimes, they talk back.

3.Criminal: UK (2019)

Photo by imdb

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Runtime: 41–48 minutes per episode
Created by: George Kay
Stars Cast: Katherine Kelly, Lee Ingleby, Mark Stanley, Rochenda Sandall, Shubham Saraf, Nicholas Pinnock, Aymen Hamdouchi
Cinematography: Bart Sienkiewicz
Original Release Date: September 20, 2019
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%
JustWatch Rating: 88%
Famous Quote: “You’re not the only one who’s desperate.”

Summary:

Imagine a pressure cooker filled with tension, secrets, and high-stakes drama—welcome to Criminal: UK, where the interrogation room is both a battlefield and a chessboard. This series is the ultimate whodunit, set entirely within the four walls of a police interrogation room, making it more gripping than trying to untangle your earphones after they’ve been in your pocket.

Created by the ingenious George Kay, this show turns the classic crime drama on its head. With each episode clocking in at 41 to 48 minutes, it’s like speed dating for mystery lovers—you get all the juicy drama without the fluff.

Leading the charge is Katherine Kelly as DI Natalie Hobbs, who has the steely determination of a drill sergeant and the empathy of a therapist. She’s joined by Lee Ingleby as Tony Myerscough, a detective with a knack for getting under people’s skin—metaphorically speaking, of course. The team also includes Mark Stanley, Rochenda Sandall, Shubham Saraf, and Nicholas Pinnock, each bringing their own brand of brilliance to the interrogation table.

The show’s cinematography by Bart Sienkiewicz turns the stark interrogation room into a stage where the psychological drama unfolds. Every glance, every twitch, every bead of sweat is captured, making you feel like you’re right there, watching the suspects squirm under the relentless questioning.

Released on September 20, 2019, Criminal: UK has been a hit with both audiences and critics, boasting a solid 7.7/10 on IMDb, a stellar 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an impressive 88% on JustWatch. With lines like, “You’re not the only one who’s desperate,” the dialogue is sharper than a detective’s intuition and just as compelling.

Season 2 continues to unravel intricate cases, with each episode peeling back layers of deception and truth. The suspects range from the seemingly innocent to the obviously guilty, but in this room, nothing is as it appears. The tension is palpable, the stakes are high, and the truth is always just out of reach.

Criminal: UK isn’t just about solving crimes; it’s about understanding the human psyche, the desperation that drives people to the edge, and the relentless pursuit of justice. So, if you’re ready for a series that’s as intense as a caffeine-fueled all-nighter and as satisfying as a perfectly solved puzzle, pull up a chair and prepare to be interrogated—Criminal: UK style.

4.Dead Set (2008)

Photo by episodedergi

Genres: Drama, Horror, Reality-TV
Runtime: 25-45 minutes per episode
Created by: Charlie Brooker
Stars Cast: Jaime Winstone, Andy Nyman, Riz Ahmed, Chizzy Akudolu, Liz May Brice, Warren Brown, Shelley Conn, Beth Cordingly, Adam Deacon, Kevin Eldon, Raj Ghatak, Kathleen McDermott, Davina McCall
Cinematography: Tat Radcliffe
Original Release Date: October 31, 2008
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%
JustWatch Rating: 85%
Famous Quote: “It’s like the end of the world out there.”

Summary:

Imagine the most dramatic reality TV show you’ve ever seen—now add zombies. That’s right, folks, we’re diving into Dead Set, where the Big Brother house becomes ground zero for a zombie apocalypse. This isn’t your typical reality TV drama; it’s a full-blown horror show where the stakes are as high as the body count.

Created by the twisted genius Charlie Brooker, Dead Set is like if Big Brother and The Walking Dead had a baby—and then that baby turned into a flesh-eating monster. With episodes ranging from 25 to 45 minutes, it’s a binge-watch that’ll have you clutching your couch cushions tighter than a contestant clutches their last shred of sanity.

Leading the charge is Jaime Winstone as Kelly, a production runner who’s suddenly thrust into the role of reluctant hero. She’s backed by a cast that includes Andy Nyman, Riz Ahmed, and Chizzy Akudolu, each bringing their own unique flair to the survival game. And let’s not forget Davina McCall, playing a zombified version of herself that’s more terrifying than any eviction night.

The cinematography by Tat Radcliffe captures the chaos and claustrophobia of the Big Brother house turned zombie hideout. Every shadow hides a potential threat, and every corner could be your last. It’s a visual feast—if your idea of a feast includes a lot of gore and screaming.

Released on Halloween 2008, Dead Set became an instant cult classic, racking up a solid 7.6/10 on IMDb, a killer 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an impressive 85% on JustWatch. With a tagline like, “It’s like the end of the world out there,” the show perfectly encapsulates the panic and paranoia of a zombie outbreak.

Season 1 is a rollercoaster of tension, horror, and dark humor. The Big Brother housemates, who are blissfully unaware of the carnage outside, must quickly adapt to their new reality. Alliances are formed, betrayals are inevitable, and the zombies are relentless. It’s a fight for survival where the living are just as dangerous as the undead.

Dead Set is more than just a zombie show; it’s a satirical look at reality TV and the culture of fame, wrapped in a blood-soaked horror package. It’s a series that’ll make you laugh, scream, and maybe even question your reality TV addiction. So, grab your popcorn, lock your doors, and get ready for a wild ride—because in Dead Set, the only reality is survival.

5.Criminal: Germany (2019)

Photo by imdb

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Runtime: 41–45 minutes per episode
Created by: George Kay, Jim Field Smith
Stars Cast: Eva Meckbach, Sylvester Groth, Florence Kasumba
Cinematography: Nick Remy Matthews
Original Release Date: September 20, 2019
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
JustWatch Rating: 73%
Famous Quote: “The truth is often more complicated than the lie.”

Summary:

Criminal: Germany is like a finely crafted Swiss watch, where every tick and tock reveals more layers of intrigue. Set entirely within the four walls of an interrogation room, this show will have you on the edge of your seat, hanging on every word. Think of it as a psychological chess match where the stakes are as high as a cat on a hot tin roof.

Created by the dynamic duo George Kay and Jim Field Smith, this series takes the crime drama genre and gives it a Teutonic twist. With episodes running between 41 and 45 minutes, it’s the perfect bite-sized binge that packs a punch harder than a heavyweight champion.

The star lineup is nothing short of stellar. Eva Meckbach leads the charge as the cool and calculated detective, while Sylvester Groth and Florence Kasumba bring their own unique flair to the mix. Together, they navigate the murky waters of criminal confessions and deceptions, proving that in this game, the truth is often more twisted than a pretzel.

The cinematography by Nick Remy Matthews is a masterclass in claustrophobia. Every shot is meticulously crafted to heighten the tension, making you feel like you’re right there in the hot seat. It’s an exercise in minimalism that pays off in spades, keeping you glued to the screen as the drama unfolds.

Released on September 20, 2019, Criminal: Germany has earned a respectable 7.6/10 on IMDb and a solid 73% on JustWatch. It’s a show that doesn’t rely on car chases or explosions, but rather on the power of dialogue and the subtle art of the interrogator’s craft. The quote “The truth is often more complicated than the lie” perfectly encapsulates the show’s essence, as each episode peels back the layers of its characters’ stories like an onion—sometimes making you cry, but always leaving you craving more.

Season 1 dives deep into the human psyche, presenting cases that are as varied as they are compelling. Whether it’s a suspect with a rock-solid alibi or a witness who’s more slippery than an eel, the team must sift through the web of deceit to uncover the truth. It’s a cat-and-mouse game where the stakes are nothing less than life and death.

So, grab your magnifying glass and your detective hat, because Criminal: Germany is a mind-bending ride that will challenge your perceptions and keep you guessing until the very last frame. It’s a masterclass in interrogation that proves sometimes, the quietest rooms hold the loudest secrets.

6.Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings (2019)

Photo by sleepykittypaws

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Music
Runtime: 56–85 minutes per episode
Created by: Dolly Parton
Stars Cast: Dolly Parton, Julianne Hough, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Ginnifer Goodwin, Kathleen Turner, Melissa Leo
Cinematography: Stephen Campbell
Original Release Date: November 22, 2019
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
JustWatch Rating: 34%
Famous Quote: “You can’t always choose the path you walk, but you can choose how you walk it.”

Summary:

Imagine a series that’s like a cozy quilt made by your grandma, stitched together with love, laughter, and a pinch of Southern charm. That’s Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings. It’s a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and music that hits all the right notes, much like Dolly Parton herself.

This anthology series, created by the one and only Dolly Parton, takes inspiration from her iconic songs. Each episode is a standalone story, like a box of assorted chocolates where every piece is a surprise. With run times ranging from 56 to 85 minutes, each episode is a hearty serving of storytelling goodness, just the way Dolly intended.

The cast is a star-studded ensemble that includes Julianne Hough, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Ginnifer Goodwin, Kathleen Turner, and Melissa Leo. It’s like a who’s who of Hollywood, all coming together to bring Dolly’s songs to life. And of course, Dolly Parton herself graces the screen, adding that extra sparkle and wisdom.

Stephen Campbell’s cinematography makes every scene look like a beautiful country postcard, capturing the heart and soul of each story. Whether it’s the rolling hills of Tennessee or the hustle and bustle of city life, the visuals are as charming as a front porch swing on a lazy afternoon.

Released on November 22, 2019, Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings has a solid 7.6/10 on IMDb, showing that viewers appreciate a good story told with heart. The JustWatch rating of 34% might seem low, but don’t let that fool you—this series is like a hidden gem, waiting for you to discover its magic.

The famous quote from the show, “You can’t always choose the path you walk, but you can choose how you walk it,” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the series. It’s a reminder that no matter what life throws at you, it’s your attitude that makes all the difference.

In Season 1, you’ll find a variety of tales—from heartwarming family dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies and everything in between. Each episode is a unique journey, with characters facing life’s ups and downs, much like Dolly herself has done throughout her illustrious career.

So, grab a seat, maybe a sweet tea, and get ready to be serenaded by stories that are as heartwarming as Dolly’s biggest hits. Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings is more than just a TV show; it’s a celebration of life, love, and the music that binds us all.

7.The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020)

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Genres: Drama, Horror, Mystery
Runtime: 46–66 minutes per episode
Created by: Mike Flanagan
Stars Cast: Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Amelia Eve, T’Nia Miller, Rahul Kohli, Tahirah Sharif, Amelie Bea Smith, Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, Henry Thomas
Cinematography: James Kniest, Maxime Alexandre
Original Release Date: October 9, 2020
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 88%
JustWatch Rating: 91%
Famous Quote: “You can’t outrun your past, no matter how fast you run.”

Summary:

If ever there was a show that makes you want to hide under the covers with a flashlight, it’s The Haunting of Bly Manor. Imagine moving into a charming English estate, only to find it’s packed with more spirits than a haunted distillery. Created by the master of modern horror, Mike Flanagan, this series is the follow-up to The Haunting of Hill House and promises just as many chills and thrills.

Victoria Pedretti leads a stellar cast as Dani, the new au pair at Bly Manor. She’s joined by Oliver Jackson-Cohen, who seems to have a permanent spot on Flanagan’s spooky roster, Amelia Eve, T’Nia Miller, Rahul Kohli, Tahirah Sharif, Amelie Bea Smith, Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, and the ever-reliable Henry Thomas. With a line-up like this, you know you’re in for some top-notch ghostly drama.

The cinematography by James Kniest and Maxime Alexandre is so beautifully eerie, it’s like someone took a Gothic novel and brought it to life with a fog machine and just the right amount of moonlight. From the sprawling manor grounds to the dimly lit interiors, every frame is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Released on October 9, 2020, just in time for the Halloween season, The Haunting of Bly Manor holds a respectable 7.4/10 on IMDb, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it a solid 88% and JustWatch showing a hearty 91%. These ratings are proof that sometimes, getting scared out of your wits can be quite enjoyable.

The show’s famous quote, “You can’t outrun your past, no matter how fast you run,” is a haunting reminder that the skeletons in our closets have a nasty habit of catching up with us. And at Bly Manor, those skeletons are more literal than figurative.

In Season 1, the narrative weaves through the lives of the manor’s inhabitants, both living and otherwise. Each character has their own baggage, their own secrets, and their own ghosts, both metaphorical and real. The show brilliantly balances horror with heart, making you care about the characters even as you dread what’s lurking around the next corner.

So, if you’re in the mood for a series that’s equal parts spooky and emotionally gripping, The Haunting of Bly Manor is your ticket to a night of binge-watching. Just remember, in the world of Bly, the past is never truly dead—and neither are some of the residents.

8.Tales of the City (2019)

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Genres: Drama
Runtime: 46–60 minutes per episode
Created by: Lauren Morelli
Stars Cast: Laura Linney, Elliot Page, Paul Gross, Murray Bartlett, Charlie Barnett, Garcia, May Hong, Olympia Dukakis, Barbara Garrick
Cinematography: Federico Cesca
Original Release Date: June 7, 2019
IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 82%
JustWatch Rating: 78%
Famous Quote: “Sometimes the hardest thing is to let go of the past and accept that the future is still waiting for you.”

Summary:

Welcome to Tales of the City, where drama unfolds faster than you can say “San Francisco.” Created by Lauren Morelli, this 2019 reboot takes us back to the heart of the bustling Bay Area, where the past and present collide in a whirlwind of emotions, secrets, and a dash of fabulousness.

Leading the charge is the ever-brilliant Laura Linney, reprising her role as Mary Ann Singleton. She’s joined by a star-studded ensemble cast including the always compelling Elliot Page, the dashing Paul Gross, the charismatic Murray Bartlett, the charming Charlie Barnett, the enigmatic Garcia, the captivating May Hong, the legendary Olympia Dukakis, and the timeless Barbara Garrick. This crew turns Barbary Lane into a stage where every glance, whisper, and revelation feels like a plot twist.

Federico Cesca’s cinematography paints San Francisco in hues that make you want to pack your bags and move to the City by the Bay. Each shot is a love letter to the city’s iconic skyline, vibrant streets, and the eclectic charm of Barbary Lane.

Released on June 7, 2019, Tales of the City garnered a solid 7.4/10 on IMDb, with Rotten Tomatoes tipping their hat with an 82% rating and JustWatch giving it a respectable 78%. Clearly, there’s something special about this tale of interconnected lives.

The show’s famous quote, “Sometimes the hardest thing is to let go of the past and accept that the future is still waiting for you,” sums up the essence of this drama. It’s a gentle reminder that while the past may shape us, it doesn’t have to define us.

In Season 1, we follow Mary Ann as she returns to San Francisco after a long absence, rekindling old friendships and facing unresolved issues. Her journey intertwines with the lives of Barbary Lane’s residents, each grappling with their own struggles, identities, and dreams. From family secrets to personal triumphs, every story is a thread in the rich tapestry of the city’s heartbeat.

With its blend of humor, heartache, and humanity, Tales of the City is a poignant exploration of love, acceptance, and the ties that bind us. So, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, find a cozy spot, and dive into the stories that make Barbary Lane a place like no other.

9.Criminal: France (2019)

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Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Runtime: 37–42 minutes per episode
Created by: George Kay
Stars Cast: Margot Bancilhon, Laurent Lucas, Stéphane Jobert
Cinematography: Patrick Ghiringhelli
Original Release Date: September 20, 2019
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
JustWatch Rating: 73%
Famous Quote: “You have to know what you’re willing to sacrifice to achieve your goals.”

Summary:

Welcome to Criminal: France, where the tension is thicker than a Parisian baguette and the stakes higher than the Eiffel Tower. This 2019 series, created by George Kay, brings a fresh twist to the crime drama genre with an intense focus on the psychological cat-and-mouse game that unfolds within the interrogation room.

Front and center is the sharp and savvy Margot Bancilhon as she navigates through a web of lies, deceit, and occasional truth. Her co-stars, the formidable Laurent Lucas and the enigmatic Stéphane Jobert, bring layers of complexity and depth to their roles, making every episode a riveting watch.

With Patrick Ghiringhelli handling cinematography, each scene is crafted to perfection, capturing the claustrophobic intensity of the interrogation room and the subtle nuances of each suspect’s body language. Every shot feels deliberate, amplifying the psychological drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Released on September 20, 2019, Criminal: France earned a solid 7.2/10 on IMDb and a respectable 73% rating on JustWatch. These ratings reflect its unique appeal and the gripping storytelling that hooks viewers from the get-go.

The series’ famous quote, “You have to know what you’re willing to sacrifice to achieve your goals,” encapsulates the core of the show. It’s a stark reminder that in the pursuit of justice, everyone—detectives and suspects alike—faces difficult choices and sacrifices.

Season 1 plunges us into a series of intense interrogations where the detectives must peel back layers of deception to uncover the truth. The confined setting heightens the drama as each suspect’s story unfolds, revealing their motives, fears, and secrets. The interplay between the investigators and suspects is charged with tension, wit, and unexpected twists.

In this high-stakes game of wits, Criminal: France delves into the darker side of human nature and the relentless pursuit of justice. The series’ minimalist approach, focusing almost entirely on the dialogue and performances, creates a pressure cooker atmosphere that’s as captivating as it is nerve-wracking.

So, if you’re in the mood for a crime drama that’s more about mental agility than car chases, Criminal: France is your perfect match. Just be prepared for some sleepless nights, as the twists and turns will keep you thinking long after the credits roll.

10.Criminal: Spain (2019)

Photo by netflix

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Runtime: 39–41 minutes per episode
Created by: George Kay
Stars Cast: Emma Suárez, Pau Castejón, Jorge Bosch
Cinematography: Not specified
Original Release Date: September 20, 2019
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
JustWatch Rating: 79%
Famous Quote: “There is nothing more dangerous than a man who has nothing to lose.”

Summary:

Welcome to Criminal: Spain, where the art of interrogation meets the intense thrill of crime drama. Created by George Kay, this 2019 series dives deep into the psyche of both criminals and detectives alike, set against the backdrop of Spain’s diverse landscapes.

Starring the talented Emma Suárez and Pau Castejón, alongside the compelling Jorge Bosch, the series weaves a tapestry of suspense, deception, and moral dilemmas. Each episode unfolds within the confines of the interrogation room, where every word and gesture is a piece in the puzzle of solving heinous crimes.

Under the direction of Jim Field Smith, the cinematography—led by an uncredited professional—captures the raw emotions and psychological warfare that characterize the cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and suspects. The tension is palpable, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as each case unravels.

Released on September 20, 2019, Criminal: Spain boasts a 6.9/10 rating on IMDb and an impressive 79% rating on JustWatch, reflecting its gripping narrative and powerful performances. The series’ famous quote, “There is nothing more dangerous than a man who has nothing to lose,” sets the tone for the relentless pursuit of truth and justice.

In Season 1, viewers are treated to a series of captivating episodes where morality and ethics collide with the harsh realities of crime. The ensemble cast delivers nuanced performances that explore the complexities of human behavior under pressure, blurring the lines between right and wrong.

Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or simply enjoy a good psychological thriller, Criminal: Spain promises an immersive experience that challenges perceptions and keeps you guessing until the final revelation. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring allure of the human psyche under scrutiny.

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