Best Drama Series On Netflix

Welcome to the ultimate guide on the best drama series on Netflix of all time! Imagine Netflix as a vast ocean, teeming with schools of shows, but amongst the seaweed and shipwrecks, a few precious pearls truly stand out. Ready to dive in? Grab your popcorn, put on your comfiest PJs, and let’s embark on this binge-worthy adventure!

Picture this: It’s a rainy Saturday, and you’re cozied up on the couch, ready to ride the emotional rollercoaster of a stellar drama series. As you navigate through the seemingly endless options, you might feel like a sailor lost at sea. Fear not! We’re here to be your lighthouse, guiding you to the shores of top-tier drama series that will keep you hooked from the first splash to the final wave.

Take, for instance, the nail-biting tension of Ozark, where every episode feels like walking a tightrope over a pit of alligators. Or the royal intrigue of The Crown, where the drama is as rich as a slice of Victoria sponge cake. Then there’s the gritty world of Peaky Blinders, where the Shelby family’s escapades are sharper than a tailor-made suit.

So, buckle up and prepare for some serious screen time. These shows aren’t just good—they’re the cream of the crop, the best of the best, the absolute bee’s knees of drama series on Netflix. Let’s get started!

Detailed Table of Best Drama Series On Netflix Of All Time

1.When They See Us (2019)

• Genres: Biography, Crime, Drama
• Runtime: 64–88 minutes per episode
• Created by: Ava DuVernay
• Stars: Asante Blackk, Caleel Harris, Ethan Herisse, Jharrel Jerome, Marquis Rodriguez, Jovan Adepo, Chris Chalk, Justin Cunningham, Freddy Miyares, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Kylie Bunbury, Aunjanue Ellis, Vera Farmiga, Felicity Huffman, John Leguizamo, Niecy Nash, Michael K. Williams
• Cinematography: Bradford Young
• Release Date: May 31, 2019
• Seasons: 1
• IMDB Rating: 8.8/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 97%
• JustWatch Rating: 94%
• Famous Quote: “I’m not a liar. I’m not. I don’t know what happened to that lady, but I didn’t do it.”

Summary:

“When They See Us” is a powerful biographical drama series created by Ava DuVernay. The series chronicles the infamous case of the Central Park Five, a group of Black and Latino teenagers who were wrongfully convicted of a brutal assault in Central Park. The show features an ensemble cast including Asante Blackk, Caleel Harris, Ethan Herisse, Jharrel Jerome, Marquis Rodriguez, Jovan Adepo, Chris Chalk, Justin Cunningham, Freddy Miyares, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Kylie Bunbury, Aunjanue Ellis, Vera Farmiga, Felicity Huffman, John Leguizamo, Niecy Nash, and Michael K. Williams.

The series delves into the lives of the five boys, their families, and the impact of the flawed criminal justice system on their lives. It highlights the systemic racism and injustice they faced, portraying their journey from their arrest and trial to their eventual exoneration.

Praised for its compelling storytelling, strong performances, and social relevance, “When They See Us” has received critical acclaim, with an IMDb rating of 8.8/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 97%, and a JustWatch rating of 94%.

“When They See Us” is available for streaming on Netflix, providing a harrowing yet essential viewing experience that sheds light on one of the most significant miscarriages of justice in recent American history.

2.Peaky Blinders (2013)

• Genres: Crime, Drama
• Runtime: 55–83 minutes per episode
• Created by: Steven Knight
• Stars: Cillian Murphy, Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson, Sophie Rundle, Finn Cole, Annabelle Wallis, Sam Neill, Tom Hardy, Joe Cole, Natasha O’Keeffe
• Cinematography: George Steel
• Release Date: September 12, 2013
• IMDB Rating: 8.8/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
• JustWatch Rating: 95%
• Famous Quote: “In the end, it’s God who pulls that trigger anyway. We don’t get to decide who lives and who dies, Finn. Not us.”

Summary:

“Peaky Blinders” is a gripping crime drama series created by Steven Knight, set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. The story revolves around the Shelby crime family, led by the ambitious and cunning Thomas Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy). As they expand their criminal empire, they face fierce rivals, political intrigue, and internal power struggles.

The series features an ensemble cast including Cillian Murphy as Thomas Shelby, Helen McCrory as Polly Gray, Paul Anderson as Arthur Shelby, Sophie Rundle as Ada Thorne, Finn Cole as Michael Gray, Annabelle Wallis as Grace Burgess, Sam Neill as Chief Inspector Chester Campbell, Tom Hardy as Alfie Solomons, Joe Cole as John Shelby, and Natasha O’Keeffe as Lizzie Stark.

With its dark and atmospheric cinematography by George Steel, “Peaky Blinders” has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, complex characters, and historical backdrop. It boasts an IMDb rating of 8.8/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 93%, and a JustWatch rating of 95%.

“Peaky Blinders” can be streamed on various platforms, offering viewers a thrilling journey through the criminal underworld of early 20th century England, blending historical events with fictionalized drama.

3.Narcos (2015)

• Genres: Biography, Crime, Drama
• Runtime: 43–60 minutes per episode
• Created by: Chris Brancato
• Stars: Wagner Moura, Boyd Holbrook, Pedro Pascal, Damián Alcázar
• Cinematography: Mauricio Vidal
• Release Date: August 28, 2015
• IMDB Rating: 8.8/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 89%
• JustWatch Rating: 96%
• Famous Quote: “I’m not a rich person. I’m a poor person with money.”

Summary:

“Narcos” is a riveting biography crime drama series created by Chris Brancato. It delves into the real-life stories of drug lords and law enforcement efforts in the late 20th century, primarily focusing on the rise and fall of Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar (portrayed by Wagner Moura). The series explores the complexities of the drug trade, the challenges faced by authorities, and the impact on society.

The main cast includes Wagner Moura as Pablo Escobar, Boyd Holbrook as DEA agent Steve Murphy, Pedro Pascal as DEA agent Javier Peña, and Damián Alcázar in a supporting role.

With Mauricio Vidal’s cinematography capturing the intensity and grit of the era, “Narcos” has earned critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, nuanced characters, and historical accuracy. It boasts an IMDb rating of 8.8/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 89%, and a JustWatch rating of 96%.

“Narcos” can be streamed on various platforms, offering viewers an immersive experience into the world of drug trafficking and law enforcement battles in Colombia.

4.Stranger Things (2016)

• Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Horror
• Runtime: 42–139 minutes per episode
• Created by: The Duffer Brothers
• Stars: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Cara Buono, Matthew Modine, Noah Schnapp, Sadie Sink, Joe Keery, Dacre Montgomery, Sean Astin, Paul Reiser, Maya Hawke, Priah Ferguson, Brett Gelman, Jamie Campbell Bower, Joseph Quinn, Eduardo Franco
• Cinematography: Tim Ives, Tod Campbell, Lachlan Milne, David Franco, Ricardo Diaz, Brett Jutkiewicz, Caleb Heymann
• Release Date: July 15, 2016
• IMDB Rating: 8.7/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%
• JustWatch Rating: 96%
• Famous Quote: “She’s our friend and she’s crazy!”

Summary:

“Stranger Things” is a thrilling drama fantasy series created by The Duffer Brothers. Set in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show follows a group of kids who uncover supernatural mysteries involving secret experiments, parallel dimensions, and terrifying creatures from another world. As they navigate through the strange occurrences, they forge friendships and confront powerful forces threatening their small community.

The ensemble cast includes Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Cara Buono, Matthew Modine, Noah Schnapp, Sadie Sink, Joe Keery, Dacre Montgomery, Sean Astin, Paul Reiser, Maya Hawke, Priah Ferguson, Brett Gelman, Jamie Campbell Bower, Joseph Quinn, and Eduardo Franco.

Featuring a blend of drama, fantasy, and horror elements, “Stranger Things” has captivated audiences with its nostalgic homage to 1980s pop culture, compelling storyline, and memorable characters. The series has garnered critical acclaim with an IMDb rating of 8.7/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 92%, and a JustWatch rating of 96%.

“Stranger Things” is available for streaming on various platforms, offering viewers an immersive journey into a world of mystery, suspense, and supernatural phenomena.

5.Black Mirror (2011)

• Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
• Runtime: 40–89 minutes per episode
• Created by: Charlie Brooker
• Stars: 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
• Release Date: 21 October 2016
• IMDB Rating: 8.7/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%
• JustWatch Rating: 96%
• Famous Quote: “Be Right Back”

Summary:

“Black Mirror” is a thought-provoking anthology series created by Charlie Brooker, known for its dark and satirical take on modern society and technology. Each standalone episode presents a dystopian or speculative scenario exploring the potential consequences of technological advancements. From social media obsession to artificial intelligence and virtual reality, “Black Mirror” delves into the complexities of human behavior in the digital age.

The series features an ensemble cast across its various episodes, including 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, and Wyatt Russell.

With its unsettling themes and gripping narratives, “Black Mirror” has received critical acclaim for its storytelling, cinematography, and ability to provoke deep reflection on the impact of technology on society. It boasts an IMDb rating of 8.7/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 83%, and a JustWatch rating of 96%.

“Black Mirror” can be streamed on various platforms, offering viewers an immersive journey into a world where the line between reality and technology often blurs.

6.Mindhunter (2017)

• Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery
• Runtime: 34–73 minutes per episode
• Created by: Joe Penhall
• Stars: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv, Hannah Gross, Cotter Smith, Stacey Roca, Cameron Britton, Michael Cerveris, Joe Tuttle, Lauren Glazier, Albert Jones, Sierra McClain, June Carryl
• Cinematography: Christopher Probst, Erik Messerschmidt
• Release Date: October 13, 2017
• IMDB Rating: 8.6/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 97%
• JustWatch Rating: 96%
• Famous Quote: “People don’t trust people like you, Holden. They trust people like me.”

Summary:

“Mindhunter” delves into the realm of psychological crime drama, offering a deep exploration of criminal psychology and the development of criminal profiling at the FBI. Set in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the series follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they interview imprisoned serial killers to understand their motives and behaviors. Alongside psychologist Wendy Carr (Anna Torv), they seek to apply their findings to ongoing investigations, shaping the field of criminal profiling.

The series is created by Joe Penhall and features a talented ensemble cast, including Jonathan Groff as Holden Ford, Holt McCallany as Bill Tench, Anna Torv as Wendy Carr, and others. The cinematography, led by Christopher Probst and Erik Messerschmidt, enhances the gritty atmosphere and psychological tension of the narrative.

With an IMDb rating of 8.6/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 97%, and a JustWatch rating of 96%, “Mindhunter” has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, meticulous character development, and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche.

“Mindhunter” is available for streaming on various platforms, providing viewers with a gripping journey into the minds of some of the most notorious criminals in American history.

7.The Crown (2016)

• Genres: Biography, Drama, History
• Runtime: 39–72 minutes per episode
• Created by: Peter Morgan
• Stars: Claire Foy, Matt Smith, Vanessa Kirby, Eileen Atkins, Jeremy Northam, Victoria Hamilton, Ben Miles, Greg Wise, Jared Harris, John Lithgow, Alex Jennings, Lia Williams, Anton Lesser, Matthew Goode
• Cinematography: Adriano Goldman, Ole Bratt Birkeland, Stuart Howell
• Release Date: November 4, 2016
• IMDB Rating: 8.6/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 81%
• JustWatch Rating: 95%
• Famous Quote: “To do nothing is often the best course of action.”

Summary:

“The Crown” offers a sweeping biographical drama that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Spanning from her early years as a newly crowned monarch to the present day, the series delves into the personal and political challenges faced by Queen Elizabeth II and the British royal family. Created by Peter Morgan, the series provides an intimate portrayal of historical events, royal protocols, and the complexities of monarchy.

The ensemble cast is led by Claire Foy as Queen Elizabeth II in the earlier seasons, alongside Matt Smith as Prince Philip and Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret. The series later transitions to depict older versions of the characters, played by Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth II, Tobias Menzies as Prince Philip, and Helena Bonham Carter as Princess Margaret.

Cinematographers Adriano Goldman, Ole Bratt Birkeland, and Stuart Howell contribute to the visual richness of “The Crown,” capturing the grandeur of royal palaces and the intimate moments within them.

With an IMDb rating of 8.6/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 81%, and a JustWatch rating of 95%, “The Crown” has received acclaim for its historical accuracy, compelling performances, and nuanced exploration of power and duty.

“The Crown” is available for streaming on various platforms, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the captivating journey of one of the world’s most iconic figures and her enduring legacy.

8.The Queen’s Gambit (2020)

• Genres: Drama
• Runtime: 46–67 minutes per episode
• Created by: Scott Frank, Allan Scott
• Stars: Anya Taylor-Joy, Bill Camp, Moses Ingram, Isla Johnston, Christiane Seidel, Rebecca Root, Chloe Pirrie, Akemnji Ndifornyen, Marielle Heller, Harry Melling, Patrick Kennedy, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Marcin Dorociński
• Cinematography: Steven Meizler
• Release Date: October 23, 2020
• IMDB Rating: 8.5/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 96%
• JustWatch Rating: 98%
• Famous Quote: “Chess isn’t always competitive. Chess can also be beautiful.”

Summary:

“The Queen’s Gambit” is a riveting drama series that follows the journey of Beth Harmon, a young orphaned chess prodigy, as she rises through the ranks of the male-dominated world of competitive chess in the 1950s and 1960s. Created by Scott Frank and Allan Scott, the series explores Beth’s complex relationships, personal struggles, and her relentless pursuit of greatness in the game.

Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a compelling performance as Beth Harmon, navigating her character’s triumphs and tribulations with depth and precision. The ensemble cast includes Bill Camp, Moses Ingram, Isla Johnston, Christiane Seidel, Rebecca Root, Chloe Pirrie, Akemnji Ndifornyen, Marielle Heller, Harry Melling, Patrick Kennedy, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, and Marcin Dorociński, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Beth’s world.

Steven Meizler’s cinematography captures the intensity of chess matches and the period authenticity of the settings, enhancing the visual appeal of the series.

With an IMDb rating of 8.5/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 96%, and a JustWatch rating of 98%, “The Queen’s Gambit” has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and thematic exploration of ambition, addiction, and the pursuit of mastery.

“The Queen’s Gambit” is available for streaming on various platforms, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in Beth Harmon’s captivating journey through the world of competitive chess.

9.The Last Kingdom (2015)

• Genres: Action, Drama
• Runtime: 50–59 minutes per episode
• Created by: Stephen Butchard
• Stars: Alexander Dreymon, David Dawson, Emily Cox, Ian Hart, Eliza Butterworth, Tobias Santelmann, Harry McEntire, Millie Brady, Timothy Innes, Mark Rowley
• Cinematography: Chas Bain
• Release Date: October 10, 2015
• IMDB Rating: 8.5/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 91%
• JustWatch Rating: 94%
• Famous Quote: “Faith gives us strength.”

Summary:

“The Last Kingdom” is an action-packed historical drama series based on Bernard Cornwell’s “The Saxon Stories.” Set in the late 9th century AD, during the time of the Viking invasions of England, the series follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon noble captured and raised by Vikings. As Uhtred navigates between his Saxon heritage and Viking upbringing, he becomes embroiled in the conflict between the kingdoms of Wessex and the invading Danes.

Alexander Dreymon leads the cast as Uhtred, portraying the character’s complex journey with resilience and depth. The ensemble includes David Dawson, Emily Cox, Ian Hart, Eliza Butterworth, Tobias Santelmann, Harry McEntire, Millie Brady, Timothy Innes, and Mark Rowley, each bringing their characters to life amidst the backdrop of historical warfare and political intrigue.

Chas Bain’s cinematography captures the rugged landscapes and brutal battles of medieval England, enhancing the series’ immersive quality.

With an IMDb rating of 8.5/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 91%, and a JustWatch rating of 94%, “The Last Kingdom” has garnered praise for its compelling narrative, strong performances, and historical authenticity.

“The Last Kingdom” is available for streaming on various platforms, inviting viewers to delve into the turbulent world of Anglo-Saxon England and witness Uhtred’s quest for identity and justice amidst the chaos of war.

10.Ozark (2017)

• Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller
• Runtime: 51–80 minutes per episode
• Created by: Bill Dubuque, Mark Williams
• Stars: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Sofia Hublitz, Skylar Gaertner, Julia Garner, Jordana Spiro, Jason Butler Harner, Esai Morales, Peter Mullan, Lisa Emery, Charlie Tahan, Janet McTeer, Tom Pelphrey, Jessica Frances Dukes, Felix Solis, Damian Young, Alfonso Herrera, Adam Rothenberg
• Cinematography: Pepe Avila del Pino, Ben Kutchins, Michael Grady, Armando Salas, Manuel Billeter, Shawn Kim, Attila Szalay, Eric Koretz
• Release Date: July 21, 2017
• IMDB Rating: 8.5/10
• Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 82%
• JustWatch Rating: 95%
• Famous Quote: “Money is, at its essence, that measure of a man’s choices.”

Summary:

“Ozark” is a gripping crime drama that follows financial planner Marty Byrde (played by Jason Bateman) as he relocates his family from Chicago to the Ozarks in Missouri after a money laundering scheme goes awry. In an attempt to appease a Mexican drug cartel and secure his family’s safety, Marty becomes entangled in the criminal underworld of the Ozarks. As he navigates the dangerous landscape, he must launder millions of dollars while keeping his illegal activities hidden from law enforcement and local criminals alike.

Laura Linney stars as Wendy Byrde, Marty’s wife, who becomes increasingly involved in their criminal enterprise as the stakes escalate. The series delves into the complexities of family dynamics, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of pursuing wealth and power at any cost.

The ensemble cast includes Sofia Hublitz and Skylar Gaertner as Marty and Wendy’s children, Julia Garner as Ruth Langmore, a savvy local criminal, and a diverse array of characters portrayed by Jordana Spiro, Jason Butler Harner, Esai Morales, Peter Mullan, Lisa Emery, Charlie Tahan, Janet McTeer, Tom Pelphrey, Jessica Frances Dukes, Felix Solis, Damian Young, Alfonso Herrera, and Adam Rothenberg, each contributing to the series’ intense narrative and intricate plotlines.

The cinematography by Pepe Avila del Pino, Ben Kutchins, Michael Grady, Armando Salas, Manuel Billeter, Shawn Kim, Attila Szalay, and Eric Koretz captures the dark and atmospheric tone of the Ozarks, enhancing the suspenseful atmosphere of the show.

With an IMDb rating of 8.5/10, a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 82%, and a JustWatch rating of 95%, “Ozark” has received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, strong performances, and atmospheric cinematography.

“Ozark” is available for streaming on various platforms, offering viewers a deep dive into the gritty world of crime, family loyalty, and survival in the Ozarks.

Anas Chaudhary

Anas Chaudhary is a writer at Entertainment 24 Seven, specializing in entertainment news, facts, and trends. He brings a fresh perspective and engaging storytelling to his coverage of the latest happenings in the entertainment world.