Choosing something to watch on Netflix can be an issue. Lots of stuff thrown at you with a minimal explanation of what it is. You just keep scrolling, and scrolling… We’ve all been there. To save you some time, here’s a list of 10 TV shows and films that deserve your attention.

1. Good time

In spite of its title, this is not a happy film. Do not watch this unless you’re in the mood for shedding a tear. This is an incredibly serious drama that keeps getting worse and worse as it progresses. The main draw of this movie is its portrayal of how deep in trouble a person can get, and how much worse it can become.

2. Spirited Away

In case you’ve never seen any anime before, Spirited Away is an excellent place to start. You will be taken on a journey to a fantasy world beyond your wildest dreams. It is rare for a film to tell a story that is relatable for both adults and kids, but this one simply excels at it.

3. Love Death + Robots

This is a must-watch. The series is made up of different episodes, created by a wide variety of animation studios that all contribute to making the series one-of-a-kind. The show is similar to Black Mirror in many aspects and, while there are some episodes that have a deep meaning to them, others are just there to make you laugh, while some can even scare the crap out of you.

4. Age of Samurai, Battle for Japan

Take a deep dive into the world of feudal Japan. As much as you think that Japan’s history is one filled with respect and honour, you could not be more wrong. It was all about men creating unnecessary bloodbaths due to their deluded strivings, people born into war, made into warriors, fighting and dying for nothing. It’s like watching a witty, ever-developing TV series and wondering “what stupid stuff will they do next?” 

5. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

This movie will give you an adrenaline rush. Two crackheads travelling across the United States with a suitcase of drugs in hand. It’s funny, brutal at times and a pretty accurate representation of how different drugs affect you.

6. Freud

It is a psychological drama based on the life of Sigmund Freud, a neurologist. However, the story is purely fictional. This show explores psychic powers, hypnosis and interesting crime-solving. If you’re a fan of Sherlock Holmes, you have to see this one.

7. Dark

Perhaps you could call it a German alternative to Stranger Things. It is certainly exceptional in regards to cinematography and sound design. The story is based in a town next to a nuclear station where somebody goes missing, and a chain of mysteries unveils. If you enjoy narratives with a “search for the mysterious unknown” factor, you should totally check it out.

8. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs 

This movie is a pack for every occasion. Six different stories, all funny, all with a moral (if you can find it). Good luck.

9. Beasts of No Nation

It’s marvellous and colourful like a scarlet macaw but violent to the core. If it is something serious and astonishingly gorgeous you’re craving for this evening, this film is the way to go. There is no doubt that it excels at its main purpose: portraying the harsh realities of civil wars in Africa.

10. The Midnight Gospel

It’s an animated podcast that will blow your mind at times. Existential talks, amusing humour and interesting guests. If you’re a fan of Duncan Trussell, you have probably watched it already. If you’re not, you certainly will become one after watching.

Written by: Ksystof Ogint | Subbing by: Peter Trythall