It is easy to get swept away in the ever-expanding sea of streaming content. It is also easy to feel extremely overwhelmed under the pressure of so many recommendations based on your browsing history and searches. But for the adventurous viewer, mainstream recommendations are not enough.
Are you an adventurous viewer? This guide dives into some hidden gems on two of the most popular streaming platforms, Hulu and Netflix. Take a look to enjoy off-the-beaten-path shows and be sure you won’t be mistaken for a mainstream sheep.
Hulu
Nearly 50 million people subscribe to Hulu, making it one of the most popular streaming platforms.
With great popularity comes great responsibility. Hence, this US-based streaming service is constantly trying to wow subscribers with Hulu top shows and some of them are mentioned below. Get ready to binge-watch!
1. The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale is a critically acclaimed dystopian drama that follows June Osborne’s fight for freedom against the totalitarian regime of Gilead. The character of June Osborne is played by the ever-powerful Elisabeth Moss and throughout the six seasons, she stands steadfast as a beacon of resistance.
This TV show boasts stellar performances, a compelling narrative, and a timeless exploration of themes like faith, freedom, and the power of the human spirit.
2. Reservation Dogs
Reservation Dogs is a darkly comedic coming-of-age story that follows the misadventures of four indigenous teenagers. These teenagers live on a reservation in rural Oklahoma. They dream of escaping to a better life in California as they navigate the challenges of boredom, poverty, and their chaotic friendships.
This TV show on Hulu boasts hilarious dialogue, sharp writing, and a unique blend of heart and humor. Throughout the three seasons, this show tackles serious issues like displacement and poverty with a dark comedic lens. It offers a fresh perspective on growing up in a marginalized community.
3. Solar Opposites
Solar Opposites is a visually stunning adult animated series that hilariously follows the adventures of the alien Korvo and his family. The series deals with the challenges the alien family faces as they try to adjust to life on suburban Earth.
The show is known for its outrageous humor, sharp writing, and unique animation style. It delivers laugh-out-loud moments with its cynical commentary on human behavior and the absurdity of everyday life.
4. This Fool
The series centers on Julio Lopez, a 30-year-old man employed at a gang rehabilitation center, and his cousin Luis, a former gang member fresh out of prison. Set in South Central Los Angeles, the show humorously explores cholo culture and the daily life challenges in the area. Critics have given “This Fool” positive reviews, appreciating its unique comedic perspective.
5. Only Murders in the Building
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“Only Murders in the Building” is a comedic mystery series that follows three strangers living in the same Upper West Side apartment building in New York City. These individuals, united by their fascination with true crime podcasts, find themselves entangled in a real-life mystery when a fellow resident dies under suspicious conditions.
Convinced it’s foul play, they embark on their investigation, aiming to uncover the truth. Their journey of discovery leads them to create a true crime podcast, documenting their steps. As they dig deeper, they begin to unravel the intricate secrets hidden within the walls of their building.
Netflix
260 million people subscribe to Netflix globally. Even though the streaming giant banned account sharing with friends, its popularity did not take a hit. However, if you find the subscription fees too high, you can watch TV shows with ads and go easy on your pocket.
Whether you choose to watch TV shows with or without ads, you cannot afford to miss the following Netflix shows.
1. Alias Grace
Alias Grace is a limited series on Netflix that follows the true story of Grace Marks. Grace is a young Irish servant accused of a double murder in 1843. This historical drama miniseries explores the complexities of societal expectations, memory, and the power of storytelling. The series is lauded for its thought-provoking exploration of social justice and the fight for women’s rights.
2. American Vandal
American Vandal follows two high school documentarians, Sam Ecklund and Peter Maldonado, as they investigate seemingly ridiculous high school incidents. This series delivers sharp humor and a surprisingly emotional core. It also explores the power of social media.
3. Maniac
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Maniac is a limited series delivering a mind-bending, darkly comedic script. The series follows two strangers who participate in a mysterious pharmaceutical trial promising to cure emotional problems. But as they undergo the trials, the lines between delusion and reality become blurry. They start questioning everything they thought they knew about the world around them and themselves.
Maniac is a gripping series that harmoniously blends psychological thriller with science fiction and dark humor. It is a refreshing take on the human mind.
4. One Day
“One Day” is a British romantic drama limited series that adapts David Nicholls’ novel. It charts the 20-year journey of Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew, starting from their university graduation.
The show spans 14 episodes. Uniquely, every episode captures the events of July 15th across two decades, spotlighting how Emma and Dexter’s relationship evolves annually. The series blends romance with a slice-of-life narrative, appealing to fans of character-driven dramas.
The Bottom Line
So, these are some of the hidden gems waiting to be discovered on Hulu and Netflix. By watching these shows, you will be venturing beyond the familiar recommendations. This is going to trigger a chain reaction, helping you find more such rare gems so you can move away from mainstream TV shows and discover the brilliance of streaming content.
What are you still waiting for? It is high time that you unplug from the algorithm and silence the autoplay. Be unafraid to dip your toes into the fascinating world of foreign language content with subtitles. From quirky Japanese comedies to thrilling Korean dramas and action-packed Indian stories, Hulu and Netflix offer subscribers a wealth of cultural perspectives and gripping storytelling.
Do you have more off-beat recommendations for your fellow Hulu or Netflix subscribers? Kindly leave your valuable recommendations in the comments below. This will help others move away from mainstream content and discover shows that are truly marvels.
