Netflix offers myriad TV shows and films representing numerous genres. Whether it be comedies, documentaries or action-adventure films, indulging in a Netflix program every once in a while is a necessity.
While the platform offers an abundance of programs appealing to any audience, discovering programs that have not already flooded social media pages proves to be a difficult task. From lighthearted sitcoms to grim documentaries covering important stories, here are five must-watch, not as widely recognized Netflix programs that are perfect for your next movie night.
‘The Society’
For anyone looking to watch a remarkably captivating and mysterious TV show, “The Society” is an excellent choice. Shortly after returning from a canceled school trip, a small group of teenagers from the same high school discover they have been left alone in a small town after the remainder of the population vanished. Moreover, the group of teenagers then finds that their abandoned town has been utterly disconnected from the outside world.
In a whirlwind of events, the group is forced to fend for themselves in a struggle to build a structured and functional system ensuring their survival. “The Society” mixes classic teenage tropes – the supernatural world, romance, high school popularity – and captures concepts from William Golding’s famous novel “Lord of the Flies.” “The Society” is remarkably action-packed and pervaded with trepidation, while traversing privilege in the face of adversity and the cost of power in the modern world. Equally compelling and thought-provoking, “The Society” leaves viewers on the edge of their seats.
‘Community’
Undoubtedly one of the best sitcoms of all time, “Community” is an imaginative and heartfelt TV series. Bearing resemblance to “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation,” the show follows a group of students in a Spanish study group at Greendale Community College.
The group consists of an unexpected mix of personalities who grow remarkably close and embark on numerous adventures together. “Community” is laid-back and ideal for times when a casual, recreational show is appealing. Filled with likable characters and an artful plotline, “Community” is a must-see.
‘Athlete A’
“Athlete A,” a heartbreaking and grim documentary, recounts the story of how former USA Gymnastics national team doctor Larry Nassar sexually abused hundreds of young gymnasts under his medical care. This powerful documentary includes accounts from former gymnasts on the USA Gymnastics team, but primarily revolves around one of the first girls to come forward with her experience, Maggie Nichols.
“Athlete A” leaves no stone unturned when telling this horrible scandal. The documentary uncovers the under-reporting of sexual abuse, the ineffectual response from USA Gymnastics officials and the firsthand experiences of many victims. “Athlete A” is a harrowing yet inspiring documentary that speaks volumes to the difficult reality of how women are treated in the sports industry.
‘13th’
Calling all history and politics lovers: finally, a documentary exploring the trials and tribulations of the U.S. Constitution and much of what followed its establishment. “13th” unearths the “intersection of race, justice and mass incarceration in the United States” with a heavy emphasis on the 13th amendment, which abolished involuntary servitude and its often imperceptible effect.
“13th” investigates and decodes the roots and manifestations of systemic racism and its consequential injustices, highlighting what it truly means to be a person of color in the U.S. Masterfully narrated and exploring a pressing topic, “13th” is a must-watch for everyone.
‘Seaspiracy’
This list would be incomplete without “Seaspiracy.” This documentary exposes the detrimental impacts of commercial fishing on ocean life, especially housed under the context of the world’s worsening climate state. “Seaspiracy” rebukes the idea of sustainable fishing and exposes the corruption of fishing companies by showcasing the effects of overfishing, mass animal slaughter and plastic debris.
“Seaspiracy” is packed with interviews and knowledge from experts as well as real footage of marine life and its exploitation by fishing industries. This documentary reiterates the notion that every single one of Earth’s inhabitants has a hand in slowing climate change through maintaining biodiversity, specifically pertaining to marine wellbeing. Captivating and powerful, “Seaspiracy” is an essential Netflix watch.
