Netflix remains the reigning champion in the world of streaming, offering a plethora of options for viewers. Boasting a vast collection of both original and acquired content, Netflix keeps its audience engaged and dedicated, standing strong amidst fierce competition.
Within its repertoire of original content, Netflix has produced numerous critically acclaimed limited series that have captivated audiences worldwide. From the mesmerizing journey of The Queen's Gambit to the chilling tales of The Haunting of Hill House, these exceptional miniseries have become cultural sensations, earning widespread acclaim and garnering impressive ratings on the renowned review aggregator, Rotten Tomatoes.
Updated on November 02, 2023, by David Caballero:
Netflix continues to dominate the realm of original programming, consistently producing smash hits. Recent blockbuster successes such as The Fall of the House of Usher and Beef demonstrate that Netflix remains at the forefront of the streaming service industry when it comes to captivating original content. Their limited series have garnered widespread critical acclaim and boast impressive viewership numbers. While there are indeed other contenders offering noteworthy alternatives, Netflix stands out with a plethora of exceptional limited series that rank among the very best in today's television landscape. These shows consistently receive outstanding ratings on renowned review aggregators such as Rotten Tomatoes.
15. 'Maniac' (2018)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%
Image via Netflix
Cary Fukunaga's 2018 Netflix limited series Maniac features Oscar-winner Emma Stone and Oscar-nominee Jonah Hill. The storyline revolves around two troubled individuals who decide to take part in a groundbreaking drug experiment aimed at alleviating their psychological issues. Unfortunately, their expectations are shattered when the trial does not unfold as anticipated.
Maniac garnered positive reviews from critics due to its originality and the outstanding performances by Stone and Hill. The series received acclaim for its visually appealing style and the bold portrayal of mental health in the screenplay. While Maniac may be somewhat underrated compared to other limited series on Netflix, it offers a daring and mind-bending journey that is definitely worth the audience's time.
Available for streaming on Netflix.
14. 'Midnight Mass' (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 87%
Midnight Mass, released in 2021, showcases yet another horror masterpiece crafted by Mike Flanigan. The narrative centers around the life of a young man who, after being released from prison, decides to return to his hometown in pursuit of a fresh start. Coincidentally, his arrival aligns with that of a captivating young priest, who endeavors to reinvigorate the community's faith amidst a series of increasingly enigmatic events.
Critics praised Midnight Mass for its positive reviews, applauding its tone and exploration of topics such as grief and guilt. Hamish Linklater's portrayal of the enigmatic priest was particularly acclaimed. The show drew favorable comparisons to Flanigan's previous works for Netflix, solidifying his status as one of the streaming platform's top talents. Stream Midnight Mass on Netflix.
13. 'The Haunting of Bly Manor' (2020)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
Image via Netflix
In Flanagan's Haunting anthology, The Haunting of Bly Manor serves as the second installment, bringing to life Henry James' iconic novella The Turn of the Screw. Victoria Pedretti takes on the lead role of Dani, a youthful au pair hired by an English family. As the storyline unfolds, Dani begins to suspect that the children she cares for are falling prey to malevolent supernatural forces.
Critics praised the cast, writing, and eerie atmosphere of Bly Manor, eliciting enthusiastic reactions. While it was deemed inferior to its predecessor by most, the miniseries was still regarded as a chilling reinterpretation of James' novella, distinguished by its unique vision. Pedretti and Oliver Jackson-Cohen received acclaim for their performances, along with T'Nia Miller, who stole the show in certain scenes. Additionally, the haunting and beautifully executed conclusion of Bly Manor continues to be highly acclaimed and is often regarded as the highlight of Flanagan's body of work. Stream it on Netflix.
12. 'From Scratch' (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92%
Image via Netflix
Starring in the 2022 limited series From Scratch, Zoë Saldaña takes the lead role based on Tembi Locke's memoir of the same name. The storyline centers around Amy Wheeler, a young American student studying in Italy, who develops a deep connection with an Italian chef. Unfortunately, their blossoming romance faces unexpected hurdles due to health complications that ultimately bring them closer together.
From Scratch is elevated by Saldaña's charismatic and self-assured performance, along with the remarkable on-screen chemistry she shares with co-star Eugenio Mastrandrea. The film showcases stunning Italian landscapes and a compassionate exploration of love and tragedy, resulting in its surprising triumph. Garnering accolades from critics, Saldaña's portrayal in From Scratch has been widely commended. Stream it on Netflix.
11. 'Stay Close' (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92%
Cush Jumbo, James Nesbitt, and Richard Armitage star in Stay Close, a captivating British miniseries filled with mystery. This gripping tale follows the intertwined lives of a suburban housewife with a haunting secret, a tormented paparazzi, and a relentless police detective. Their paths converge after a man mysteriously vanishes, leading to a series of unexpected twists and turns.
Stay Close, adapted from the book by Harlan Cobel, garnered enthusiastic reviews from critics who applauded the stellar performances of the cast and the skillfully created atmosphere of suspense. The series also garnered praise for its compelling rewatchability, with dedicated viewers ranking it among Netflix's most addictive shows. In a fiercely competitive streaming landscape, this is the ultimate accolade for any production. Stream now on Netflix.
10. 'Lost Ollie' (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%
Image via Netflix
Lost Ollie follows the heartwarming tale of Ollie, a beloved toy rabbit who awakens in the Lost and Found section of an antique store. Armed with only fragments of his past, Ollie embarks on an extraordinary quest to be reunited with his owner, a young boy named Billy. Bringing their voices to life are the talented ensemble of Jonathan Groff, Mary J. Blige, and Tim Blake Nelson.
The miniseries received critical acclaim, with praise for its plot, animation, and comparisons to groundbreaking animated films like Pixar's Toy Story. Lost Ollie also garnered positive feedback for its portrayal of adult themes, although some felt it was not suitable for younger viewers. Despite its positive reception, the show remains a hidden gem on Netflix, deserving of more viewership. Watch it on Netflix.
9. 'The Haunting of Hill House' (2018)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%
Image via Netflix
The Haunting of Hill House, Mike Flanagan's inaugural collaboration with Netflix, proved to be a bone-chilling masterpiece. This spine-tingling series loosely adapts Shirley Jackson's renowned horror novel, delving into the eerie occurrences within the notorious Hill House that affect the Crain family across two interconnected timelines.
The Haunting of Hill House garnered widespread acclaim, commending Flanagan's skillful direction and the miniseries' compelling and intricate storytelling. The cast, especially Victoria Pedretti, Carla Gugino, and Kate Siegel, who are often recognized as Flanagan's recurring inspirations, received high praise, with many feeling they deserved Emmy nominations. Flanagan's unique take on the classic tale, transforming it into a deeply personal family drama, was also highly regarded, earning admiration from esteemed figures such as Stephen King. Stream it now on Netflix.
8. 'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story' (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94%
Image via Netflix
Netflix's hit series Bridgerton solidifies its position as a dominant force in the entertainment industry. Building on the show's popularity, the streaming giant introduces its inaugural spin-off, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. This story delves into the iconic character's union with a young King George, portraying their fiery romance that reshapes English high society.
Queen Charlotte received extraordinary acclaim, with critics deeming it one of the most commendable productions in the first half of 2023. India Amarteifio, the leading actress in the series, garnered superb reviews and fans recognized the show's romantic aspects, viewing it as a fitting companion to the esteemed Bridgerton series. Though Queen Charlotte may not adhere strictly to historical accuracy, its captivating romantic moments make it deserving of a spot in Netflix's all-time greatest lineup.
Stream now on Netflix.
7. 'Maid' (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94%
Netflix is the platform where Margaret Qualley became a household name thanks to her remarkable performance in the 2021 miniseries Maid. This captivating show, adapted from Stephanie Land's memoir, Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive, revolves around a young mother who manages to break free from an abusive relationship and finds employment as a house cleaner in order to support her precious infant daughter.
Maid, hailed by critics as one of Netflix's top miniseries, is highly praised for its compassionate and perceptive depiction of abuse and adversity. Qualley's outstanding performance has earned her nominations for prestigious awards such as the Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG. The writing of Maid, coupled with its powerful yet uplifting message, has garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and viewers alike.
Stream on Netflix.
6. 'Transatlantic' (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 95%
Image via Netflix
Headlined by Gillian Jacobs, the Netflix limited series Transatlantic boasts an ensemble cast. The storyline revolves around a journalist who facilitates the escape of numerous refugees in occupied France during the Nazi regime. This gripping narrative is inspired by the real-life Emergency Rescue Committee.
Transatlantic excels in its faithful retelling of a true story, captivating audiences with its gripping narrative and impeccable style. Regrettably, despite highly positive reviews and a cast of esteemed actors, Transatlantic may have been overlooked amidst the vast array of content offered on Netflix. Nevertheless, dedicated fans can always stumble upon this gem while perusing the streaming platform's extensive library. Catch it now on Netflix.
5. 'Unorthodox' (2020)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%
Image by Netflix
Similar to Qualley, Shira Haas gained recognition through a Netflix miniseries. Unorthodox, based on Deborah Feldman's memoir from 2012, depicts the journey of Esty Shapiro, a young woman who escapes from her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community to live a secular life in Berlin. When she discovers she is pregnant, her husband and his cousin embark on a quest to find and bring her back.
Unorthodox received glowing reviews from critics, particularly praising the outstanding performance by Hass, which led to Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for the actress. The show's adaptation of its source material also garnered praise, although its portrayal of Hasidic Jews faced criticism from certain Jewish commentators. However, Unorthodox is an immersive and gratifying viewing experience that stands as one of Netflix's top dramas ever. Stream it on Netflix.
4. 'The Queen's Gambit' (2020)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%
The Queen's Gambit propelled Anya Taylor-Joy to global fame, even though she was already famous. This acclaimed seven-episode miniseries portrays the journey of Beth Harmon, a make-believe chess prodigy whose professional trajectory soars while she grapples with the challenges of alcohol and drug addiction.
The Queen's Gambit, widely regarded as one of Netflix's top series, was universally praised. Anya Taylor-Joy's performance garnered critical acclaim, resulting in her winning the Golden Globe, Critics Choice, and SAG Awards, as well as receiving an Emmy nomination. The show's production values, writing, and supporting cast also received widespread acclaim, leading to numerous awards, including the 2021 Emmy for Outstanding Limited Series. Stream on Netflix.
3. 'Beef' (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 98%
Netflix brings to life the dark comedy miniseries, Beef, featuring acclaimed actor Steven Yeun and the funny and talented Ali Wong. This thrilling story follows two individuals who become entangled in a fierce and chaotic battle after a road rage altercation. Joining the stellar cast are the talented Mazino and Patti Yasutake.
Beef quickly became a hit on Netflix in 2023, receiving widespread praise from both critics and audiences. Its irreverent and darkly funny approach, combined with a clever screenplay, captivated viewers. The stellar cast, including Yeun and Wong, delivered outstanding performances, garnering high acclaim and some of the best reviews of their acting careers.
Stream on Netflix.
2. 'Unbelievable' (2019)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 98%
Netflix presents an engaging 2019 miniseries, Unbelievable, featuring Toni Colette, known for her Oscar-nominated performances, and Merritt Wever, an Emmy award-winning actor. This true-crime series delves into a string of sexual assaults that occurred in Washington and Colorado from 2008 to 2011. The story centers around Marie, a young woman accused of fabricating a rape claim. As two detectives grow suspicious, they embark on a journey to unravel the truth, ultimately revealing a shocking revelation.
Unbelievable garnered unanimous praise from both critics and audiences. Colette and Wever were highly acclaimed for their performances, along with Katlyn Dever, whose portrayal of Marie was hailed by multiple critics as one of the standout performances of the 2019-2020 season. The show received numerous nominations, with all three actresses receiving recognition from the Golden Globe and Critics Choice awards. Even now, four years after its debut, Unbelievable continues to be held in high regard, with many regarding it as one of the greatest thriller miniseries of all time.
Stream Unbelievable on Netflix.
1. 'Alias Grace' (2017)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 99%
Netflix presents a compelling performance by the underrated Sarah Gadon in Alias Grace, a Canadian miniseries that ranks among the best. Gadon leads an impressive ensemble cast including Edward Holcroft, Zachary Levi, David Cronenberg, and Academy Award-winner Anna Paquin. Set in the backdrop of a murder, the plot revolves around Grace Marks - a young woman who is convicted of killing her employer and his lover. A young doctor enters the scene, determined to prove her innocence.
Alias Grace, based on Margaret Atwood's novel of the same name, garnered immediate critical acclaim. The performance by Gadon received widespread praise, with many deeming it deserving of an Emmy. This mesmerizing mystery captivates viewers, causing them to question everything and everyone, ultimately culminating in a shocking yet gratifying conclusion. Catch Alias Grace on Netflix.
Editor's P/S
As an enthusiastic fan of Netflix's top-rated miniseries, I am thrilled to share my opinions and feelings about some of the exceptional shows that have captivated audiences worldwide. Among the many remarkable miniseries, The Haunting of Hill House and The Queen's Gambit stand out as personal favorites.
The Haunting of Hill House, created by Mike Flanagan, is a masterclass in horror storytelling. The series skillfully weaves together supernatural elements with intricate character development, delivering a truly haunting and emotional experience. The cast, led by Michiel Huisman and Elizabeth Reaser, brings depth and authenticity to their roles, making the audience deeply invested in their journey. The show's exploration of grief, trauma, and the complexities of family dynamics adds layers of emotional resonance, elevating it beyond a typical horror series.
On the other hand, The Queen's Gambit, created by Scott Frank, takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey through the world of chess and the life of Beth Harmon, brilliantly portrayed by Anya Taylor-Joy. The series beautifully captures the intensity and allure of competitive chess, while also delving into Beth's personal struggles and her quest for self-discovery. The show's stunning cinematography, evocative soundtrack, and nuanced performances create a captivating atmosphere that draws the audience into Beth's extraordinary story.
Both The Haunting of Hill House and The Queen's Gambit represent the pinnacle of storytelling on Netflix. They showcase the platform's commitment to producing high-quality, thought-provoking content that resonates with audiences. As a fan, I am grateful for the opportunity to experience these exceptional miniseries and look forward to discovering more gems in Netflix's vast library of original programming.