Since you’ll be stuck indoors when it pours outside, why not switch up and binge a TV series instead? There are so many to choose from, and we have a list of diverse genres that will tickle your fancy.
Twin Peaks (1990 – 1991)
In the small fictional town of Twin Peaks, Washington, the teenage prom queen, Laura Palmer, is found dead. Her murder ensues an investigation by FBI agent Dale Cooper and Sheriff Harry S. Truman. The murder mystery show blends offbeat comedy and cliche horror tropes with its distinctive cinematography that has influenced several other murder mystery teen dramas.
Total episodes: 48; Time: 1 day, 14 hours
The Last of Us (2023 – ongoing)
The HBO live-action adaptation of The Last of Us, originally a 2013 video game by Naughty Dog, has the standard for adaptations. Featuring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, the duo were praised for their effortless chemistry as the surrogate father-daughter duo. It has been praised for its gorgeous visuals, including the accuracy of the horrifying zombies, and emotional acting. A 2nd season with its cast has been announced.
Total episodes: 9; Time: 7 and a half hours
Dark (2017 – 2020)
This mind-bending show will leave you with more questions than answers. A Netflix original, Dark is a German science fiction thriller that explores the mystery behind a missing child. This unravels a huge time-travel conspiracy that makes the established relationships between the characters more complicated and morally grey. It’s an incredible watch on a rainy day.
Total episodes: 26; Time: 1 day
The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
The Haunting of Hill House is a brilliant horror mini-series by Mike Flanagan that redefined the horror genre. It brought the cliche of a haunted mansion to another level of sinister that will leave you with chills. The show follows a group of siblings revisiting their terrible childhood as another tragedy strikes in their family. It brings up the themes of trauma, mental illness, isolation and the supernatural. It will bend your perception of reality itself.
Total episodes: 10; Time: 8 hours and 20 minutes
One Day at a Time (2017 – 2020)
If the gloomy nature of the rain isn’t for you, One Day at a Time is the show for you. The feel-good comedy series is the perfect cure for the rainy day blues with its campy humour but heartfelt moments. The series follows a newly separated single Cuban mother, her two kids, and their grandmother living their day-to-day lives. They are often visited by their landlord, who is the token of comedic relief and a striking parallel to their lives. The show also deals with mental illness, problems of immigration in the USA, sexism, homophobia, gender identity, and the blatant racism that Hispanic people face. It stays sensitive and accurate in its representation.
Total episodes: 46; Time: 22 hours and 44 minutes
Mr. Robot (2015 – 2019)
Starring Rami Malek as the protagonist, Mr. Robot reminds us of the dystopian times coming for us. Dealing with themes of mental health, vigilantism, and isolation, the series is one of a kind. It has won several awards for its brilliant performance and has gained a cult following since its inception. The suspense will have you clicking the “watch next” button constantly.
Total episodes: 45; Time: 1 day, 21 hours
The Good Place (2016 – 2020)
Despite its bright and vibrant colour palette, The Good Place is one of the most clever and philosophical shows ever made about the debate of heaven and hell. It’s an easy watch with a simple 22-minute format. The series brilliantly depicts how layered people really are and that the concept of heaven and hell is truly not as black and white as it seems. Moreover, the ending will not leave you disappointed.
Total episodes: 53; Time: 1 day and 1 hour
Derry Girls (2018 – 2022)
Unapologetic and witty, Derry Girls follows a group of 5 teens in mid-1990s Ireland who lead chaotic lives under the Troubles, the ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland. The series is based on the creator’s own experience of living and going to school during this time. While the plot is mostly a fictionalised version of her events, it references several real-life political events. Lisa McGee has perfectly blended humour with the political unrest and how confusing it must be to navigate their teenage years during this time.
Total episodes: 19; Time: 12 hours
Peaky Blinders (2013 – 2022)
Starring the brilliant Cillian Murphy as Tom Shelby, the leader of the dangerous gang of the same title–the Peaky Blinders. It’s a thrilling historical drama whose vibes match a rainy day indoors with its gritty and addictive nature. The performances will hook you immediately into the show.
Total episodes: 36; Time: 1 day and 10 hours
Natsume’s Book of Friends (2008 – ongoing)
Natsume’s Book of Friends is a comforting anime about a boy named Takashi Natsume who can see and communicate with yōkai, supernatural entities from Japanese folklore. Due to his ability and nobody else being able to see what he sees, his childhood was very lonely, but when his grandmother gave him the prized Book of Friends, he inevitably makes malicious enemies who are after the book but also some great friends who will stick with him for life. It’s a unique story you will never forget.
Total episodes: 74; Time: 1 day and 5 hours
