Congratulations on getting to the end of another week. Now is the time to put your feet up, launch Netflix, and press play on a new show. But if you can’t decide what to watch, I’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re craving a good laugh, some engaging fantasy, or an unstuffy period drama, these shows are perfect for watching start to finish over the coming the days.

3

Shadow and Bone

I’m always down for some fantasy, which is why I keenly watched Shadow and Bone when it landed on Netflix in 2021. Based on a series of novels by Leigh Bardugo, the show primarily follows a young cartographer called Alina, who discovers she has a rare magical ability that some wish to harness and others wish to destroy.

The premise is typical fantasy fare, but the Russian-influenced world is intricate and interesting, particularly the concept of “The Fold”, a dark expanse that splits the land of Ravka and is inhabited by monsters. While the story’s romantic aspects favor the young adult audience, there’s enough action and dynamic characters to make the show engaging for all.

As Netflix is wont to do, Shadow and Bone was canceled after two seasons, despite its popularity. That also meant that a planned spin-off show was canned. Thankfully, the show does wrap most things up, so you can watch it without fear of never-answered questions. Plus you can always read the books if you want more from the universe.

Related

10 Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books That Should Get Their Own TV Series

The source material is virtually endless.

2

Derry Girls

I came to Derry Girls late, long after all three seasons had wrapped, but I’m glad I eventually discovered it because it quickly became one of my favorite comedies. It’s set in Derry, Ireland, during the period of The Troubles, about a group of teenagers at a Catholic girls’ school. The political unrest makes for a unique backdrop for a comedy and helps give it plenty of darkly humorous moments.

The show revolves around the group’s everyday lives and the mischief they find themselves in, like trying to sneak to a Take That concert or accidentally helping burglars. The situations are often absurd, but the hilarious and heartfelt characters make it feel believable. You’re bound to quickly have a favorite Derry Girl (and that includes James, the first boy at the school), though don’t be surprised if you find that changing with each episode. Outside the core group, I’m particularly fond of Sister George Michael, the sarcastic headmistresses who is always ready with a quip.

Derry Girls broke records in its native Ireland and won many awards, including an International Emmy for Best Comedy Series in 2023. It also didn’t outstay its welcome. While I would have happily lapped up more episodes, the show went out on an emotional, fulfilling high.

Related

Watch These 10 Netflix Sitcoms for a Good Laugh

Lift your mood with these Netflix comedy shows.

1

The Queen’s Gambit

A period drama about chess doesn’t sound like the most enthralling proposition, but I urge you not to overlook what is one of Netflix’s most special original series. The Queen’s Gambit stars the captivating Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon, an orphan who finds her calling playing chess during the 1960s while battling her inner demons.

Even if you’ve never picked up a pawn or shouted “checkmate”, you’ll find plenty to appreciate. It makes chess thrilling, though it’s about so much more than the game—it’s about ambition, friendship, and addiction. The music and production design are great and pull you into the era. And while the entire cast are on strong form (it’s always good to see Harry Melling, former Dudley Dursley from Harry Potter), Taylor-Joy is the standout. Her layered performance here just proves that she’s one of the finest actresses working today.

If you watch The Queen’s Gambit and enjoy it, you should also check out the limited series Godless. Both shows are written and directed by Scott Frank and are equally fantastic, though Godless is completely different, being a Western set in 1884.

Related

The 5 Most Popular Netflix Original TV Shows

This is what everyone’s watching.

Netflix might be scaling back on its game library, but it continues to invest in movies and shows. They’re not all gems, but that’s why I’m happy to recommend you these shows that I’ve watched and enjoyed—and I hope you will too!