- “Riverdale”
Okay, okay: it is a CW teen drama based on the Archie comics and, yeah, it is pretty bad. But in being so bad, it is actually so good. Filled with homages way beyond its expected scope — from David Lynch nods to a karaoke rendition of “Mad World” — “Riverdale” is more of an angsty noir than a cliché drama. Check out the first season on Netflix and see if you enjoy seeing Cole Sprouse in leather jackets and beanies instead of hotel lobbies. Available to stream on Netflix.
- “Twin Peaks: The Return”
“Twin Peaks” is really, really weird. And the return 18 years later is no different. If you haven’t seen the original “Twin Peaks,” you can stream it on Netflix, but just be prepared because, it’s really, really weird. The Return answers some questions that the original series left, and plays out more like an 18-hour movie television show. It’s slow and still very weird, but beautiful and intricate.
8. “Difficult People”
Possibly the least recognized show on this list, “Difficult People” follows up-and-coming comedians Billy Eichner and Julie Klausner as they try to break into show business. With equal parts cynicism and pop culture references, “Difficult People” is available to stream on Hulu.
- “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”
Set in the 1950s and created by the minds behind “Gilmore Girls,” “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” follows the titular character, both a mother and a wife, as she breaks into the world of — you guessed it — stand-up comedy. An original premise and fast-paced clever writing make this Amazon Original stand out.
- “Mindhunter”
Another Netflix Original to add to the queue, “Mindhunter” follows two FBI agents as they create the beginnings of criminal psychology. Dark, cerebral and gripping, this drama flips the traditional mystery formula on its head by asking why instead of whom. Available to stream on Netflix.
- “Stranger Things 2”
The Duffer Brothers brought the much-anticipated second season of their show back last year, and they largely exceeded expectations. With amped-up action and the addition of several dynamic new characters, “Stranger Things 2” was arguably better than the first iteration. Available to stream on Netflix.
- “This is Us”
A lot of people cry when they watch this show, but they still keep watching. Perhaps because of the intricately interwoven flashbacks that slowly chip away at deep family drama, or the realistically messy relationships between and within the characters. Either way, “This is Us” is a standout hopeful drama that brings a fresh, humanistic approach to television. Available to stream on Hulu.
- “Brooklyn 9-9”
A workplace comedy about a police precinct in Brooklyn, “Brooklyn 9-9” is in its fourth season, but continues to grow into its own with every episode. Led by Andy Samberg and backed by a talented comedic cast, “Brooklyn 9-9 “makes you feel good and makes you feel like family.
- “American Vandal”
At first glance, the premise of “American Vandal” — finding the culprit of dozens of phallic images graffitied onto cars — sound childish. But the show takes a clever spin on mockumentaries and weaves together the clues and testimonies with realistic high school experiences and characters that makes for a gripping and comedic watch. Available for streaming on Netflix.
- “The Good Place”
Made by the writers and creators of shows like “Parks and Rec” and “The Office,” “The Good Place” is the most important show on television right now. It follows the lives of four humans (led by the inimitable Kristen Bell) in the afterlife — the Good Place, if you will — only one of them was placed there by mistake. Each episode is filled with twists, turns and amateur philosophy lessons, as well some amazing food puns. Seriously, if you are not watching this show, what are you doing? Available for streaming on Hulu and Netflix.
