With the explosion of streaming platforms and digital content, the world of web series has seen an incredible rise in recent years. While blockbuster hits like Stranger Things and Money Heist dominate the charts, there are many hidden gems that often go unnoticed despite their brilliance. These underrated web series may not always have the massive fanbase or viral appeal of mainstream shows, but they offer unique storytelling, exceptional performances, and fresh perspectives that are well worth your time.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at five underrated web series across various genres that truly deserve more attention. Whether you’re a fan of drama, thriller, or comedy, these shows will not disappoint.
1. The OA (Netflix) – A Mind-Bending Journey
The OA is one of those web series that flies under the radar for many but has developed a dedicated cult following. Created by Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, The OA is a thought-provoking, genre-bending series that defies easy classification. It’s a unique blend of mystery, sci-fi, and drama, with supernatural elements woven into the storyline.
The show follows Prairie Johnson (played by Brit Marling), a young woman who returns after being missing for seven years. Upon her return, she can see—something that she could not do before. She tells a strange and captivating story of her abduction and the bizarre events she experienced during her time away. As she shares her journey with a group of people, the series dives into themes of parallel dimensions, the nature of the soul, and the search for identity.
The beauty of The OA lies in its complexity. The series never takes the easy route, challenging viewers to think critically about what’s happening and where it’s all heading. It’s a show that rewards those who are willing to embrace its abstract storytelling and emotional depth. Unfortunately, due to its unconventional narrative and experimental approach, it didn’t get the widespread recognition it deserved. But if you’re looking for a mind-bending series that will leave you thinking long after you’ve finished, The OA is a must-watch.
2. The Terror (AMC, Hulu) – A Historical Thriller with Supernatural Twists
The Terror is a chilling historical thriller based on the true story of the ill-fated Franklin Expedition, where two British ships, HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, became trapped in the ice in the Arctic in the 1840s. The series blends real historical events with supernatural horror, creating a tense and eerie atmosphere throughout.
While the first season primarily focuses on the expedition’s disastrous journey, with elements of survival horror, the second season (titled The Terror: Infamy) explores the Japanese-American experience during World War II, blending historical horror with deep emotional storytelling. Both seasons have their own distinct narrative arcs and themes, but the underlying sense of dread and the gradual unraveling of mystery remain consistent throughout.
What makes The Terror so compelling is its ability to combine historical events with a chilling supernatural undertone. It isn’t just about the horrors of the cold and isolation; it’s about how humans react when faced with the unknown and how fear can drive them to do unimaginable things. The show’s slow-burn pacing and intricate storytelling may not appeal to everyone, but those who stick with it are treated to a gripping and thought-provoking experience.
Despite its critical acclaim, The Terror is often overshadowed by bigger names in the historical drama genre. This is a shame because it offers something truly unique that deserves more attention.
3. Dark (Netflix) – A German Sci-Fi Masterpiece
If you’re a fan of complex narratives and mind-bending time travel plots, Dark should be at the top of your watchlist. This German sci-fi series is one of the most intricate and thrilling web series in recent memory, but it has remained somewhat underappreciated outside of its core fanbase.
Set in the small German town of Winden, Dark begins with the mysterious disappearance of two children. As the investigation into their disappearances unfolds, the show delves deeper into the town’s secrets, uncovering a tangled web of family ties, time loops, and parallel universes. At its core, Dark is a show about the consequences of time travel and the delicate balance between fate and free will.
The beauty of Dark lies in its meticulous writing, character development, and its ability to balance multiple timelines without losing coherence. It’s a complex narrative that requires full attention from viewers, and it’s easy to get lost in its intricate web of characters and timelines. But for those willing to put in the effort, Dark offers a mind-blowing experience and one of the most satisfying conclusions to any series.
Dark’s dense plot and German-language format may have limited its appeal to a broader audience, but it’s a true masterpiece of the sci-fi genre. If you’re in the mood for a cerebral and immersive series that challenges your perceptions of time and reality, Dark is an absolute must-watch.
4. The Expanse (Amazon Prime Video) – A Space Opera with Political Depth
The Expanse is a space opera based on the book series by James S. A. Corey. The show is set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, with Earth, Mars, and the Belt each vying for power. The series follows a disparate group of characters, including a detective, a space crew, and politicians, who find themselves caught in a conspiracy that threatens the peace of the entire system.
While The Expanse may not have reached the mainstream success of other sci-fi hits like Star Trek or Star Wars, it’s one of the most well-crafted and politically nuanced shows in the genre. The series excels not only in its depiction of space exploration but also in its exploration of political intrigue, class struggles, and environmental issues. The world-building is rich, and the show’s ensemble cast, including stars like Thomas Jane, Steven Strait, and Shohreh Aghdashloo, brings depth and authenticity to the story.
What makes The Expanse underrated is how it balances grand space battles and complex political narratives without sacrificing character development. The show explores important themes such as imperialism, climate change, and human nature, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. If you’re a fan of smart, gritty, and visually stunning science fiction, The Expanse should definitely be on your radar.
5. Patriot (Amazon Prime Video) – A Dark Comedy Spy Thriller
If you’re in the mood for something offbeat, Patriot is a hidden gem that deserves far more attention. This dark comedy spy thriller follows the life of John Tavner (played by Michael Dorman), a man who works for the CIA as an undercover operative. To stop a dangerous international incident, John is forced to take on an even more dangerous mission in Europe, which forces him to deal with personal dilemmas, quirky family issues, and a series of bizarre events that only make his life more complicated.
Patriot has a unique mix of comedy, drama, and espionage, blending a dry, deadpan humor with intense moments of suspense. It’s one of those series that thrives in its subtlety—its comedy is dark, its plot is unpredictable, and its characters are well-developed and quirky. Michael Dorman’s performance as the conflicted and somewhat hapless spy is stellar, and the show’s ability to shift between lighthearted and serious moments is what makes it stand out.
Despite being critically praised, Patriot has a relatively small following, which is unfortunate given its unique tone and writing. If you’re looking for a show that combines espionage, humor, and family drama in an unexpected way, Patriot is a refreshing and underrated choice.
Conclusion
While mainstream hits often dominate the conversation, there are countless underrated web series out there that are equally deserving of attention. From mind-bending sci-fi in Dark to historical thrillers like The Terror and character-driven political drama in The Expanse, these shows offer fresh perspectives and exceptional storytelling that deserve to be discovered by a wider audience.
Next time you’re looking for something new to watch, don’t just settle for the most popular shows—give these underrated gems a try. You might just find your next favorite series that isn’t on everyone’s radar but should be.