2024's television landscape was a whirlwind of premieres and established franchises, making it easy to miss some truly exceptional shows. This list highlights ten underrated series from 2024 that deserve a spot on your 2025 watchlist. From intense thrillers to heartwarming comedies, there's something for every viewer.
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The Eight Show
This Korean thriller-drama, unfairly overshadowed by bigger releases, is a 2025 must-see. Eight contestants compete in a confined space, not just for prize money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The show becomes a powerful metaphor for capitalism, exposing societal inequalities and the fragility of human values.
Why Watch It in 2025? "The Eight Show" offers intelligent, suspenseful storytelling with sharp social commentary. A more intimate and psychologically nuanced take on the "Squid Game" formula, it prompts reflection on human relationships and the influence of materialism. Its unique atmosphere, strong performances, and bold critique of consumerism make it a standout drama.
Shoresy
This Canadian comedy-drama might seem unconventional, but beneath its crude humor lies surprising depth. The story of a cocky hockey player aiming to transform a losing team into champions blends sharp wit with unexpected sincerity. The creators of "Letterkenny" maintain the fast-paced humor, adding layers of complexity with each episode.
Why Watch It in 2025? "Shoresy" transcends hockey; it's a story of perseverance, teamwork, and self-discovery, appealing to fans of dramas like "Friday Night Lights." Its heartfelt moments and character development are unexpectedly moving. It's a guaranteed laugh-out-loud experience with moments of genuine reflection.
Under the Bridge
This Hulu crime drama, unjustly overlooked in 2024, is a powerful and emotionally resonant series. Based on a true story, it follows a writer with a traumatic past who becomes entangled in the investigation of a teenage girl's disappearance, mirroring the unsolved 1997 murder of Reena Virk. Through flashbacks, the series explores Reena's life, raising questions about trauma, prejudice, and the pursuit of justice.
Why Watch It in 2025? "Under the Bridge" uniquely focuses on the victim, distinguishing it from other true-crime narratives. It masterfully blends intense intrigue with psychological depth. The talented cast, led by Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, delivers an emotionally impactful journey.
Thunderous Applause
This Turkish series defies expectations, offering an absurdist exploration of human emotions. While the premise—a protagonist who dreams of becoming an orange—sounds bizarre, the grotesque imagery tackles serious themes of childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families. Director Berkun Oya's unconventional style blends drama and comedy into a poignant metaphor for existence.
Why Watch It in 2025? "Thunderous Applause" is a unique experiment in storytelling, challenging conventions. Its comedic elements are integral to a deeper narrative. Its visual style and originality will captivate cinephiles.
The Brothers Sun
This action dramedy combines crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack, the head of a criminal empire flees to Los Angeles, where his contrasting relationship with his brother becomes both a source of conflict and strength. The plot blends Eastern martial arts and American family dynamics for an unpredictable viewing experience.
Why Watch It in 2025? "The Brothers Sun" is not just about action; it's a heartfelt story about family bonds and understanding. It offers a fresh perspective on genre blending, addressing important themes without sacrificing dynamism and humor.
Somebody Somewhere
This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama, concluding its run in 2024, remains underrated. Sam returns to her hometown after her sister's death, navigating loss and rebuilding her life with the help of friends. Music and laughter aid her self-discovery.
Why Watch It in 2025? "Somebody Somewhere" is a profoundly human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. Its satisfying conclusion offers emotional closure and catharsis. It's genuine, warm, and subtly humorous.
Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
This animated Netflix series continues to captivate dinosaur enthusiasts. Set after "Camp Cretaceous," it features mature characters and themes. While the "Jurassic World" films have fallen short, "Chaos Theory" successfully captures the wonder and spectacle, adding thrilling moments and deeper drama.
Why Watch It in 2025? "Chaos Theory" is a must-watch for fans of dinosaur adventures. It offers impressive animation, exploring human-dinosaur relationships with a blend of adventure, emotion, and visual appeal.
Say Nothing
This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during "The Troubles." Based on a bestselling book, it tells the tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to 1990s, including the murder of Jean McConville. It explores the devastating impact of hatred and division.
Why Watch It in 2025? "Say Nothing" is a profound exploration of violence and political division. It offers a gripping narrative and essential reflections on human morality during wartime. The strong performances and atmospheric production are compelling.
The Fake
This Australian series delves into the dark side of online dating and manipulation. A writer's seemingly perfect match turns out to be a pathological liar, exploiting vulnerabilities for personal gain.
Why Watch It in 2025? "The Fake" is a tense psychological drama exploring trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. It features powerful performances and a captivating plot.
High Potential
This American series offers a fresh take on detective stories, blending investigations with comedic elements. A single mother working as a janitor uses her intellect to assist in solving cases.
Why Watch It in 2025? "High Potential" combines sharp humor with intriguing mysteries, featuring a strong female lead and heartwarming moments.
2024 delivered many overlooked gems. These ten underrated series offer captivating stories across various genres, promising a rewarding viewing experience in 2025.