2024's television landscape was a whirlwind of premieres and established franchises, easily overshadowing some truly exceptional shows. This list highlights ten underrated series from 2024 that deserve a spot on your 2025 watchlist. From poignant dramas to inventive sci-fi, there's something for every viewer.
Table of Contents
- The Eight Show
- Shoresy
- Under the Bridge
- Thunderous Applause
- The Brothers Sun
- Somebody Somewhere
- Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
- Say Nothing
- The Fake
- High Potential
The Eight Show
This Korean thriller-drama, unjustly eclipsed by 2024's big-budget releases, is a 2025 hidden gem. Eight contestants compete in a confined space, not just for money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The show uses the reality TV format as a metaphor for capitalism, exposing social inequality and the fragility of human values.
Why Watch It in 2025?
"The Eight Show" offers intelligent, suspenseful storytelling with sharp social commentary. While reminiscent of Squid Game, it provides a more intimate and psychologically nuanced exploration of human relationships and 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 lighthearted, slightly crude exterior lies surprising depth. The story of a cocky hockey player striving to transform a terrible team into a champion blends sharp humor with unexpected sincerity. The Letterkenny creators' signature quick wit and fast-paced jokes are complemented by surprisingly heartfelt character development.
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 unexpected emotional resonance and character growth make it truly endearing. It's a show that will make you laugh and then leave you pondering life's bigger questions.
Under the Bridge
This Hulu crime drama, unfairly overshadowed in 2024, is a powerful and deeply moving series. Based on a true story, it recounts the tragic death of Reena Virk in 1997 British Columbia. A writer with a traumatic past returns home and becomes inadvertently involved in investigating a teenager's disappearance, forging connections with young people under suspicion. Flashbacks illuminate Reena's complex personality and explore themes of trauma, bias, and justice.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Under the Bridge uniquely focuses on the victim, setting it apart from typical true-crime narratives. It masterfully blends intense intrigue with psychological insight. The talented cast, including Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, delivers an emotionally resonant journey that lingers long after the credits roll.
Thunderous Applause
This Turkish series subverts expectations, offering an absurdist look at human emotions and experiences. The protagonist's dream of becoming an orange and the imagery of smoking fetuses might seem bizarre, but this grotesque presentation lays bare serious themes of childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families. Director Berkun Oya's unconventional style blends drama and comedy into a poignant metaphor for human existence.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Thunderous Applause is a unique experiment in storytelling. Its comedic elements serve the deeper narrative. If you appreciate unusual plots that are both thought-provoking and humorous, this series will be a revelation. Its visual style and originality will captivate any film enthusiast.
The Brothers Sun
This action dramedy combines crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack, Charles Sun, head of a criminal empire, flees Taiwan for Los Angeles to live with his mother and brother. Their contrasting personalities create both conflict and strength. The dynamic plot, blending Eastern martial arts and American family drama, is engaging and unpredictable.
Why Watch It in 2025?
The Brothers Sun is more than just action; it's a heartfelt story about family, generational differences, and understanding. It offers a fresh take on genre blending, addressing important themes without sacrificing dynamism or humor. The high-quality visuals and charismatic cast make it a compelling choice.
Somebody Somewhere
This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama concluded its run in 2024, remaining underrated. Sam returns to her Kansas hometown after her sister's death, struggling with grief. Supported by her friendship with Joel and her evolving relationship with her sister Tricia, she rebuilds her life. Music and laughter help her rediscover herself amidst emotional challenges.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Somebody Somewhere is a deeply human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. The satisfying conclusion provides closure and emotional catharsis. It's a genuine, warm, and subtly humorous show that inspires and comforts.
Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
This animated Netflix series continues to thrill dinosaur enthusiasts. Set after Camp Cretaceous, it features more mature characters and themes. While the Jurassic World films have sometimes fallen short, Chaos Theory successfully captures the sense of wonder, adding drama and thrilling moments.
Why Watch It in 2025?
If you crave gripping dinosaur stories combining tension, humor, and visual spectacle, this is an excellent choice. It appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. The impressive animation and exploration of human-dinosaur relationships make it a visually stunning and emotionally engaging watch.
Say Nothing
This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on the bestselling book, it recounts the tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to 1990s, including the murder of Jean McConville. It portrays the lives of activists and an IRA commander, illustrating how hatred and division can lead to bloody conflict.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Say Nothing is a profound exploration of violence and political division. It offers a gripping narrative and reflections on human morality in wartime. The strong performances, atmospheric production, and meticulous recreation of the era make it a must-watch.
The Fake
This Australian series explores the dark side of online dating and manipulation. Writer Birdie meets a seemingly perfect man, but his strange behavior and inconsistencies raise suspicions. The story unfolds as a pathological liar exploits emotions and vulnerabilities.
Why Watch It in 2025?
The Fake is a tense psychological drama addressing trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. It captivates with strong performances and a dynamic narrative. It's a compelling blend of drama and thriller.
High Potential
This American series offers a fresh take on detective stories, blending investigations with comedy. Single mother Morgan, a police station janitor, uses her intellect and photographic memory to assist in solving cases. From accidental witness to valuable consultant, she embodies the spirit of Brooklyn Nine-Nine with a more personal touch.
Why Watch It in 2025?
High Potential combines sharp humor with intriguing detective plots. It features bright, original cases and a strong female lead balancing family and personal growth. It's inspiring, witty, and heartwarming.
2024 delivered many overlooked masterpieces. These ten underrated series, spanning various genres, await discovery in 2025, offering captivating stories and unforgettable characters.
