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 gems from 2024, perfect for your 2025 viewing pleasure. These series, spanning genres from intimate dramas to thrilling sci-fi, offer something for every taste.
Table of Contents
- The Eight
- Shoresy
- Under the Bridge
- Thunderous Applause
- The Brothers Sun
- Somebody Somewhere
- Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
- Say Nothing
- The Fake
- High Potential
The Eight
This Korean thriller-drama, unfairly overshadowed by bigger releases, is a 2025 must-see. Eight participants compete in a confined space, not just for money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The show becomes a potent metaphor for capitalism, exposing societal inequalities and the fragility of human values.
Why Watch It Now? "The Eight" offers intelligent, suspenseful storytelling with sharp social commentary. A more intimate and psychologically nuanced take on the "Squid Game" formula, it provokes reflection on human relationships and the impact 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 rough exterior lies surprising depth. Following a cocky hockey player determined to turn a losing team around, it blends sharp humor with unexpected sincerity. The "Letterkenny" creators' signature wit is present, but with added emotional resonance that unfolds episode by episode.
Why Watch It Now? Shoresy transcends hockey, exploring themes of perseverance, teamwork, and self-discovery. It’s a surprisingly heartfelt series with strong character development. Get ready for laughter, tears, and some serious life reflections.
Under the Bridge
This Hulu crime drama, unjustly overlooked in 2024, is a powerful and emotionally resonant series. Based on a true story, it recounts the tragic death of Reena Virk in 1997. A writer with a traumatic past returns to her hometown and becomes entangled in the investigation of a teenager's disappearance, forging connections with young people under suspicion. Through flashbacks, the series explores Reena's personality and raises questions about trauma, prejudice, and justice.
Why Watch It Now? "Under the Bridge" uniquely focuses on the victim, distinguishing it from typical 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, presenting an absurdist look at human emotions and experiences. While the premise (a protagonist who dreams of becoming an orange) might seem bizarre, the grotesque imagery serves to explore 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 Now? "Thunderous Applause" is a unique experiment in storytelling, seamlessly weaving comedy into a deeper narrative. Its unusual plot, visual style, and original presentation will captivate any cinephile.
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, clashing with his brother's contrasting personality. The dynamic plot blends Eastern martial arts and American family drama for an engaging and unpredictable series.
Why Watch It Now? "The Brothers Sun" is a heartfelt story about family, generational differences, and finding common ground, amidst intense action. It offers a fresh perspective on genre blending, addressing important themes without sacrificing dynamism or humor.
Somebody Somewhere
This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama concluded its run in 2024, but remains underrated. Sam returns to her Kansas hometown after her sister's death, grappling with loss and rebuilding her life with the help of friends. Music and laughter aid her self-discovery.
Why Watch It Now? "Somebody Somewhere" is a deeply human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. The satisfying conclusion provides emotional closure and catharsis. It's genuine, warm, and subtly humorous.
Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
This Netflix animated series continues to enthrall dinosaur enthusiasts. Set after "Camp Cretaceous," it features more mature characters and themes. While the "Jurassic World" films have sometimes fallen short, "Chaos Theory" recaptures the sense of wonder, adding thrilling moments and deeper drama.
Why Watch It Now? If you crave gripping dinosaur stories with tension, humor, and stunning visuals, this is the perfect choice. It offers impressive animation and explores human-dinosaur relationships.
Say Nothing
This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on a bestselling book, it recounts the tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to 1990s, including the murder of Jean McConville. It depicts how hatred and division fueled a bloody conflict.
Why Watch It Now? "Say Nothing" is a profound exploration of violence and political division. It offers a gripping narrative and reflections on human morality in wartime. Strong performances and meticulous historical detail make it essential viewing.
The Fake
This Australian series delves into the dark side of online dating and manipulation. A writer encounters a man who seems perfect, but his inconsistencies raise suspicions. The story unfolds as a pathological liar exploits vulnerabilities.
Why Watch It Now? "The Fake" is a tense psychological drama exploring trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. It features powerful performances and a compelling plot.
High Potential
This American series offers a fresh take on detective work, blending investigations with comedy. A single mother working as a janitor at a police station uses her intellect and memory to become a valuable consultant.
Why Watch It Now? "High Potential" combines sharp humor with intriguing mysteries. It showcases a strong female lead balancing family and personal growth. It's inspiring, witty, and warm.
2024 offered a wealth of overlooked television masterpieces. These ten underrated series, spanning various genres, are waiting to be discovered in 2025.
