Discover the Ultimate Must-Watch List: 20 Shows and Films You Can’t Miss!
It’s not always so easy picking a new show to watch.
With services like Netflix offering on-demand viewing, the abundance of choices available often complicates the decision-making process.
Instead, nobody desires to spend their weekends and evenings sifting through mediocre options when there’s an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.
Fortunately, we’ve got a team of TV connoisseurs who have curated a tailored selection of top-tier programs for you, allowing you to make the most of your valuable viewing time by enjoying only the best television has to offer.
Here’s their top 20:
Poker Face
Snazzy, modern take on Columbo from the creator of Knives Out
Year: 2023
Certificate: 15
Watch now on NOW
Watch now on Sky
As a fan of unraveling intriguing mysteries, I wholeheartedly recommend the gripping American murder-mystery series, Poker Face. This contemporary spin on Columbo is brought to you by Rian Johnson, the mastermind behind Knives Out, and features Natasha Lyonne from Russian Doll as Charlie, a shrewd cocktail waitress with an uncanny knack for detecting dishonesty. Her charming demeanor has a unique way of making people confess secrets they’d rather keep hidden.
In each episode, we uncover the weekly murderer at the beginning, and then we follow Charlie as she uncovers how the crime was committed and the motive behind it. Though her lie-detecting abilities are extraordinary, Charlie is not a superhero – she’s simply an ordinary individual with a strong moral compass and a witty sense of humor. The show has a very relatable human touch, making it enjoyable to watch, so it’s great that a second season was produced after the initial ten episodes.
In the second installment, I embark on a personal journey of self-discovery, aptly titled an ‘existential road trip’. Along this lengthy, 12-episode voyage, I forge new friendships and even experience tender moments of romance. This season boasts an illustrious lineup of guest stars, including Cynthia Erivo from Wicked, Katie Holmes, and the esteemed Margo Martindale. (Two seasons)
Long Way Home (2025 series)
Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman’s motorcycle travelogue hits the roads of Europe
Year: 2025
Certificate: 12
Watch now on Apple TV+
2004 marked the beginning of Ewan McGregor and his friend Charley Boorman’s first extraordinary motorbike journey for a documentary series. Over the years, they have traveled with bikes and cameras to various distant corners of the world. However, this time, they opted for a more local adventure, though not entirely, as we will soon see.
In their fourth journey together, these two friends set off from Scotland, headed to England but not taking the usual path. Instead of a straightforward trip, they shipped their classic motorcycles across the North Sea and ventured on an extensive loop that included the Arctic Circle and Europe. Over the span of nine weeks, this adventure took them through 17 countries, showcasing a delightful, captivating experience as they embraced each nation’s culture and participated in local activities and tasks. (Ten episodes)
Marie Antoinette
Ravishingly modern take on the doomed Queen of France
Year: 2022
Certificate: 12
Watch now on BBC iPlayer
This biographical drama candidly portrays the life of the Queen of France, a role brilliantly played by the German actress Emilia Schule as the immature 14-year-old Austrian Archduchess Maria Antonia. Upon her marriage to the future King (Louis Cunningham), she is thrust into an unfamiliar situation, expected to conceive an heir immediately, despite being entirely unaware of what this entails.
This film was crafted by Deborah Davis, the BAFTA-winning screenwriter of The Favourite. However, unlike that peculiar, dark comedy set in Queen Anne’s court, this production has a more refined and alluring aesthetic. It features a contemporary soundtrack with a sharp edge, yet its central focus is on the harsh reality of a woman bound by duty, as well as the coarseness within the royal circles – portraying King Louis XV as both majestic and exasperated by James Purefoy, while British newcomer Louis Cunningham plays Marie’s innocent and indifferent new husband.
In the first installment, there’s a blend of joy and sorrow, as both life and loss are portrayed. The atmosphere becomes grim, mirroring the harsh winter and economic woes in the second series, while Marie remains longing for Fersen, secretly penning letters to him and hoarding them unposted. A burglar eventually breaches the palace’s walls. The narrative can get complex amidst the wealth and political machinations, but patience will be rewarded with many answers. (Two seasons)
Octopus!
Phoebe Waller-Bridge narrates a documentary series about the life of an octopus
Year: 2025
Certificate: 12
Watch now on Prime Video
In various genres such as sitcoms and action films like James Bond, Phoebe Waller-Bridge shows no signs of being confined to one creative niche. This two-part documentary series demonstrates yet another expansion in her talents, as she delves into wildlife filmmaking by producing and narrating a captivating exploration of the life cycle of a Giant Pacific Octopus, from its birth to its demise.
This documentary checks off all the typical nature doc requirements with stunning visuals and clever insights into the intelligent marine life, as you’d anticipate from Waller-Bridge. However, what sets it apart are some unexpected elements, such as interviews about our eight-legged friends. A scientist dedicated to their preservation and an explorer seeking to comprehend them may seem conventional, but who would guess that 30 Rock star Tracy Morgan is a passionate octopus enthusiast? As it happens, the Emmy-nominated actor and humorist is an avid admirer of octopuses… (Two episodes)
Horrible Science
Horrible Histories spin-off that uses comedy and music to explain science to children
Year: 2025
Certificate: u
Watch now on BBC iPlayer
One of the remarkable triumphs on CBBC is Horrible Histories. Originally a collection of books, it evolved into a popular television series in 2009, maintaining its reputation as a riotously funny sketch show with elaborate musical and dance sequences. Over the years, it has successfully balanced education and entertainment for the nation’s children. Now, they’re applying the same approach to science, featuring many familiar faces from the initial program.
The series commences by heavily focusing on the musical aspect, offering a flurry of melodies inspired by gravity, many of which are derived from the songs of Wicked (such as Defying Gravity being particularly noteworthy). It concludes with an evolution-themed rendition of Oasis’s Roll With It – a song less commonly known among today’s kids compared to the Wicked soundtrack, but performed with enthusiasm.
In a more casual and simplified manner: Instead of Rattus, the new furry alien character might not seem quite right at first when it comes to TV shows that people love. After all, change can be tough, especially with favorite series. It’s likely to stir up some disagreement among fans. Fortunately, if you want to learn more about friction and other scientific concepts, you can find detailed explanations here. For a deeper dive into various school subjects, check out BBC Bitesize. (15 episodes)
Molly-Mae: Behind It All
Reality TV star Molly-Mae Hague lets the cameras in for this series about her life
Year: 2025
Certificate: 12
Watch now on Prime Video
As a devoted fan, I’ve witnessed Molly-Mae Hague soar to stardom on Love Island and grace multiple episodes of the At Home With The Furys reality show, sharing the spotlight with her former partner Tommy Fury. Now, she’s captivating viewers with her personal journey in her own fly-on-the-wall documentary series.
2024 found me reeling from the headline-grabbing breakup with Fury, but my unyielding admiration for Hague only intensified as I followed her journey in the years that followed. This riveting tale delves into the life of this fierce and vocal woman, as she navigates the complexities of single motherhood, balances the relentless scrutiny of tabloids, and strives to establish her own business venture, Maebe.
For those who enjoyed Molly-Mae’s past reality show appearances, this series is sure to deliver, offering an in-depth look at the true Molly-Mae that lies beyond the headlines. The production value is noticeably superior to typical reality shows, as evidenced by the frequent use of elegant, contemplative music in the background. At times, this music seems humorously contrasted with moments like her ordering a Chicken Big Mac from a drive-through.
Initially, this sequence was divided into two parts. The second segment was unveiled on May 9th, focusing on the aftermath of Molly-Mae and Tommy sharing a New Year’s Eve kiss, covering six episodes in total.
Harry Wild
Jane Seymour stars as a sleuthing Dublin professor in this lively mystery
Year: 2022-
Certificate: 15
Watch now on Acorn TV
In this series, Jane Seymour appears to be enjoying herself immensely, and it’s not your typical cozy detective drama. The character of Harry Wild, played by Seymour, is a literature professor from Dublin who uses her farewell speech to belittle students, calling them “a disgraceful waste of flesh and breath.” After the party, she’s seen drinking shots, flirting with a younger man, and engaging in other unconventional activities. With such an energetic personality, it makes sense that she would need an engrossing diversion after retirement, and she finds it in using her literary skills to solve murders.
Harry has a unique approach to everything she does, making her performance in the show truly captivating. The second season starts off intensely as Harry finds herself tangled between her partner Fergus and his return to his estranged mother. Additionally, a murder case personal to her is under investigation. In the third series, the lead singer of Hot Boy 4 falls to his death, raising questions about whether it was a deliberate act or an unfortunate accident. If it was murder, was it due to band rivalry, an obsessive fan, or another reason entirely? (Four seasons)
The Assessment
Alicia Vikander and Elisabeth Olsen star in a dark sci-fi film about parenting
Year: 2025
Certificate: 18
Watch now on Prime Video
In a not-too-distant world where resources are dwindling and the population is soaring, forcing humanity to the edge, Mia and Aaryan – a young couple played by Elisabeth Olsen and Himesh Patel respectively – yearn to start a family. However, before they can do so, they must successfully complete a sequence of challenges overseen by Virginia, a meticulous evaluator portrayed by Alicia Vikander, who temporarily cohabits with them for seven days.
In a persistent and childlike manner, Virginia continually tests the couple by pressing their emotional triggers, causing them to question not only their romantic bond but also their roles in society at large.
With subtlety and intelligence, this minimalist sci-fi movie explores profound queries about contemporary existence through its thought-provoking theme. Olsen and Patel deliver remarkable performances as aspiring parents, while Vikander shines brilliantly with an outstanding portrayal of the ruthless and unyielding Virginia. (Running time: 114 minutes)
Nonnas
Vince Vaughn and Susan Sarandon star in a comedy drama about an Italian restaurant
Year: 2025
Certificate: 12
Watch now on Netflix
Following his mother’s passing, blue-collar New York resident Joe (played by Vince Vaughn) decides to leave his monotonous job behind and invest all his efforts into establishing a traditional Italian restaurant as a tribute to her. The unique aspect? He plans to enlist genuine Italian grandmothers (nonnas) to join him, preparing dishes that have been passed down through their families for centuries. Will this idea take off? Can the restaurant attract enough customers? And can Joe prevent the nonnas from engaging in kitchen conflicts?
As a lifestyle enthusiast, I can’t help but share my excitement about this heartwarming film based on real-life events. It’s a delightful blend of family, food, and tradition that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. With acting greats like Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, and Brenda Vaccaro stepping into their aprons as the bickering culinary grandmothers, this movie is a surefire hit. Clocking in at 111 minutes, it’s the perfect length for a cozy, feel-good evening.
Speak No Evil
James McAvoy headlines an unsettling psychological horror movie
Year: 2024
Certificate: 15
Watch now on NOW
Watch now on Sky
As an ardent admirer, when I, the American traveler known as Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy from Halt and Catch Fire), along with my companions Louise and little Agnes (Mackenzie Davis and Alix West Lefler from their respective roles), happened to meet the charming British family of Paddy, Ciara, and their son Ant (James McAvoy, Aisling Franciosi, and Dan Hough) during our Italian excursion, little did we know that this serendipitous encounter would extend an invitation for us to visit their secluded farm nestled in the picturesque countryside of Devon.
It appears that Ben and Louise have an opportunity to temporarily escape their marital issues for a while, but their peaceful retreat quickly turns ominous. As the peculiar and somewhat threatening actions of their hosts escalate, the Daltons start questioning whether they’ll manage to depart the farm without any harm coming to them.
An eerie and nerve-wracking psychological thriller, this series showcases McAvoy’s remarkable talent for swiftly transitioning from endearing friendliness to bone-chilling intensity within 110 minutes.
A Deadly American Marriage
Documentary examining the killing of Jason Corbett by his wife and father-in-law
Year: 2025
Certificate: 15
Watch now on Netflix
Following the loss of my first spouse, I, Jason Corbett, seemed to be living a storybook second chapter when I tied the knot with Molly Martens, an American au pair. We settled down in North Carolina, where I raised my two young children, Jack and Sarah. However, on August 2, 2015, our world took a grim turn when I became embroiled in a violent confrontation that led to my demise, involving Molly and her father, Thomas – a former FBI agent. Was it an act of self-defense? A calculated murder? Or something entirely different?
This true-crime documentary delves into the intricacies of the couple’s marriage, aiming to unravel the mysteries surrounding the night Corbett met his demise. The film includes interviews with Martens and her father, as well as dialogues with Jack and Sarah, who were only ten and eight when the murder occurred. Their custody dispute following the crime was a subject of intense controversy. (Running time: 102 minutes)
Britain And The Blitz
Colourised footage brings the impact of Luftwaffe raids to extraordinary life
Year: 2025
Certificate: 12
Watch now on Netflix
Colorized recordings are commonly seen in documentaries today, and it’s amazing how they can make history feel more vivid than black-and-white footage. This is definitely true for “Britain And The Blitz,” a lengthy documentary by Ella Wright (known for “JFK: One Day In America”). In this production, she skillfully employs restored and colorized archival material to tell the story of various real individuals during the Luftwaffe’s air raids on our country.
The video transports us onto the bustling streets of London, within cultural institutions like the Tate Gallery, across the nation amid evacuees and other Luftwaffe attacks, and to air bases as Spitfires mobilize and RAF personnel monitor them on the ground. This group includes Edith Heap, a plotter at RAF Debden, who shares her duties, and a love affair with an aviator. We also listen to Joan Wyndham, a 17-year-old art student who encountered an attractive man named Rupert – love stories and making the most of opportunities are recurring motifs, as one might expect – and from Bernard Kops, a 13-year-old living in the East End, who recalls Churchill’s visit during the Blitz.
This production offers glimpses into the lives of those less privileged as well; we listen to Princess Elizabeth’s first-ever broadcast, at age 14, but primarily it provides a street-level depiction of ordinary people’s experiences. By the end, you’ll be amazed by their resilience and the hardships they faced. (67 minutes)
Silence Is Golden
Rollicking game show where the audience is very much involved, hosted by Dermot O’Leary
Year: 2025
Certificate: 12
Watch now on U (UKTV)
In this show hosted by Dermot O’Leary, 50 participants initially have £250,000 collectively to divide among themselves. However, the production team doesn’t actually have that much money to distribute (it’s Dave, not Netflix), so if they want to keep the money, they must remain absolutely quiet throughout the game. Any noise, whether small or loud, will result in a penalty: £5,000 for a minor infraction and £10,000 for a significant one.
The task at hand is quite challenging, especially without resorting to underhanded tactics like those used by some comedy and cabaret acts such as Katherine Ryan and Seann Walsh who often reveal behind-the-scenes happenings. These acts sometimes employ tricks to amuse, humiliate, or surprise the audience. The series also includes various manipulations intended to pit the audience against each other and create frightening moments that make them jump. Despite the chaos, it’s an incredibly enjoyable watch with six episodes in total.
The Handmaid’s Tale
Harrowing series based on Margaret Atwood’s book, starring Elisabeth Moss
Year: 2017-
Certificate: 15
Watch now on Prime Video
Watch now on Channel 4
1985’s spine-tingling Margaret Atwood novel portraying America’s seizure by fundamentalists and the ensuing fear is a movie adaptation from 1990 starring Natasha Richardson and Faye Dunaway, and it also served as the basis for this gripping television series.
In the not-too-distant future, a fanatical Christian faction seizes power, dethroning the President and Congress. They use the excuse of restoring order to temporarily halt the Constitution’s operation. This leads to the establishment of a new government, transforming the United States into the Republic of Gilead. Under this regime, they enact oppressive laws that strip women of their freedoms, causing them to lose their jobs and have their bank accounts frozen. Women who can bear children are forcibly separated from their families and subjected to sexual servitude amidst a fertility crisis brought on by pollution of the environment.
In this storyline, these women are referred to as Handmaids, who are tasked with bearing children for the wealthiest and influential men in the nation, along with their childless spouses. The series centers around Offred (a name meaning ‘Of-Fred’, belonging to her master), portrayed by Mad Men’s Elisabeth Moss, as she navigates through her challenging new circumstances while longing for reunification with her daughter.
As an ardent admirer, I can’t help but express my anticipation for the final chapter of a show that has captivated me for six seasons. The sixth and concluding series will grace Prime Video on May 3rd, yet even the most successful productions risk succumbing to fatigue and monotony. This was evident during some parts of the middle series, as the somber and dismal atmosphere seemed never-ending. However, the fifth season served as a beacon of hope, approaching the intensity of the initial run. The current sixth series, unfolding weekly, is not only its last but also a testament to the creators’ commitment to delivering a satisfying ending. (Six seasons)
River
Abi Morgan’s drama about a brilliant detective troubled by visions of a colleague
Year: 2015
Certificate: 15
Watch now on ITVX
In another instance, a detective has experienced the chilling presence of his deceased former partner, who was murdered. This plotline reminds us of the television series “Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased),” which was revived in 2000 by Reeves and Mortimer.
In both shows, there was a touch of comedy, but not in River, where the main character is a highly accomplished detective inspector with an impressive 80% success rate in solving cases. However, his heart is burdened heavily due to the loss of his friend and former colleague, DS Jackie ‘Stevie’ Stevenson, portrayed by Nicola Walker from Last Tango In Halifax.
In the passenger seat of Stellan Skarsgård’s car and at various spots around his house, it is she whom he encounters, as he struggles with the recent murder of this woman. The story unfolds with vigor and wisdom across this six-episode series, featuring detectives who grapple with their troubles but also show brilliance. This show stands out on TV due to its unique cinematography, music, writing, and acting, as River endeavors to uncover the identity of his slain friend and former partner.
Malpractice (Series 2)
Compelling medical thriller set in the aftermath of a crisis
Year: 2025
Certificate: 15
Watch now on ITVX
As a die-hard fan, I must admit I was on edge anticipating the second installment of this pulse-pounding medical thriller. With its unique blend of ER’s intensity and Casualty’s grit, coupled with the intrigue of a police procedural, it sets an incredibly high bar. But boy, does it deliver! The opening episode was a masterclass in tension, as the medical emergency was unfolded with relentless precision. Once again, I found myself plunged headfirst into the chaos of an NHS doctor juggling pressures from all sides, a whirlwind of demands that left me breathless and hooked!
The doctor you see is Dr James Ford, portrayed by Tom Hughes, who appears less polished than his role as Prince Albert in Victoria. Despite his disheveled appearance, Dr Ford exudes authority and compassion, and manages to be in two places at once, which is quite remarkable. However, midway through the first episode, a critical situation arises.
In this series, I find myself once again stepping into the roles of Dr. Norma Callahan and Dr. George Adjei, colleagues from the Medical Investigation Unit, as we delved into the character of Dr. Lucinda Edwards, portrayed by Niamh Algar in the previous season. However, what truly captivates me isn’t just our presence, but rather the enigmatic characters surrounding us.
Ford, brilliantly played by Hughes with a deep sense of melancholy, and his associates – from my overworked supervisor (Zoe Telford) to the tenacious pediatric doctor Sophia Hernandez (Selin Hizli) – are where the real intrigue lies. Despite their apparent professional demeanor, I can’t help but sense that there’s a deeper story behind Ford and Hernandez than merely exhaustion and financial strain. (Five episodes)
Chicago Med
Glossy and addictive hospital drama from top TV producer Dick Wolf
Year: 2015-
Certificate: 15
Watch now on NOW
Watch now on Sky
Watch now on Prime Video
This long-standing American series produced by Dick Wolf (known for Law & Order) is akin to the timeless medical drama ER on our televisions. The show explores moral dilemmas surrounding money and healthcare in U.S. hospitals, yet it’s also hard to resist its soap opera-like appeal. It features an abundance of attractive medical professionals throughout.
Among the medical professionals, you’ll find maverick surgeon Dr. Connor Rhodes (Colin Donnell), pragmatic nurse April Sexton (Yaya DaCosta), psychiatry head Dr. Charles (Oliver Platt, a well-known face on the show who often takes on the role of the wise elder), and pediatrician in the emergency department Dr. Natalie Manning (Torrey DeVitto). This latter character, a widow, occasionally shares romantic moments with the main character – Dr. Will Halstead (Nick Gehlfuss), who transitioned from being a plastic surgeon to an ED physician.
Over time, “Will” has been involved in some extraordinary plotlines, and he shares a bond with Detective Jay Halstead, a character from one of the two sister series, Chicago PD. Another sibling show is Chicago Fire, and on occasion, they intertwine storylines that span several episodes. Currently, all three shows are airing their tenth season, which can be found on Sky/Now.
Nascar: Full Speed
The lives of drivers on and off the track in the high-speed US motorsport
Year: 2024
Certificate: 15
Watch now on Netflix
Explore the thrilling yet perilous world of NASCAR, where drivers from the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing navigate the track at breakneck speeds, just one mistake away from a serious crash. Dive deeper into their lives off the racetrack with Netflix’s series, which follows the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs and championship race. Get an exclusive look at top contenders like Ryan Blaney, Tyler Reddick, and Ross Chastain.
This film, originating from Nascar Studios, caters primarily to enthusiasts, given its insider perspective. However, it offers an abundance of impressive footage that will undoubtedly capture the interest of fans. For those curious about why someone might risk racing at 200mph alongside 38 other cars, the film delves deeply into this intrigue, providing valuable insights for all. (Two series)
Memento Mori
Dark and twisted serial killer thriller from Spain
Year: 2023
Certificate: 15
Watch now on Channel 4
A gripping Spanish crime thriller features a villain reminiscent of American Psycho, as an unusual criminal psychologist collaborates with a perceptive detective in pursuit of this elusive antagonist.
In the northeastern medieval city of Valladolid, the story unfolds with the grim finding of a young woman’s corpse, horrifically disfigured. Her eyelids were cruelly severed, and a chilling verse was etched within her lips.
The initial victim-responding detective is Sancho, a kindly individual with plans to depart Valladolid to transport his mother suffering from Alzheimer’s to Madrid. However, his instincts tell him that the murderer’s elaborate methods match those of a serial killer. And in this case, he was correct. (Six episodes)
The first detective on the scene is Sancho, a considerate man who had intended to move his Alzheimer’s-stricken mother from Valladolid to Madrid. His intuition tells him that the murderer’s flamboyant approach resembles that of a serial killer. And indeed, he was right about this. (Six episodes)
Forever (2025 series)
LA-set drama show adapting Judy Blume’s novel about teenage love
Year: 2025
Certificate: 15
Watch now on Netflix
As Keisha and Justin, high school students from Los Angeles, start dating, they encounter numerous milestones, yet almost as many obstacles. Despite being each other’s first love, first kiss, and potentially first sexual partner, the question remains if this is sufficient to maintain their relationship in the long run amidst pressure from teachers, friends, coaches, and families.
This contemporary reimagining of Judy Blume’s 1975 novel for young adults, now a drama series, skillfully and thoughtfully adapts the story to fit the setting of modern-day Los Angeles in 2018. The performances from its talented cast are authentic, portraying the raw emotions experienced by teenagers during their initial encounters with love, romance, and heartache. Notable figures Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends, Being Mary Jane) and Regina King (Watchmen, Shirley), who is also a renowned actress, have taken on crucial roles in the production of this series, with King stepping behind the camera for the first time as director. (Eight episodes)
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2025-05-09 19:10