“Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories” – While Netflix is inundated with flashy, big-budget shows, this series shines with simplicity and heart. It’s an anthology series set in a small back-alley Japanese diner. A slow-burning exploration of human nature, it winds through the lives of the diner’s patrons, each with unique stories that resonate on universal levels.

“The OA” – This show combines mystery, science fiction, and supernatural elements for a story that defies easy categorization. The OA follows a young woman who resurfaces after being missing for seven years. It’s at once a cerebral mind-bender and an emotional journey that has gained a cult following but remains under many radars.

“Dark” – Hailing from Germany, “Dark” is a complex time-travel thriller that goes deep into the intertwining fates of four families. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a good puzzle or is looking for something to fill the void left by “Stranger Things,” but it’s darker and requires your full attention.

“Babylon Berlin” – Set in the 1920s during the Weimar Republic, this German neo-noir series is an intoxicating mix of crime, politics, and decadence. The highest production values couple with compelling storytelling to create something that feels both distinctly historical and chillingly relevant.

“Giri/Haji” (Duty/Shame) – This British-Japanese series is one of Netflix’s hidden gems—an ambitious cross-cultural crime drama that examines the butterfly effect of a Tokyo detective’s actions on two very different cities. Its stylistic visuals and narrative risk-taking make it an intriguing watch far removed from your standard crime procedural.