Netflix is a treasure trove of cinematic and television excellence, but with its vast library, some of the best gems remain hidden in plain sight. From heartwarming indie films to mindbending documentaries, and undertheradar series that deserve their moment in the spotlight, we've curated a list of 15 mustwatch titles that might have slipped through your watchlist. These hidden gems offer a mix of genres, stories from around the globe, and unique storytelling that are bound to captivate, entertain, and perhaps even enlighten. Ready your popcorn and prepare to dive deep into the lesserknown corners of Netflix's expansive collection.
1. "Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories"
An intimate look into a small, late-night diner in Tokyo and its eccentric patrons. The image shows the cozy interior of the diner, with warm lighting bathing the quirky customers and the wise owner-chef in a comforting glow. Each episode tells a different story, connected only by the shared space and a love for the simple yet delicious food served.
2. "The Kindness Diaries"
This heartwarming documentary series follows one man's global adventure powered solely by the kindness of strangers. The photo captures the protagonist, with a backdrop of the diverse landscapes he traverses, from bustling city streets to serene countryside, showcasing the universal language of kindness that he encounters.
3. "I Am Not an Easy Man"
A French comedy that turns societal gender norms on their head. The image features the main characters in a role-reversal scenario, highlighting the humorous and thought-provoking situations they find themselves in. The vibrant streets of Paris provide a lively backdrop to their evolving dynamics.
4. "Happy as Lazzaro"
An Italian masterpiece blending time travel and social commentary. The photo captures the enigmatic smile of Lazzaro amidst a pastoral and timeless Italian countryside, hinting at the film’s magical realism and the poignant tale of friendship and innocence it weaves.
5. "Calibre"
A gripping Scottish thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The image shows the haunting Scottish Highlands, with two friends embroiled in a moral quandary, visually encapsulated by the mist-shrouded landscape that mirrors the tension and uncertainty of their situation.
6. "Street Food: Asia"
Dive into the vibrant world of street food across Asia. The image is a collage of colorful, mouth-watering dishes from various countries, bustling markets, and the passionate faces of the street food vendors, telling a story of culture, tradition, and the love for food that binds communities.
7. "The Call"
A Korean thriller that intertwines the lives of two women from different times. The photo captures a suspenseful moment, with the modern and past worlds colliding in a visually striking way, embodying the film’s intense, time-bending narrative.
8. "One of Us"
A deep dive into the lives of individuals who choose to leave their insular communities. The image portrays the poignant solitude and bravery of the subjects, set against the backdrop of the communities they leave behind, highlighting their journey towards self-discovery and freedom.
9. "Under the Shadow"
A horror film set in post-revolution Tehran, blending real-world fears with supernatural dread. The image shows a mother and daughter shadowed by the creeping terror of a Djinn, against a backdrop of a war-torn city, encapsulating the film's tense atmosphere and psychological depth.
10. "Senna"
The riveting documentary of Brazilian Formula One racing driver Ayrton Senna. The image captures Senna's intense focus behind the wheel, with the vibrant, fast-paced world of Formula One racing in the background, celebrating his legacy and the sport he loved.
11. "A Fortunate Man"
A visually stunning adaptation of a classic Danish novel, this film explores the complexities of ambition, family, and societal expectations. The image showcases the film's protagonist, a young engineer, against the backdrop of the Danish countryside and the industrial revolution, symbolizing his internal struggle between personal ambition and the values of love and family.
12. "Wild Wild Country"
An enthralling documentary series that delves into the controversial Rajneeshpuram commune in Oregon. The image captures the charismatic and enigmatic figure of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (Osho) with his followers, set against the Oregon landscape, hinting at the series' exploration of faith, power, and conflict.
13. "Giri/Haji"
A cross-continental crime drama that explores the butterfly effect of a Tokyo detective's actions in London. The image juxtaposes the neon-lit streets of Tokyo with the gritty London backdrop, centering on the detective caught between two worlds, his duty, and his family.
14. "Okja"
A poignant tale of a girl and her genetically modified super pig, Okja, which critiques corporate greed and animal rights. The image captures a tender moment between Mija and Okja in the lush mountains of South Korea, with the looming shadow of corporate interests symbolized by a stark, cold cityscape in the background.
15. "The Platform"
A dystopian thriller that serves as a metaphor for society's hierarchical structure, set in a tower-style prison where food distribution is a matter of life and death. The image conveys the stark contrast between the opulence of the top levels and the desperation of the lower levels, with a single plate of food descending, highlighting the film's central conflict.
Netflix's extensive library is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the Scottish Highlands, and the vibrant kitchens of street food vendors across Asia, these selections promise to take you on a journey across genres and borders. Each story, whether it's told through laughter, tears, or screams, offers a unique perspective that deserves a spot on your watchlist. So, grab your remote, and let the adventure begin!