On the search for your next binge-worthy obsession? You’ve come to the right place. We watched a lot over the past two weeks to come up with this list and know that irrespective of your mood, there’s something excellent here for you to get lost in.
‘Adolescence’
This harrowing hit centres on the arrest of a seemingly normal 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, for the murder of a young female classmate. The four-part Netflix series delves into the rise of toxic online incel culture and the devastating impact Jamie’s actions have on his family.
We can’t remember the last time a series made such a splash and sparked so much heated conversation. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer even hosted the show’s creators, writer Jack Thorne and producer Jo Johnson, at Downing Street to discuss the dangers of toxic culture, with talks of screening it in British high schools.
This sobering, frightening show will leave anyone with teenagers reeling. The acting is exceptional – but co-writer Stephen Graham’s portrayal of Eddie Miller, a father struggling to understand his son’s actions, and newcomer Owen Cooper as Jamie are especially strong. It’s worth noting that each episode was filmed in one seamless shot – no cuts, no edits – so a single mistake would’ve meant starting over. We cannot recommend it enough but be warned: this is not light viewing.
‘Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke’
If you’re looking for a bizarre and binge-worthy docuseries, this, from Disney+, should be at the top of your list. It chronicles the shocking story of former vlogger and Mormon mother of six Ruby Franke, who was arrested in August 2023 for child abuse alongside her business partner (and possible lover). This in-depth exploration of her descent into controversy features insights from neighbours, former friends and, most notably, her oldest children and husband. The unsettling details of Franke’s cult-like beliefs, including her claim that her youngest children were possessed by a demon, will leave you captivated.
‘The Residence’
Netflix’s nicest newbie is both a delightful treat for the soul and a classic whodunnit. Produced by the brilliant Shonda Rhimes of Grey’s Anatomy and Bridgerton fame, this light-hearted murder mystery is set in the White House and follows a classic upstairs/downstairs format with residents, guests, staff, and the hilariously eccentric detective Cordelia Cupp.
The writing is sharp and dryly funny and the scenery beautiful, but it’s the cast that truly shines. Uzo Aduba is a stone-cold genius as Cupp, but Giancarlo Esposito, Randall Park, Jason Lee and Bronson Pinchot are ace too. With whimsical White House cross-sections and a plot that channels the spirit of Agatha Christie, The Residence offers an entertaining and charming mystery – with a surprising dash of Kylie Minogue and Hugh Jackman. If that sounds a bit discombobulating, you’d better get watching – all will be revealed.
‘Toxic Town’
Be gripped by a new Netflix drama that could be likened to a British Erin Brockovich, though that comparison barely scratches the surface of its power. Written by Adolescence’s Jack Thorne, who is clearly having an exceptional year, the series tells the harrowing story of the women in Corby, Northamptonshire, whose children suffer from birth defects caused by industrial pollution after the town’s steelworks are shut down. It’s a compelling narrative about the underdog taking on a powerful adversary, highlighting the strength of female friendship. However, the real strength of Toxic Town lies in its cast, featuring British acting icons like Robert Carlyle, Brendan Coyle and Jodie Whittaker, alongside rising stars Tracey Taylor, Maggie Mahon and Ted Jenkins. It’s a must-watch that will keep you awake until the early hours of the morning.
‘No Taste Like Home’
Queer Eye alum Antoni Porowski brings his charm to Disney+ as he takes celebrity guests on a journey to explore their ancestral and culinary roots. The show features stars like actor James Marsden, who delves into his German and American heritage through his mom’s chicken fried steak and traditional Texas barbecue, and his contemporary, Issa Rae, who discovers the flavours of Senegal with a spicy black-eyed pea stew on baguette. Focusing on family recipes and diverse cultures, No Taste Like Home is a joyful celebration of the unique traditions that make us all different and connect us through food.
‘Ludwig’
This six-part BBC series stars the brilliant and hysterical David Mitchell, known for Peep Show and Would I Lie to You? In this, Mitchell plays Ludwig, a reclusive puzzle-making genius who is forced to impersonate his missing twin brother, a renowned detective chief inspector. Described as a cryptic comedy-drama, Ludwig blends hilariously sharp humour with a clever whodunnit murder mystery. Mitchell shines in the role, delivering his usual comedic brilliance. The show is currently on DStv’s BBC Brit every Tuesday at 8pm, and the best part is that the Beeb has already greenlit a second series.
Sign up to Currency’s weekly newsletters to receive your own bulletin of weekday news and weekend treats. Register here.
