2024's television landscape was a whirlwind of premieres and established franchises, easily overshadowing some truly exceptional shows. This list highlights ten underrated gems from 2024, perfect for your 2025 viewing pleasure. These series, unjustly overlooked, offer compelling narratives, strong performances, and innovative approaches to their respective genres.
Table of Contents
- The Eight Show
- Shoresy
- Under the Bridge
- Thunderous Applause
- The Brothers Sun
- Somebody Somewhere
- Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
- Say Nothing
- The Fake
- High Potential
The Eight Show
This Korean thriller-drama, unfairly eclipsed by 2024's blockbusters, is a 2025 must-see. Eight individuals compete in a confined setting, not just for money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The show uses the framework of a reality competition to critique capitalism, social inequality, and the fragility of human values.
Why Watch It Now?
"The Eight Show" 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 influence of materialism. Its unique atmosphere, superb acting, and bold social critique make it a significant, yet often missed, drama.
Shoresy
This Canadian comedy-drama might seem unconventional for those seeking serious narratives, but its blend of lighthearted humor and unexpected sincerity is captivating. Following a cocky hockey player's quest to transform a losing team, it's infused with the fast-paced wit of "Letterkenny," but with added depth revealed episode by episode.
Why Watch It Now?
"Shoresy" transcends hockey; it's a story about perseverance, teamwork, and self-discovery, appealing to fans of dramas like "Friday Night Lights." Its heartfelt moments and character development are surprisingly moving. It's a guaranteed laugh riot with moments of genuine reflection.
Under the Bridge
Hulu's crime drama, unjustly overshadowed in 2024, is a powerful and emotionally resonant series. Based on true events surrounding the tragic death of Reena Virk, it follows a writer who becomes involved in investigating a teenager's disappearance. Through flashbacks, the series explores Reena's personality and raises questions about trauma, bias, and justice.
Why Watch It Now?
"Under the Bridge" distinguishes itself by focusing on the victim, not just the crime. It masterfully blends intrigue with psychological insight. The talented cast, including Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, delivers an emotionally impactful experience. It's a layered exploration of tragedy and its lasting consequences.
Thunderous Applause
This Turkish series subverts expectations, offering an absurdist lens on human emotions. While the premise might seem bizarre (a protagonist who dreams of becoming an orange), the grotesque imagery serves as a vehicle for exploring childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families.
Why Watch It Now?
"Thunderous Applause" is a unique experiment in storytelling. Its blend of comedy and drama serves a deeper narrative purpose. Its unusual plot, visual style, and unconventional presentation will appeal to viewers who appreciate challenging and thought-provoking content.
The Brothers Sun
This action dramedy combines crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack, the head of a criminal empire flees to Los Angeles, where his contrasting relationship with his brother forms both conflict and strength. The dynamic plot blends Eastern martial arts with American family drama.
Why Watch It Now?
"The Brothers Sun" balances intense action with a heartfelt story about family, generational differences, and understanding. Its fresh approach to genre blending, coupled with high-quality visuals and charismatic characters, makes it a compelling choice.
Somebody Somewhere
This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama, concluding its run in 2024, remains underrated. Sam returns to her hometown after her sister's death, navigating loss and rebuilding her life with the support of friends. Music and humor help her rediscover herself.
Why Watch It Now?
"Somebody Somewhere" is a profoundly human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. The satisfying conclusion offers closure and emotional catharsis. It's genuine, warm, and subtly humorous, offering inspiration and comfort.
Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
This animated Netflix series continues to captivate dinosaur enthusiasts. Set after "Camp Cretaceous," it features more mature characters and themes. While the "Jurassic World" films have sometimes fallen short, "Chaos Theory" successfully recreates the sense of wonder, adding drama and thrilling moments.
Why Watch It Now?
If you crave gripping dinosaur stories with tension, humor, and visual spectacle, this is your choice. It appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. The impressive animation and exploration of human-dinosaur relationships make it a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.
Say Nothing
This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on a bestselling book, it tells the stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to 1990s, including the murder of Jean McConville. It explores the societal descent into 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 during wartime. Strong performances, atmospheric production, and meticulous historical detail make it a compelling watch.
The Fake
This Australian series explores the dark side of online dating and manipulation. A writer meets a man who seems perfect, but his inconsistencies raise suspicions. The story unfolds as a pathological liar exploits emotions and vulnerabilities.
Why Watch It Now?
"The Fake" is a tense psychological drama tackling trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. Powerful performances and a dynamic narrative keep viewers guessing. It's a compelling blend of drama and thriller.
High Potential
This American series offers a fresh take on detective stories, blending investigations with comedy. A single mother working as a janitor uses her intellect and memory to assist in solving cases.
Why Watch It Now?
"High Potential" combines sharp humor with intriguing mysteries. It features a strong female lead balancing family and personal growth. It's inspiring, witty, and heartwarming.
2024 offered a wealth of overlooked television masterpieces. These ten underrated series, spanning various genres, await discovery in 2025, promising captivating stories and memorable viewing experiences.
