Amid the deluge of 2024's TV releases, some genuine gems were easily overlooked, overshadowed by high-profile premieres and established franchises. These series, unfairly neglected despite compelling plots, strong performances, and innovative approaches to their genres, deserve a second look.
This list highlights ten underrated shows from 2024—hidden treasures well worth your time in 2025. From intimate dramas to daring sci-fi, there's something for every viewer.
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, unjustly overshadowed by 2024's blockbusters, is a 2025 hidden gem. Its psychological depth and social commentary make it a must-see. Eight participants compete in a confined space, not just for money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The show uses the reality TV format as a metaphor for capitalism, exposing social inequality and the fragility of human values.
Why Watch It in 2025?
"The Eight Show" offers intelligent, tense storytelling with sharp social commentary. A more intimate and nuanced take on the Squid Game formula, it prompts reflection on human relationships and the impact of materialism. Its unique atmosphere, excellent acting, and bold critique of consumerism make it a significant, yet easily missed, drama.
Shoresy
This Canadian comedy-drama might seem an unusual choice for those seeking serious plots, but its blend of lighthearted humor and unexpected sincerity is captivating. The story of a cheeky hockey player transforming a terrible team into a powerhouse is surprisingly heartfelt. The Letterkenny creators deliver the same fast-paced jokes, adding depth with each episode.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Shoresy transcends hockey; it's a story of perseverance, teamwork, and finding purpose, appealing to fans of dramas like Friday Night Lights. Its heartfelt moments and character development are unexpectedly moving. If you want laughs and thoughtful reflection, Shoresy is a must-watch.
Under the Bridge
This Hulu crime drama was undeservedly overshadowed in 2024, despite being a powerful and emotionally resonant series. Based on true events surrounding the tragic death of Reena Virk in 1997, it follows a writer with a traumatic past 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 in 2025?
Under the Bridge uniquely focuses on the victim, differentiating it from other true-crime narratives. It masterfully blends intrigue and psychological insight. A talented cast, including Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, delivers an emotional journey that lingers long after the credits roll. It's a layered exploration of tragedy and its aftermath.
Thunderous Applause
This Turkish series subverts expectations, offering an absurdist look at human emotions. The protagonist's dream of becoming an orange and the imagery of smoking fetuses might seem bizarre, but this grotesque presentation tackles childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families. Director Berkun Oya's unconventional approach intertwines drama and comedy into a subtle metaphor for existence.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Thunderous Applause is a unique experiment in storytelling. Its comedic elements serve the deeper narrative. If you appreciate unusual plots that provoke thought and laughter, this series is a revelation. Its visual style and originality will captivate cinephiles.
The Brothers Sun
This action dramedy blends crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack, Charles Sun, head of a criminal empire, flees to Los Angeles with his mother and brother, encountering a new world. Their contrasting personalities create both conflict and strength. The dynamic plot blends Eastern martial arts and American family drama.
Why Watch It in 2025?
The Brothers Sun is about family bonds, generational divides, and understanding. It offers a fresh perspective on genre blending, addressing important themes without sacrificing dynamism or humor. High-quality visuals and charismatic characters make it an excellent choice for fans of unconventional crime stories.
Somebody Somewhere
This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama, concluding in 2024, remains underrated. Sam returns to her hometown after her sister's death, grappling with loss. Supported by friends, she rebuilds her life, using music and laughter to rediscover herself.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Somebody Somewhere is a deeply human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. Its satisfying conclusion offers closure and emotional catharsis. It's genuine, warm, and subtly humorous—inspiring and comforting.
Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
This animated Netflix series continues to delight dinosaur fans. Set after Camp Cretaceous, it features more mature characters and themes. While the Jurassic World films have lacked the wonder of the original trilogy, Chaos Theory successfully restores that sense of awe, adding more drama and thrilling moments.
Why Watch It in 2025?
If you crave gripping dinosaur stories combining tension, humor, and visual splendor, this is an excellent choice. It's perfect for fans of the original trilogy and new audiences. Chaos Theory offers impressive animation and explores the human-dinosaur relationship.
Say Nothing
This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on a bestselling book, it tells the tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to the 1990s, including the murder of Jean McConville. It explores the impact of hatred and division on society.
Why Watch It in 2025?
Say Nothing is a profound exploration of violence and political division. It offers a gripping narrative and reflections on human morality in wartime. Strong performances, atmospheric production, and a meticulous recreation of the era make it a must-watch.
The Fake
This Australian series explores the dark side of online dating and manipulation. Birdie, a writer, meets a man who seems perfect, but his strange behavior raises suspicions. The story unfolds as a pathological liar exploits people's vulnerabilities.
Why Watch It in 2025?
The Fake is a tense psychological drama addressing trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. Powerful performances and a dynamic narrative keep viewers guessing. It balances drama and thriller elements with compelling psychological analysis.
High Potential
This American series offers a fresh take on the detective genre, blending investigations with comedy. Morgan, a single mother and janitor at a police station, uses her intellect and memory to help solve cases.
Why Watch It in 2025?
High Potential combines sharp humor with intriguing detective plots. It presents original cases and highlights a strong female lead balancing family and personal growth. It's inspiring, witty, and warm.
From global hits to lesser-known gems, 2024 offered many overlooked masterpieces. As we enter 2025, these ten underrated series await discovery, offering captivating stories across various genres. Whether you prefer drama, comedy, or something unique, there's plenty to explore.
