Netflix has emerged as a powerhouse in both television and film, churning out a steady stream of the best Netflix originals to ever grace our screens. From record-breaking Korean dramas to star-studded Hollywood blockbusters, the streaming giant consistently raises the bar in storytelling, acting, and sheer creativity. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the best Netflix shows or you’ve been hunting for the best Netflix original movies to binge on the weekend, this list has something for every taste. Below, we highlight 15 unmissable Netflix originals—organized by their monstrous first-28-days viewership numbers, compelling plotlines, and cultural impact—so you can add them to your queue right away.

Netflix Original TV Shows

Squid Game (2021)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 1.65 billion hours watched worldwide

When it debuted in September 2021, Squid Game became an unstoppable global phenomenon, instantly landing among the best Netflix originals ever and effectively grabbing the crown for the most-watched Netflix show in that crucial 28-day window. Featuring a nail-biting premise, the Korean survival drama follows ordinary individuals lured into a series of childhood games that quickly devolve into life-or-death stakes. With striking visuals, a haunting musical score, and deeply human characters, Squid Game transcended cultural barriers to captivate audiences worldwide. Its success proved that an international series—powered by inventive storytelling—could topple all previous Netflix records. If you’re seeking one of the best Netflix shows that will linger in your mind long after the finale, this harrowing yet addictive watch is essential.

Wednesday (2022)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 1.237 billion hours watched

Released in late 2022, Wednesday soared to the second-place spot for English-language debuts on Netflix, right behind Stranger Things 4. This stylish reimagining of Wednesday Addams (portrayed with moody precision by Jenna Ortega) brings gothic teenage flair to modern-day boarding school life. Complete with dark humor, supernatural hijinks, and a Tim Burton aesthetic, Wednesday became one of the best Netflix shows of the year and earned instant pop-culture status. The writing deftly balances a detective story with comedic family drama, all while paying homage to the original Addams Family tradition. If you’re hunting for the best Netflix originals that blend nostalgia with modern teen spunk, Wednesday delivers a pitch-perfect binge.

Stranger Things (2016–)

Viewership in First 28 Days (Season 4): 1.35 billion hours watched

Few series are as synonymous with the phrase “binge-worthy phenomenon” as Stranger Things. With Season 4 racking up a staggering 1.35 billion hours in its first month, it broke the English-language Netflix record previously set by Bridgerton. This sci-fi adventure channels 1980s nostalgia with a supernatural twist, following a lovable group of teens battling eerie creatures from the Upside Down. Across its four epic seasons (and counting), Stranger Things has remained one of the best Netflix originals, lauded for its retro setting, heartfelt storytelling, and an ensemble cast that grew from wide-eyed youngsters to accomplished stars. With each new season ramping up the stakes, Stranger Things continues to hold the cultural spotlight as one of the best Netflix shows you can stream right now.

Bridgerton (2020–)

Viewership in First 28 Days (Season 2): ~656 million hours

Regency romance meets modern sensibilities in Bridgerton, Shonda Rhimes’s lush period drama that set Netflix records before being surpassed by a few juggernaut series. With sumptuous costuming, scandalous secrets, and swoon-worthy love stories, Bridgerton Season 2 fetched roughly 656 million hours of viewership in its first four weeks—an astonishing feat for a historical romance. While it leans into the grandeur of a 19th-century London social season, the show also brims with witty dialogue and a diverse cast that refreshes the genre. If you’re a fan of frothy escapism mixed with empowering themes, you’ll see why Bridgerton ranks among the best Netflix originals and remains a frontrunner for those craving romance with a modern spin.

DAHMER: Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story (2022)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 856 million hours watched

True-crime aficionados helped DAHMER: Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story ascend into Netflix’s top echelon, crossing 856 million hours within a month. This limited series dives into the horrifying crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer, portraying the notorious serial killer’s life and the social failings that allowed his actions to go unchecked. Gripping performances and a meticulous (though disturbing) depiction of real events catapulted DAHMER to water-cooler discussions worldwide, making it one of the best Netflix shows for true-crime enthusiasts seeking a dramatic retelling of real-life darkness. Approach with caution, though: its realistic portrayal of violence can be tough to watch. Still, for those drawn to the genre, DAHMER exemplifies how Netflix can produce compelling, if unsettling, crime dramas that push boundaries.

Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) (2017–2021)

Viewership in First 28 Days (Part 5): 792 million hours

Originally a Spanish series, Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) found global acclaim once Netflix acquired distribution rights, eventually becoming one of the best Netflix originals from outside the English-speaking world. By the time Part 5 (the final season) arrived, it had cemented itself as an international sensation with 792 million hours viewed. Chronicling a group of outlaws executing elaborately planned heists under the guidance of “the Professor,” Money Heist marries high-stakes action with emotional character arcs. The signature Salvador Dalí masks and red jumpsuits became iconic cosplay worldwide. If you crave an adrenaline rush or are eager to explore top-tier foreign-language content among the best Netflix shows, Money Heist is an unmissable gem.

The Night Agent (2023–)

Viewership in First 28 Days (Season 1): 626 million hours

Debuting in early 2023, The Night Agent quickly staked its claim among the best Netflix original movies and shows by delivering a gripping political thriller, except this time in series form. The story follows a low-level FBI employee manning an emergency phone line in the White House basement, only to be plunged into a deadly conspiracy. Its seamless blend of suspense, action, and character-driven drama propelled The Night Agent to 626 million hours of viewership in its first month, placing it among Netflix’s top five English-language series ever. Sharp writing, breakneck pacing, and well-choreographed action scenes keep audiences glued, proving that new arrivals can still surprise Netflix’s massive subscriber base.

You (2018–)

Viewership in First 28 Days (Season 3): 467.8 million hours

Ever wondered what it’s like to be trapped in the mind of a dangerously charming stalker? You embraces this unsettling concept, transforming a psychological thriller into one of the best Netflix shows for fans of twisted romances. Season 3, released in 2021, tallied 467.8 million hours viewed in its first four weeks—a testament to Joe Goldberg’s dark allure. As Joe and Love attempt suburban family life, the show deepens its central themes of obsession and moral compromise with an added layer of domestic drama. The result is an addictive cocktail of romance, suspense, and razor-sharp social commentary. If you want a Netflix original with tension and unexpected turns, You stands out as a gloriously unnerving option.

Netflix Original Movies

Red Notice (2021)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 364.0 million hours

Topping Netflix’s film chart at the time of its release, Red Notice is an action-comedy that unites Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot for a globe-trotting heist adventure. Its 364 million hours in the first four weeks made it Netflix’s biggest movie debut ever—and that record still stands. Filled with comedic banter and high-octane set pieces, Red Notice exemplifies how the best Netflix original movies can deliver all the spectacle of a summer blockbuster, straight to your living room. The film’s tongue-in-cheek tone and superstar trio make it an easy crowd-pleaser, whether you’re a fan of buddy comedies or large-scale heist thrillers.

Don’t Look Up (2021)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 359.8 million hours

Adam McKay’s satirical Don’t Look Up arrived during the holiday season of 2021 and swiftly climbed near the top of Netflix’s film rankings. Boasting a cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, and Jonah Hill, the comedic yet pointed commentary on climate change (or societal apathy) resonated with viewers—reflected in its hefty 359.8 million-hour tally. This sharp, often absurdist critique follows two low-level astronomers trying to warn humanity of a comet on a collision course with Earth, only to face disinterest and political spin. By fusing big-name celebrities, biting humor, and real-world allegories, Don’t Look Up stands tall among the best Netflix originals for fans of irreverent social satire.

Carry-On (2024)

Viewership in First 28 Days: ~298.7 million hours

Emerging as a late-year surprise, Carry-On launched in December 2024 and locked in around 298.7 million hours within its first month, placing it among the best Netflix original movies to date. Taron Egerton headlines this high-stakes thriller about an airline security officer forced to compromise due to a mysterious blackmailer. Tightly paced and loaded with tension, Carry-On benefits from a lean running time that ensures nearly every minute packs an adrenaline-fueled punch. Critics praised its no-nonsense execution and Egerton’s commanding performance, while viewers elevated it to top-tier territory through word-of-mouth. For those yearning for an electrifying “one-night read” style action flick, Carry-On more than delivers.

Bird Box (2018)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 282.0 million hours

Before Red Notice and Don’t Look Up broke movie records, Bird Box dominated Netflix headlines back in 2018, scoring 282 million hours watched in its opening month. Sandra Bullock shines in this post-apocalyptic thriller, where an unseen entity drives anyone who looks at it to lethal violence. Tense set pieces—like Bullock’s blindfolded journey down a treacherous river—kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Along with garnering memes (remember the Bird Box Challenge?), it cemented itself as one of the best Netflix originals that redefined horror’s streaming potential. If you’re curious about a film that sparked mainstream mania, Bird Box stands out for its chilling concept and strong performances.

The Irishman (2019)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 214.6 million hours

Martin Scorsese’s gangster epic The Irishman showcased Netflix’s ambition to court legendary directors and produce prestige cinema. Though lengthy at over three hours, the film attracted 214.6 million hours of viewing in its first month, speaking to the enduring draw of a Scorsese mob saga featuring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci. This sprawling tale of loyalty, regret, and the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa offers a retrospective on the mafia genre. While the runtime might be daunting, fans of carefully crafted storytelling rank it among the best Netflix original movies for its cinematic depth and top-tier talent. It’s not a quick watch, but for crime-drama enthusiasts, The Irishman is an essential addition to the Netflix queue.

The Sea Beast (2022)

Viewership in First 28 Days: 165 million hours

Proving that the best Netflix originals also extend to family-friendly animation, The Sea Beast charmed viewers with its high-seas fantasy. In this delightful animated adventure, monster hunters sail the oceans in search of colossal sea creatures, only to learn that humanity’s monstrous portrayal of them might be flawed. With impressive animation quality reminiscent of big-budget theatrical releases, the film’s 165 million hours in its first four weeks set a record for Netflix’s original animated movies. Parents and kids alike praised the film’s heartwarming messages, epic maritime battles, and whimsical humor, putting The Sea Beast in the conversation with other top-tier animation giants—solid proof Netflix can rival established studios with its animated fare.

La Dolce Villa (2025)

Viewership in First 28 Days: Pending final count (debut week: ~33 million hours watched)

Released on February 13, 2025, La Dolce Villa marks Netflix’s latest romantic comedy phenomenon. Although its 28-day numbers aren’t finalized, the film snagged the #1 spot in its opening week with an estimated 19.8 million views (equivalent to about 33 million hours). Set against an idyllic Italian villa, this rom-com pairs a perfectionist architect with an impulsive chef who must collaborate to revamp a crumbling estate—a premise that brims with delightful chemistry and postcard scenery. Early viewers have championed its breezy humor and gorgeous cinematography, predicting it may gain a spot among the best Netflix originals in terms of audience engagement if the rest of the four-week window continues strong. While official 28-day data remain undisclosed at the time of writing, La Dolce Villa definitely has the charm to become one of the best Netflix original movies for rom-com devotees.

Binge Them All!

From the chilling survival drama of Squid Game to the star-packed satire Don’t Look Up, Netflix has proven its remarkable range, producing some of the best Netflix originals across genres and languages. These diverse titles demonstrate that the streaming giant can successfully cater to fans of romantic period pieces, teen thrillers, political intrigue, and beyond. Whether you’re in the mood for a record-smashing K-drama phenomenon, a haunting true-crime limited series, or a breezy animated escapade, there’s a Netflix original waiting to captivate your every whim.

For those still building their watchlists, remember that the best Netflix shows and best Netflix original movies share a few common traits: top-tier storytelling, high production values, and global reach. Each of the 15 titles featured here not only captured massive viewership in its first 28 days but also left a cultural footprint—from spawning memes, to fueling debates, to redefining their respective genres. As Netflix continues to expand its library, the range of compelling originals will only grow—but these standouts have already earned a place in streaming history. Happy binge-watching!

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