The genre of fantasy television has gained immense popularity over the years, captivating audiences with its imaginative storytelling. However, many fantasy narratives can be quite lengthy, often requiring significant time investments to fully appreciate. A prime example is Game of Thrones, which consists of eight seasons and 73 episodes, with each episode lasting at least one hour. Binge-watching such a lengthy series can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to enjoy without feeling like you’re sacrificing your time for just one show.
Fortunately, there are numerous fantasy series that are much more concise and can be completed in just a few days. If you’re looking for a way to unwind after a stressful week, a weekend filled with quality fantasy television could be the perfect antidote. In this guide, we will explore the top fantasy TV shows that are ideal for binge-watching over a weekend.
10
‘The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance’ (2019)
Developed by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews
In 1982, visionary creator Jim Henson introduced audiences to the enchanting world of The Dark Crystal, a family-oriented dark fantasy film that is rich with intricate lore and captivating characters. The narrative revolves around a mystical artifact known as the Dark Crystal, which, after fracturing, gives rise to two distinct races: the Mystics and the Skeksis. The malevolent Skeksis exploit the power of the Crystal to drain the life force from the native species of Thra, creating an Empire bent on eternal dominance while leading to the near extinction of the Gelfling race.
The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance serves as a captivating prequel, delving deeper into the lore and showcasing the Skeksis’ ascent to power. Although initially intended as a miniseries, the show was tragically cut short after just one season, much to the dismay of its devoted fans who were left yearning for more after its critical acclaim. The stunning puppetry and breathtaking set design make it a visual masterpiece, turning it into a feast for the senses. With just one season to consume, you can easily immerse yourself in this magical world and finish it within a single weekend.
9
‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ (2023–)
Created by Rick Riordan and Jonathan E. Steinberg
Adapted from the beloved young adult novels by Rick Riordan, Percy Jackson and the Olympians represents a revitalized attempt to bring this captivating story to the screen, following a lackluster film series in the early 2010s. This television adaptation captures the essence of the source material, delivering a narrative that is both humorous and thrilling. Aimed primarily at pre-teens and teenagers, it also resonates with audiences of all ages through its witty humor and engaging storyline rooted in Greek mythology.
The series stars Walker Scobell in the titular role of Percy, a demigod with Poseidon as his father, who embarks on an epic quest after the Greek god Zeus believes Percy has stolen his lightning bolt. The show brings to life various creatures and elements from Greek myths, creating a delightful mix of coming-of-age drama and fantastical adventure that is accessible to all viewers. The episodes run around 30-40 minutes each, and with only eight episodes currently available, you can easily binge-watch this series, even when Season 2 of Percy Jackson is released, allowing for a fun background watch while you tackle chores or relax.
8
‘Lost Ollie’ (2022)
Created by Shannon Tindle
Lost Ollie is a heartwarming fantasy miniseries that you can easily binge-watch in a single day, as it consists of just four episodes. The series draws comparisons to Toy Story, featuring a stuffed rabbit who awakens in a lost-and-found and embarks on a mission to reunite with his beloved owner. Throughout his journey, Ollie encounters various lost toys and explores fantastical realms, which are enchanting through the eyes of a plush toy.
However, Lost Ollie transcends being merely a children’s adventure; it serves as a touching tribute to the enduring bond that children share with their stuffed animals—a bond that often fades as they transition into adulthood, leaving behind the magic of childhood. This series is not just a creative endeavor; it’s a heartfelt narrative that resonates with audiences of all ages. With just four episodes, viewers can easily become engrossed in its charming adventure and complete it in one day.
7
‘The Bastard Son & the Devil Himself’ (2022)
Created by Joe Barton
The Bastard Son & the Devil Himself is a gripping series that gained positive reviews but was surprisingly canceled by Netflix after just one season. This eight-part series chronicles the journey of Nathan Byrne (Jay Lycurgo), the illegitimate son of the world’s most dangerous witch, who finds himself the target of a rival witch coven amidst escalating tensions between the two factions—a situation described as a modern-day Cold War.
As Nathan grapples with his identity and embraces his heritage as a witch, he embarks on a perilous quest to restore peace to his tumultuous life and honor his family legacy. The plot is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for viewers who prefer a manageable storyline without excessive complexity. With only eight episodes to watch, binge-watching this engaging series over a weekend poses no challenge.
6
‘Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell’ (2015)
Directed by Toby Haynes
Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell is a captivating fantasy miniseries based on the acclaimed novel by Susanna Clarke. Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars in the 19th Century, this series presents an alternate reality where magic is not only a known entity but also plays a significant role in society, albeit infrequently practiced. The story centers around Mr. Norrell (Eddie Marsan), who aspires to make magic a more accepted practice in England by employing it for the benefit of his fellow citizens.
With its straightforward narrative, Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell provides a refreshing contrast to the chaos of war, offering a serene exploration of the positive aspects of magic. Although it has received critical acclaim, it remains somewhat underrated among audiences. As a miniseries, it consists of just seven episodes, making it an engaging watch that can easily be consumed in a single sitting.
5
‘Over the Garden Wall’ (2014)
Created by Patrick McHale
While Cartoon Network is not typically known for its miniseries, Over the Garden Wall stands out as a remarkable exception. The show garnered widespread acclaim and developed a dedicated following upon its release. It consists of only ten short episodes, alongside a special episode celebrating its 10th anniversary, making it easy to binge-watch in a single weekend or even within one day.
This animated series features a distinguished cast and tells the tale of two brothers who become lost in a mysterious and dark forest known as the Unknown. As they navigate their way through this treacherous landscape, they are pursued by a lurking monster, adding an element of suspense to their adventure. Although initially whimsical, the series takes an unexpected turn, culminating in a shocking revelation that elevates the stakes and deepens the narrative. It is a must-watch for fantasy enthusiasts looking for something unique and engaging.
4
‘Kingdom’ (2019–2021)
Created by Kim Eun-hee
Kingdom is a South Korean fantasy-horror series that takes place during the tumultuous period of the 17th Century in the Kingdom of Joseon, which once ruled the entire Korean Peninsula. The narrative begins with the fictional king marrying into the oppressive Haewon Cho clan, who plots to usurp the throne by resurrecting the king from the dead using a mythical plant. However, this resurrection leads to catastrophic consequences as the king transforms into a zombie, unleashing a devastating plague of the undead upon the land.
What sets this show apart is its unique portrayal of zombies, which remain dormant during the day but come alive at night, creating a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere. Based on a popular webcomic-turned-graphic novel, Kingdom offers a fresh and innovative take on the horror genre. Although Netflix has yet to officially cancel the show, its future remains uncertain. With two seasons comprising six hour-long episodes each, plus a 90-minute special, you can easily binge-watch this entire series in one weekend by tackling one season a day.
3
‘One Piece’ (2023–)
Developed by Steven Maeda and Matt Owens
The iconic <em>One Piece</em> anime has captivated audiences since its debut in 1999, making it impossible to binge in a single weekend. However, the live-action adaptation available on Netflix offers a more manageable experience with its current single season. As the series continues to grow, it may become more challenging to keep up, but for now, you can easily enjoy the entire season over a weekend.
The narrative follows Monkey D. Luffy (Iñaki Godoy), a young aspiring pirate who has consumed the forbidden Devil Fruit, granting him the ability to stretch his body like rubber. Set in a whimsical world filled with rival pirate crews and numerous adventures, the quest for a legendary treasure map unfolds. The series balances humor and adventure, making it appealing even to those who may not typically enjoy anime. Its live-action format makes it accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience, marking a successful entry into the fantasy genre.
2
‘Blood of Zeus’ (2020–2025)
Created by Charley and Vlas Parlapanides
Blood of Zeus delves into the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, weaving an original tale that introduces new characters and elements absent from traditional narratives. Unlike other adaptations, this series immerses viewers entirely in Ancient Greece, avoiding modern-day intersections. It is an animated epic that resonates with fans of mythology, showcasing stunning animation and a compelling story that invites viewers into a grand adventure.
Although there are three seasons, which might seem daunting, their relatively brief average episode length of 30 minutes makes it easy to binge-watch the entire series over a weekend. With a total of 24 episodes, the pacing is perfect, and each season has received acclaim for its engaging plot and character development.
1
‘Castlevania: Nocturne’ (2023–)
Created by Clive Bradley
Castlevania: Nocturne serves as a companion series to the original Castlevania animated show, which is inspired by the well-known video game franchise. While the original series has garnered higher praise than Nocturne, the latter still has its own unique charm. Both shows are crafted in a style reminiscent of Japanese anime, although they technically fall outside of that genre as they are produced in the United States.
The series draws heavily from European Gothic literature, featuring a rich tapestry of vampires, werewolves, and foreboding castles. Currently ongoing, Nocturne is structured in a manner that allows viewers to binge-watch it over a weekend, with two seasons, each containing eight 30-minute episodes. Fans of Gothic themes and the original series are likely to enjoy this fresh iteration, although it is important to note that the original series is much longer and may not be suitable for a quick binge.
