For avid television enthusiasts who eagerly seek out their next favorite series, it’s important to recognize that much of the content we indulge in is often local. If you reside in the United States, it stands to reason that you will primarily engage with American content. Iconic shows like Breaking Bad and The Walking Dead are prime examples of remarkable homegrown storytelling. Nevertheless, there’s an entire world of exceptional shows produced outside of the U.S. that deserve recognition.
When we broaden our horizons and look internationally, we discover outstanding series such as Squid Game from South Korea and La casa de papel (Money Heist) from Spain. Whether it’s the esteemed BBC in the UK or a boutique production house in Turkey, high-quality television is being crafted across the globe. As we approach the midpoint of 2025, an impressive array of international TV shows has already been released, captivating audiences worldwide.
10
‘Maschi Veri’ (‘Real Men’)
IMDb: 6.1/10
Real Men is an engaging Italian adaptation of the Spanish Netflix series Alpha Males, which has achieved remarkable popularity as one of the leading comedies in Spain. This original series is not only being embraced in Italy but is also set to be adapted in France, Germany, and the Netherlands, all of which will be available on Netflix.
The narrative of these adaptations centers around a group of men in their forties who are increasingly aware of societal shifts, causing them to feel that their male privilege is under threat. In Real Men, viewers are introduced to four distinct male characters, each navigating their own unique life experiences. The series cleverly satirizes notions of masculinity while simultaneously critiquing certain aspects of “woke” culture. As you follow these four men as they grapple with a world that increasingly values equality, you will find yourself laughing—and sometimes feeling shocked—by their responses. Overall, this show provides good entertainment and is an easy watch.
9
‘Apple Cider Vinegar’
IMDb: 7.2/10
Netflix’s <em>Apple Cider Vinegar</em> delves into the real-life story of Belle Gibson, an Australian woman notorious for deceiving the public by falsely claiming to have cancer while marketing her supposed natural remedies. These remedies were packaged as a cookbook and recipe app, all based on her fabricated diagnosis. Kaitlyn Dever portrays Belle Gibson, and her performance is gaining wider recognition, especially following her role in The Last of Us. This gripping series examines the perilous consequences of medical misinformation and highlights the detrimental effects it can have on real patients facing serious illnesses.
Apple Cider Vinegar made a commendable casting choice with Dever, as her performance brings a nuanced complexity to a character that could easily be seen as purely villainous. Despite Gibson’s reprehensible actions, Dever manages to infuse a sense of humanity into the character, making the narrative even more compelling.
8
‘Queen of F**king Everything’
IMDb: 7.8/10
Queen of Fking Everything is a highly acclaimed Finnish series that has garnered widespread positive reviews. Produced by Rabbit Films, the largest television production company in Finland, this captivating drama follows Linda Saarniluoto (Laura Malmivaara), a successful real estate agent whose life spirals out of control when her husband disappears, leaving her buried in debt. To survive, Linda is compelled to venture into the criminal underworld and engage in theft, leading her to become the titular “Queen of Fking Everything.”
With a concise six-episode run, this series is not only a quick binge-watch but also a gripping crime thriller interspersed with moments of light-hearted comedy. Queen of F**king Everything prompts viewers to ponder the moral dilemmas individuals face when hurt by loved ones. It raises questions about justification and the extent to which we would pass judgment on their actions.
7
‘The Traitors UK’ Season 3
IMDb: 8.7/10
The Traitors UK has proudly returned for its thrilling third season this year. While American audiences may be well-acquainted with the Alan Cumming-hosted adaptation of The Traitors, the British version diverges in several significant ways. Both adaptations are rooted in the original series from the Netherlands, De Verraders. Upon its debut in the UK, the British adaptation quickly ascended to become one of the most-watched British reality series of all time.
This British series is hosted by radio presenter Claudia Winkleman, who brings a uniquely different energy to her role. While Cumming’s hosting style is marked by dramatic flair and emotional distance from the cast, Winkleman’s approach is more genuine and heartfelt, demonstrating a deep connection with the participants throughout the season. Additionally, the British version features ordinary people, contrasting with the celebrity cast of the American edition. This authenticity makes it easier for audiences to connect with and root for the British contestants. Though both adaptations are produced by the same company and filmed in identical locations, each presents its own challenges and intrigues. Both versions are fantastic, and if you enjoy The Traitors US, you should definitely check out the British counterpart and its other international adaptations.
6
‘Reservatet’ (Secrets We Keep)
IMDb: 7.0/10
Netflix has an overwhelming array of crime thrillers, and Secrets We Keep is one of the most recent additions to this genre. This gripping Danish crime thriller follows an affluent family whose Filipino au pair goes missing, setting off a complex missing persons investigation that disrupts Cecile’s life and challenges her understanding of her world. Beyond being a thrilling crime narrative, the series also tackles pressing themes of classism, racism, and misogyny.
Secrets We Keep has achieved an impressive 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, drawing praise for its ability to address significant societal issues while delivering a captivating mystery. Much like The White Lotus, the stark contrasts between the ultra-wealthy and the less privileged are laid bare. The cast delivers stellar performances, particularly the lead, making it another strong contender in Netflix’s repertoire of crime dramas.
Secrets We Keep
- Release Date
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May 15, 2025
- Network
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Netflix
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Marie Bach Hansen
Cecilie
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Danica Ćurčić
Katarina
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5
‘Big Boys’
IMDb: 8.4/10
Big Boys, a British dramedy from Channel 4, expertly intertwines elements of drama and comedy, creating a unique viewing experience. Audiences will find themselves laughing one moment and then emotionally impacted the next. Many shows struggle to find the right balance between these two genres, but comedian Jack Rooke has successfully crafted a series that beautifully harmonizes them. The third and final season of this beloved show was released this year, providing a satisfying conclusion to its heartfelt narrative.
With a concise total of 18 half-hour episodes, Big Boys is easy to binge-watch. After just a couple of episodes, viewers will become deeply invested in the chosen family that Rooke, a semi-fictional version of himself, discovers throughout the series. The story follows his character as he copes with the loss of his father, navigates university life, and strives to understand his own sexuality. This journey leads to a rich tapestry of awkward, emotional, and hilarious moments that resonate deeply with the audience.
Big Boys
- Release Date
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2022 – 2024
- Network
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Channel 4
4
‘El Eternauta’ (‘The Eternaut’)
IMDb: 7.4/10
The Eternaut is an exhilarating Argentine science fiction series on Netflix, adapted from the iconic comic created by Héctor Germán Oesterheld. Originally published between 1957 and 1959, the series was announced for development by Netflix in 2018, captivating fans of the genre. Set in Buenos Aires, the story unfolds during a mysterious snowstorm that decimates the majority of the population. The surviving characters must band together to confront extraterrestrial threats.
This series has enjoyed remarkable success on Netflix and has been renewed for a second and final season. Viewers have been drawn in by the dark tone and intricate lore that enrich the narrative, helping audiences to form deep connections with the characters. The first season skillfully sets up numerous plotlines, while the upcoming season promises to explore the universe even further. If you are a fan of dark sci-fi, The Eternaut is a must-watch.
The Eternaut
- Release Date
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April 30, 2025
- Network
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Netflix
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Ricardo Darín
Juan Salvo
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3
‘The Narrow Road to the Deep North’
IMDb: 7.1/10
The Narrow Road to the Deep North is a profound Australian series based on the acclaimed novel by Richard Flanagan. This foreign drama follows the harrowing journey of Dorrigo Evans (Jacob Elordi), an Australian soldier who is captured by the Japanese during World War II. The narrative intricately weaves Dorrigo’s love affair prior to the war, his traumatic experiences as a prisoner of war, and the lingering effects of trauma in the years following.
Though The Narrow Road to the Deep North is a fictional tale, it draws from real accounts of various soldiers who faced similar fates. The series has received a prestigious 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers lauding the exceptional direction by Justin Kurzel and the powerful performances, particularly Elordi’s. Kurzel presents an unflinching depiction of the brutalities and long-lasting impacts of war, making it an emotionally impactful viewing experience.
2
‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’
IMDb: 9.2/10
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