I’m aware that many people may call me out for being hypocritical for writing a “must watch list”, when they have – on several occasions – given me their own list of movies I must watch before I die. The thing is, movies come and go, but I’ve always found myself drawn to a more longform type of entertainment: TV series and shows, many of which are now easily available thanks to Netflix, Amazon Prime and the like.

The reason behind my series love is understandable: I’m a writer and simply love myself a good storyline, with plot twists I don’t see coming and characters that suck me into their world. My favourite type of shows are psychological thrillers and dramas, and I’m always on the lookout for a new series to binge watch. 

Here are some of my favourite shows (well backed by my own research and word-of-mouth from friends) in this category, that I guarantee will leave you anywhere from impressed and mindblown to dumbfounded and stupified. You’re welcome! (P.S. shows below are listed in no particular order, I’ll let you be the judge of that.)

#1: Broadchurch

This is a British psychology crime series of 3 seasons that will most certainly keep you on the edge of your seat right from scene one. It’s an emotionally gripping and tense story of a kidnapping set in a small coastal town, complete with intriguing characters that you’ll love one day and despise the next. Everyone has something to hide, and this poses a frustrating case for local law enforcement, media and the juidicial system. In my opinion, the third season loses a bit of steam – but this is only because season 1 & 2 set such high benchmarks of binge-worthiness and storytelling.

#2: The Man in the High Castle

I’m surprised not much is said about this series; most people who’ve watched it have only stumbled on it by accident or through word-of-mouth. If you find yourself drawn to World War II books, movies and series, then this one will not disappoint. It’s an intelligent and gripping take on an alternate world – one where Germany and Japan won World War II and the implications this has on the rest of the world. What to expect, you ask? Alternate realities, sci-fri drama and complex characters, all beautifully weaved together to create a masterpiece. By the end of the show, you’ll have newfound appreciation for your freedom and the simple things in life. 

#3: Sharp Objects

Few people do psychological thrillers as well as Gillian Flynn, and no, I’m not just saying this because we share our first name. While most people know of her book-adapted-to-film Gone Girl, she’s also the genius behind the mini-series Sharp Objects. The cast of this 8-episodes show is led by the beautiful and talented Amy Adams (who unsurprisingly features on the list of highest paid actors in the world.) She plays a convincing drunk who’s also an investigative journalist, driven by some form of past abuse and the need to learn the truth – even if this costs her her family, her career and her sanity. 

Pro tip: Do NOT read the reviews before you watch this show. Its many twists and turns are best enjoyed when you don’t know what to expect. 

#4: Mindhunter

Inspired by real-life happenings, Mindhunter is a dark, step-wise exploration of the minds of brutal killers, which led to the world’s first definition of serial killers by the FBI in the late 1970s. Based on a book by one of the FBI agents who led this taskforce back in the day, the series takes you through the development of modern serial killer profiling. Oscar-nominated director David Fincher is one of the show’s Executive Producers, so this should tell you plenty about the show’s pure class. 

Oh and just so you know, the show’s serial killer characters are based on some of the most notorius convicted criminals in history, with their prison scene dialogues taken from real interviews. Expect some serious bone-chilling moments! 

#5: Marvel’s Daredevil

Okay, I’ll admit I wasn’t entirely convinced with the plotline: a blind lawyer who apparently fights crime when the sun goes down? Really? But I will gladly admit this changed for good after I decided to give the show a try. Daredevil is 3 wondrous seasons of emotionally gripping, well paced, and unpredictable episodes that stay with you even after you’re done watching. The casting is pure perfection, and the character development is sure to keep you hooked. All in all, this is one rollercoaster of a show that poses some real daunting questions – How important is our conscience? Are we really good if we do bad things to protect the people we love? And how long must we suffer before we learn faith and self forgiveness?

#6: Messiah

A well crafted insight into how the world would react if a miracle-performing ‘messiah’ were to set foot amongst us today. Is he truly divine, gifted, or simply a con artist trying to swindle anyone who’ll give him the time of day? Unfortunately, this show leaves you with more questions than answers – though I suspect this may be intentional on the part of the writers. It also treads on lesser-explored areas of faith, hope and obedience, without passing opinion or judgement.

Pro tip: If you’re going to watch this series, keep an open mind and watch it purely as a form of entertainment. But don’t forget to make some mental notes along the way. 

#7: Homeland

I’ve never quite understood the hype around Claire Danes until I got down to watching this show. Sure, the whole playing a spy in yet another CIA thriller angle may seem done and dusted, but what if she was bipolar and had a hard time drawing the line between good and bad to get the job done? Watch this one for its topnotch storytelling, the cast’s acting prowess and for a plot that consistently comes together in magical ways. While the first 3 seasons are superb beyond doubt, you may find that it drops pace season 4 onward. But even then, it’s still way ahead of other shows in its league. 

So there you have it, a good list to keep you busy for the next half year or so. Have you watched any of these shows and what did you think of them?