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Humor and Quirks
Source : (remove) : Us Weekly
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Humor and Quirks
Source : (remove) : Us Weekly
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3 Underrated Netflix Shows to Watch This Weekend (July 18-20)

3 Underrated Netflix Shows You Need to Binge This Weekend

As the summer heat waves continue to roll in, there's no better way to beat the boredom than by diving into some hidden gems on Netflix. With so much content vying for attention, it's easy for truly exceptional series to fly under the radar. This weekend, from July 18 to 20, why not skip the overhyped blockbusters and give these three underrated shows a chance? They've garnered critical acclaim and devoted fanbases but haven't quite broken into the mainstream conversation like some of Netflix's bigger hits. Whether you're in the mood for mind-bending mysteries, heartfelt dramas, or quirky comedies, these picks offer something fresh and engaging. Let's break them down one by one, exploring what makes each one special, their unique plots, standout performances, and why they're perfect for a relaxing weekend binge.

First up is *Dark*, a German-language sci-fi thriller that masterfully weaves together elements of time travel, family secrets, and existential dread. Premiering back in 2017, this series follows the interconnected lives of four families in the small town of Winden, where the disappearance of two children uncovers a web of mysteries spanning generations. What starts as a seemingly straightforward missing persons case spirals into a complex narrative involving wormholes, alternate timelines, and philosophical questions about fate versus free will. The show's creators, Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese, craft a puzzle-box story that's equal parts gripping and intellectually stimulating, with each episode peeling back layers of intrigue.

Why is *Dark* underrated? Despite its cult following and perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes for its first season, it often gets overshadowed by English-language juggernauts like *Stranger Things*, which shares some thematic similarities but lacks the depth and precision of *Dark*'s plotting. The subtitles might deter some viewers, but once you get past that, the rewards are immense. Standout performances come from Louis Hofmann as the tormented teen Jonas Kahnwald, whose journey through time is both heartbreaking and heroic, and Maja Schöne as the enigmatic Hannah Kahnwald, adding emotional weight to the familial bonds. Over three seasons, the show builds to a satisfying, if mind-boggling, conclusion that ties up its many threads without resorting to cheap twists. If you're a fan of shows like *The Leftovers* or *Westworld*, this one's for you—it's the kind of series that demands rewatches to catch all the foreshadowing and Easter eggs. Clocking in at around 24 episodes total, it's ideal for a weekend marathon, leaving you pondering the nature of reality long after the credits roll.

Next on the list is *Derry Girls*, a hilarious coming-of-age comedy set against the backdrop of 1990s Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Created by Lisa McGee, this British-Irish gem follows a group of teenage girls—and one hapless English boy—navigating the chaos of adolescence amid political unrest. The protagonist, Erin Quinn (played with pitch-perfect exasperation by Saoirse-Monica Jackson), dreams of literary fame while dealing with her eccentric family, strict Catholic school, and the everyday absurdities of life in Derry. Episodes tackle everything from school dances and family feuds to unexpected run-ins with IRA checkpoints, all delivered with sharp wit and heartfelt moments.

What makes *Derry Girls* underrated? It flew under the radar for many U.S. audiences until word-of-mouth spread, but even then, it hasn't achieved the viral status of something like *The Office* or *Friends*. Yet, its blend of humor and history is unmatched, offering laughs that are both universal and culturally specific. The ensemble cast shines, with Nicola Coughlan (pre-*Bridgerton* fame) stealing scenes as the sweet but dim-witted Clare Devlin, and Siobhán McSweeney as the no-nonsense Sister Michael, whose deadpan delivery is comedy gold. Spanning three seasons and a holiday special, the show clocks in at a breezy 19 episodes, each around 20-25 minutes, making it perfect for light-hearted viewing. It's not just funny—it's a poignant reminder of resilience in tough times, with themes of friendship and identity resonating deeply. If you've ever enjoyed *Fleabag* or *Insecure*, *Derry Girls* will charm you with its irreverent take on growing up in a divided world. Binge it this weekend for a dose of nostalgia and belly laughs that might just inspire you to brush up on your Irish slang.

Finally, don't miss *Russian Doll*, a bold and inventive dramedy starring Natasha Lyonne as Nadia Vulvokov, a wisecracking game developer trapped in a time loop on her 36th birthday. Co-created by Lyonne, Leslye Headland, and Amy Poehler, the series kicks off with Nadia dying repeatedly in increasingly bizarre ways, only to reset at her birthday party. As she unravels the mystery, she teams up with fellow looper Alan (Charlie Barnett), leading to explorations of trauma, addiction, and human connection. The first season is a tight eight episodes, while the second expands the concept into multiverse territory, delving deeper into Nadia's family history.

*Russian Doll* is underrated because, despite Emmy nominations and praise for its innovative storytelling, it got somewhat lost in Netflix's vast library after its 2019 debut. It's a spiritual successor to *Groundhog Day* but with a darker, more introspective edge, blending existential comedy with raw emotional depth. Lyonne's performance is a tour de force—her gravelly voice and sarcastic quips make Nadia instantly relatable, while Barnett's portrayal of the uptight Alan provides a perfect foil. The show's visual style, with its looping motifs and New York City grit, adds to the immersion. Themes of self-destruction and redemption hit hard, especially in how it addresses mental health without preachiness. At just 15 episodes across two seasons, it's an easy weekend watch that packs a punch, leaving you reflective yet entertained. Fans of *The Good Place* or *Bojack Horseman* will appreciate its clever twists and character-driven narrative.

In wrapping up, these three shows—*Dark*, *Derry Girls*, and *Russian Doll*—offer a diverse lineup for your weekend streaming. They prove that Netflix's best offerings aren't always the ones dominating social media; sometimes, the real treasures are the underrated ones waiting to be discovered. Whether you're craving intellectual thrills, laugh-out-loud comedy, or philosophical depth, these series deliver in spades. So grab your snacks, settle in, and let the binge begin. You might just find your new favorite obsession. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Us Weekly Article at:
[ https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/3-underrated-netflix-shows-to-watch-this-weekend-july-18-20-25/ ]