Netflix has skyrocketed with popularity since it began streaming in 2007. Along with streaming shows from large television networks and major blockbuster movies, Netflix has been producing 'Netflix originals' as well. These 'Nextflix originals' are shows or movies exclusively on Netflix that are literally awesome, giving you all the more reason to promptly set up a Netflix account after reading this. I never used to watch television, until I was introduced to these seven Netflix originals, and ever since, I've been obsessed, and I promise you will be too.
1. The Killing
If you're big on crime series, this one is definitely for you. The Killing was original a Danish television show, which was produced for the U.S. by AMC (for three seasons) and Netflix (for the fourth season). It consists of a total of four seasons filled with plot-twists, murders, mystery, and endless on-edge entertainment. The Killing will also make you stay on your toes to see the relationship between the main characters Sarah Linden and Stephen Holder. By the end of episode one, you'll be asking "Who killed Rosie Larsen?" And believe me you'll never ever guess even when you think you know.
2. Sense8
Sense8 was created by Lana and Andy Wachowski and Michael Straczynski. The Wachowski's are known for The Matrix, and if you're a fan of The Matrix, that alone should peek your interest. Sense8 is about eight strangers around the world, who somehow find themselves interconnected. They can interrupt each others thoughts, actions, memories, and even get involved in relationships with each other worlds apart.
The connections alone will make you fall in love with the characters, each from different cultures, yet they find themselves with tons in common. They form bonds that are unbreakable, they support each other, heal each other, and mourn with each other. If this alone doesn't intrigue you, then the fact that there is one season out and the show is renewed for three should.
3. The Ranch
The Ranch is a Netfilx original with a genius cast. 'That '70s Show' stars Aston Kutcher and Danny Masterson play brothers along with a local rancher named Beau Bennett. Kutcher, who plays Colt Bennett, was expected to be a major NFL player, but failed miserably by always being drunk and never taking life seriously. In hopes of starting up his football career again, he returns to his fathers ranch and things spiral. The show is hysterical and leaves you wanting more by the end of season one. The bond between Kutcher and Masterson gives the show a realistic feel, especially with all the sarcasm and jabs they take at each other. The Ranch also makes subtle political jokes, like the father's love for President Ronald Reagan, and his conservative views on life.
4. Narcos
Narcos documents history's most notorious drug cartels ever. Narcos reveals the story of infamous Pablo Escobar, detailing his criminal escapades, run-ins with the DEA, the twisted yet lavished life he had, and describes his rise to power. Another interesting fact about Narcos is that it is filmed on real locations in Colombia. The show is described as "complex" and a "sizzling drama" according to The Atlantic. You may or may not be shocked by how cold-blooded Escobar was in getting what he wanted.
5. Jessica Jones
If you're intrigued by bad-ass female marvel superheroes then this is the show for you. Jessica Jones is played by Krysten Ritter, who basically is the definition of bad-ass, and the absolute perfect fit for casting. The show details the life of Jones who lives in Hell's Kitchen, New York. She is a private investigator who suffers from PTSD and drinks constantly--obviously she isn't your average superhero. Jone's main power is super-human strength, yet she isn't completely into using her powers to help others. Another great part of the show is Jones's enemy and ex- lover Killgrave, who has the power of mind-control, and is the reason behind her PTSD.
6. House of Cards
House of Cards is a political series that portrays the rise to presidency of Francis Underwood along with his wife Claire. Francis is played by the world renowned actor, Kevin Spacey. The Underwoods are basically savages, they have no morals, no respect for other human life, and even commit murders and foul crimes to gain political advancement.The ruthlessness of Francis Underwood will make you question politics in its entirety (that's if you don't already). If you watch House of Cards you will notice the odd parallels to the Clinton's administration. According to Spacey, Bill Clinton himself, said, "Kevin, 99 percent of what you do on that show is real. The 1 percent you get wrong is you could never get an education bill passed that fast." As for details on what President Clinton is talking about, I suggest you watch the show.
7. Orange Is the New Black
Now if you live on some odd far away planet you may not have heard about this kick-ass show Orange Is the New Black. A.k.a., OITNB has soared into popularity since the first season. The show is about a woman, Piper Chapman (Taylor Schilling), who basically has the perfect life until her past catches up with her. She is sentenced to a women's prison for her contribution in a massive drug trade. The show has tons of jaw-dropping turns and even highlights some important situations that happen in prisons. You get to know every inmate and their stories of who they are and how they got there. In case this doesn't make you want to watch the show, did I mention it's based on a true story?
If you couldn't tell I am an avid binge watcher of basically anything, these shows alone show a wide variety of options, and they're a good fit for practically anybody. I promise if you watch even five minutes of any of these shows you will be hooked. These by far, in my opinion, are the best Netflix Originals, what are yours?
