2023 has been a remarkable year for Netflix, with the platform achieving a staggering milestone of over 282.7 million paid memberships globally. This figure positions Netflix as arguably the most dominant streaming service in history. Throughout the year, Netflix has also formed significant partnerships with prominent organizations, including WWE and the NFL, signaling its continuous growth and influence in the entertainment sector.
This year also marked the release of a plethora of original content, ranging from beloved titles such as Avatar: The Last Airbender to innovative series like Arcane. While some shows captured the audience’s attention and achieved mega-hit status, others faded into obscurity soon after release. Below is a curated list of ten standout original series that graced Netflix this year.
10. The Brothers Sun
Despite its early cancellation, The Brothers Sun made a significant impact by shining a light on Asian representation in the entertainment industry. While shows like Fresh Off The Boat and various K-dramas appear frequently, a predominantly Asian cast leading a narrative of substantial depth is still a rarity.
The story follows Bruce Sun (played by Sam Song Li), who believes his life in Los Angeles is mundane. His world is turned upside down when his brother Charles (Justin Chien) returns from Taiwan, bearing secrets about their family’s criminal ties as one of Taipei’s notorious gangster families. As they navigate the challenges of their past, including their father’s near-assassination, they strive to protect their family and redefine what loyalty and family mean.
9. Ready, Set, Love
Though it didn’t make major headlines, Ready, Set, Love stands out as one of the most creatively engaging Thai series of the year. This narrative emphasizes the richness of international storytelling and deserves wider recognition going into 2025.
The plot reveals a society where the birth rate has skewed heavily female due to a pandemic, rendering the few available men as “national treasures.” Women must navigate a competitive environment to capture the hearts of these scarce men through a government-sponsored contest called “Ready, Set, Love.” Protagonist Day (Belle Kemisara Paladesh) unexpectedly finds herself in the thick of it and encounters the desirable Son (Blue Pongtiwat Tagwancharoen).
8. The Gentlemen
The Gentlemen reunites audiences with beloved actors like Theo James and Kaya Scodelario, serving as a spin-off of the 2019 film featuring the same name. The narrative follows Eddie Horniman, the Duke of Halstead, who finds himself in the middle of a cannabis empire after unexpectedly inheriting a country estate.
As various criminals vie for control of his property, Eddie must use cunning strategies to outsmart them while confronting his own descent into the criminal underworld. Will he be able to navigate the treacherous waters of gangsters while trying to save his family’s legacy?
7. Taste
Among Netflix’s diverse range of anime offerings, Dandadan has emerged as a quintessential pick. It explores the realms of Japanese mythology and supernatural encounters, all interwoven with elements of romance, making it accessible for even those new to anime.
The storyline follows Momo Ayase, who believes in the paranormal but dismisses the idea of aliens, and Ken Takakura, who is just the opposite. Their quest to explore places associated with supernatural events leads to an unforeseen ordeal involving alien abductions, awakening Momo’s psychic abilities while Okarun contends with malevolent spirits. Their journey captures the balance of supernatural battles intertwined with budding romance.
6. Dead Boy Detectives
Another surprising cancellation after a single season, Dead Boy Detectives was met with much acclaim due to its engaging writing, stunning visuals, and the captivating performances from its cast. The series follows the antics of Edwin Payne and Charles Rowlan, two ghosts with a knack for solving supernatural mysteries.
Despite its connection to Neil Gaiman, whose recent controversies have overshadowed the show, it remains a notable entry in the realm of supernatural narratives. The bond between Edwin and Charles deepens as they tackle various mysteries, proving their friendship extends beyond the grave.
5. Avatar: The Last Airbender
For fans of the original animated series, 2024 marked the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender. This reimagining managed to capture the hearts of fans, stepping away from the shadows of the 2010 film that did not meet expectations.
The series resumes the journey of Avatar Aang, who awakens after a century of confinement, only to find his world in turmoil due to the Fire Nation’s reign of conflict. Joined by the spirited siblings Katara and Sokka, Aang embarks on a quest to master the four elemental bending arts and restore balance to a fractured world.
4. Griselda
Sofia Vergara takes on a riveting role in Griselda, a miniseries that showcases her remarkable range beyond her comedic roots as Gloria in Modern Family.
The narrative chronicles the life of Griselda Blanco, known as “The Godmother,” a formidable figure in the Miami drug trade. It explores her ascent to power, alongside the toll it takes on her personal life, culminating in her decision to turn herself in to law enforcement as a means of escaping her tumultuous life. However, leaving behind such a world is never simple.
3. 3 Body Problem
Among Netflix’s standout shows, 3 Body Problem has emerged as a fan favorite, garnering immense praise and six Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Drama Series. This ambitious series bridges stories set in both the UK and China, bringing a diverse cast to the forefront.
The narrative begins post-Cultural Revolution, with astrophysicist Ye Wenjie witnessing her father’s death during a rally, which ultimately leads her to a secret military facility where her actions have ramifications reaching into the future. Present-day, a group of scientists, dubbed “The Oxford Five,” grapples with inexplicable phenomena that challenge the very essence of scientific understanding, uniting to confront existential threats to humanity.
2. Bridgerton Season 3
Bridgerton captured the spotlight once again in 2023, creatively splitting its third season into two captivating parts released in May and June. The show’s producers strategically built excitement and engagement around its rich storylines.
This season unfolds the intricate relationship between Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington, delving into the complexities of their romance. Viewers are left wondering whether Penelope’s secret identity as Lady Whistledown will complicate their future together, and if they can overcome interpersonal tensions to realize their destinies.
1. Arcane Season 2
Few shows have garnered as much acclaim as Arcane, especially with its second season capturing the top spot on this list. Praised for its breathtaking animation and gripping storytelling, it addresses themes of identity, societal struggles, and LGBTQ+ relationships.
Season 2 centers on the fraught dynamics between sisters Vi and Jinx amidst rising tensions between Piltover and Zaun following Jinx’s provocative actions. As Vi teams up with Caitlyn to quell the conflict, new perils emerge, alongside the introduction of several beloved characters from the League of Legends universe. The uncertainty surrounding the fate of both cities leaves fans eagerly awaiting what comes next for Vi and Jinx.
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