Netflix, love it or hate it, is considered one of the biggest forces in today’s entertainment world. Over the past decade, the streaming service has redefined the landscape with its impressive and binge-worthy series. Of course, not every piece of content on the platform may be worth your time, but there are a few truly great series that rank among the best in cinematic history.

These series have entertained countless fans around the world, raising the bar for television with quality storytelling, compelling performances, and original narratives. Spanning various genres, these productions range from intense dramas to true crime stories, comedies to adventures. Keep reading to discover the best Netflix series that you must watch at least once in your life; among them are a few productions that are referred to as modern classics.

Created by Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, and Doug Miro, Narcos reinterprets the true story of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. This crime drama focuses on his rise to the peak of the cocaine trade in Colombia during the 1980s and his eventual downfall, detailing how Escobar expanded his drug empire. Alongside the character of Escobar, portrayed by Wagner Moura, the series features significant characters played by Boyd Holbrook, Pedro Pascal, Damián Alcázar, Alberto Ammann, and Maurice Compte.

A fast-paced and surprise-filled crime drama, Narcos offers a gripping dramatization of dark and disturbing historical events. The series, which largely reflects real people, entities, and events accurately, provides endless thrills for viewers while also facing criticism for romanticizing violence. Throughout its airing, Narcos received high praise for its solid perspective on real-life events and characters, becoming a true television legacy thanks to its extraordinary cinematography, art design, and performances.