10 Underrated Shows That Beg You to Chose Them Over Mainstream TV 

We've all been there: scrolling endlessly through streaming platforms, looking for that perfect show to binge. Yet, all you seem to find are the same over-hyped series everyone won't stop talking about. But what about those hidden gems that don't get the spotlight they deserve? Well, that’s where this list comes in.

1. Minx (2022)

Minx is saucy, romantic, and bold. Ever dreamt of the wild 1970s and thought about how revolutionary it was? The heroine, Joyce, wants to launch a feminist magazine. But the world isn’t as supportive as she'd hoped, leading her to team up with Doug, a publisher with, let's say, unique tastes.

Together, they create history with an erotic magazine for women. This isn’t just a tale about raunchiness; it’s about fighting for your passion, embracing one’s desires, and truly understanding the power of collaboration.

2. The Knick (2014 — 2015)

Set in the 1900s, The Knick paints a picture of the Knickerbocker Hospital in New York. What's special? The series brings to life the medical challenges of the time. Clive Owen plays Dr. John Thackery, a brilliant but drug-addicted surgeon, facing the ups and downs of the medical world.

While critics have showered it with praise, those who watch the show believe it's still underrated. This show doesn’t just depict historical events, it lets you experience them.

3. Through the Darkness (2022)

Korean dramas have been all the rage lately, but Through The Darkness is a gem that's been flying under the radar. If you loved Mindhunter, you'll appreciate this Korean counterpart that navigates the complexities of the human mind.

With a gripping narrative that delves deep into the psyche of criminals, Kim Nam Gil's portrayal of a criminal profiler is simply spellbinding. The supporting cast only adds more awesomeness to this psychological thriller, making it an unmissable watch.

4. Asur (2020)

Looking for something intense? Asur is your choice. This Indian series isn’t a regular crime show; it’s a blend of age-old mythology and modern crime-solving. The show unravels deep-seated moral dilemmas and challenges one’s understanding of good and evil.

As Nikhil and Dhananjay chase a serial killer who's inspired by dark mythical figures, you get an incredible mix of thrill, drama, and culture.

5. Warrior (2019)

Warrior is a martial arts drama that's not just about the punches and kicks. Warrior is set against the backdrop of the Tong Wars in San Francisco's Chinatown in the late 1800s.

While the combat sequences will leave you at the edge of your seat, the story strikes deeper chords. It beautifully showcases the challenges faced by immigrants, the pressures to assimilate, and the preservation of cultural identities.

6. Penny Dreadful (2014 — 2016)

Set in the dark and beautiful corners of Victorian London, this gothic horror drama that was around for two brief seasons could've been part of the horror TV boom of the late 2010s.

While modern horror series have been stealing the limelight, Penny Dreadful's historical horror deserved better. So, if you're in the mood for a dark and twisted tale that ties the supernatural with emotions, this one’s a must-watch.

7. Counterpart (2017 — 2019)

When you mix a thrilling sci-fi narrative with J.K. Simmons, you get the masterpiece that is Counterpart. Simmons' portrayal of a UN employee who stumbles upon a gateway to a parallel universe (and his doppelgänger spy) is sheer brilliance.

What makes this sci-fi drama so gripping isn’t just the intriguing concept but the tangle of espionage, identity, and choices. The show has a whopping 100% score on the Tomatometer. It’s a shame it eventually got canceled.

8. Acapulco (2021)

This Apple TV+ romantic comedy will make you feel all sorts of ways. Set in the dreamy Las Colinas resort, the tale of Máximo's ascent from an unassuming pool boy to a lavish hotel owner is riddled with challenges, romance, and a dash of comedy.

9. Treme (2010 — 2013)

If you've ever been charmed by the magic of New Orleans, Treme is your ticket to a deep dive into its heart. Named after a New Orleans neighborhood, this HBO series provides an authentic glimpse into the city's fight to rise again after Hurricane Katrina.

Through its characters, the series offers a holistic view of the reconstruction process, highlighting the hope and spirit that defines the city. It’s not just another dramatized version of New Orleans; it's a genuine insight into its essence.

10. Eureka (2006 — 2012)

Eureka is the show you didn't know you needed. Imagine discovering a hidden town packed with super-scientists, each with their gadgets and experiments. That’s precisely what happens to a US Marshall in Oregon.

What follows is a delightful mix of reality-bending experiments, quirky humor, and a sheriff's constant struggle to maintain order. It's like The Big Bang Theory meets The Twilight Zone.