The best TV shows to binge watch this weekend

Forum 1 month ago

The best TV shows to binge watch this weekend

It has become the biggest dilemma of modern living —there are too many TV shows and not enough time. 

You settle in front of the screen and it’s like walking into a buffet where everything looks delicious – but you’ve only got one plate. And one mouth.

That’s why many of us go into TV panic mode: scroll, scroll, scroll until you’re bored. Then you just hit play at the first thing you find. 

Others are much more cautious. They carefully pick a likely series from the clips and follow the ‘three-episode rule’ to test it out.

The truly TV crazed viewers meanwhile embrace the indecision as part of the fun. They make a game out of it – spin a wheel, draw from a jar or let a pet choose by paw placement. 

Then even if you pick a dud, you’ve got a new story about that time you watched (insert terrible title here). Who knows, you could be the first of your friends to stumble on a hidden TV gem. 

Or there’s another way. The way of the wise.

That’s when you check the recommendations of the TV Gods. (That’s us). So, let’s get started.

Here are the binge-worthy TV shows that we reckon offer something for everyone:

"Lupin" (France - Netflix)

Follow the likeable, suave and resourceful Assane Diop. He acts out the role of the legendary gentleman thief Arsène Lupin from the past in a bid to avenge his father’s wrongful conviction. 

Set against the stunning backdrop of modern Paris, it’s a thrilling mix of heists, revenge and charm. 

Look out for the casino scenes that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat. Despite the growth and boom in online casinos including those with fast payout options, it’s good to see some action in a good old-fashioned real-life gambling venue.

"Queen Sono" (South Africa - Netflix)

This fast-paced action series stars Pearl Thusi as a very badass South African spy. She somehow balances her dangerous missions with uncovering family secrets along the way. 

It’s packed with drama, intrigue, and stylish visuals. 

Try it out. It’s an African gem with global appeal.

"Money Heist" (La Casa de Papel) (Spain - Netflix)

This has become a global sensation. It follows a group of highly skilled criminals. 

They are attempting elaborate heists under the control of the enigmatic "Professor." 

The show’s gripping twists and deep character moments make it addictive. Look out for its unpredictable storytelling tricks that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

"Ozark" (USA - Netflix)

This is a gripping crime drama about a financial planner (played by Jason Bateman) who gets caught laundering money for a criminal cartel. 

The show features plenty of intense drama, moral dilemmas – and lots of tense scenes in casinos just like Lupin, thanks to its gambling-related storyline. 

"Gangs of Lagos" (Nigeria - Amazon Prime Video)

This gritty and fast-paced series is set in the heart of Lagos city. It’s a blend of action, crime and powerful modern TV storytelling. 

The Gangs of Lagos is a fresh and local perspective on the classic global crime drama genre. Look out for some stellar performances along with a very gripping plot.

"Dark" (Germany - Netflix)

If you are a fan of mind-bending mysteries, this sci-fi thriller is THE perfect binge-watching experience. 

Set in a slightly creepy small German town, Dark unravels a time-travel conspiracy that spans across generations. The plot twists are so wild, you’ll be thinking about the show long after you’ve finished.

Here’s what to look for in any binge-worthy series

When you’re scrolling through the options, desperately looking for your next binge-worthy series, first look for stories that grab you. You really want something that will captivate you right from the first episode. 

It helps if there are characters you can't stop thinking about too. 

Whether it's edge-of-your-seat tension, heart-melting relationships or unexpected twists, the key is emotional investment. You want to get involved in the story, not put off by it.

The very best of TV shows leave little breadcrumbs for their followers. That means dangling mysteries to solve, questions to answer or new arcs of story to follow.

Think about what vibe you’re after. Is it a gorgeous period drama or a mad-cap comedy romp? Do you want to be on the edge of your seat, or slumped deep into the cushions?

Sometimes we all want fast-paced action, other times, we just fancy a cozy escape or a cerebral puzzle. Sometimes we want Breaking Bad, sometimes we want Stranger Things.

Most importantly, trust your instincts about what to watch. If a new TV show pulls you in, it could be binge-worthy for you. 

So now, grab the snacks, settle in and let the TV marathon begin.