
As the year winds down, there’s no better time to kick back, grab some snacks, and dive into the world of binge-worthy miniseries. These compact gems deliver all the twists, drama, and payoffs of traditional TV—minus the endless wait for the next season.
Let’s face it: in today’s fast-paced world, not everyone has the patience to follow a show for years. Long hiatuses can kill the vibe, and sometimes, you just move on. That’s where miniseries shine! They bring you a tightly woven, fast-paced story that you can enjoy start to finish in a weekend. It’s storytelling satisfaction, guaranteed.
With streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Max rolling out more must-watch miniseries than ever, you’re spoiled for choice. Ready to find your next favorite? Let’s dive in!
Explore the Top Must-Watch Miniseries Across Every Genre Before 2024 Ends!

Movies are too short for some, shows too long for others. So, we enter in the middle-ground solution: miniseries. This format has become the perfect antidote for our ever-shortening attention spans. However, we are not exactly complaining because they offer the same amount of excitement, drama, and escapism as long-running TV shows.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the most captivating miniseries of 2024.
1. Eric (2024)
Director | Lucy Forbes |
Cast | Benedict Cumberbatch, Gaby Hoffman, Jeff Hephner, McKinley Belcher III, Amy Louise Pemberton, Donald Sage Mackay, Erika Soto, John Doman |
IMDB | 6.9/10 |
Genre | Drama, Thriller |
Release Date | May 30, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
Eric is a gripping psychological drama set in 1980s New York. It is Written and created by Abi Morgan. The series stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Vincent. He is a puppeteer who spirals into madness when his nine-year-old son, Edgar, mysteriously goes missing. Some how he is convinced that his son is sending him cryptic messages.
Vincent alienates himself from loved ones and begins having strange conversations with a seven-foot-tall puppet named Eric. The series explores dark themes with intensity, and Cumberbatch’s phenomenal performance anchors this haunting and thought-provoking show.
2. A Gentleman in Moscow (2024)
Director | Sam Miller, Sarah O’Gorman |
Cast | Ewan McGregor, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Beau Gadsdon, Johnny Harris, Leah Harvey |
IMDB | 7.4/10 |
Genre | Drama |
Release Date | March 29, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Paramount Plus |
This miniseries of 2024 is based on “Amor Towles” best-selling novel. A Gentleman in Moscow is a stunning historical drama set in post-Revolutionary Russia. It follows Count Alexander Rostov (Ewan McGregor), a former aristocrat sentenced to house arrest in a luxury hotel in Moscow. The Count adapts to his confinement, through his friendships with the hotel’s staff and guests.
He witnesses the political and societal changes gripping Russia. The series focuses on resilience, introspection, and finding joy in isolation. McGregor delivers a captivating performance. The elegant direction makes it an enthralling watch.
3. Agatha All Along (2024)
Director | Various Directors |
Cast | Kathryn Hahn, Joe Locke, Aubrey Plaza, Debra Jo Rupp, Sasheer Zamata, Patti LuPone |
IMDB | 7.4/10 |
Genre | Action, Superhero, Comedy, Adventure |
Release Date | September 18, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Disney+ |
In this exciting spin-off of WandaVision, Kathryn Hahn returns as Agatha Harkness in Agatha All Along, one of the spookiest MCU projects yet. The story begins with Agatha under a spell. This spell follows her as she regains her powers with the help of a teenager.
Together, they form a coven of witches and set on magical trials on the Witches’ Road. This tv miniseries is best because it blends dark comedy, supernatural horror, and thrilling twists. It is a wild ride for fans of Marvel’s darker side, with Hahn’s mesmerizing performance stealing the spotlight.
4. One Day (2024)
Director | Molly Manners, Kate Hewitt, John Hardwick, Luke Snellin |
Cast | Leo Woodall, Ambika Mod, Amber Grappy, Tim McInnerny, Jonny Weldon |
IMDB | 8.1/10 |
Genre | Drama, Romance, Comedy |
Release Date | February 8, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
One Day is based on David Nicholls’ popular novel. It is a heartwarming romantic drama that captures the on-and-off relationship between Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew. Meeting at a university graduation ball, the two-part ways but remain friends for years.
The series beautifully portrays their journey through love, loss, and missed opportunities as they strive to reconnect. The touching chemistry between Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod makes this adaptation a swoon-worthy and deeply emotional experience.
5. Ripley (2024)
Director | Steven Zaillian |
Cast | Andrew Scott, Johnny Flynn, Dakota Fanning, Maurizio Lombardi, Pasquale Esposito |
IMDB | 8.1/10 |
Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
Release Date | April 4, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
Ripley is based on the beloved Tom Ripley novels. It is one of the best miniseries to stream as takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the 1960s. The story begins when Tom Ripley, a struggling New Yorker, is mistaken for a friend of an affluent man’s son. He is hired to bring him back from Italy.
However, Tom becomes drawn to the luxurious lifestyle, assuming new identities and orchestrating clever schemes to achieve his goals. Andrew Scott’s brilliant performance and Steven Zaillian’s meticulous direction make this series a stylish, gripping, and unforgettable crime drama.
6. Masters of the Air (2024)
Director | Cary Joji Fukunaga, Anna Boden |
Cast | Austin Butler, Callum Turner, Barry Keoghan, Nikolai Kinski, Stephen Campbell Moore, Sawyer Spielberg, Isabel May, Anthony Boyle |
IMDB | 7.8/10 |
Genre | War, Drama |
Release Date | January 26, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Apple TV+ |
From the creators of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. Masters of the Air is a nine-part miniseries chronicling the harrowing experiences of the 100th Bomb Group during World War II. The series captures the perilous bombing missions and relentless enemy attack. Such things were faced by young airmen.
It also delves into the psychological and personal toll of war. Masters of the Air has sweeping historical scope, breathtaking visuals, and standout performances. This companion piece to previous WWII dramas offers an emotional, cinematic look at the airmen’s camaraderie and sacrifices.
7. Baby Reindeer (2024)
Director | Weronika Tofilska |
Cast | Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau, Michael Wildman, Nina Sosanya |
IMDB | 7.7/10 |
Genre | Biography, Drama |
Release Date | April 11, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
It is based on Richard Gadd’s autobiographical play. Baby Reindeer is an intense drama that explores the life of Donny Dunn. He is an aspiring comedian caught in a dangerous relationship with a stalker named Martha.
The series examines themes of trauma, obsession, and survival, delivering raw and emotionally honest storytelling. With Gadd’s powerful performance as Donny and Jessica Gunning’s chilling portrayal of Martha, the series leaves an indelible mark. Winning six Primetime Emmy Awards, Baby Reindeer is a triumph of dark comedy and drama.
Interested to know more? Read Netflix UK Boss Insists ‘Baby Reindeer’ Is “Not A Documentary” Amid Lawsuit
8. The Penguin (2024)
Director | Craig Zobel |
Cast | Colin Farrell, Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Michael Kelly, Shohreh Aghdashloo |
IMDB | 8.7/10 |
Genre | Crime, Drama |
Release Date | September 19, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | HBO Max |
A dark and gripping spin-off from The Batman, The Penguin centers on Oswald “Oz” Cobblepot’s rise to power in Gotham’s criminal underworld. The series is set after Carmine Falcone’s death era. The series delves into Oz’s ambition, complex psyche, and his ruthless quest for dominance in a city rife with crime and corruption.
Colin Farrell’s transformative performance as the titular anti-hero, paired with Cristin Milioti’s brilliant portrayal of Sofia Falcone, makes this series a standout. With psychological depth and dark humor, The Penguin is a must-watch for DC fans.
9. Griselda (2024)
Director | Andrés Baiz |
Cast | Sofia Vergara, Alberto Ammann, Paulina Davila, Alberto Guerra, Martin Rodriguez |
IMDB | 7.2/10 |
Genre | Crime, Drama, Biography |
Release Date | January 25, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
Griselda tells the compelling story of Griselda Blanco. She is the infamous Colombian drug lord known as the Godmother of Cocaine. This biographical series highlights her rise through the ranks of the drug cartel, her cunning strategies, and her struggle to balance her empire with family life.
Sofia Vergara delivers a transformative performance, portraying Blanco’s ruthless ambition and defiance of societal norms. With intense drama and high-stakes tension, Griselda offers a gripping portrait of one of history’s most notorious criminal masterminds.
10. The Sticky (2024)
Director | Michael Dowse & Joyce Wong |
Cast | Margo Martindale, Chris Diamantopoulos, Guillaume Cyr |
IMDB | 7.0/10 |
Genre | Comedy, Crime |
Release Date | December 6, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
Need a laugh this weekend? The Sticky is a hilarious six-part crime comedy based on the real-life Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist. It follows Ruth Landry (Margo Martindale), a feisty syrup farmer. He rebels against a bureaucracy threatening her livelihood.
Teaming up with a slick Boston criminal and a quirky French-Canadian security guard, Ruth plans a daring, multi-million-dollar syrup heist. This absurd, sweet-as-maple story promises plenty of laughs and hijinks.
11. My Lady Jane (2024)
Director | Jamie Babbit, Cindy Yu, Louisa Warren |
Cast | Emily Bader, Edward Bluemel, Jordan Peters |
IMDB | 7.4/10 |
Genre | Historical, Comedy, Fantasy |
Release Date | June 27, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
My Lady Jane is a wild, irreverent reimagining of Lady Jane Grey’s story. This eight-episode romp blends history with fantasy. Jane (Emily Bader) battles political plots, shapeshifters, and an unexpected romance with Lord Guildford Dudley (Edward Bluemel).
It is packed with sass, wit, and adventure. This hilarious take on 16th-century England is royally entertaining. A perfect binge for fans of cheeky period dramas!
12. Tsunami: Race Against Time (2024)
Cast | Documentary format (survivors, scientists, journalists, rescue workers) |
IMDB | 8.3/10 |
Genre | Documentary, Miniseries |
Release Date | November 24, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Hulu, Disney+ |
Tsunami: Race Against Time revisits the horrors of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. It was one of the the deadliest Tsunami in history. Through rare archival footage and moving survivor stories, this four-part documentary tracks the wave’s devastation across multiple coasts.
It highlights the bravery of scientists, reporters, and rescue workers who battled impossible odds to understand and respond to the disaster. Emotional, intense, and inspiring, it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in stories of human resilience.
13. Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War (2024)
Director | Brian Knappenberger |
Cast | Mary Sarotte, Garrett Graff, Robert Gates |
IMDB | 8.4/10 |
Genre | Documentary, Miniseries |
Release Date | March 12, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
This nine-episode miniseries Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War explores the chilling history of nuclear weapons. It examines key events from the creation of the atomic bomb to modern-day geopolitical tensions.
From the Cold War to the rise of Vladimir Putin and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, this documentary connects past and present conflicts. With expert analysis and compelling storytelling, it’s a gripping deep dive into history.
14. The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal (2024)
Director | Mike Downie |
Cast | Gord Sinclair, Johnny Fay, Paul Langlois |
IMDB | 9.4/10 |
Genre | Documentary, Music |
Release Date | September 5, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal is a heartfelt tribute to one of Canada’s most beloved rock bands. This documentary takes you on a journey through 40 years of music, friendship, and raw emotion.
From never-before-seen performances to unreleased tracks, fans will get unprecedented access to The Hip’s legacy. It’s not just a film—it’s a love story between a band and their country. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their magic, this is a must-watch celebration of Canadian rock ‘n’ roll!
15. Transatlantic (2023)
Director | Stéphanie Chuat |
Cast | Gillian Jacobs, Lucas Englander, Cory Michael Smith, Jodhi May |
IMDB | 6.3/10 |
Genre | Drama, History |
Release Date | April 7, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
Transatlantic is based on the true story of the Emergency Rescue Committee. It is a group that helped famous Europeans flee Nazi-occupied France during World War II. The series features iconic figures like Peggy Guggenheim and Walter Benjamin, making it a must-watch for history buffs.
It is one of the best miniseries 2023. This series has stunning production design and heartfelt performances by Gillian Jacobs and Lucas Englander. The series is both educational and captivating. A sleek, stylish look at bravery in one of history’s darkest times.
16. Beckham (2023)
Director | Fisher Stevens |
Cast | David Beckham, Victoria Beckham |
IMDB | 8.1/10 |
Genre | Documentary |
Release Date | October 4, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
This four-part documentary dives into the life of football legend David Beckham. It reveals the man behind the fame. From the heartbreak of the 1998 World Cup red card to family struggles before his retirement.
The docuseries captures never-before-seen moments with a mix of triumph and vulnerability. And yes, you’ll also learn about his surprising hobbies—like beekeeping! With an emotional depth, Beckham is a fresh take on an iconic life.
17. Bodies (2023)
Director | Marco Kreuzpaintner |
Cast | Kyle Soller, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Amaka Okafor, Shira Haas |
IMDB | 7.3/10 |
Genre | Crime, Thriller |
Release Date | October 19, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
Bodies is a thrilling, time-jumping murder mystery. It is set in four different eras: 1890, 1941, 2023, and 2053. Each detective uncovers new layers of the same crime. This is only to discover a shocking connection to a larger conspiracy.
This miniseries is Based on Si Spencer’s graphic novel. It’s part sci-fi, part police procedural, and part historical drama. Intriguing and mind-bending, Bodies will keep you glued to your screen.
18. The Fall of the House of Usher (2023)
Director | Michael Fimognari, Mike Flanagan |
Cast | Bruce Greenwood, Zach Gilford, Mary McDonnell, Carla Gugino |
IMDB | 7.9/10 |
Genre | Horror, Drama |
Release Date | October 12, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
This horror series takes inspiration from Edgar Allan Poe’s iconic short story. It follows the wealthy Usher family as their dynasty crumbles under eerie, mysterious circumstances. Horror mastermind Mike Flanagan directs this series.
It’s packed with spine-chilling moments, gruesome deaths, and gripping suspense. If you’re into family drama mixed with supernatural scares, this series is pure gold. Watch it with the lights on!
19. Painkiller (2023)
Director | Peter Berg |
Cast | Matthew Broderick, Sam Anderson, Clark Gregg, John Rothman |
IMDB | 7.4/10 |
Genre | Drama |
Release Date | August 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Netflix |
Painkiller dives into the origins of the U.S opioid crisis. This miniseries exposes the greed and corruption behind Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family. It’s a haunting tale of corporate deceit and human suffering. This miniseries was brought to life by stellar performances from Matthew Broderick and others.
Based on Barry Meier’s book, the series offers a gripping and emotional look at a real-life tragedy. It’s powerful, sobering, and absolutely unmissable.
20. Swarm (2023)
Director | Adamma Ebo |
Cast | Dominique Fishback, Chloe Bailey, Nirine S. Brown |
IMDB | 7.1/10 |
Genre | Comedy, Crime, Drama, Thriller |
Release Date | March 17, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
Swarm is a dark, satirical take on the dangers of obsessive fan culture. The show follows Dre (Dominique Fishback). Her deadly obsession with a Beyoncé-like pop star pushes her to dangerous extremes.
This seven-part series blends biting humor with intense drama, showing how far fandom can go. With an electrifying performance from Fishback, Swarm is thrilling, chilling, and impossible to ignore.
21. Harlan Coben’s Shelter (2023)
Director | Edward Ornelas |
Cast | Jaden Michael, Constance Zimmer, Abby Corrigan |
IMDB | 6.6/10 |
Genre | Mystery, Thriller |
Release Date | August 18, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
From thriller master Harlan Coben comes Shelter, a gripping mystery with a young adult twist. Mickey (Jaden Michael) moves to a New Jersey suburb after his father’s tragic death. But things take a strange turn when he investigates a classmate’s disappearance.
He has quirky friends and a web of secrets. This series delivers suspense, heart, and plenty of jaw-dropping moments. Perfect for fans of twisty mysteries.
22. Daisy Jones & The Six (2023)
Director | Niki Caro, James Ponsoldt, Will Graham |
Cast | Riley Keough, Sam Claflin, Camila Morrone |
IMDB | 8.1/10 |
Genre | Drama, Music |
Release Date | March 3, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
Daisy Jones & The Six tells the story of a 1970s rock band’s meteoric rise and fiery breakup. Loosely inspired by Fleetwood Mac, it focuses on the intense chemistry and creative clashes between Daisy (Riley Keough) and Billy (Sam Claflin).
It is filled with drama and a killer soundtrack. This nostalgic series will have you humming long after it ends. A rock ’n’ roll dream you don’t want to miss!
23. Tiny Beautiful Things (2023)
Director | Rachel Lee Goldenberg |
Cast | Kathryn Hahn, Quentin Plair, Sarah Pidgeon, Johnny Berchtold |
IMDB | 7.1/10 |
Genre | Drama, Comedy |
Release Date | April 7, 2023 |
Streaming Channel | Hulu |
This miniseries is based on Cheryl Strayed’s essays. Tiny Beautiful Things is a heartfelt dive into love, loss, and self-discovery. Kathryn Hahn shines as Clare, a woman facing life’s chaos with humor and heartbreak.
Each short episode offers a poignant mix of drama and wit. It’s a bittersweet journey that makes you laugh, cry, and reflect on life’s beautiful messiness.
24. The English (2022)
Director | Hugo Blick |
Cast | Emily Blunt, Chaske Spencer, Rafe Spall |
IMDB | 7.8/10 |
Genre | Western, Drama |
Release Date | November 11, 2022 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
The English is a stunning Western miniseries. It stars Emily Blunt as Lady Cornelia Locke. Driven by revenge, she teams up with Eli Whipp, a Pawnee ex-cavalry scout. Together, they embark on a perilous journey through the Old West.
25. Fleishman Is in Trouble (2022)
Director | Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris |
Cast | Jesse Eisenberg, Claire Danes, Lizzy Caplan, Adam Brody |
IMDB | 7.7/10 |
Genre | Drama, Comedy |
Release Date | November 17, 2022 |
Streaming Channel | Hulu |
Fleishman Is in Trouble takes a heartfelt look at love, marriage, and the messiness in between. Jesse Eisenberg plays Toby, a neurotic divorcee trying to rebuild his life. While Claire Danes stuns as his estranged wife.
Narrated by their witty friend Libby, the series balances heartbreak and humor beautifully. The sharp writing and nuanced performances make this a binge-worthy exploration of modern relationships.
The series features breathtaking landscapes and gripping performances. It’s an emotional ride filled with danger, redemption, and hope. This six-episode gem is a feast for the eyes and soul.
26. The Underground Railroad (2021)
Director | Barry Jenkins |
Cast | Thuso Mbedu, Aaron Pierre, Joel Edgerton |
IMDB | 7.4/10 |
Genre | Historical, Drama |
Release Date | May 14, 2021 |
Streaming Channel | Amazon Prime |
Barry Jenkins delivers a masterful adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer-winning novel in The Underground Railroad. The series follows Cora (Thuso Mbedu) and Caesar (Aaron Pierre). They escape slavery using a literal underground rail system.
This 10-part epic is emotional, harrowing, and visually stunning. It’s a powerful exploration of history and humanity, brought to life with unflinching honesty and heart.
27. Mare of Easttown (2021)
Director | Craig Zobel |
Cast | Angourie Rice, Cailee Spaeny, David Denman, Evan Peters |
IMDB | 8.4/10 |
Genre | Crime, Drama |
Release Date | April 18, 2021 |
Streaming Channel | HBO Max |
Mare of Easttown is a gripping crime drama. It has layers of small-town secrets and personal tragedies. Kate Winslet delivers an unforgettable performance as a detective grappling with her own losses while solving a local murder.
The series digs deep into the characters’ lives, making the mystery feel personal and raw. It’s dark and emotional and keeps you guessing till the very end. It is a must-watch for fans of character-driven crime dramas.
28. Devs (2020)
Director | Alex Garland |
Cast | Sonoya Mizuno, Nick Offerman, Jin Ha |
IMDB | 7.6/10 |
Genre | Sci-Fi, Thriller |
Release Date | March 5, 2020 |
Streaming Channel | Hulu |
Devs is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller that’s as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. Nick Offerman plays a mysterious tech CEO. While Sonoya Mizuno stars as a determined woman uncovering dark secrets at a cutting-edge tech company.
If you loved Ex Machina or Mr. Robot, this suspenseful, philosophical series is right up your alley. Buckle up for a ride into the unknown!
29. Chernobyl (2019)
Director | Johan Renck |
Cast | Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Emily Watson |
IMDB | 8.5/10 |
Genre | Drama, History |
Release Date | May 6, 2019 |
Streaming Channel | HBO Max |
Chernobyl is an intense and haunting retelling of the 1986 nuclear disaster. This miniseries dives into the heroism, lies, and tragedy that unfolded. The storytelling is sharp, with phenomenal performances that humanize the catastrophe.
It’s a deeply impactful watch that leaves you thinking about the price of power and the importance of truth. A truly unforgettable series.
30. Say Nothing (2024)
Director | Michael Lennox |
Cast | Anthony Boyle, Hazel Doupe, Lola Petticrew, Josh Finan, Maxine Peake |
IMDB | 8.3/10 |
Genre | Drama, History |
Release Date | November 14, 2024 |
Streaming Channel | Hulu |
Say Nothing delves into the troubled decades of the 1970s–1990s in Northern Ireland. This miniseries is adapted from Patrick Radden Keefe’s book. It focuses on The Troubles, a real-life conflict. Besides, It centers on the disappearance and murder of Jean McConville, a mother of ten.
With atmospheric cinematography and masterful pacing, this deeply compelling drama captures the political turmoil and moral struggles of the era. The nuanced performances by Hazel Doupe and Anthony Boyle elevate the emotional impact. Such features make it one of the most thought-provoking series of 2024.
FAQs
The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal (2024) holds the top spot with 9.4/10 IMDb score.
Baby Reindeer (2024) on Netflix is currently considered one of the best.
The Queen’s Gambit, When They See Us, Unbelievable, Maid, Godless, The Stranger, Alias Grace, Behind Her Eyes, The Spy, and The Watcher.
A miniseries is a shorter, self-contained story, while a limited series can be longer and may allow for future seasons.
Breaking Bad (2008–2013) is often ranked as the best series of all time with universal acclaim.
War and Remembrance (1988–1989), at 1,492 minutes (over 25 hours), is the longest miniseries ever made.
Wrapping It Up: The Magic of Miniseries
The best miniseries transport us to different worlds, spark deep emotions, and keep us on the edge of our seats. Television and streaming have all but taken over the screen sector, and the best miniseries to binge make TV more accessible. Without the need to invest in a long-term commitment, miniseries offer the same snappy storytelling, dramatic beats, and satisfying payoff that traditional TV does. So, grab your remote and start your binge-watch journey with these incredible picks!