Exploring the Best Non-English Series on Netflix
Netflix’s recommendation system often leads viewers into an entertainment loop that merely reinforces existing preferences, rather than presenting them with new, thought-provoking content. Hidden within Netflix’s vast collection, there are remarkable foreign-language series waiting to redefine your viewing experience. However, many of these gems may not have English titles, which can make them harder to discover.
There is an abundance of outstanding international shows available on Netflix, which can make choosing where to start a bit overwhelming. To ease the search, a curated selection of top-rated non-English series has been compiled, based on Rotten Tomatoes aggregation scores. For those who don’t mind reading subtitles, there is bound to be your next favorite show among these options.
Marianne (France, 2019)
The list begins with Marianne, a horror series that truly captivates. This unsettling narrative focuses on a horror novelist whose frightening visions become a reality. The series expertly cultivates a persistent atmosphere of unease and delivers chilling scenarios that are both intense and suspenseful, making it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 100%
Extraordinary Attorney Woo (Korea, 2022)
Extraordinary Attorney Woo departs from traditional legal dramas. Starring Park Eun-bin as Woo Young-woo, an autistic legal prodigy, this series explores her unique experiences in the legal field. The portrayal offers depth and authenticity, addressing her challenges in an environment where she often feels out of place, while also shedding light on the fascinating cases she tackles each week.
Money Heist (Spain, 2017)
This stylish crime thriller opens with elements reminiscent of Tarantino, but quickly evolves into something more profound. Money Heist features a diverse group of characters who are not merely anti-heroes but individuals grappling with moral dilemmas. Their audacious plan to rob Spain’s royal mint unravels in unexpected ways, revealing the complexities of human nature and desperation.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 100%
The Chestnut Man (Denmark, 2021)
At its best, Nordic noir transcends tropes, and The Chestnut Man serves as a prime example. This gritty and atmospheric show entwines themes of serial killings, political intrigue, and ancient rituals, delivering a unique storyline devoid of clichés, making it perfect for binge-watching. Fans of the first season of True Detective will find much to appreciate in this series.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 100%
Cassandra (Germany, 2025)
The intriguing premise of Cassandra draws viewers in: a typical suburban family relocates to an isolated home built in the ’80s, designed to be the “house of the future.” The seemingly archaic technology within the house hints at something dark and wrong, providing a rich narrative to explore.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 100%
Delicious in Dungeon (Japan, 2024)
Netflix houses not only traditional series but a rich variety of anime, worthy of its own list. Representing this genre, Delicious in Dungeon merges fantasy elements inspired by classic adventures with gastronomy, showcasing a band of adventurers who battle through a monster-infested dungeon while savoring each culinary delight. The blend of captivating characters and exquisite illustrations creates a delightful narrative.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 100%
Dear Child (Germany, 2023)
Entering Dear Child unprepared, one may wonder if the series is a sci-fi or supernatural thriller. Instead, it unfolds as a real-life thriller. Its thoughtful representation of captivity, manipulation, and psychological warfare packs a punch, offering a haunting narrative that exceeds the scares of fictional horrors. This show truly captures the depths of human experience and authoritarian influence.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 100%
Squid Game (Korea, 2021)
A mention of Netflix’s top non-English series would be incomplete without Squid Game. Following the first episode, it becomes nearly impossible to stop watching this gripping tale. Set in a dystopian future, participants take part in deadly versions of childhood games for a shot at a life-changing prize. Squid Game offers sharp critiques of capitalism while remaining thrilling, grotesque, and humorously original.
Kleo (Germany, 2022)
Set in the aftermath of the Berlin Wall’s fall, Kleo reveals the journey of a resolute Stasi agent seeking revenge. With a quirky skill set involving poisons and combat, her escape and quest for retribution provide an engaging and thrilling ride. For those who appreciate action intermingled with intelligence, this series is a compelling pick.
All of Us are Dead (Korea, 2022)
Combining elements of adolescent life with supernatural horror, All of Us are Dead is an exhilarating Korean zombie drama set in a high school. This thrilling journey revolves around teenagers navigating daily school life while combating a sudden zombie outbreak. It not only delivers action and horror but also engages with social themes, making it far more than just another zombie series.
How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast) (Germany, 2019)
Loosely based on a true event, How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast) follows the escapades of Moritz Zimmerman, a high school geek turned drug dealer seeking popularity. As Moritz’s new venture flourishes, he faces a growing array of challenges like law enforcement scrutiny and criminal threats. Combining humor and drama, this series is excellent for binge-watching, albeit sans a Rotten Tomatoes score.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: None
Tabula Rasa (Belgium, 2017)
Tabula Rasa crafts a mind-bending narrative featuring Kai, who suffers from amnesia and grapples with eerie hallucinations that blur reality. This series masterfully questions perception while delivering a suspenseful plot that keeps viewers engaged up until the last shocking twist. A true hidden treasure with no Rotten Tomatoes rating, its brilliance should not go unnoticed.
Rotten Tomato Score: None
