Joni Sweet, Madison Troyer
Dreamworks
There isn’t any higher technique to unwind than with slightly TV. There’s just something about slipping right into a fictional world that has none of our real-life stressors or demands that puts our minds comfortable in a way nothing else can. Unfortunately, those real-world stressors and demands leave us far less time and mental energy to indulge than we would really like.
Enter the miniseries. They is perhaps the right solution for our “not enough time, not enough brain power” problem. Miniseries offer the identical level of escapism and skill to binge-watch as conventional television, but without having to commit to 18 seasons of 30 episodes each. Plus, you’ve a long time of compelling miniseries to select from in almost every conceivable genre.
To assist narrow down the alternatives, Stacker collected IMDb data on all miniseries/limited series on October 26, 2022, and ranked them in response to their IMDb user rating, breaking ties by the variety of votes. Only shows with greater than 5,000 votes were considered. The evaluation also looks at reviews from The Latest York Times, Rotten Tomatoes, Forbes, NPR, The Guardian, and other media to see what the critics say.
It could be no surprise that BBC’s striking nature documentaries rating highly on this list. But additionally scattered throughout the rankings, you will discover a mixture of historical dramas, shocking true crime documentaries, sci-fi favorites, animated works, shows inspired by comics, and police procedurals that put a recent twist on an old-school genre.
Searching for a recent miniseries so as to add to the “must-watch” list, or curious to see if a favourite miniseries made the cut? Read on to learn more in regards to the 100 best miniseries of all time.
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#100. Long Way Down (2007)
Big Earth
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 6,284
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Documentary
A follow-up to “Long Way Round,” this BBC production follows Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they set out on one other long-haul motorcycle journey, this time from Scotland to South Africa. Along the best way, the lads stop at three UNICEF facilities to assist bring awareness to the humanitarian organization’s invaluable work.
#99. Yuri!!! On Ice (2016)
Mappa
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 8,492
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Animation, Comedy, Drama
On this anime series, a downtrodden figure skater finds his love for the game again along with his idol-turned-coach’s help. The miniseries won a slew of awards on the Crunchyroll Anime Awards. It also garnered significant praise for its depiction of same-sex relationships and anxiety.
#98. Millennium (2010)
Yellow Bird,
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 9,616
– Rating: Not Rated
– Genre(s): Motion, Crime, Mystery
This six-part Swedish TV series is predicated on the flicks drawn from Stieg Larsson’s mystery novels a couple of reporter and a pc hacker. The series strikes a balance between being a thriller and a drama, with plenty of suspense.
#97. This Is England ’88 (2011)
Warp Movies
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 10,722
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Comedy, Crime, Drama
A derivative of the film “That is England” and a sequel to the miniseries “That is England ’86,” “That is England ’88” follows the gang of skinheads—Woody, Lol, Shaun, and Smell—as they wrestle with growing up and breaking up. The show won the BAFTA for Best Mini-Series on the 2012 awards despite only being three episodes long.
#96. This Is England ’86 (2010)
Warp Movies
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 13,428
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Comedy, Crime, Drama
The primary follow-up to “That is England,” “That is England ’86,” is ready just three years after the unique film. Its 4 episodes (written by the unique creators, Shane Meadows and Jack Thorne) see the gang’s allegiances shift. Several of its members go from being skinheads to energetic members of the mod revival scene.
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#95. Masum (2017)
D Production
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 18,550
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Mystery
On this Turkish drama, a homicide detective returns to his quiet hometown to resolve a chilly case that seemingly involves his retired mentor. The series is predicated on a play called “Bayrak” by Berkun Oya, who also wrote the script for this eight-episode TV version.
#94. Jane Eyre (2006)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 21,185
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Drama, Romance
The BBC’s serial adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s “Jane Eyre” vividly portrays an orphan-turned-governess who falls in love with a person with a dark past. The series earned nominations and awards from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, the Emmys, and the Golden Globes, amongst others.
#93. Olive Kitteridge (2014)
Home Box Office (HBO)
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 22,939
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Drama
This four-part dramatic miniseries looks at 25 years of a middle-school math teacher’s life as she navigates complex relationships together with her son and husband. Critics pointed to the cinematography, writing, and Frances McDormand’s performance as highlights of “Olive Kitteridge.”
#92. Hellsing Ultimate (2006–2012)
G.D.H.
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 23,470
– Rating: Not Rated
– Genre(s): Animation, Motion, Fantasy
On this anime miniseries, a secret organization called Hellsing fights vampires, ghouls, and all sorts of supernatural creatures who threaten life in England. The ten-episode story is predicated on a multi-volume manga written and illustrated by Kouta Hirano.
#91. Years and Years (2019)
Red Production Company
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 29,889
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama, Sci-Fi
“Years and Years,” from HBO and the BBC, follows the lives of the Manchester relations that converge on a very important night in 2019. Emma Thompson plays the starring role of Vivienne Rook within the six-episode satire with tons of laugh-out-loud humor.
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#90. The Young Pope (2016)
Wildside
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 44,105
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama
Jude Law plays Pope Pius XIII on this fictional tale about an American who becomes the leader of the Catholic Church. Diane Keaton co-stars because the pope’s confidant, Sister Mary, and each actors’ performances won praise from critics. The series garnered two Emmy Awards for its production values and cinematography.
#89. 24: Live One other Day (2014)
Imagine Television
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 45,577
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Motion, Crime, Drama
Set 4 years after the ultimate season of “24,” this miniseries sees Jack Bauer come out of retirement to guard President James Heller from a gaggle of hackers who’ve threatened his life. Like previous seasons, each episode covers a single hour within the day, apart from the finale, which jumps 12 hours.
#88. Godless (2017)
Netflix
– IMDb user rating:8.3
– Votes: 67,372
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Motion, Drama, Western
A Western drama, “Godless” shows what happens when a ruthless outlaw searches for a former gang member who has made a recent life for himself in a community run almost entirely by women. The series, produced by Steven Soderbergh and written and produced by Scott Frank, intrigued viewers with its examination of “dark mythology embedded within the Western genre,” in response to Sophie Gilbert of The Atlantic.
#87. Samantar (2020)
GSEAMS
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 6,437
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Mystery
On this twisty series, a young man realizes he shares the identical destiny as a person several years his senior. He must resolve whether meeting that other man and discovering how his life goes will help him change his present or only show him a future he doesn’t care to know. “Samantar” is a Marathi-language series.
#86. Anne of Avonlea (1987)
Anne of Green Gables Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 9,551
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Drama, Family, Romance
When the beloved novel “Anne of Green Gables” was adapted for the screen in 1985, it was a runaway hit with fans. It must be no surprise that the sequel, “Anne of Avonlea,” which reunited the unique forged to follow heroine Anne Shirley through early maturity, proved just as popular with fans when the miniseries was released two years later.
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#85. State of Play (2003)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 9,878
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Mystery
Upon investigating a murder of a youngster, a journalist and his fellow reporters uncover a conspiracy involving high-ranking politicians and the oil industry in “State of Play.” The miniseries boasted a talented forged, including David Morrissey, Bill Nighy, and John Simm, and went on to encourage a movie featuring Russell Crowe.
#84. Roots (1977)
Warner Bros. Television
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 17,664
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Biography, Drama, History
“Roots” traces the story of Kunta Kinte, a teen boy from West Africa who was captured and sold into slavery but refused to make use of the name his enslavers gave him, and the heirs who kept the memory of his defiance alive. The series won nine out of 37 Emmy nominations and featured notable actors resembling LeVar Burton, Cicely Tyson, Louis Gossett Jr., and Ben Vereen.
#83. Feud (2017)
Plan B Entertainment
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 19,802
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Biography, Drama
The primary season of this anthology series created by Ryan Murphy focuses on the famous feud between actresses Joan Crawford (Jessica Lange) and Bette Davis (Susan Sarandon). Critically acclaimed, the show racked up 88 award nominations and, in 2022, was renewed for a second season specializing in Truman Capote and the ladies of NYC’s high society.
#82. Violet Evergarden (2018)
ABC Animation
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 22,287
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Animation, Drama, Fantasy
After coming back from fighting in a Great War, a young woman helps others write and tell their stories, hoping the practice will help her wrestle together with her complicated past. The sunshine anime series won Best Animation on the 2019 Crunchyroll Anime Awards.
#81. Generation War (2013)
Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen (ZDF)
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 29,990
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Motion, Drama, History
In three 90-minute episodes, “Generation War” looks at five German friends—a war nurse, a Jewish tailor, Eastern Front soldiers, and a singer—during World War II. The controversial miniseries was met with positive reviews, but additionally and criticism in Germany and abroad for its portrayal of Nazi Germany.
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#80. Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog (2008)
Mutant Enemy
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 43,433
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Short, Comedy, Musical
Told in three acts, “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog” follows an aspiring supervillain who must discover a balance between his evil profession and his pursuit of a gorgeous young woman. Written by Maurissa Tancharoen and Ben Edlund, the Whedon brothers, the series was intended primarily for web distribution and won six trophies on the inaugural Streamy Awards.
#79. Normal People (2020)
Element Pictures
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 65,605
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Drama, Romance
Based on the Sally Rooney novel of the identical name, “Normal People” follows the connection between two people from very different backgrounds as they navigate the beginnings of maturity. Released within the U.S. on Hulu, the show was an enormous hit with critics who praised every part from its acting to its visuals.
#78. Maid (2021)
John Wells Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 81,964
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama
One other miniseries based on a bestseller, “Maid” was inspired by Stephanie Land’s memoir. The show follows a young mother who escapes an abusive relationship and becomes a cleaner at wealthy people’s homes to support her young daughter. Real-life mother-daughter duo Margaret Qualley and Andie MacDowell star.
#77. Unbelievable (2019)
CBS Television Studios
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 101,882
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama
Based on a real story, “Unbelievable” examines a case of a teen who survived sexual assault but is accused of lying in regards to the crime committed against her as detectives work to uncover the reality. Rotten Tomatoes said that the series goes beyond the conventions of the true crime genre to inform survivors’ stories “with grace and gravity.”
#76. Mare of Easttown (2021)
Home Box Office (HBO)
– IMDb user rating:8.4
– Votes: 154,012
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Mystery
When “Mare of Easttown” was released on HBO within the spring of 2021, it gave the look of everyone was watching it. The drama follows a detective (Kate Winslet) as she concurrently attempts to resolve a murder and keep her life from falling apart in a small Pennsylvania town. The show earned 16 Emmy Award nominations.
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#75. Walking with Dinosaurs (1999)
BBC Natural History Unit (NHU)
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 6,288
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Documentary, Animation, History
Shot in the identical style as a nature documentary, “Walking with Dinosaurs” tried to point out viewers what the world would have been like when dinosaurs and other Mesozoic animals were wandering the Earth. The computer graphics used to bring these prehistoric creatures to life were insanely costly. In response to the Guinness Book of World Records, each minute of the series cost $61,112 to supply, making it the costliest television documentary of all time.
#74. Humorously Yours (2016)
Contagious Online Media Network
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 7,135
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Comedy, Drama, Romance
This Hindi miniseries follows the dramatic off-stage lifetime of a humorist. Viewers called the series “refreshing” and praised each the writing and musical selection.
#73. Prehistoric Planet (2022)
Apple TV+
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 7,412
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary, Animation, History
In the identical vein as “Walking with Dinosaurs,” “Prehistoric Planet” is a computer-animated nature documentary about dinosaurs. But as a substitute of being set within the Mesozoic era, the miniseries examines what the earth and its inhabitants would have looked like through the late Cretaceous period. Nature documentary fave David Attenborough narrates the show.
#72. This Is England ’90 (2015)
Warp Movies
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 8,617
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Comedy, Crime, Drama
“That is England ’90” follows many of the gang as they dabble in rave culture and prepare for the FIFA World Cup. Each episode of the show is ready in a distinct season, meaning significant chunks of time have passed between each installment— a setup the previous series didn’t utilize.
#71. Who Killed Jessica? (2021)
Harsh Beniwal // YouTube
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 8,656
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Comedy
After getting in a fight along with his girlfriend—the titular Jessica—Lokesh finds her murdered of their shared bedroom. This sets off a desperate seek for her murderer before he’s convicted of killing her. The premise may sound as if “Who Killed Jessica?” is a twisty thriller, nevertheless it’s actually a laugh-out-loud comedy.
Unable to seek out production company anywhere, distributed through YouTube
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#70. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (1979)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 8,720
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Drama, Mystery, Thriller
“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” is an adaptation of John le Carré’s novel a couple of master spy who’s on the hunt for an undercover Soviet embedded within the British intelligence services. The complex spy drama features “one in all the best performances ever seen on the small screen,” in response to Paul MacInnes of The Guardian.
#69. House of Cards (1990)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 14,481
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Drama
This British political thriller follows the manipulative schemes of an ambitious conservative politician who attempts to turn out to be the prime minister. The recognition of the miniseries inspired Netflix to create an American version of “House of Cards” in 2013.
#68. Summer Heights High (2007)
Princess Pictures
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 14,593
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Comedy, Drama, Family
A sitcom shot in mockumentary style, “Summer Heights High” showcases the highschool experience through the eyes of a performing arts teacher, exchange student, and disobedient student. The quirky format of the show—just like “The Office”—earned it favorable reviews.
#67. The Defiant Ones (2017)
Home Box Office (HBO)
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 14,799
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Documentary, Biography, Crime
Directed by Allen Hughes, this four-part documentary takes a have a look at the partnership between Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, who together founded Beats Electronics. The filmmakers used a groundbreaking editing technique they dubbed the “empathy cut” so as to add meaningful depth of images over the narrative, in response to editor and author Doug Pray.
#66. Scenes from a Marriage (1973)
Cinematograph AB
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 16,577
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Drama
Ingmar Bergman’s 1973 miniseries “Scenes From a Marriage” portrays the 10-year decline of a wedding, by which one spouse is a divorce lawyer and the opposite a psychology professor. Audiences appreciated the miniseries’ realism and dialogue.
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#65. Horace and Pete (2016)
Pig Newton
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 16,777
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Comedy, Drama
“Horace and Pete” stars Louis C.K. and Steve Buscemi because the titular characters who operate a shabby Brooklyn bar. One among the unique features of this miniseries is its highly topical barroom discussions, which felt extremely current to viewers when the show was released online.
#64. Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace (2004)
Avalon Television
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 18,593
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Comedy, Fantasy, Horror
The Guardian’s Rachael Healy describes “Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace” as a “show inside a show.” One section of it’s presented as an actual, low-budget horror series from the Nineteen Eighties that was lost and is now getting its first airing as an element of a director’s commentary series, which is the show’s second section. One story takes place in a hospital over the gates of hell, and one other unfolds through “forged interviews” interspersed throughout the episode.
#63. TVF Tripling (2016)
Contagious Online Media Network
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 19,568
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Drama
Three siblings at chaotic turning points of their lives (one is jobless, one is freshly divorced, and the opposite is just hopeless) reconnect and set out on a cross-country road trip, and chaos ensues. The show has a cult following in its native India and won several awards the 12 months it was released, including several on the Asian Television Awards.
#62. Anne of Green Gables (1985)
Anne of Green Gables Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 21,113
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Drama, Family
This Canadian series was an quick hit amongst fans of the youngsters’s novel that inspired the show, which “has sold greater than 50 million copies,” in response to Amazon. “Anne of Green Gables” is a coming-of-age story that centers around Anne Shirley, a red-haired orphan who involves survive Prince Edward Island in Canada.
#61. Jesus of Nazareth (1977)
ITC Movies
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 22,646
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Biography, Drama, History
This miniseries brings the lifetime of Christ to the screen using a mix of the narratives within the Latest Testament. Robert Powell received accolades for his portrayal of Jesus Christ. Pope Paul VI reportedly endorsed the miniseries when it debuted.
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#60. John Adams (2008)
HBO Movies
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 33,371
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Biography, Drama, History
This miniseries brings the Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of founding father John Adams to the screen in seven episodes. “John Adams” earned greater than a dozen Emmy awards, including Outstanding Miniseries, Outstanding Lead Actor for Paul Giamatti’s work, Outstanding Lead Actress for Laura Linney’s portrayal of Abigail Adams, and Outstanding Art Direction.
#59. Erased (2016)
A-1 Pictures
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 46,998
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Animation, Drama, Fantasy
Adapted from a manga series, “Erased” is a Japanese miniseries that is part thriller, mystery, and fantasy. It follows the story of a manga artist who travels back in time to stop his mother’s death.
#58. Generation Kill (2008)
Home Box Office (HBO)
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 53,945
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama, War
“Generation Kill” is an HBO miniseries based on Evan Wright’s book about working as an embedded journalist with the Marines through the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The award-winning show balances masterful storytelling and period details while showing viewers the disturbing realities of war.
#57. Battlestar Galactica (2003)
R&D TV
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 75,554
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Motion, Adventure, Drama
The most-watched miniseries on cable in 2003, “Battlestar Galactica” updates a Nineteen Seventies show by the identical name that explores the struggles of the last remaining humans in the hunt for a mythical planet Earth. It won awards for its incredible computer graphics.
#56. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena (2011)
Starz!
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 137,840
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Motion, Adventure, Biography
Intended as a prequel to “Spartacus,” this miniseries focuses on gladiator Gannicus, who becomes a champion in a time before there was honor in the world. It has an “apocalyptic video-game look” with ample amounts of sex and violence, in response to Ginia Bellafante of The Latest York Times.
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#55. The Night Of (2016)
BBC Drama Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.5
– Votes: 150,603
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Mystery
Based on the primary season of the 2008 British show “Criminal Justice,” “The Night Of” weaves through a sophisticated murder case in Latest York City involving a Pakistani American student who must then navigate the twists and turns of an American justice system and its biases. It premiered during an otherwise lackluster summer for TV and had a tense mood that hooked viewers, in response to Jesse Schedeen of IGN.
#54. The Corner (2000)
Blown Deadline Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 5,106
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama
This heavy HBO series follows a singular family on the Baltimore drug epidemic’s frontlines. Based on a nonfiction book by David Simon and Ed Burns, Rotten Tomatoes dubbed the show “powerfully performed and authentically written… an unwavering depiction of life under the thumb of addiction and poverty.”
#53. Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking (2010)
Discovery UK
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 5,411
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Documentary,
Theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking leads viewers through a number of the biggest topics in the sector—like aliens, time travel, and the way the universe began—on this three-episode astronomical documentary. Each episode features lush computer-generated imagery and voiceovers from Stephen Hawking and Benedict Cumberbatch.
#52. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson: The Hound of the Baskervilles (1981)
Gosteleradio USSR
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 6,053
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Adventure, Crime, Mystery
As you would possibly have guessed by the title, this series is an adaptation of the classic Sir Arthur Conan Doyle novel of the identical name. What you would possibly not have guessed is that it is a Soviet Union production and done entirely in Russian. Fans of the series have said that is probably the greatest “The Hound of the Baskervilles” adaptions they’ve ever seen (and there are lots on the market) because of its writing, pacing, and willingness to make slight alterations to the source material as needed.
#51. Brideshead Revisited (1981)
Granada Television
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 7,421
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Drama, Romance
This drama centers on the life and flings of a person named Charles Ryder for the 20-year period leading as much as the Forties. It received a slew of British Academy Television Craft Awards for editing, music, costume design, sound, and makeup.
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#50. The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes (1994)
Granada Television
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 7,975
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Mystery
“The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes” is the last installment of a series in regards to the famous detective and his astute assistant Dr. Watson. Fans of the series appreciated the show’s faithfulness to Arthur Conan Doyle’s original stories.
#49. The Untold History of the US (2012–2013)
Ixtlan Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 9,210
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Documentary, History, War
Director Oliver Stone dives into a number of the lesser-understood events in American history (think, the Cold War and America’s decision to make use of an atomic bomb in Japan) of the last century. A companion book of the identical name was published when the series was released and quickly became a Latest York Times Bestseller.
#48. From the Earth to the Moon (1998)
Clavius Base
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 12,316
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Motion, Drama, History
“From the Earth to the Moon” details the long-lasting Apollo space program from the creation of NASA to the last lunar mission. The filmmakers and actors worked closely with the real-life astronauts portrayed within the miniseries, which added depth and authenticity to the production.
#47. Long Way Round (2004–2010)
Elixir Movies
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 14,228
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary, Adventure
“Long Way Round” follows Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they set out on a bike journey from London to Latest York. The documentary miniseries was called “the last word road trip” by The Latest York Times.
#46. Rurouni Kenshin: Trust and Betrayal (1999)
Studio DEEN
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 14,895
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Animation, Motion, Adventure
Set within the Meiji Restoration era, “Rurouni Kenshin: Trust and Betrayal” is an anime miniseries that follows an assassin as he discovers his humanity and forms a relationship with a young woman. The standard of each the animation and the voice acting captivated viewers and earned the miniseries rave reviews.
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#45. North & South (2004)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 32,765
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Drama, Romance
This BBC miniseries explores topical issues like class and gender through the story of a girl and her family who move from southern England and take a look at to readjust to life within the north. While the show was not expected to do well, it became successful with fans who appreciated the deep portrayal of the working classes.
#44. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst (2015)
HBO Documentary Movies
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 46,528
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Documentary, Biography, Crime
This jaw-dropping miniseries investigates real estate heir Robert Durst and the unsolved crimes by which he was a suspect. It delivers fresh storytelling stemming from an almost decade-long research project.
#43. Dopesick (2021)
John Goldwyn Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 55,960
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama
“Dopesick” could also be based on a nonfiction book of the identical name, but not all the stories it tells are true (though some actually are). The award-winning series examines how folks from all walks of life have been affected by the opioid epidemic sweeping America. Several big stars appeared within the project, including Michael Keaton, Peter Sarsgaard, Rosario Dawson, Kaitlyn Dever, and Will Poulter.
#42. The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
FlanaganFilm
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 241,290
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama, Horror, Mystery
A large hit for Netflix, “The Haunting of Hill House” is a horror series loosely based on the Shirley Jackson novel of the identical name that follows five adult siblings terrorized by the paranormal experiences that they had at their childhood home. The series, told in alternating timelines, culminates within the bone-chilling event that finally drove the family from their home. The show is so scary it drove horror icon Stephen King to call it “near a piece of genius.”
#41. The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
Flitcraft
– IMDb user rating:8.6
– Votes: 438,789
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama
Anya Taylor-Joy stars as a chess prodigy who wrestles with drug and alcohol addictions on this Netflix miniseries. The show, set within the ’50s and ’60s, is predicated on a novel of the identical name by Walter Tevis. At one point, the show, which won 11 Emmy Awards, was the streaming service’s most-watched scripted limited series of all time.
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#40. World War II in Color (2009)
World Media Rights Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.7
– Votes: 7,055
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Documentary, History, War
“World War II in Color” is a history documentary that rehashes WWII through colorized footage. The show goes from the tip of WWI to WWII through the dropping of the atomic bomb and the events that set the stage for the Cold War. While it doesn’t ever go into an excessive amount of depth about anything, it offers an ideal overview for those trying to learn slightly more about this portion of history.
#39. One Strange Rock (2018)
Protozoa Pictures
– IMDb user rating:8.7
– Votes: 7,912
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
Acclaimed director Darren Aronofsky is behind this miniseries that tells the story of how life survives and thrives on earth through the attitude of eight astronauts. Will Smith hosts the 10-part series with astronauts who’ve frolicked in space offering their perspectives, including Chris Hadfield (166 days in space), Nicole Stott (104 days), Jeffrey A. Hoffman (50 days), Mae Jemison (seven days), Leland Melvin (23 days), Mike Massimino (23 days), Jerry Linenger (143 days), and Peggy Whitson (665 days).
#38. Best Events of WWII in Color (2019)
World Media Rights Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.7
– Votes: 9,007
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Documentary, History, War
“Best Events of WWII in Color” rehashes a number of the war’s biggest events utilizing (colorized) original footage. A number of the topics covered within the 10 episodes include things like Pearl Harbor, D-Day, Hiroshima, and the Liberation of Buchenwald.
#37. The Offer (2022)
Paramount Television Studios
– IMDb user rating:8.7
– Votes: 22,636
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Biography, Drama
“The Godfather” is a cornerstone of American cinema, and “The Offer”—a biographical drama— tells the story of how the film got here to be. Starring Miles Teller, Matthew Goode, Giovanni Ribisi, Colin Hanks, Dan Fogler, Juno Temple, and Burn Gorman, the show chronicles the hurdles the film faced in getting approval, starting production, and handling all of the interpersonal conflicts that arose on set and behind the scenes.
#36. Lonesome Dove (1989)
Motown Productions
– IMDb user rating:8.7
– Votes: 23,339
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Adventure, Drama, Western
On this Western, a pair of former Texas Rangers embark on a cattle drive to Montana, renewing their sense of adventure along the best way. The Latest York Times credits the show for revitalizing each the Western and miniseries genres.
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#35. It is a Sin (2021)
Red Production Company
– IMDb user rating:8.7
– Votes: 31,432
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Comedy, Drama, History
The five episodes of “It is a Sin” chronicle the lives of three gay men over a decade within the U.K. as they navigate their sexuality and life in the large city through the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis. The first actors were all lesser-known (Olly Alexander, Omari Douglas, Callum Scott Howells). Several larger names, like Neil Patrick Harris, Stephen Fry, and Tracy-Ann Oberman, fill supporting roles.
#34. The Century of the Self (2002)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.8
– Votes: 5,951
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Documentary,
This documentary series from British director Adam Curtis focuses on how the work of Sigmund Freud, Anna Freud, and “the daddy of PR,” Edward Bernays, was weaponized by governments and people in power. The series illustrates how these revolutionary advances in psychology shifted culture from needs-based to desires-based, which created the consumerist, capitalist societies we live in today.
#33. Over the Garden Wall (2014)
Cartoon Network Studios
– IMDb user rating:8.8
– Votes: 56,015
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Animation, Short, Adventure
The plot of this animated miniseries involves two half-brothers who discover peculiar and fantastical things during an adventure through a mysterious forest. Stunning visuals and a surprisingly complex storyline made watching “Over the Garden Wall” a winning experience for audiences.
#32. Pride and Prejudice (1995)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.8
– Votes: 85,052
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Drama, Romance
This cult-favorite miniseries focuses on the love story between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy as they overcome differences in social standing in high society. A scene featuring Mr. Darcy, played by Colin Firth, in a wet shirt has gone down in history as “one of the unforgettable moments in British TV,” in response to Fiachra Gibbons of The Guardian.
#31. I, Claudius (1976)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:8.9
– Votes: 17,649
– Rating: Not Rated
– Genre(s): Biography, Drama, History
“I, Claudius” dives into the history of the Roman Empire through the narrations of Emperor Claudius from 24 B.C. to A.D. 54. Jace Lacob of the Day by day Beast called it “spellbinding” and “probably the greatest dramas ever to air on television.”
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#30. Das Boot (1985)
Bavaria Film
– IMDb user rating:8.9
– Votes: 30,321
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama, War
“Das Boot” tells the story of a German U-boat crew on a patrol mission at the start of World War II. It captures the claustrophobia of living on a U-boat with intense realism.
#29. When They See Us (2019)
ARRAY Filmworks
– IMDb user rating:8.9
– Votes: 120,478
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Biography, Crime, Drama
“When They See Us” is a criminal offense miniseries that centers on the case of the Central Park Five—a gaggle of sweet sixteen boys who were falsely prosecuted for allegedly raping and assaulting a jogger in Latest York City in 1989. The 4 episodes “chronicle an epic legal failure and help to revive a way of the lads as individuals,” in response to The Hollywood Reporter’s Daniel Fienberg.
#28. The Other Me (2019)
Blonde Audiovisual Productions
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 5,255
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Mystery
This Greek series follows an eccentric criminology professor tasked with helping the police solve a series of strange murders. While not a direct sequel, the show brings back most of the characters from the 2016 film of the identical name. Sotiris Tsafoulias directed each projects.
#27. The War (2007)
Florentine Movies
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 5,313
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Documentary, History, War
One more WWII-focused miniseries, “The War” tells the story of history’s biggest conflict through the lens of 4 small American towns. Several real-life veterans provide source material, and a handful of famous actors (including Tom Hanks and Samuel L. Jackson) lend their voices to the extra written source material, bringing it to life in a recent way.
#26. Apocalypse: The Second World War (2009)
CC&C Clarke Costelle & Cie
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 12,619
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Documentary, History, War
In six episodes, this French documentary about World War II covers the rise of Nazism through the give up of Japan. Its use of actual footage helps viewers see what the war was like through the eyes of reporters, soldiers, members of the Resistance, and on a regular basis people.
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#25. Africa (2013)
BBC Bristol
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 16,099
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
It took 4 years and a few 2,000 hours of footage for the BBC to finish “Africa,” a miniseries examining the continent’s wildlife. In stunning visuals, it features rarely filmed animal behavior, resembling white-necked rockfowl constructing nests.
#24. The Beatles: Get Back (2021)
Walt Disney Pictures
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 22,349
– Rating: PG-13
– Genre(s): Documentary, Biography, Music
Peter Jackson directed this miniseries in regards to the making of The Beatles’ “Let It Be” album. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono, and Olivia Harrison co-produced the nearly eight-hour show, utilizing footage from a never-finished documentary filmed while the band was making the album.
#23. Dekalog (1989–1990)
Sender Freies Berlin (SFB)
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 25,745
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama
“Dekalog” dives into the moral dilemmas faced by residents of a housing project in Poland through the Nineteen Eighties through 10 one-hour episodes, each inspired by the Ten Commandments. Robert Fulford of The National Post called it “the best dramatic work ever done specifically for television.”
#22. Human Planet (2011)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 26,402
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
While other BBC nature documentaries concentrate on where the animals live, “Human Planet” takes a documentary-style approach to human habitats. The filmmakers shot footage in around 40 countries, including a number of the most far-flung places on Earth. The miniseries has since faced criticism for “editorial breaches,” causing BBC to withdraw the series from distribution.
#21. Frozen Planet (2011–2012)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 30,631
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
From the producers behind “Planet Earth” and “The Blue Planet,” “Frozen Planet” is a nature documentary miniseries that appears at life in probably the most frigid places on the planet. It was acclaimed for its visual depiction of climate change and the way it affects glaciers and ice shelves.
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#20. The Blue Planet (2001)
ARD (Arbeitsgemeinschaft der öffentlich-rechtlichen Rundfunkanstalten der Bundesrepublik Deutschland)
– IMDb user rating:9
– Votes: 39,705
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Documentary
“Blue Planet” describes itself as “the first-ever comprehensive series on the natural history of the world’s oceans.” Each of the series’ eight episodes dives into a distinct aspect of marine life, from the deepest, unexplored depths to the dying coral reefs.
#19. Cosmos: Possible Worlds (2020)
Cosmos Studios
– IMDb user rating:9.1
– Votes: 6,517
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
A follow-up to “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey,” “Cosmos: Possible Worlds” explores lost worlds, worlds yet to return, and the assorted worlds humans may inhabit far, far in the long run. Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts the show, which Seth McFarlane co-produced.
#18. The Civil War (1990)
American Documentaries Inc.
– IMDb user rating:9.1
– Votes: 16,593
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Documentary, History, War
Ken Burns’ iconic documentary miniseries “The Civil War” received a bunch of awards, including nods from the Emmys, the Peabody Awards, and Television Critics Awards for its skillful retelling of the events of the American Civil War. It helped popularize the film technique often known as the Ken Burns effect, which involves panning and zooming on still images to create a way of movement for video production.
#17. The Vietnam War (2017)
Florentine Movies
– IMDb user rating:9.1
– Votes: 24,794
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Documentary, History, War
This 18-hour miniseries by renowned filmmaker Ken Burns shares firsthand accounts of people that fought within the Vietnam War, in addition to those that opposed it. “The Vietnam War” offers a refreshing and sobering have a look at one in all the darkest chapters in U.S. history.
#16. Life (2009)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:9.1
– Votes: 40,987
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Documentary
“Life,” a documentary miniseries by David Attenborough and a legendary team of filmmakers depicts a number of the strangest behaviors of Earth’s species in all their glory. It allows audiences to see macaques bathing within the Japanese Alps, an ibex escaping a predatory fox near the Dead Sea, and ragged-tooth sharks feeding on sardines off the coast of South Africa.
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#15. Persona (2018)
AY Yapim
– IMDb user rating:9.1
– Votes: 41,150
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Mystery
A person with Alzheimer’s disease and the one female officer in his city’s homicide unit cross paths on this twisty Turkish crime drama. Critics praised the series’ production values, calling it a number of the finest in Turkish TV history.
#14. TVF Pitchers (2015)
Contagious Online Media Network
– IMDb user rating:9.1
– Votes: 67,381
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Comedy, Drama
This miniseries has earned a cult following for its story of the successes and challenges experienced by young entrepreneurs who leave their 9-to-5 jobs to try and create a successful startup. The story draws inspiration from the HBO series “Silicon Valley,” but adapts it for an Indian audience.
#13. The Last Dance (2020)
ESPN Movies
– IMDb user rating:9.1
– Votes: 121,477
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Documentary, Biography, History
“The Last Dance” traces the profession of basketball great Michael Jordan and the legendary Nineteen Nineties Chicago Bulls, featuring previously unaired footage. The compelling documentary series includes interviews with a wide range of NBA stars, including Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman.
#12. A Summer Story (2019–2021)
Daring Ones Movies
– IMDb user rating:9.2
– Votes: 5,738
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Drama
Set throughout two summers, “A Summer Story” follows an Indian American girl who, upon visiting Bombay for the primary time, befriends three local boys. The series is filmed, edited, and written by Shivam Jemini, who also stars within the show.
#11. The Beatles Anthology (1995–1996)
Apple Corps
– IMDb user rating:9.2
– Votes: 9,127
– Rating: TV-14
– Genre(s): Documentary, Music
The Fab 4 teamed up for “The Beatles Anthology,” an autobiographical documentary miniseries that traces the journey the band through archival footage. It allowed fans of the Beatles to see previously unreleased performances and listen to two recent songs.
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#10. Seven Worlds One Planet (2019)
BBC Studios
– IMDb user rating:9.3
– Votes: 5,455
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
David Attenborough narrates this BBC nature series that highlights the unique wildlife on each of the Earth’s seven continents. The show, admittedly huge in scope, required greater than 1,500 individuals who captured footage in 41 countries over 1,794 days to finish.
#9. Blue Planet II (2017–2022)
BBC Natural History Unit (NHU)
– IMDb user rating:9.3
– Votes: 41,096
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Documentary
A follow-up to 2001’s “The Blue Planet,” this nature documentary miniseries sent filmmakers on a years-long mission involving 125 expeditions to capture life under the ocean. It earned recognition for its wealthy cinematography and unique footage of species and behavior rarely shown on television.
#8. Cosmos (1980)
KCET
– IMDb user rating:9.3
– Votes: 41,175
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
The primary installation within the “Cosmos” series, this 13-episode show tackles a few of science’s hottest questions: What’s the origin of life? How big is space? Do aliens exist? Narrated by Carl Sagan, who also helped write the script, the show was a runaway success when it first aired.
#7. Our Planet (2019)
Silverback Movies
– IMDb user rating:9.3
– Votes: 43,487
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Documentary
Netflix’s first nature documentary, “Our Planet,” was an quick hit with fans of comparable miniseries, like “Frozen Planet” and “The Blue Planet,” when it debuted in 2019. The conservation-focused miniseries, which takes a detailed have a look at the impact of humans on the environment, was on target to be streamed by 25 million households inside the first month of hitting the Netflix library.
#6. Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey (2014)
Cosmos Studios
– IMDb user rating:9.3
– Votes: 121,775
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts this follow-up to the 1980 “Cosmos,” which explores the past, present, and way forward for the universe. Identical to its predecessor, the miniseries was critically acclaimed and nominated for a lot of awards.
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#5. Planet Earth (2006)
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
– IMDb user rating:9.4
– Votes: 209,172
– Rating: TV-PG
– Genre(s): Documentary
This $10-million BBC nature documentary series sent 20 camera crews on a global journey to film life on Earth, garnering huge audiences and significant acclaim. The documentary was among the many earliest nature series shot in high-definition.
#4. Band of Brothers (2001)
DreamWorks
– IMDb user rating:9.4
– Votes: 464,566
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama, History, War
Created by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, HBO’s “Band of Brothers” used interviews with members of the real-life Easy Company to share the story of the exceptionally brave 506th Regiment of the one hundred and first Airborne Division of the U.S. Army during World War II. The miniseries strikes a balance between “the best of heroism with the violence and terror of battle,” in response to Caryn James of The Latest York Times.
#3. Chernobyl (2019)
Home Box Office (HBO)
– IMDb user rating:9.4
– Votes: 740,320
– Rating: TV-MA
– Genre(s): Drama, History, Thriller
This historical drama tells the story of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster and the efforts to scrub up the world. It offers a thought-provoking portrayal of the risks of dishonest leaders and abuse of authority.
#2. The Godfather Saga (1977)
Michael Ochs Archives // Getty Images
– IMDb user rating:9.5
– Votes: 5,724
– Rating: null
– Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Thriller
“The Godfather Saga” is a miniseries that mixes “The Godfather” and “The Godfather Part II.” The series incorporates no recent material, but as a substitute combines the present movies and re-edits them in chronological order for TV audiences.
#1. Planet Earth II (2016)
BBC Natural History Unit (NHU)
– IMDb user rating:9.5
– Votes: 144,292
– Rating: TV-G
– Genre(s): Documentary
The highly anticipated follow-up to 2006’s “Planet Earth” explores the changes which have occurred in Earth’s many habitats, including mountains, cities, grasslands, and jungles, over the past 10 years. It brings viewers near fragile wilderness settings and the fascinating creatures who call it home.
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