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Discovering underrated shows that turn out to be excellent is one of the most satisfying feelings for a pop culture enthusiast. Over the years, there has been a flood of well-made shows, and sometimes, many of these shows slip under the radar, even though they have impressive writing, strong performances, and unique plots. Creating any show takes a lot of effort, and when creators create a show with a lot of love and care and it does not get popular, it feels like a heartbreak. Therefore, it is important that even underrated shows are given their chance to shine once again. Here is a list of 10 underrated shows that viewers can dive into immediately.
Miracle Workers, Fringe, and other underrated shows that are a must-watch
1. Bates Motel
Based on the characters from the 1959 novel by Robert Bloch, this psychological horror drama series is developed by Carlton Cuse, Kerry Ehrin, and Anthony Cipriano. Starring Vera Farmiga, Freddie Highmore, and others, the show is a prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 movie and is one of the must-watch underrated shows. The series focuses on the life of Norman Bates (Highmore) and his mother, Norma (Farmiga), before the events of the movie. The show has a suspenseful atmosphere and dives deep into the psyche of Norman Bates as he descends into insanity and Norma tries her best to protect her son. Full of twists and turns and offering complex character arcs, this is one show that you don’t want to miss. The show has received praise for its performances and atmosphere, and viewers who loved the movie should definitely watch such underrated shows.
2. Clean Slate
Created by Laverne Cox, George Wallace, and Dan Ewen, this sitcom is one of the must-watch underrated shows that should be watched by all. The show features Laverne Cox, who portrays the role of Desiree. Desiree is a 40-something who returns to her small town in Alabama after 23 years away. As she reunites with her father, she also battles anxieties as her father, Harry, is excited to reunite with his son, not knowing that his son is now a proud trans woman, Desiree. The series is a light-hearted yet poignant and thought-provoking watch. As Harry comes to terms with his daughter’s new identity, Desiree also tries to get used to living in the South. Even though the show was cancelled before its time, viewers can enjoy one season of such underrated shows that are both refreshing and heartfelt.
3. Baskets
Stories about jokers and clowns seem to have a hold on filmmakers and showmakers. And this was the case with this comedy-drama series created by Louis CK, Zach Galifianakis, and Jonathan Krisel. Galifianakis stars as Chip Baskets, who is a failed professional clown in Paris. Thereafter, he decides to become a local rodeo clown in Bakersfield, California. Chip also has a twin brother, Dale Baskets, who is also portrayed by Galifianakis. It is one of the most underrated shows, as it is zany, quirky, and different than the over-the-top humor that Galifianakis is usually known for. There is sly but awkward humor, and its writing is impressive and extremely unique, with surrealist elements. Therefore, viewers can go into this show expecting the unexpected. However, it is one of those underrated shows that needs to be given a try. And as this list features a compilation of underrated shows, this one had to be on the list.
4. Prime Target
Starring Leo Woodall, Stepehen Rea, and others, this thriller series is created by Steve Thompson and directed by Brady Hood. The show is about Edward Brooks (Woodall), who analyzes prime numbers at Cambridge University and is a mathematical genius. However, he is being monitored by NSA agents who want to keep him safe from evil forces who could exploit him. Soon enough, he finds himself being partnered with one of the NSA agents and going on an adventure to continue his research while staying away from enemy forces. The show is compelling and exciting and is one of the underrated shows. Even when the premise feels lofty, the show stays grounded and has high-octane action and cerebral moments as well. The show is a great, fun addition for all those who are on the lookout for underrated shows, and the show has just one season that can be binge-watched quickly.
5. Miracle Workers
Based on the 2012 novel and short story by Simon Rich, this anthology comedy series is also created by Rich. Starring Daniel Radcliffe, Karan Soni, Jon Bass, and others, the show focuses on an ensemble cast that is strewn across various time periods and settings and causes havoc wherever they go. The show is unpredictable and hilarious and has a star-studded cast that makes it one of the must-watch underrated shows. Each season of the show is a self-contained story that is set in a different place and time. Further, there are lots of quirks and hijinks, as the show has a lot of physical comedy. The plot is solid and intriguing, and the performances by the cast are top-notch. Therefore, this is one of those underrated shows that might have slipped under the radar but needs to make a comeback now.
6. Mythic Quest
Created by Charlie Day, Megan Ganz, and Rob McElhenney, this comedy series also stars McElhenney, Ashly Burch, and others. The show focuses on a group of employees at a fictional video game studio and their journey as they create the popular titular game. The game is run by the creator and creative director, Ian Grimm (McElhenney). The show focuses on how Ian leads his team as everyone tries to expand the game and make it better. It is one of the underrated shows, as it has an inventive premise, witty dialogues, and heartfelt characters. Even though Ian is egotistical, the rest of the employees are complex for a comedy series. It even has compelling relationship dynamics and is a unique workplace comedy. Viewers who want to watch underrated shows about character-driven narratives and strong writing must not skip this one.
7. Better Things
Starring Pamela Adlon, Mikey Madison, and others, this comedy drama show is created by Adlon and Louis C.K. One of the critically acclaimed underrated shows, the series is about a divorced actress, Samantha or Sam (Adlon), who raises her three daughters on her own. The show is raw, fresh, and bursting with energy. Each of Sam’s three daughters has a different personality, as one is rebellious, one is sweet-hearted, and one is mature. The antics between all four of them are the highlight of the series, and the show is semi-biographical, based on the life of Adlon. From mother-daughter relationships to the emotional toll of being a single mother, the show raises important topics and presents them with nuance. From the big moments in the show to the small, the writing is strong and compelling. Therefore, it is one of the must-watch underrated shows.
8. Grosse Pointe Garden Society
Who would have thought that the humble members of a suburban gardening club would find themselves in the midst of a murder conspiracy! With an inventive premise like that, it is a shame that this thriller drama series has slipped under the radar and is one of the underrated shows. Starring capable actors like Melissa Fumero, Aja Naomi King, and others, the show focuses on four members of the said gardening club, who live in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, and share a dark secret. The show is full of twists and turns, and even though the show has been unable to build a fan following, it is time that the show is given some love. The excellent star cast offers compelling performances, and therefore, it is one of the underrated shows that should be given a go. And with just one season currently, it is a quick and easy watch.
9. Fringe
Created by JJ Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci, this sci-fi series features Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble, and others. The show is about an FBI agent, Olivia (Torv); a genius but quirky scientist, Walter (Noble); and his son with his own quirks, Peter (Jackson), who become members of a fringe division of the FBI. The trio must use fringe science to investigate a series of unexplained phenomena. Even though the show has developed a cult following, it is still one of the underrated shows. From parallel universes to alternate timelines, the show covers unique topics and has unconventional storytelling. The show has surrealist elements and is one of the most creative, underrated shows. The show questions the boundaries of reality and belief and has inventive plot devices. With strong performances from the trio and riveting stories, this is a must-watch.
10. Hannibal
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Another one of those underrated shows that could not create a fan following during its run but is finally getting its credit through cult viewers. Created by Bryan Fuller and based on the characters from Thomas Harris’ novels, this psychological horror and thriller series features Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, and others. The show is about the relationship between an FBI investigator, Will Graham (Dancy), and the forensic psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mikkelsen), who is cannibalistic but a genius. The show focuses on the complex and twisted relationship between the two and is a must-watch for viewers who like shows with a cat-and-mouse chase. The show is sophisticated and bone-chilling and has stellar performances. It even has gory and graphic scenes that make it a must-watch for all those who love that kind of stuff. The show is atmospheric, it has complex characters, and the show blends horror and magnificence. Captivating and ingenious, it is one of the must-watch underrated shows.
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