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TV’s Best Binge: The Hidden Gems of Netflix

Marshall, Queen Charlotte, Girlfriends and missing are some of the movies and series you’ll find on the streaming giant.

(L to R) India Amarteifio as Young Queen Charlotte, Corey Mylchreest as Young King George in Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. Photo: Liam Daniel/Netflix

Netflix is the wise old grandfather of the streaming game. For a very long time, it had the space all to itself, so it still has a very deep bench of titles to choose from. It also has an expansive international selection. Its home page can be difficult to navigate at times, so we’ve made it easy on you by putting together a handy list of the streamer’s hidden gems.

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Dominique Thorne Reveals Why She Almost Passed on <em>Ironheart</em>
Dominique Thorne Reveals Why She Almost Passed on <em>Ironheart</em>

Raising Dion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnORv97hCDM

This coming-of-age superhero story is a captivating series about a mother trying to nurture and protect her son as he develops superpowers.

Loving

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SL_RGN5u8U

This true story of Richard and Mildred Loving’s fight to have their interracial marriage legally recognized features such beautiful performances from Ruth Negga and Joel Edgerton, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the emotions of their romance.

Get On Up

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fe6XGRd6GWE

What couldn’t Chadwick Boseman do? It takes a truly special talent to handle the range of James Brown, Jackie Robinson and T’Challa.

Quincy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WT7gn6nhsAc

You’d be hard pressed to find someone who’s lived a more fascinating life than music legend Quincy Jones. In this captivating documentary co-directed by his daughter, Rashida Jones, he explores his extraordinary life and career.

Marshall

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vx6_2gdeasM

Chadwick Boseman spent his career honoring our greatest heroes with his extraordinary talent. What stands out here is the understated way he commands attention every second he’s on screen. He’s particularly compelling in the quiet moments, because he knows that’s where the story is most interesting.

Bill Russell: Legend

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48rvcYv0ohA

Bill Russell was a pioneer who was ahead of his time. The nine-tim champion and Hall of Famer recounts his unforgettable career and is celebrated by modern stars like Shaquille O’Neal; Steph Curry; Magic Johnson; and Chris Paul.

The Black Godfather

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp_MsziYf4s

There is no part of Black culture that Clarence Avant didn’t elevate. The 2019 documentary also highlights his impact on music, film and politics with appearances from former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, Vice President Kamala Harris, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.

The Woman King

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSOiaMVZfkQ

If you somehow missed Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch and John Boyega in the epic story of the Agojie warriors, stop what you’re doing right now and go watch it. Seeing all these badass Black women in one movie is a life-changing call to action.

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOynqTO_LUI

Considering its success, Queen Charlotte isn’t exactly a hidden gem. But since Charlotte and George’s love story is still living rent free in my head at all times, I’m telling everyone about it.

Girlfriends

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USlluplv17I

I don’t care if it’s been 15 years, I will never get over Joan and the girls not getting a proper send off.

Insecure

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJSw7wYHY7g

Issa, Molly, Tiffany and Kelli are such authentic characters, when you watch this comedy, it’s like you’re actually hanging out with friends. Nothing gets you through the bad times like a night with the girls.

All American

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpqyFBd6rlE

Checking in on the overly dramatic lives of these southern California teenagers will make you feel better about your own youth.

High on the Hog

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wsEdxt1Ico

You cannot explore Black history without discussing food. This critically-acclaimed docuseries chronicles the origins of some of our most treasured food, as well as why it’s such an essential part of our culture.

Lupin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpLyzU0tk80

Omar Sy is a captivating lead in this French thriller about a thief who finds himself evading police and criminals alike as he builds a following of supporters. If you like heist stories and mysteries, this is definitely your jam.

missing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4ujFNEv74M

Storm Reid’s June uses the internet to frantically search for her missing mother in this fast-paced mystery. The majority of the movie takes place on phone and computer screens making the viewer feel like they’re in on the search.

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