It’s a big world out there, and even though we are stuck at home, there are plenty of ways to feel transported to a different place. Go beyond the usual Hollywood fare and you’ll find great stories from other countries. But don’t expect another Emily in Paris. From a supernatural retelling of the French revolution to a complex time travelling German drama, these shows on Netflix are our top picks to watch and expand your horizons.
Barbarians
Season 1 (6 episodes)
Language: German and Latin
What it is about: Unlike other historical action-dramas where you have characters speaking “Roman British”, this show stands out for its use of German and Latin, languages spoken by the Germanic tribes and invading Roman army of the time (specifically 9 A.D.). Add epic bloody battles, political drama and a gritty backdrop, and you’ll get a gripping slice of ancient German history.
Dark
Seasons 1-3 (26 episodes)
Language: German
What it is about: This sci-fi series is a suspenseful time travelling thriller that begins with the disappearance of two children in a small German town. Be prepared for a mind-boggling mystery with a complex web of characters spanning three generations and plenty of twists.
Money Heist
Seasons 1-4 (38 episodes)
Language: Spanish
What it is about: Netflix has finished airing the fourth season of this cult series, with the fifth on the way. The show opens with an outrageous plan by a mysterious criminal mastermind who recruits eight thieves to steal 2.4 billion euros from the Royal Mint of Spain. Their red overalls and Salvador Dali masks have already become a part of pop culture.
La Revolution
Season 1 (8 episodes)
Language: French
What it is about: You’ve probably heard about the French revolution, a tumultuous period in France’s history that transformed the country’s political landscape. Many of the aristocracy, including King Louis XVI, met their death by guillotine in response to revolutionary fervour. This show reimagines the events leading to the revolution, starting with a mysterious disease that causes the infected to attack (and eat) other people. Hint: If you like zombie shows, this is for you.
Record of Youth
Season 1 (16 episodes)
Language: Korean
What it is about: The world of fashion and entertainment may not be as glamorous as it seems, according to this K-drama. It features three 20-something, good-looking leads trying to navigate the industry and overcoming obstacles to find success and fame. It stars Park Bo-Gum as a struggling model-actor, Park So-Dam (best known for her performance in the Oscar-winning movie, Parasite) as a makeup artist, and Byeon Woo-seok as another up-and-coming actor.
