Netflix is one of the biggest streaming services in the world and has become known for its incredible original movies and shows. It's launched plenty of recognizable series across the years, from numerous genres. While they may not always be unique ideas and perhaps come from alternative material, they brought the concepts themselves to a much larger audience.
These franchises have potential far into the future and it wouldn't be surprising to see them return in some fashion, perhaps evolving into spin-offs. These shows and films have become the currency of Netflix, with the intellectual properties getting universally recognized for their humor, action, or over-the-top visuals.
Arcadia (2016-2021)
One of the many animated series that Netflix has to offer, the show is from DreamWorks and comes from the mind of the legendary director and creator, Guillermo del Toro. The Arcadia franchise is comprised of three main TV shows, each of which is set within the titular fictional world.
With magic, monsters, trolls, and daring heroes, there's a lot to unpack here. Despite being aimed at kids it's a universally beloved franchise that has quickly become one of the studio's most beloved properties. Perhaps what's most compelling is the overall arc of the franchise, as it moves from series to series, this world has evolved and its continuity has been taken into . It's also visually stunning!
Sex Education (2019-Present)
Sex Education is such a groundbreaking and sex-positive series. While it was aimed at a young adult audience, viewers of all ages have complimented the show on its exploration of complex themes and the fact that it's unafraid to tackle a wide range of topics head-on.
Its characters are hugely compelling and relatable, and while there is a great deal of dramatic tension amongst its scripts, it's absolutely hilarious. Netflix has demonstrated that it's capable of leading the charge on a more modern franchise that breaks the traditions of a genre.
Stranger Things (2016-Present)
Stranger Things was one of the series that helped Netflix really draw attention to itself, as it demonstrated the streaming service was capable of high stakes, fantasy action. The horror series has such a unique tone, thanks in part to its retro aesthetic and period setting.
The group of kids at the center of the thriller have certainly impressed thanks to the fantastic performers behind the role. The terrifying Upsidedown has also become a part of the mainstream lexicon, with the imagery of the gross monsters becoming instantly recgonisable. This is Netflix at its best in regards to taking risks.
Narcos (2015-2017)
Narcos. The show was universally loved thanks to its authentic portrayal of events and its intriguing version of Pablo Escobar. It's a franchise that was defined by its brilliant cast.
The genre itself is extremely popular at the moment, thanks to its gritty edge and take on reality. The series itself has already spawned the successful spin-off, Narcos: Mexico, which is just as intense. A real gift of the show is that it never overstayed its welcome, hitting three series, with episodes that were always paced perfectly. It told its narrative to its completion in the best way possible.
The Umbrella Academy (2019-Present)
The Umbrella Academy was previously a comic book series by Gerard Way and illustrated by Gabriel Bá. It was published by Dark Horse Comics and enjoyed a lot of success. It's fair to say though that as a franchise it was truly launched when it was brought to Netflix.
It hit the mainstream thanks to the adaptation of the incredible material. Following the source material closely, this story about babies born across the world with special gifts was an unexpected narrative, but one filmed with such an erratic style. The charm of the show is its unexpected visuals, great cast, and sci-fi/superhero elements! It's now even gearing up for its third season!
The Kissing Booth (2018-2021)
The Kissing Booth might not be for everyone, but it manages to tick every box in the romcom genre. It's built up a loyal following and there are now three entries into this franchise. This kind of film is really the bread and butter of Netflix, as they try to capitalize on these trashy kinds of flicks.
It's a lot of fun, with a charming group of leads and a few humorous scripts. It doesn't set the genre ablaze, but it does deliver a satisfying story that viewers of all ages are enjoying. Although it looks to be over, for now, it shows that Netflix could actually compete with the kinds of teen films found on Disney Channel.
GLOW (2017-2019)
GLOW was partially based on a real story of a pro-wrestling promotion set up to highlight the talents of its female competitors. The series evolved into something more though, as the relationships between this team of performers developed and they struggled to make it big time.
This show was unfairly canceled before it could conclude its arc and it appeared that it was moving towards even more important narrative beats. Regardless, this is a feel-good show that appealed thanks to its accurate depiction of wrestling and the powerful women that are mastering the sport.
Bridgerton (2020-Present)
Bridgerton was originally a series of books by Julia Quinn, but the franchise has taken on a life of its own ever since the first season. The period piece setting and elegant costuming and script design have really appealed to audiences, who want to step into another era.
The second season has continued to be so detail-focused, but what really draws in viewers is all the romantic drama that drives the tension of the piece. With spin-offs and sequels on the way, it arguably has become one of the largest projects Netflix ever launched.
Ozark (2017-2022)
Much like Ozark really follows the life of a man who gets into the criminal underworld and is immediately in over his head. But it's a fantastic character study of how someone grows into that life and fully takes on the dangers and responsibilities.
The result is a tense drama, which can be slow at times, but builds and builds, leading to some incredible scenes of violence and shocking reveals. It's not comparable to anything else Netflix has produced and its successes have demonstrated that the streaming service has a genuine hit on its hands, that appeals to an audience perhaps not previously ed for.
Orange Is The New Black (2013-2019)
Orange Is The New Black is one of the earliest shows on Netflix to demonstrate that the streaming platform could create a series that would be a must-watch, despite its binging style of release. It was television, with a great cast of characters and an interesting concept.
With plenty of seasons for fans to dive into, this show gave a realistic look inside of a female prison. The power politics, the relationships, friendships, and even the violent outbursts were all portrayed in the most authentic of ways. It's still a wildly popular show and a major franchise under the streaming service's belt.