When it comes to the best limited series, concision is a strength. These shows deliver full stories in just a few episodes, making them ideal for a weekend binge. Whether you’re into gripping true crime, intense drama, or witty comedy, this list of the best limited series proves that less can indeed be more.
9. Godless
Set in a lawless Western town run entirely by women, Godless mixes traditional Western tropes with modern storytelling. The cinematography is breathtaking, and the performances from Michelle Dockery and Jeff Daniels are compelling throughout. It’s a hidden gem among the best limited series to binge.
Where to watch: Netflix
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8. The English
This visually stunning Western piece centers on a woman seeking revenge in 1890s America. Blending genre elements with a smooth pace and strong character work, The English is a haunting and poetic take on frontier justice.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
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7. When They See Us
Ava DuVernay’s limited series recounts the real-life story of the Central Park Five, wrongfully convicted of a crime they didn’t commit. The performances are deeply moving, and the storytelling is both heart-wrenching and urgent, earning it a place among the best limited series in recent history.
Where to watch: Netflix
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6. Sharp Objects
This psychological thriller, based on Gillian Flynn’s novel, stars Amy Adams as a journalist confronting trauma and secrets in her hometown. Sharp Objects blends mystery with emotional depth, resulting in an unsettling yet mesmerizing watch.
Where to watch: Max
5. Unorthodox
Based on a memoir, Unorthodox follows a young woman who flees her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn for a new life in Berlin. Told with quiet strength and touching visuals, it’s a powerful story about identity and self-liberation that is easily one of the best limited series you can finish in a weekend.
Where to watch: Netflix
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4. The Night Of
This crime drama dissects the American justice system through the eyes of a young man accused of murder. With layered storytelling and sharp commentary on race and class, The Night Of keeps viewers on edge from beginning to end.
Where to watch: Max
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3. Chernobyl
Chernobyl is a harrowing dramatization of the 1986 nuclear disaster and its aftermath. It combines chilling realism with intense cinematography, as it offers a devastating look at government failure and human bravery. It has become a standout among the best limited series for its historical depth and narrative power.
Where to watch: Max
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2. Maid
Inspired by a true story, Maid captures the emotional journey of a young mother escaping an abusive relationship and navigating poverty, work, and motherhood. Margaret Qualley delivers a standout performance in this honest portrayal of resilience.
Where to watch: Netflix
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1. The Queen’s Gambit
A global sensation, The Queen’s Gambit follows chess genius Beth Harmon as she rises through the ranks while battling addiction and personal demons. With a groundbreaking performance by Anya Taylor-Joy, this limited series redefined what sports dramas could be.
Where to watch: Netflix
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