The rise of international series on streaming platforms has transformed global TV consumption. No longer limited by language or region, audiences now enjoy stories from all corners of the world. Whether you’re into psychological thrillers, historical sagas, or intense family dramas, these shows prove that great TV transcends borders.
Here are 10 international series that you definitely need to add to your “must-watch” list.
10. Lupin
Inspired by the adventures of the gentleman thief Arsène Lupin, this modern French reimagining stars Omar Sy as a charismatic master of disguise. With heists, heartfelt motivation, and sharp commentary, Lupin is both entertaining and politically resonant, proof that international series can be both fun and meaningful.
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9. The Bridge
One of the defining international series in the crime genre, The Bridge begins with a body found exactly on the border between Sweden and Denmark, which sparks a joint investigation. With a brilliant lead detective and eerie atmosphere, it helped spark the “Nordic Noir” craze and influenced crime shows globally.
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8. Giri/Haji
This cross-cultural crime thriller spans London and Tokyo, telling the story of a Japanese detective searching for his brother, believed to be dead. Giri/Haji (Duty/Shame) balances stylized violence with emotional storytelling and explores themes of honor, guilt, and family. Its cinematic visuals and strong performances make it a standout.
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7. Borgen
Centered on Denmark’s first female prime minister, this gripping political drama combines personal and professional dilemmas with understated realism. It’s an excellent introduction to Nordic drama that manages to be both cerebral and emotionally resonant.
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6. Kingdom
Blending historical drama with zombie horror, Kingdom offers a unique twist on both genres. Set in medieval Korea during a mysterious plague, it explores power struggles within the royal court alongside visceral undead action. The production design is lush, the pacing is addictive, and it is definitely one of the most compelling international series.
5. Sacred Games
One of India’s first major streaming successes, Sacred Games follows a Mumbai cop drawn into a criminal conspiracy. With realistic storytelling and nonlinear timelines, the series combines religious symbolism, political intrigue, and gangster drama. It’s a gripping introduction to the vast potential of Indian TV.
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4. Call My Agent!
France delivers pure charm with Call My Agent! (Dix Pour Cent), a dramedy set inside a Parisian talent agency. Each episode features real-life French celebrities playing fictionalized versions of themselves, offering a smart and satirical peek behind the scenes of show business. It’s witty, heartwarming, and extremely binge-worthy.
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3. Dark
Germany’s Dark is one of the most intricately plotted sci-fi dramas ever made. Set in a small town plagued by mysterious disappearances and time travel paradoxes, the series dives deep into generational trauma and existential dread. With its moody atmosphere and thought-provoking twists, Dark has become a standout among international series.
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2. Squid Game
Few shows have had the cultural impact of South Korea’s Squid Game. This brutal survival drama critiques capitalism through a deadly competition where contestants face children’s games with fatal consequences. Creatively shot and deeply unsettling, it broke global streaming records and redefined what an international series could achieve.
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1. Money Heist
This Spanish heist drama became a worldwide phenomenon for good reason. With a mastermind known as “The Professor” leading a group of misfit criminals to rob the Royal Mint of Spain, Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) blends suspense with surprising emotional depth. The complex characters and cliffhanger-packed episodes make it binge-worthy from start to finish.
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