If you’re searching for the best TV series to dive into, IMDb ratings can be a great guide. Here’s a list of the top 5 highest-rated series on IMDb that you should consider watching:
1. Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
- IMDb Rating: 9.5
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creators: Vince Gilligan
- Main Cast: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
- Plot Summary: “Breaking Bad” follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Partnering with former student Jesse Pinkman, Walter navigates the dangerous drug world while trying to secure his family’s financial future.
- Why Watch: Its compelling storyline, complex characters, and intense drama make it a must-watch. Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White is widely acclaimed and the series’ finale is considered one of the best in television history.
2. Chernobyl (2019)
- IMDb Rating: 9.4
- Genre: Drama, History, Thriller
- Creators: Craig Mazin
- Main Cast: Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Emily Watson
- Plot Summary: “Chernobyl” is a historical drama that recounts the catastrophic nuclear disaster of April 1986 and the ensuing cleanup efforts. It focuses on the stories of the people who tried to mitigate the damage and understand the causes of the explosion.
- Why Watch: The series is praised for its attention to detail, powerful performances, and the chilling depiction of the disaster’s aftermath. It’s an educational and gripping watch that provides a deep dive into a significant historical event.
3. Band of Brothers (2001)
- IMDb Rating: 9.4
- Genre: Drama, History, War
- Creators: Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg
- Main Cast: Scott Grimes, Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston
- Plot Summary: This miniseries follows Easy Company, part of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, from their training through their participation in key World War II battles. The story is based on the non-fiction book by Stephen E. Ambrose.
- Why Watch: With its realistic portrayal of wartime experiences, excellent character development, and emotional depth, “Band of Brothers” is a standout series. It’s both a tribute to the soldiers who fought and a gripping narrative.
4. The Wire (2002-2008)
- IMDb Rating: 9.3
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creators: David Simon
- Main Cast: Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Sonja Sohn
- Plot Summary: “The Wire” is set in Baltimore and examines various facets of the city, including the illegal drug trade, the education system, and the media. Each season focuses on a different institution and its relationship to law enforcement.
- Why Watch: Known for its realistic portrayal of society and institutional dysfunction, “The Wire” is critically acclaimed for its depth, character development, and storytelling. It offers a raw and honest look at urban life and its complexities.
5. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
- IMDb Rating: 9.2
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
- Creators: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
- Main Cast: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington
- Plot Summary: Based on George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels, “Game of Thrones” is a fantasy series set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos. It follows several noble families as they vie for control of the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms.
- Why Watch: Despite its controversial final season, “Game of Thrones” is renowned for its epic storytelling, complex characters, and stunning production values. The series has left a significant mark on pop culture and remains a favorite for its intrigue, battles, and political maneuvering.
These top-rated series have captivated audiences worldwide with their exceptional storytelling, memorable characters, and high production quality. Whether you’re in the mood for intense drama, historical events, or epic fantasy, these shows offer some of the best television experiences available.
Out of 5 series I have watched three.