10 Underrated Apple TV+ Shows You Must Watch Now

by

You can always expect top-tier programming when it comes to Apple TV+. They prioritize quality over quantity, so you can trust that their offerings will rarely disappoint. Some of their standout shows that have attracted widespread acclaim and viewership include Ted Lasso, Servant, Shrinking, The Morning Show, and Severance. The latter saw a massive response with its second season finale, making it Apple TV+’s most-watched television series to date.

More contemporary hit shows on this platform feature Seth Rogen’s “The Studio” and “Your Friends and Neighbors,” starring Jon Hamm. This streaming service is also gaining fame as a center for science fiction productions, offering a variety of options within the genre.

Although there are some standout productions on it, Apple TV+ has a number of original shows that have gone unnoticed and underappreciated. It appears that while they excel at creating TV series, their marketing efforts might need improvement. Here is a list of the 10 most overlooked programs available on this streaming service, which you may not have watched yet.

This version aims to convey the same idea in simpler language and with a more conversational tone, making it easier for readers to understand.

10
‘Calls’ (2021)

Calls is an intriguing series that stands out among other streaming shows due to its unique nature. Unlike traditional visual content, this nine-episode show presents wavelengths and text captions that synchronize with the audio, rather than conventional video. The plot unfolds through a collection of seemingly disconnected phone call conversations, each episode telling a different tale that eventually intertwines into a chilling mystery. To fully appreciate it, approach it without prior knowledge or expectations – avoid reading about it!

A Strangely Immersive and Terrifying Show

Under the direction of Fede Álvarez (known for movies like ‘Don’t Breathe’ and ‘Alien: Romulus’), this innovative production boasts an impressive ensemble voice cast that includes Pedro Pascal, Aubrey Plaza, Rosario Dawson, Clancy Brown, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Edi Patterson. The series ‘Calls’, right from its first episode, hooks you in deep and refuses to let go. Given each episode is only around 13 to 21 minutes long, you’ll find yourself glued to your seat until you finish devouring the entire series.

9
‘Foundation’ (2021 – Present)

As a devoted cinephile with a passion for sci-fi, I can confidently say that Apple TV+ has emerged as a go-to platform for this genre, showcasing captivating productions such as “Severance,” “Silo,” and “For All Mankind.” While these shows have undeniably generated buzz, they’ve overshadowed other equally impressive sci-fi series on the platform. One such gem is “Foundation,” which, despite a dedicated fan base, remains relatively unnoticed by many.

Based on a series of stories written between 1951 and 1993 by the legendary science fiction author Isaac Asimov, “Foundation” is a smart and exhilarating series that deserves more recognition.

A Sci-Fi Epic That Should Be on Your List

The narrative unfolds as a intricate tale spanning across the galaxy, where various people reside under the authority of the Galactic Empire, which has been ruled by the Cleons, multiple generations of emperors cloned from the same man, for millennia. However, when Dr. Hari Seldon, a revolutionary psychohistorian, foresees doom for humanity unless imperial cloning ceases, he is exiled to the planet Terminus together with Gaal Dornick, a mathematical genius. On this planet, they establish the Foundation, an institution and network that safeguard knowledge and aim to rebuild civilization.

This series delves into the ongoing battles between the Empire and the Foundation, while also showcasing the Empire’s efforts to maintain control through suppression of opposition and uprisings. The Foundation, in this visual masterpiece, boasts an unparalleled scope of world-building that is truly awe-inspiring.

8
‘Acapulco’ (2021 – Present)

Acapulco is an entertaining series that uses a mix of Spanish and English, or Spanglish, to tell the story of Maximo Gallardo Ramos’ rise from rags to riches. The narrative switches between past and present. The character portrayed by Mexican legend Eugenio Derbez is a hotel tycoon living in Malibu, California at the moment. However, in the 1980s, he was a young man working for Las Colinas resort in Acapulco, Mexico.

A Vibrant, Warm, Charming Story

Acapulco is a comedy hidden gem on Apple TV+ and has been praised as being just as worthy of attention as Ted Lasso. This captivating series offers an engaging plot, powerful acting, and quality soap opera drama that will leave you eager for more. With its heartwarming themes of family, love, and redemption, Acapulco is a show that resonates deeply. The fact that it authentically represents Mexican culture without compromising its narrative is commendable. As the series has just been renewed for its fourth and final season, now is the ideal time to get up to speed.

7
‘Pachinko’ (2022 – Present)

Despite receiving critical praise, the exceptional series ‘Pachinko’ hasn’t garnered the audience attention it truly merits. Based on Min Jin Lee’s New York Times best-selling novel, ‘Pachinko’ is a sprawling tale of resilience that chronicles the story of a Korean family from 1915 to 1989. The narrative isn’t linear but follows their journey across Korea, Japan, and America. The central characters are Sunja, played as a child by Yu-na, a young woman by Kim Min-ha, and an old woman by Youn Yuh-jung, who is the family matriarch. Additionally, the story follows Solomon, portrayed by Jin Ha, who was raised in Japan but studied in America and is Sunja’s grandson.

One of Apple TV+’s Greatest

The drama series, titled “Pachinko,” portrays the hardships Koreans experienced during Japanese occupation prior to World War II, along with the prejudice they encountered in a foreign land. It delves deeply into thought-provoking topics such as self-identity, inherited pain, resilience, oppression, global economics, and other relevant issues. This captivating production has garnered acclaim for its stunning visuals, accurate portrayal of diverse time periods and historical facts, and flawless integration of multiple languages.

6
‘Bad Sisters’ (2022 – 2024)

Bad Sisters is an Irish black comedy-drama produced by Sharon Horgan, Dave Finkel, and Brett Baer that beautifully depicts sisterhood. The story revolves around the demise of John Paul Williams (Claes Bang), a harsh and domineering husband to Grace (Anne-Marie Duff). The narrative unfolds as we follow Grace’s sisters-in-law – Eva (Horgan), Ursula (Eva Birthistle), Bibi (Sarah Greene), and Becka (Eve Hewson) – who are suspected of plotting his murder. Post his death, a tenacious insurance investigator becomes fixated on exposing the sisters’ alleged role in the incident.

A Unique Murder Mystery

Despite earning four Primetime Emmy nominations and winning the Best Drama Series award at the 2023 BAFTA Awards, Bad Sisters is still not widely recognized enough. This captivating series defies traditional murder mystery conventions by switching between timelines to gradually unfold the story, while keeping the specific details of how and who obscure. The show masterfully combines elements of darkness, emotion, and humor.

5
‘Drops of God’ (2023 – Present)

The captivating television series titled “Drops of God,” penned by Quoc Dang Tran and based on the manga of the same name by Tadashi Agi, tells an extraordinary tale. Alexander Léger, a highly esteemed wine expert residing in Tokyo who happens to be both French-American-Japanese, passes away at the age of 60. Instead of straightforwardly bequeathing his wealth to his daughter living in Paris, Camille (Fleur Geffrier), he sets up a wine competition as a condition for her inheritance. This competition pits Camille against Issei Tomine (Tomohisa Yamashita), whom he considers his spiritual son and protégé in oenology. The winner of this contest, determined by the highest score, will receive not only the fortune but also Léger’s priceless wine collection, valued at a staggering $148 million.

An Intoxicating Look Into the World of Fine Wine

As a wine enthusiast and movie buff, let me tell you, I was utterly captivated by the intriguing narrative unfolding in Drops of God. Initially, I found myself in the shoes of Camille, completely clueless about the world of wine, even harboring a strong disdain for it. Yet, the show masterfully unveiled her tumultuous past and complex relationship with her father, gradually revealing the chain of events that drove them apart. The psychological journey was nothing short of gripping, making me eager to see how Camille navigates through her trauma and finds her way back to her father. With its blend of high-stakes drama, deep exploration into the artistry of wine, and a hint of the allure found in series like Succession, I’d highly recommend this series for fellow connoisseurs of engaging storytelling.

4
‘The Buccaneers’ (2023 – Present)

From a passionate film enthusiast’s perspective, I find myself captivated by the captivating drama, “The Buccaneers.” This intriguing production is ingeniously adapted from Edith Wharton’s incomplete novel of the same name. The story unfolds in the vibrant era of the 1870s, centering around five spirited friends and daughters of American high society, namely sisters Nan (Kristine Froseth) and Jinny St. George (Imogen Waterhouse), Conchita Closson (Alisha Boe), and the lively pair, Lizzy (Aubri Ibrag) and Mabel Elmsworth (Josie Totah).

Following the grand wedding of Conchita to Lord Richard Marable (Josh Dylan), the group is enticingly invited to relocate to London during the opulent season of weddings and debutantes. Although their purpose is to secure husbands and titles, this rebellious quartet yearns for something far greater.

An Enormously Fun Show Perfect for Fans of ‘Bridgerton’

Fans of “Bridgerton” might find themselves captivated by another Netflix hit titled “The Buccaneers”. This show, unlike “Bridgerton”, offers a distinctive take on historical drama. It’s refreshingly modern and feminist in its approach, making it a must-watch for many. The series delves into themes of female autonomy, the trials of womanhood, and the power of friendship.

3
‘Sugar’ (2024 – Present)

In this modern film noir series, Colin Farrell plays the lead character John Sugar, a conflicted private investigator and devoted old movie enthusiast who excels at his profession, despite harboring numerous personal struggles. Hired by retired wealthy producer Jonathan Siegel (James Cromwell), Sugar is tasked with finding Siegel’s long-missing daughter, Olivia (Sydney Chandler). What initially appears to be a straightforward case soon proves to be far more intricate and distressing than Sugar anticipated. Despite his handler, another Olivia (Kirby Howell-Baptiste), urging him to abandon the investigation, Sugar finds himself unable to resist, particularly given Siegel’s connection to some of Sugar’s favorite films.

An Underrated Stylish Love Letter to Film Noir

Sugar might seem like a television series, but it delivers the intensity usually found in a movie. The show captivates audiences not just with the mystery it presents, but by revealing aspects of Sugar’s past and private life. Each episode is packed with unexpected plot twists that keep viewers guessing. It’s undeniably one of Farrell’s most impressive performances yet.

2
‘Criminal Record’ (2024 – Present)

The British Crime Thriller “Criminal Record” is unfairly overlooked, offering an engrossing game of cat-and-mouse between two detectives: DCI Daniel Hegarty (Peter Capaldi), a seasoned veteran, and DS June Lenker (Cush Jumbo), a young, driven individual. An enigmatic phone call revealing fresh insights propels them onto the same reopened investigation of an ancient murder case, setting the stage for their heated disagreements. The series’ opening episode delivers a jaw-dropping twist that seizes your attention, and as each subsequent episode unfolds, you’ll find yourself eagerly reaching for the ‘autoplay’ button.

A Nail-Biting, Riveting Crime Series

The captivating TV show maintains its tension through an intriguing plotline, as well as the spellbinding interactions between its principal actors, who each give outstanding performances. Criminal Record has earned acclaim for exploring racism in the criminal justice system, embedded biases, white supremacist tactics within the police force, and for addressing the police procedural genre in a time post-Black Lives Matter movement.

1
‘La Maison’ (2024 – Present)

Following a scandalous outbreak of viral proportions, the storied fashion empire Maison LEDU, boasting over a century of history, teeters precariously on the brink. Its driving creative spirit, Vincent LeDu (Lambert Wilson), is compelled to relinquish his position. In an effort to rescue the brand, two previously underestimated women, Pearle Foster (Amira Casar) and Paloma Castel (Zita Hanrot), who trace their lineage to the company, forge an alliance with a daring strategy in hand. As the company grapples with internal strife, a formidable adversary, Diane Rovel (Carole Bouquet), plots to seize Maison LEDU through any means available.

A Sleek, Prestige Drama

The series titled “La Maison” is another engaging show that would surely appeal to fans who enjoy the HBO hit show, Succession. Imagine the same captivating storyline, but with a focus on high-end fashion instead of media conglomerates. This French production offers an insight into the glamorous and elegant world of Parisian haute couture, while also exploring a corporate power struggle and a dysfunctional family dynasty. The drama is intense, reeling you in with its skillful storytelling, and although it delves into business intrigue, it primarily concentrates on the personal struggles of its characters.

Read More

2025-05-17 19:35