hidden gems

Discover 3 Hidden Gem Netflix Shows to Binge This Weekend

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As the weekend approaches, many of us are on the lookout for captivating shows to dive into. While Netflix is known for its blockbuster hits, there are also a plethora of underrated series that deserve your attention. This weekend, we highlight three hidden gems that offer intriguing plots and compelling characters, perfect for binge-watching. 1. Animal Kingdom (2016 – 2022) Don’t let the title fool you; “Animal Kingdom” is not a nature documentary. This gripping crime drama revolves around Janine “Smurf” Cody, played by the talented Ellen Barkin, who rules her criminal family with an iron fist. The story unfolds through the eyes of her teenage grandson, Joshua “J” Cody (Finn Cole), who moves in with Smurf after the death of his mother. Upon moving in, J quickly discovers that his grandmother is the head of a criminal empire, with her sons—Barry “Baz” Blackwell (Scott Speedman), Andrew “Pope” Cody (Shawn Hatosy), Craig Cody (Ben Robson), and Deran Cody (Jake Weary)—doing her bidding to keep the money flowing. As J struggles to find his place within this dangerous family dynamic, he must prove himself worthy of belonging to their world. With six seasons and a total of 75 episodes, “Animal Kingdom” is a thrilling ride that will keep you glued to the screen. You can catch it streaming on Netflix. 2. Sara: Woman in the Shadows (2025) “Sara: Woman in the Shadows” is an Italian crime drama that introduces us to the enigmatic Sara, portrayed by Teresa Saponangelo. Once a highly skilled intelligence operative known as the Invisible Woman, Sara has retreated into a life of solitude following the tragic death of her son. The police have ruled his death an accident, but Sara is convinced it was murder. Driven by her determination to uncover the truth, Sara reconnects with her former colleague, Teresa (Claudia Gerini), who has her own agenda. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a larger conspiracy that only Sara’s unique skills, including her talent for lipreading, can help unravel. This suspenseful series promises to keep you on the edge of your seat as Sara navigates a dangerous world filled with secrets and betrayal. “Sara: Woman in the Shadows” is also available to stream on Netflix. 3. The Survivors (2025) In “The Survivors,” we meet Kieran Elliot (Charlie Vickers), a man haunted by a tragedy from his past that claimed the lives of his brother and a close friend, Gabby Birch (Eloise Rothfield). Years later, Kieran returns to his hometown, where he still grapples with the guilt and the fallout from that fateful day. His mother, Verity (Robyn Malcolm), has never forgiven him, adding to his emotional turmoil. When a young woman begins to investigate Gabby’s death and is subsequently found murdered on the beach, the spotlight turns back on Kieran and his family. As the investigation unfolds, dark secrets threaten to surface, and Kieran must confront his past in order to find the truth. “The Survivors” is a gripping narrative that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of our actions. You can find this compelling series streaming on Netflix. Conclusion As you plan your weekend viewing, consider giving these underrated shows a chance. “Animal Kingdom,” “Sara: Woman in the Shadows,” and “The Survivors” each offer unique storytelling and unforgettable characters that will keep you entertained. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy a binge-worthy weekend with these hidden gems on Netflix!

Discover 3 Hidden Gems on HBO Max This Weekend

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As June unfolds, HBO Max is proving to be a treasure trove of cinematic delights. With high-profile releases like “Mountainhead” and the much-anticipated return of “And Just Like That,” there’s plenty to keep viewers entertained. However, amidst these buzzworthy titles lies a collection of underrated films that deserve attention. If you’re looking for something a little different to watch this weekend, here are three lesser-known movies that might just surprise you. 1. The Sunlit Night (2019) In “The Sunlit Night,” Frances, played by Jenny Slate, finds herself at a crossroads in life. After a messy breakup, her parents’ divorce, and the loss of her job as a resident artist in Tokyo, she takes a last-minute gig assisting a Norwegian painter in Oslo. The film beautifully captures Frances’s struggle to adapt to her new surroundings, where the sun barely sets. Her only solace comes from her art and an unexpected romance with Yasha (Alex Sharpe), a young Russian mourning his father’s death. This film resonates with fans of “Eat, Pray, Love” and “Normal People,” as it explores themes of self-discovery and love in a unique setting. Unlike typical romantic comedies, “The Sunlit Night” stands out with its Scandinavian backdrop and Slate’s nuanced performance, making it a hidden gem worth rediscovering on HBO Max. 2. A Perfect Getaway (2009) “A Perfect Getaway” is not your average honeymoon movie. Newlyweds Cliff and Cydney (Steve Zahn and Milla Jovovich) are enjoying their dream getaway in Hawaii when their idyllic vacation turns into a nightmare. After two bodies are found nearby, they become suspicious of the couples they meet, including Nick (Timothy Olyphant) and Gina (Kiele Sanchez), and Kale (Chris Hemsworth) and Cleo (Marley Shelton). This thriller is packed with twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Writer-director David Twohy expertly weaves a suspenseful narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Zahn’s portrayal of the everyman caught in a deadly situation adds depth to the film, ensuring it’s more than just a typical slasher flick. Stream “A Perfect Getaway” on HBO Max for a thrilling experience that will keep you guessing until the very end. 3. Backtrack (2016) Starring Adrien Brody as Dr. Peter Bower, “Backtrack” is a supernatural thriller that delves into themes of grief and redemption. Peter, a psychotherapist, is haunted by the tragic death of his young daughter. His life takes a dark turn when he encounters a mute girl named Elizabeth Valentine (Chloe Bayliss), who reveals a haunting connection to his past. As Peter grapples with the mystery of Elizabeth’s death, he must confront his own demons. While “Backtrack” may not be as critically acclaimed as some of Brody’s other works, it showcases his ability to convey deep emotional turmoil. The film’s eerie atmosphere and compelling storyline make it an intriguing watch for fans of ghost stories. If you’re in the mood for something a bit chilling, “Backtrack” is available for streaming on HBO Max. These three films—”The Sunlit Night,” “A Perfect Getaway,” and “Backtrack”—offer a refreshing escape from the mainstream and are perfect for a weekend binge. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, suspense, or supernatural thrills, HBO Max has something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to discover these hidden gems!