Netflix is one of the biggest distributors of TV shows. The streaming giant experiments with different genres and creates fan favorites across every niche. Fans and critics have a massive library of shows at their fingertips to review. Both parties sometimes agree with each other and applaud Netflix's well-rounded productions. Other times, the agreement is shared on a few specific aspects.
Professionals and daily viewers bring strong but opposing viewpoints. Characters condemned by critics for their unlikability can be beloved by viewers for their authentic depiction of human nature. Overused tropes can seem tiring, but some audiences find comfort in the familiarity. Despite these discrepancies, Netflix continues to pump up shows that dominate the discussions of audiences and critics.
7 V Wars Sets Itself Apart From Other Vampire Series
Best friends Dr. Luther Swann (Ian Somerhalder) and Michael Fayne (Adrian Holmes) deal with the rising threat of vampires in V Wars. Critical reviews find the adaption of Jonathan Maberry's graphic novel mediocre. The sci-fi thriller takes time to hook viewers, failing to utilize the ideas it raises.
Fans couldn't stop watching the horror series and were disappointed with its cancellation. Audiences appreciated the science twist on the vampire genre because it gave the series some authenticity. Furthermore, the actors had likable and strong performances — especially from Ian Somerhalder, the star of The Vampire Diaries.
6 All About The Washingtons Falls Into The Familiar Comfort Of Family Shows
All About the Washingtons is a lighthearted series centered on the Washington family after a dynamic change. Joey (Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons) retires from hip-hop to spend more time with his four children. His wife, Justine (Justine Simmons), takes this opportunity to start her career.
Critics acknowledged the show wasn't trying to be breakout, but still felt the clichéd storyline and laughs were underwhelming. Audiences found the sitcom great for the entire family. Many believed it would've had great potential if Netflix had renewed it. Although the acting and plot weren't groundbreaking, the show's positivity was enjoyable.
5 Insatiable Falls Into An Outdated Trap
After an accident causes Patty Bladell (Debby Ryan) to lose weight, the previously bullied teenager becomes a beauty pageant contestant. Critics strongly condemn Insatiable for its failed attempt at satire. The dark comedy is intended to make fun of teen productions that shame different body types and overemphasize physical transformations. However, the creators fell into the same old trap and followed an offensive and outdated premise.
Insatiable used being overweight as a prop to elicit ill-willed laughter but didn't explore its implications throughout the plot. Regardless, viewers found the absurd show to be enjoyable. The nuanced depiction of evil captivated many audience members. Moreover, the performances were thought to be enhanced by strong writing and acting.
4 Girlboss Turns An Autobiography Into A Comedy
Girlboss revolved around Sophia Marlowe, who started her vintage clothing website. The series was inspired by the autobiography of Nasty Gal founder Sophia Amoruso. Despite having a strong cast, critics believed the series couldn't compete due to its uneventful and unfunny plot. Although a true story inspired it, it portrayed the overdone trope of rebellion against adulthood. The entertaining episodes flew by without contributing significance to the plot.
In contrast, many viewers were upset that there wasn't a second season. Girlboss was lighthearted with a strong female lead relatable to the younger generations looking for more innovative career paths. The characters were likable and inspiring. Even the protagonist's most annoying moments made sense to fans who related to the frustration.
3 The Good Cop Puts A Light Spin On Police Procedurals
The Good Cop revolves around two generations of NYPD detectives: a disgraced father, and his by-the-book son. Although critics find the comedy-drama amusing, it's also unmemorable. It follows police and family stereotypes and doesn't think outside the box. There's not a strong central conflict, and the characters are often one-dimensional.
Fans agree that The Good Cop isn't exceptional, but find it enjoyable. The characters are likable and have great chemistry. Moreover, the storyline doesn't drag. Instead, it's straightforward. Despite their predictability, the police cases are intriguing and refreshingly lighthearted.
2 Flaked Explores Sobriety Through Overdone Tropes
Flaked follows Chip (Will Arnett), who appears to have a picture-perfect life. However, his sobriety is threatened when he and his best friend, Dennis (David Sullivan), develop feelings for the same woman. Critics find Flaked to be a messy repetition of the "man-child" premise. Chip's constant self-pitying and rudeness make him unsympathetic.
In contrast, audiences admire the realistic depiction of Chip's struggle with addiction — specially the repetitive cycle of self-defeat, secrets, and denial. Fans also acknowledge that the characters are flawed and cringe-worthy. However, this makes them more relatable.
1 The Politician Combines Unlikely Genres
With the dream of becoming the United States' president, ambitious student Payton Hobart (Ben Platt) wants to beat the other cutthroat students and become class president. Professional reviews are mixed, with the majority showing dismay. The Politician is described as a trainwreck with unlikeable characters. Many critics believe the show can't find its footing and lands somewhere between House of Cards and Glee.
While critics feel the comedy-drama had all the right components but failed to utilize them and fulfill the show's potential, audiences praise the show for its brilliant combination of genres: political and coming-of-age. Moreover, one of the creators, Ryan Murphy (Glee and American Horror Story), is notorious for authentically depicting crucial social issues — such as The Politician's exploration of sexism, racism, and sexuality.