8 Underrated Miniseries You Might Have Missed, But Should Definitely Watch

Miniseries often deliver captivating stories with an intensity that keeps viewers hooked.

However, despite their brilliance, many of these gems fly under the radar, deserving far more recognition than they’ve received.

These 8 miniseries span genres from historical drama to thrilling true crime, showcasing unforgettable performances and gripping narratives.

If you haven’t seen them yet, here’s why you should give them a chance.

1. John Adams (2008)

John Adams is a historical drama that brings the tumultuous life of the second U.S. president to the screen. Starring Paul Giamatti in a deeply immersive performance, the miniseries captures Adams' complexities as a man and a leader during the American Revolution.

Despite its historical importance and Giamatti’s nuanced portrayal, John Adams often gets overshadowed by other Revolutionary War movies. But this series is a must-watch for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about the founding of the United States.

2. Irma Vep (2022)

Alicia Vikander stars in Irma Vep, a modernized reimagining of the 1996 film. Directed by Olivier Assayas, this series delves into the world of filmmaking, focusing on the fictional breakdown of an actress, Mira, as she becomes consumed by her role in a remake of a silent film.

The show explores the toxicity of the industry and the psychological toll of acting. With its stunning visuals and Vikander’s outstanding performance, Irma Vep is a sharp and stylish commentary on film culture, yet it never received the widespread acclaim it deserved.

3. Mildred Pierce (2011)

In Mildred Pierce, Kate Winslet plays the titular character, a woman trying to navigate the hardships of being a single mother during the Great Depression. The miniseries, based on the novel by James M. Cain, delves into Mildred's complex relationship with her daughter, Veda.

Despite its incredible performances, particularly Winslet’s nuanced portrayal, Mildred Pierce often falls into the shadow of other, more popular miniseries like Mare of Easttown. Directed by Todd Haynes, this miniseries is an emotional, gripping drama that warrants more attention.

4. Catch-22 (2019)

Based on Joseph Heller’s iconic novel, Catch-22 is a dark, absurdist comedy that follows John Yossarian, a bombardier in World War II who can’t escape the madness of war. Christopher Abbott plays the lead role in this adaptation, which stays faithful to the novel’s bleak humor and surreal narrative.

While it is a solid adaptation, it didn’t receive the level of recognition it deserves, making it one of the most underrated war-related miniseries out there.

5. Under the Banner of Heaven (2022)

Under the Banner of Heaven explores the chilling events surrounding a murder connected to the Mormon faith, based on Jon Krakauer’s true-crime book.

The series stars Andrew Garfield as a devout detective investigating the crime. While the show garnered attention for its compelling storyline, it never quite reached the level of acclaim it should have, despite its complex characters and thought-provoking themes of faith, justice, and crime.

6. Generation Kill (2008)

Generation Kill offers a stark and authentic portrayal of the early days of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. Based on a journalist’s firsthand account of embedded reporting with Marines, the series is a raw and eye-opening depiction of the realities of war.

With standout performances and an incredibly realistic approach, Generation Kill explores the complexity of soldiers’ lives in combat. Despite being highly praised, this miniseries often gets overlooked when discussing war-based TV dramas, but it remains a powerful and unflinching exploration of modern warfare.

7. Station Eleven (2021–2022)

Station Eleven is a sci-fi masterpiece that follows a group of survivors after a deadly flu pandemic wipes out most of humanity. The series, based on Emily St. John Mandel’s novel, is a beautifully crafted exploration of survival, humanity, and rebuilding.

Its narrative is both hopeful and haunting, with stunning performances by Mackenzie Davis and others. Despite receiving critical acclaim, Station Eleven remains a hidden gem within the genre, underappreciated by many viewers who would benefit from its depth.

8. A Very English Scandal (2018)

A Very English Scandal dramatizes the real-life scandal involving British politician Jeremy Thorpe, played by Hugh Grant, and his affair with Norman Josiffe. Set in the 1960s and '70s, this miniseries examines the intersection of politics, scandal, and LGBTQ+ rights.

With standout performances from Grant and Ben Whishaw, A Very English Scandal is an engrossing and often darkly humorous look at the hypocrisy and dangers of hiding one’s true identity. Despite Grant’s outstanding performance, the series didn’t get the recognition it deserved compared to other historical dramas.