Best Italian TV Series On Netflix: Top Picks!
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the captivating world of Italian television? Netflix is a treasure trove of amazing shows that will have you hooked from the first episode. From gripping crime dramas to heartwarming comedies, there’s something for everyone. Let's explore some of the best Italian TV series on Netflix that you absolutely need to watch. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
1. Why Italian TV Series Are Worth Watching
Italian TV series have exploded in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a unique blend of compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and a deep dive into Italian culture. But what exactly makes them so binge-worthy?
First off, the narrative depth in Italian TV series is exceptional. Writers often tackle complex themes such as family dynamics, societal issues, and historical events, creating storylines that resonate deeply with viewers. You're not just watching a show; you're experiencing a rich tapestry of human emotions and relationships. For example, shows like "Gomorrah" and "Suburra" delve into the gritty underbelly of Italian organized crime, offering a raw and unflinching look at power, loyalty, and betrayal. These aren't your typical crime dramas; they're character studies that explore the motivations and consequences of their characters' actions.
Secondly, the visual appeal of Italian TV series is undeniable. Italy is a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and stunning architecture. Production teams leverage these assets to create visually stunning shows that transport you to another world. Think about series like "Medici," which showcases the grandeur of Renaissance Florence, or "L'Amica Geniale" (My Brilliant Friend), which beautifully captures the vibrant streets and intimate moments of post-war Naples. The cinematography, set design, and costume design all work together to create an immersive experience that keeps you glued to the screen.
Moreover, Italian TV series offer a unique window into Italian culture and society. From the bustling markets of Palermo to the serene countryside of Tuscany, these shows capture the nuances of Italian life in a way that few other forms of media can. You'll learn about Italian traditions, customs, and values, gaining a deeper appreciation for the country's rich heritage. Whether it's the importance of family in "Tutto chiede salvezza" (Everything Calls for Salvation) or the complexities of political corruption in "1992," Italian TV series provide insightful commentary on contemporary issues facing the country.
Finally, let's not forget the stellar performances by Italian actors. Many of Italy's most talented performers appear in these series, bringing depth, nuance, and authenticity to their roles. Actors like Salvatore Esposito in "Gomorrah" and Alba Rohrwacher in "L'Amica Geniale" deliver unforgettable performances that elevate the shows to another level. Their ability to convey complex emotions and create believable characters is a testament to their talent and training.
In conclusion, Italian TV series are worth watching because they offer a compelling combination of narrative depth, visual appeal, cultural insight, and exceptional performances. They're not just entertaining; they're thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and visually stunning. So, if you're looking for something new to binge-watch, give Italian TV series a try. You might just discover your new favorite show.
2. Top Italian Series on Netflix You Can't Miss
Alright, let's get down to the good stuff! Here are some of the top Italian series on Netflix that you absolutely can't miss. Each of these shows brings something unique to the table, so there’s guaranteed to be something for everyone. Get ready to update your watchlist!
2.1. Gomorrah
"Gomorrah" is a gritty and realistic crime drama that dives deep into the Camorra, the Neapolitan mafia. This series isn't for the faint of heart, but it’s incredibly compelling.
Why You Should Watch: The show offers an unflinching look at the brutal realities of organized crime, with complex characters and intense storylines. It's praised for its authenticity and raw portrayal of life in Naples. The series is known for its hyper-realistic depiction of the Camorra, avoiding the typical glamorization often seen in crime dramas. Instead, it focuses on the brutal realities of life within the organization, where violence and betrayal are commonplace. Characters are morally ambiguous, often forced to make difficult choices in order to survive.
"Gomorrah" is not just a crime drama; it's a sociological study of a specific subculture within Naples. The series explores themes of power, loyalty, and the cyclical nature of violence. It raises questions about the impact of organized crime on individuals and communities, prompting viewers to reflect on the social and economic factors that contribute to its existence. The show's commitment to realism extends to its use of Neapolitan dialect, which adds to its authenticity and immersiveness. While some viewers may find the dialect challenging to understand, it provides valuable insight into the local culture and way of life.
One of the most compelling aspects of "Gomorrah" is its complex characters. The show avoids simplistic portrayals of good versus evil, instead opting for nuanced characters with both strengths and weaknesses. Ciro Di Marzio, one of the central figures in the series, is a prime example of this. He is a ruthless and ambitious gangster, but he also possesses moments of vulnerability and compassion. His character arc is one of the most fascinating aspects of the show, as he struggles to navigate the treacherous world of the Camorra.
In addition to its compelling characters and gritty realism, "Gomorrah" is also visually stunning. The series is filmed on location in Naples and its surrounding areas, capturing the beauty and decay of the city. The cinematography is often dark and atmospheric, reflecting the bleakness of the world the characters inhabit. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting adds to the show's sense of immediacy and authenticity. Overall, "Gomorrah" is a must-watch for anyone interested in crime dramas or Italian culture. Its unflinching portrayal of organized crime, complex characters, and stunning visuals make it a truly unforgettable television experience. It's a dark and disturbing show, but it's also incredibly thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
2.2. Suburra: Blood on Rome
"Suburra: Blood on Rome" is a political thriller set in Rome, where the mafia, politicians, and the Vatican collide in a battle for power. It’s a gripping story of corruption and ambition.
Why You Should Watch: The series is full of twists and turns, with strong performances and a compelling plot that keeps you guessing. It's a dark and atmospheric show that explores the underbelly of Italian politics and organized crime. The series delves into the complex relationships between these three powerful entities, revealing how they often intersect and influence one another. Politicians seek favors from the mafia, the mafia seeks protection from the Vatican, and the Vatican seeks to maintain its power and influence in the city.
"Suburra: Blood on Rome" is not just a political thriller; it's also a character-driven drama that explores the personal lives of its key players. The show delves into the motivations and desires of each character, revealing their vulnerabilities and flaws. Aureliano Adami, one of the central figures in the series, is a young gangster with a thirst for power. He is ambitious and ruthless, but he also possesses a strong sense of loyalty to his friends and family. His character arc is one of the most compelling aspects of the show, as he struggles to navigate the treacherous world of Roman organized crime.
Another key character in "Suburra: Blood on Rome" is Samurai, a powerful and influential gangster with ties to the mafia, politics, and the Vatican. He is a master manipulator who is always one step ahead of his rivals. His character is shrouded in mystery, and his motives are often unclear. He is a formidable opponent who is not afraid to use violence to achieve his goals.
The series also explores the role of the Church in Italian society, portraying the Vatican as a powerful institution with its own agenda. The show reveals the inner workings of the Vatican, exposing the corruption and hypocrisy that lie beneath its pristine facade. The characters in the series are often forced to confront their own moral values as they navigate the complex web of power and influence.
In addition to its compelling characters and intricate plot, "Suburra: Blood on Rome" is also visually stunning. The series is filmed on location in Rome, capturing the beauty and decay of the city. The cinematography is often dark and atmospheric, reflecting the bleakness of the world the characters inhabit. The use of shadows and chiaroscuro adds to the show's sense of mystery and intrigue. Overall, "Suburra: Blood on Rome" is a must-watch for anyone interested in political thrillers or Italian culture. Its complex characters, intricate plot, and stunning visuals make it a truly unforgettable television experience. It's a dark and disturbing show, but it's also incredibly thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
2.3. Baby
"Baby" is a teen drama that explores the lives of a group of wealthy Roman teenagers who get involved in prostitution. It’s a controversial but captivating look at the dark side of adolescence.
Why You Should Watch: The show tackles difficult and relevant themes, with strong performances from its young cast. It provides a glimpse into the pressures and temptations faced by teenagers in a privileged environment. "Baby" delves into the complex lives of its teenage characters, exploring their struggles with identity, relationships, and the pressures of fitting in. The show is not afraid to tackle difficult and controversial topics, such as prostitution, drug use, and mental health.
One of the most compelling aspects of "Baby" is its exploration of the role of social media in the lives of teenagers. The show reveals how social media can be used to create a false sense of reality, leading to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. The characters in the series are constantly striving to present a perfect image of themselves online, often at the expense of their own well-being.
"Baby" also explores the impact of parental neglect on teenagers. Many of the characters in the series come from wealthy families where their parents are emotionally unavailable or simply absent. This lack of parental guidance leads them to seek validation and attention in unhealthy ways. The show raises important questions about the responsibilities of parents and the importance of providing children with a loving and supportive environment.
The series has been praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage life, as well as its strong performances from its young cast. The actors in the show bring a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to their roles, making the characters relatable and believable. The show has also been praised for its stylish visuals and its use of contemporary Italian music.
However, "Baby" has also been criticized for its controversial subject matter and its potential to glamorize prostitution. Some viewers have argued that the show is exploitative and that it could encourage young people to engage in risky behavior. The creators of the show have defended their work, arguing that it is intended to be a cautionary tale and that it does not endorse or condone the actions of its characters.
2.4. L'Amica Geniale (My Brilliant Friend)
Based on Elena Ferrante's novels, "L'Amica Geniale" (My Brilliant Friend) is a coming-of-age story set in post-war Naples. It follows the lifelong friendship between two girls, Elena and Lila.
Why You Should Watch: The series is beautifully shot and deeply moving, capturing the essence of the novels. It’s a poignant exploration of female friendship, ambition, and the challenges of growing up in a patriarchal society. The series delves into the complex relationship between Elena and Lila, exploring their rivalry, their love for one another, and the ways in which they both support and challenge each other.
"L'Amica Geniale" is not just a coming-of-age story; it's also a social commentary on post-war Naples. The series reveals the poverty, violence, and patriarchal structures that defined the lives of many Italians during this time period. The characters in the show are often forced to make difficult choices in order to survive, and their lives are shaped by the social and economic realities of their environment.
The series has been praised for its faithful adaptation of Ferrante's novels, as well as its strong performances from its cast. The actresses who play Elena and Lila bring a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to their roles, making the characters relatable and believable. The show has also been praised for its beautiful cinematography and its attention to detail in recreating the world of post-war Naples.
"L'Amica Geniale" has been a critical and commercial success, garnering a large following around the world. The series has been praised for its compelling storytelling, its complex characters, and its insightful exploration of female friendship and Italian society. It is a must-watch for anyone who has read and enjoyed Ferrante's novels, as well as for anyone who is interested in coming-of-age stories or Italian culture.
2.5. Everything Calls for Salvation (Tutto chiede salvezza)
"Everything Calls for Salvation" is a poignant and at times darkly funny series about a young man who wakes up in a psychiatric ward and has to spend a week there. This show is based on the semi-autobiographical novel of the same name by Daniele Mencarelli.
Why You Should Watch: The series provides an empathetic and insightful look into mental health, with a mix of humor and heart. It explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery, making it both thought-provoking and deeply human. "Everything Calls for Salvation" is a series that dares to tackle the sensitive topic of mental health with a blend of humor, empathy, and brutal honesty. It's a series that doesn't shy away from the struggles of those living with mental illness, but it also celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the power of human connection.
The story follows Daniele, a young man who finds himself involuntarily committed to a psychiatric ward after a severe panic attack. Over the course of a week, he grapples with his diagnosis, confronts his inner demons, and forms unexpected bonds with his fellow patients. The series masterfully captures the claustrophobic and disorienting atmosphere of the ward, but it also finds moments of levity and hope amidst the darkness.
One of the greatest strengths of "Everything Calls for Salvation" lies in its portrayal of the characters. Each patient in the ward is brought to life with nuance and depth, and we are given a glimpse into their unique struggles and stories. From the quirky and lovable Gianluca to the troubled and withdrawn Mario, these characters feel like real people, and their struggles resonate with viewers on a deeply emotional level.
The series also explores the challenges faced by mental health professionals. The doctors and nurses at the ward are often overworked and underappreciated, and they must navigate the complexities of their patients' conditions with compassion and skill. The series acknowledges the limitations of the mental health system, but it also celebrates the dedication and hard work of those who strive to make a difference in the lives of others.
"Everything Calls for Salvation" is not just a series about mental illness; it's a series about humanity. It's a series about the importance of empathy, acceptance, and self-discovery. It's a series that reminds us that we are all connected, and that we all have the capacity for healing and growth.
3. Tips for the Best Viewing Experience
To truly immerse yourself in these fantastic Italian series, here are a few tips to enhance your viewing experience. Trust me; these will make a difference!
- Use Subtitles: While some shows offer dubbed versions, watching with subtitles allows you to appreciate the original Italian dialogue and nuances. Plus, you might pick up some Italian phrases!
- Learn About the Culture: Take some time to research the cultural context of the show. Understanding the historical background, social norms, and regional differences can enrich your understanding and appreciation of the story.
- Watch with Friends: Sharing the experience with friends or family can make it even more enjoyable. Discuss the characters, plot twists, and cultural insights together.
- Explore Italian Cuisine: Why not make it a full Italian experience? Prepare some classic Italian dishes or order takeout from your favorite Italian restaurant to enjoy while you watch.
So, there you have it! The best Italian TV series on Netflix that you need to binge-watch. Each of these shows offers a unique and captivating glimpse into Italian culture, society, and storytelling. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be transported to Italy from the comfort of your own couch! Happy watching, amici!