Gone are the days when you had to rely on Hollywood for your binge-watching fix. Thanks to streaming platforms, the world’s best films and shows are now just a click away. Whether you’re craving a twisty thriller, a heart-wrenching drama, or a laugh-out-loud comedy, there’s a whole world of international content waiting to be discovered. Ready to broaden your viewing horizons? Here are some foreign films and shows that have taken the streaming world by storm—and trust me, you won’t want to miss these.
1. Parasite (South Korea) — Hulu
Let’s start with the one that broke all the records. Parasite isn’t just a film—it’s a masterpiece. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this dark comedy thriller flipped the script on class divides, with a plot that’ll have you laughing, gasping, and reflecting all at once. The Kim family, living in poverty, worm their way into the lives of the wealthy Parks, and let’s just say things get wild from there. Parasite became the first non-English language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, and for good reason—it’s a perfect blend of suspense, humor, and social commentary. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s time to change that.
2. Money Heist (Spain) — Netflix
Let’s talk Money Heist—or, as the Spaniards call it, La Casa de Papel. If you haven’t heard of this one yet, you’ve probably been living under a rock. This Spanish thriller follows a ragtag group of criminals, led by the elusive Professor, who are on a mission to pull off one of the biggest heists in history. The stakes are high, the plot twists are mind-blowing, and the characters? Absolutely unforgettable. It’s one of Netflix’s most-watched non-English shows, and once you dive in, you’ll understand why. Spoiler alert: You won’t be able to stop watching.
3. Dark (Germany) — Netflix
If you think you’ve seen everything there is to see in the world of sci-fi, think again. Dark is the kind of show that messes with your mind in the best possible way. Set in a small German town, the series kicks off with the disappearance of two children, which leads to a mind-bending mystery involving time travel, family secrets, and multiple timelines. The show is a puzzle, but it’s one that’s worth solving. Trust me, it’s intense, it’s atmospheric, and it’s not something you’ll forget anytime soon.
4. Roma (Mexico) — Netflix
Need something visually stunning with a side of deep emotion? Roma is your film. Directed by the genius Alfonso Cuarón, this semi-autobiographical film dives into the life of a domestic worker in 1970s Mexico City. It’s beautifully shot in black-and-white, and the attention to detail is impeccable. Roma takes you on a nostalgic, poignant ride, showing life through the eyes of Cleo, a young woman trying to balance her personal struggles with her demanding job. It’s one of those films that’ll stay with you long after the credits roll—and it’s earned every accolade it received.
5. Sacred Games (India) — Netflix
If you love gritty crime thrillers, Sacred Games is the show you’ve been waiting for. Based on Vikram Chandra’s novel, this Indian crime drama blends dark suspense with a rich exploration of Mumbai’s underworld. The story follows Sartaj Singh, a struggling police officer, and Ganesh Gaitonde, a notorious gangster, as their worlds collide in a shocking tale of crime and corruption. Full of plot twists, complex characters, and suspense that keeps building, Sacred Games is a must-watch for any fan of crime dramas.
6. The Lives of Others (Germany) — Hulu
This one’s for all the drama lovers out there. The Lives of Others is a heart-wrenching exploration of surveillance, loyalty, and human connection set in East Berlin just before the fall of the Berlin Wall. The plot centers on a Stasi officer who spies on a playwright and becomes unexpectedly involved in his life. It’s a slow burn, but once it grips you, you won’t be able to look away. This film is as emotionally powerful as it is thought-provoking—no wonder it won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
7. Call My Agent! (France) — Netflix
Looking for a laugh? Call My Agent! (Dix Pour Cent) is a French comedy-drama that pulls back the curtain on the chaotic world of a Parisian talent agency. Think The Office meets the world of showbiz, but with a French twist. Each episode features real-life celebrities playing exaggerated versions of themselves, which makes for some hilarious moments. With sharp humor and a peek into the madness of the entertainment industry, Call My Agent! is just pure fun. Plus, the characters are so lovable, you’ll want to stick with them for all four seasons.
Conclusion
The world of international streaming has opened up a whole new universe of stories, characters, and cultures for us to explore. Whether you’re into high-stakes heists, mind-bending mysteries, or emotional drama, these films and shows offer something for everyone. Parasite, Money Heist, Dark, Roma, Sacred Games, The Lives of Others, and Call My Agent! are just a few examples of the incredible talent and storytelling happening around the globe. So why not take a break from the usual and dive into something different? Your next binge-worthy show could be a click away—and trust me, you won’t regret it.