These TV Shows are Left Over from Last Year: The Undervalued Projects of 2024

Amid the deluge of 2024's TV releases, some genuine gems were overshadowed by high-profile premieres and established franchises. These series, unfairly overlooked despite compelling plots, strong performances, and innovative approaches to their genres, deserve a second look. This list highlights ten underrated shows from 2024, perfect for your 2025 viewing pleasure. From intimate dramas to thrilling sci-fi, there's something for everyone.

Table of Contents

• The Eight Show
• Shoresy
• Under the Bridge
• Thunderous Applause
• The Brothers Sun
• Somebody Somewhere
• Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
• Say Nothing
• The Fake
• High Potential

The Eight Show

This Korean thriller-drama, unjustly eclipsed by 2024's blockbusters, is a hidden gem for 2025. Its gripping plot centers on eight participants competing in a confined space, not just for money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The participants can purchase food and furniture at exorbitant prices and have daily interactions in a shared room. The reality show becomes a potent metaphor for capitalism, exposing social inequality and the fragility of human values.

Why Watch It in 2025?

"The Eight Show" offers intelligent, suspenseful storytelling with sharp social commentary. While inspired by Squid Game, it provides a more intimate and psychologically nuanced exploration of human relationships and the impact of materialism. Its unique atmosphere, superb acting, and bold critique of consumerism make it a significant drama—easily missed, but not to be ignored.

Shoresy

This Canadian comedy-drama might seem unconventional for those seeking serious narratives, but beneath its lighthearted, slightly crude exterior lies surprising depth. The story follows a cheeky hockey player determined to transform a losing team into champions, blending sharp humor with unexpected sincerity. Created by the minds behind Letterkenny, this spin-off retains the fast-paced wit while adding surprising emotional resonance.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Shoresy transcends hockey; it's a story about perseverance, teamwork, and finding purpose, appealing to fans of dramas like Friday Night Lights. Its heartfelt moments and character development make it unexpectedly endearing. If you crave laughter and thoughtful reflection, Shoresy is a must-see.

Under the Bridge

This Hulu crime drama, unfairly overshadowed in 2024, is a powerful and emotionally resonant series. Based on a true story, it recounts the tragic death of 14-year-old Reena Virk in 1997 British Columbia. A writer with a traumatic past returns to her hometown and becomes inadvertently involved in investigating a teenager's disappearance, forming a connection with a group of young people under suspicion. Through flashbacks, the series illuminates Reena's personality and explores themes of trauma, bias, and justice.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Under the Bridge distinguishes itself by focusing on the victim, setting it apart from typical true-crime narratives. It masterfully blends intense intrigue with psychological insight. A talented cast, including Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, delivers an emotionally impactful journey. For viewers seeking more than a detective story, this is a compelling exploration of tragedy and its aftermath.

Thunderous Applause

This Turkish series subverts expectations, offering an absurdist look at human emotions and experiences. While the protagonist's dream of becoming an orange and the depiction of smoking fetuses may seem bizarre, this grotesque imagery tackles serious themes of childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families. Director Berkun Oya's unconventional approach intertwines drama and comedy into a subtle metaphor for human existence.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Thunderous Applause is a unique experiment in storytelling. Its comedic moments serve the deeper narrative. If you appreciate unusual plots that provoke thought and laughter, this series is a revelation. Its visual style and originality will captivate any cinephile.

The Brothers Sun

This action dramedy blends crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack on his father, Charles Sun, head of a criminal empire, flees Taiwan for Los Angeles to live with his mother and brother. He encounters an unfamiliar world, and the brothers' contrasting personalities create both conflict and strength. The dynamic plot, blending Eastern martial arts and American family drama, is engaging and unpredictable.

Why Watch It in 2025?

The Brothers Sun is not just about action; it's a heartfelt story about family bonds, generational divides, and understanding. It offers a fresh perspective on genre blending, addressing important themes without sacrificing dynamism and humor. High-quality visuals and charismatic characters make it ideal for fans of unconventional crime stories.

Somebody Somewhere

This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama concluded its three-season run in 2024, remaining underrated. Sam returns to her Kansas hometown after her sister's death, struggling with grief. Supported by her friendship with Joel and her evolving relationship with her sister Tricia, she rebuilds her life. Music and laughter help her rediscover herself amidst emotional challenges.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Somebody Somewhere is a deeply human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. The satisfying conclusion provides closure and emotional catharsis. It's perfect for those seeking genuine, warm storytelling with subtle humor. It's an inspiring and comforting watch.

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory

This animated Netflix series continues to delight dinosaur enthusiasts, offering a thrilling adventure with prehistoric giants. Set after Camp Cretaceous, it features more mature characters and themes. While the Jurassic World films haven't always captured the original trilogy's sense of wonder, Chaos Theory successfully recreates that awe, adding drama and excitement.

Why Watch It in 2025?

If you crave gripping dinosaur stories combining tension, humor, and visual spectacle, this is an excellent choice. It appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. Chaos Theory boasts impressive animation and explores human-dinosaur relationships. It's a perfect blend of adventure, emotion, and visual enjoyment.

Say Nothing

This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on a bestselling book, it tells the tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to 1990s, including the kidnapping and murder of Jean McConville. Through the lives of activists and an IRA commander, it depicts a society consumed by hatred and division.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Say Nothing is a profound exploration of violence and political division. It offers a gripping narrative and reflections on human morality in wartime. Strong performances, atmospheric production, and a meticulous recreation of the era make it a must-watch for those interested in history and politics.

The Fake

This Australian series explores the dark side of online dating and manipulation. Birdie, a writer, meets a seemingly perfect man, but his strange behavior and inconsistencies raise suspicions. The story unfolds as a pathological liar exploits emotions and vulnerabilities.

Why Watch It in 2025?

The Fake is a tense psychological drama tackling trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. Powerful performances and a dynamic narrative keep viewers guessing. It's a compelling blend of drama and thriller with deep psychological analysis.

High Potential

This American series offers a fresh take on the detective genre, blending investigations with comedic moments. Morgan, a single mother working as a janitor at a police station, uses her intellect and photographic memory to assist in solving cases. From accidental witness to valuable consultant, she embodies the spirit of Brooklyn Nine-Nine with a more personal touch.

Why Watch It in 2025?

High Potential combines sharp humor with intriguing detective plots. It features bright, original cases and a strong female lead balancing family and personal growth. It's inspiring, witty, and heartwarming.

From global hits to lesser-known gems, 2024 offered a wealth of overlooked masterpieces. These ten underrated series, spanning various genres, await discovery in 2025. Whether you prefer drama, comedy, or something unique, there's plenty to explore.