12 Most Underrated Original Series on Prime Video, Ranked
Prime Video’s catalog is brimming with original series, but not every gem gets the spotlight it deserves. Beyond the hype of shows like The Boys or Reacher, there are lesser-known series that deliver unique stories, sharp humor, and gripping drama, perfect for viewers seeking something fresh.
I’ve ranked the 12 most underrated Prime Video original series, from solid finds to absolute must-watch treasures. These shows, spanning genres from sci-fi to comedy, offer compelling narratives that flew under the radar but are worth your time for a weekend binge.
12. One Mississippi (2015-2017)
One Mississippi stars Tig Notaro as a comedian returning to her Mississippi hometown after her mother’s death, blending dark humor with personal grief. The semi-autobiographical series tackles cancer, loss, and family with a dry, heartfelt wit.
Some episodes lean heavily into drama, but Notaro’s deadpan delivery kept me chuckling through the pain. I loved how it finds humor in tough moments, making it a great pick for fans of introspective comedy.
11. Red Oaks (2014-2017)
Red Oaks follows David (Craig Roberts), a college kid working at a 1980s New Jersey country club, navigating love and ambition with raunchy, nostalgic humor. Think Wet Hot American Summer with a John Hughes vibe.
The light plots can feel familiar, but the ensemble’s charm hooked me. I enjoyed the retro laughs and coming-of-age heart, perfect for fans of 80s-inspired comedy.
10. Mozart in the Jungle (2014-2018)
Mozart in the Jungle stars Gael García Bernal as Rodrigo, a quirky maestro shaking up a New York symphony. The comedy-drama dives into the chaotic world of classical music with wit and charm.
Some arcs drag, but Bernal’s eccentric energy kept me engaged. I loved the blend of high art and quirky humor, a hidden gem for fans of lighthearted drama.
9. Glue (2014)
Created by Jack Thorne, Glue is a British mystery set in a rural town where a teen’s murder under a tractor unravels dark secrets. The young cast, including Callum Turner, delivers raw, emotional performances.
The pacing can slow, but the layered characters gripped me. I was drawn to the mix of gritty drama and small-town intrigue, ideal for fans of British crime shows.
8. Class of ‘07 (2022)
Class of ‘07 is an Australian comedy where a tidal wave traps women at a high school reunion, blending survival chaos with crass humor. Emily Browning and Caitlin Stasey lead with sharp comedic timing.
The absurd premise might not click for all, but the over-the-top gags had me laughing. I loved the wild energy, perfect for fans of irreverent comedy.
7. Paper Girls (2022)
Paper Girls follows four 1980s teens (Camryn Jones, Riley Lai Nelet) time-traveling to the present during a paper route. The sci-fi series mixes adventure with heartfelt coming-of-age themes.
Some plotlines feel rushed, but the warm humor and retro vibe won me over. I enjoyed the girls’ bond and quirky action, great for young adult sci-fi fans.
6. High School (2022)
Based on Tegan and Sara’s memoir, High School follows the twin musicians (Railey and Seazynn Gilliland) in 1990s Canada, navigating adolescence and identity through grunge and music. The show’s sensitive humor shines.
The niche focus might not grab everyone, but the authentic teen angst hooked me. I loved the nostalgic soundtrack and raw performances, a must for coming-of-age fans.
5. Undone (2019-2022)
Undone stars Rosa Salazar as Alma, a woman exploring nonlinear time after a car crash, guided by her late father (Bob Odenkirk). The rotoscoped animation and sci-fi mystery blend humor with emotional depth.
The trippy visuals can overwhelm, but the heartfelt story kept me riveted. I loved the unique animation and mind-bending laughs, perfect for fans of bold storytelling.
4. Tales from the Loop (2020)
Inspired by Simon Stålenhag’s art, Tales from the Loop is a sci-fi anthology exploring a town where a mysterious machine sparks strange events. Each episode weaves quiet action with haunting humor.
The slow pace might test some, but the evocative stories grabbed me. I enjoyed the blend of retro-futurism and subtle wit, ideal for thoughtful sci-fi fans.
3. Sneaky Pete (2015-2019)
Sneaky Pete stars Giovanni Ribisi as a conman posing as his cellmate to escape danger, diving into a world of crime and family secrets. The three-season crime drama crackles with tense humor.
Some twists stretch belief, but Ribisi’s slick performance hooked me. I loved the clever cons and sharp dialogue, a top pick for fans of crime capers.
2. Dead Ringers (2023)
Rachel Weisz plays twin gynecologists in Dead Ringers, a gender-swapped take on Cronenberg’s thriller. The series mixes psychological drama with dark humor, exploring fertility and ambition.
The heavy themes can feel intense, but Weisz’s dual role is mesmerizing. I was gripped by the creepy wit and bold storytelling, perfect for fans of twisted drama.
1. I Know This Much Is True (2020)
Mark Ruffalo stars as twin brothers, one with schizophrenia, in I Know This Much Is True, a six-episode drama about family and mental health. The understated humor shines through raw, emotional storytelling.
The heavy tone might not suit all, but Ruffalo’s powerhouse performance floored me. I loved the quiet laughs amid deep pain, making it my top underrated gem for drama fans.
Which of these Prime Video series are you excited to check out, or is there another hidden favorite I missed? Share your picks in the comments!