10 Underrated Shows So Good, They're Practically Criminal

BrainDead

What if politics wasn't just figuratively run by brain-eating bugs? In BrainDead, that's precisely the case. Laurel Healy, a documentary filmmaker turned congressional staffer, discovers an infestation of alien insects in Washington, D.C., taking over the brains of politicians. With a unique blend of political satire, sci-fi, and humor, the series tackles issues in a way that's both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Rectify

The world may have stopped for Daniel Holden, but life certainly moved on for the rest of his family. After 19 years on death row, DNA evidence clears him of the heinous crime. As he returns to his hometown, the burning question remains: did he do it? It's a slow, meandering journey, capturing the essence of Southern Gothic.

Lodge 49

Ever heard of a modern-day alchemist? Enter Sean "Dud" Dudley, an affable ex-surfer drawn to a fraternal lodge in Long Beach, California. It's not just about secret handshakes and funny hats here; there's an air of mysticism and a pursuit of the "Philosopher's Stone". It's an exploration of the human soul, the search for meaning, and a bit of alchemy on the side. The show might have a laid-back SoCal vibe, but don't be fooled; there's a lot more brewing beneath the surface.

Counterpart

In an alternative world, not so different from ours, an unassuming UN employee named Howard Silk finds himself embroiled in a clandestine world of espionage. The twist? The espionage involves another dimension. Imagine stepping into a mirror world, where an alternate version of yourself exists. Howard meets his counterpart, and their worlds clash in an entangled web of deceit and secrets. Give Counterpart a shot if you're craving a blend of sci-fi and espionage.

Patriot

Ever wondered what would happen if James Bond had a midlife crisis? Meet John Tavner, an intelligence officer moonlighting as an industrial engineer. John's assignments are anything but glamorous; they're mundane, bureaucratic, and at times, absurdly comical. The series explores the human side of the spy game, where personal struggles and professional duties collide. It's as much about the man behind the badge as it is about the missions themselves.

Halt and Catch Fire

Do you have a soft spot for underdog stories? Look no further. Set in the early '80s, this show follows a motley crew of engineers and businesspeople trying to reverse-engineer an IBM computer. With a backdrop of the personal computing revolution, it explores the rise of an industry that would come to define our age. The show dives into the world of tech startups, shedding light on the challenges faced by the pioneers of Silicon Prairie.

Terriers

Ever had a dream that just didn't pan out? Hank Dolworth, a recovering alcoholic and former cop, knows a thing or two about that. He and his buddy Britt Pollack start an unlicensed private investigation business, getting themselves into all sorts of trouble. The show explores the ups and downs of their friendship, as they tackle cases that go beyond the usual detective fare. There's a distinct sense of realism here, a portrayal of life that's gritty and raw, yet oddly endearing.

The Knick

Who would've thought that a medical drama set in the early 1900s could be so riveting? At New York's Knickerbocker Hospital, Dr. John Thackery is a brilliant surgeon with a penchant for pushing boundaries. With the advent of new medical technologies, the doctors at The Knick are always on the cutting edge (pun intended). The series provides a glimpse into the world of early surgery, where the operating room was as much a theater as a place of healing.

The Expanse

Space, the final frontier. But in The Expanse, it's not all about exploring strange new worlds; it's about surviving in a universe teetering on the brink of war. Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, the series follows a disparate group of individuals brought together by a mysterious conspiracy. As they uncover the truth, they find themselves caught in the crossfire of Earth, Mars, and the Belt.

Quarry

Life wasn't easy for Mac Conway, a Marine returning from Vietnam. He struggles to readjust to civilian life and is haunted by the war. When he's offered a job as a hitman for a criminal network, Mac finds himself in a world of violence and betrayal. The show delves into the dark underbelly of the American South, exploring the effects of war on soldiers and the choices they make to survive.