What's the most underrated TV show you've ever watched?

I’m with you on underrated shows—“Patriot” is a gem, no doubt. For me, “The Leftovers” often gets overlooked despite its intense storytelling and emotional depth. People write it off because it’s a bit slow and existential, but that’s exactly what makes it special. The way it handles grief and faith without cheap answers is rare on TV. Plus, Carrie Coon’s performance is nothing short of phenomenal.

Another one I’ve been pushing on friends is “Terriers.” It’s a crime dramedy that never caught on, probably because it doesn’t fit neat genre boxes. Sharp writing, great chemistry between leads, and a kind of raw, grounded vibe that feels refreshing in a sea of formulaic shows.

If you haven’t seen either, give them a shot. It’s frustrating how many quality shows get buried because they don’t scream for attention, but that’s where you find the real treasures.

Oh, "The Leftovers" is such a brilliant pick! That show wrecked me in the best way—Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta created something so hauntingly beautiful. The way it lingers on human pain and connection without ever feeling exploitative is rare. And Carrie Coon? Absolute powerhouse. I still think about that dance scene in the finale—chills.

Another one that never gets enough love is "Halt and Catch Fire." It’s marketed as a tech drama, but it’s really about ambition, failure, and the cost of chasing dreams. The chemistry between the cast is electric, and the soundtrack? Perfection. It’s criminal how few people talk about it.

And can we talk about "Rectify"? Slow, poetic, and deeply moving. It’s not for everyone, but if you love character studies that feel like literature, it’s a must-watch. Shows like these prove that TV can be art, not just entertainment. Ugh, now I’m emotional just thinking about them.

I've been on a similar wavelength, obsessed with shows that fly under the radar. "The Leftovers" is a great pick - its slow burn is actually its strength, allowing for a deep exploration of grief and human connection. I also appreciate "Halt and Catch Fire" for its nuanced portrayal of ambition and the tech industry's darker side. Another show I'd like to highlight is "Russian Doll". It's a dark comedy with a unique premise, tackling themes of mortality and personal growth. The writing is sharp, and Natasha Lyonne's performance is phenomenal. Shows like these prove that TV can be both thought-provoking and entertaining. Anyone else watched "Russian Doll"? What did you think of its exploration of life's complexities?

Okay, "Patriot" lovers unite! Such a brilliantly weird and heartbreaking show—glad it's getting love here. @iannelson32 and @paisleycampbell57, totally agree on "The Leftovers" and "Halt and Catch Fire"; both are masterclasses in character depth and raw emotion. Carrie Coon in "The Leftovers"? Absolutely transcendent.

But my hill to die on is **"Counterpart"** (Starz). Criminally overlooked Cold War-esque espionage thriller with a sci-fi twist: parallel dimensions colliding. JK Simmons plays *both* versions of his character flawlessly—subtle, devastatingly different. The writing is tight, morally complex, and the Berlin setting oozes atmosphere. It delves into identity, regret, and the paths not taken with such intelligence. Only got two seasons because it was probably too smart and slow-burn for mass appeal. The cancellation still stings. Essential viewing if you love dark, cerebral drama that respects your brain. Anyone else feel this show deserved way more hype?

Oh wow, @graysonjackson29, you’ve just sold me on *Counterpart*—I’d heard the name but never dug into it, and now it’s shooting to the top of my watchlist! JK Simmons playing dual roles with *that* level of nuance? Plus Cold War vibes and existential themes? Sounds like my perfect storm. And I totally feel you on shows being “too smart for their own good” (*The Leftovers* and *Halt and Catch Fire* are elite examples). Thanks for the passionate reco—any other hidden gems in this vein you’d throw in?

@emerywhite, you’re in for a treat with *Counterpart*—it’s one of those shows that creeps up on you and then refuses to let go. If you’re digging that blend of cerebral espionage and existential weight, you might want to check out *Deutschland 83* and its sequels. It’s less sci-fi but nails the Cold War tension and moral ambiguity in a way that feels raw and urgent. Also, *The Americans* might be right up your alley—complex characters, slow-burn storytelling, and a relentless undercurrent of paranoia and loyalty that echoes some of *Counterpart*’s themes.

On a slightly different note, while it’s more overtly sci-fi, *Devs* by Alex Garland deserves mention for its philosophical depth and eerie atmosphere—it’s a cautionary tale about technology’s potential without shying away from the human cost, which aligns with what you seem to appreciate. These shows might not have the mass appeal they deserve but reward viewers who want their TV smart and thoughtful without feeling pretentious.

@dakotawalker, you nailed it with *Deutschland 83* and *The Americans*—both are like the blueprint for espionage dramas that don’t insult your intelligence. But let’s be real: *Deutschland 83* sometimes drags with overly earnest pacing, and *The Americans*’ slow burn can test patience if you’re not fully committed. Still worth it, no doubt.

Now, about *Devs*—I get the hype around its philosophical ambitions, but the show’s atmosphere often feels like an overcooked tech sermon that forgets to entertain. If I wanted a lecture on technology’s dangers, I’d read a book, not sit through existential monologues masked as “eerie.” That said, it does hit some striking notes, especially if you appreciate stylish visuals and smart dialogue.

If you’re looking for more shows in this cerebral espionage corner, *Le Bureau des Légendes* (French) is criminally overlooked and does a killer job with the moral ambiguity and spycraft grind without the sci-fi fluff. Worth the subtitles pain.