what does limited series mean on netflix
If you enjoy watching Netflix content, you’ve certainly noticed that some of the shows have “limited series” written next to their titles. But what does this phrase actually mean and how does it vary from standard TV shows? The definition of a limited series, the reasons for Netflix’s production of them, and some of the greatest current limited series on Netflix are all covered in this blog article.
What Is a Limited Series?
A TV programme known as a limited series typically comprises one season and between four and ten episodes. A limited series does not leave any open ends or cliffhangers for a potential continuation, but rather offers a full tale with a distinct beginning, middle, and concluding end. A limited series is also known as a miniseries, which is an older term that was used for short-run shows that aired on broadcast networks or cable channels.
A standard TV show often has several seasons and a running plot that can alter or develop over time. This is not the case with limited series. Regular TV shows may not have a clear finale and can be cancelled or renewed based on their popularity, ratings, or creative direction. A limited series, on the other hand, is created and planned with a clear concept in mind, and its continuation or termination is not influenced by external factors.
Why Does Netflix Produce Limited Series?
Netflix produces limited series for several reasons. One of them is to attract more viewers and subscribers who are looking for high-quality content that can be watched in a short amount of time. A limited series can offer a satisfying and immersive viewing experience without requiring a long-term commitment or investment from the audience. A limited series can also appeal to viewers who prefer standalone stories that do not drag on or lose their momentum.
Another reason why Netflix produces limited series is to showcase diverse and original stories that may not fit into the conventional format or genre of regular TV shows. A limited series can explore different topics, themes, characters, settings, and styles that may not be suitable or profitable for mainstream television. A limited series can also experiment with different formats, such as documentary, anthology, musical, or animation.
A third reason why Netflix produces limited series is to collaborate with talented and renowned creators, actors, and producers who may not be available or interested in working on regular TV shows. A limited series can offer more creative freedom and artistic control to the people involved in making it, as well as more recognition and awards potential. A limited series can also attract more star power and prestige to Netflix as a platform for quality entertainment.
What Are Some of the Best Limited Series on Netflix?
Netflix has released many limited series in recent years, covering various genres and topics. Some of them have become critically acclaimed and popular hits, while others have remained hidden gems. Here are some of the best limited series on Netflix that you can watch right now:
- The Queen’s Gambit: Based on the novel by Walter Tevis, this historical drama follows the life and career of Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy), an orphaned chess prodigy who rises to fame and fame in the male-dominated world of chess in the 1950s and 1960s.
- When They See Us: Created by Ava DuVernay, this biographical drama tells the true story of the Central Park Five, five young men of color who were wrongfully convicted of raping a white woman in New York City in 1989.
- Unbelievable: Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning article by T. Christian Miller and Ken Armstrong, this crime drama depicts the investigation of a serial rapist by two female detectives (Toni Collette and Merritt Wever), while also showing the ordeal of one of his victims (Kaitlyn Dever) who was accused of lying about her assault.
- The Haunting of Hill House: Based on the novel by Shirley Jackson, this horror drama follows the Crain family (Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Henry Thomas, Elizabeth Reaser, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Kate Siegel) who are haunted by their past experiences at a haunted mansion.
- The Spy: Based on the book by Uri Bar-Joseph, this espionage thriller stars Sacha Baron Cohen as Eli Cohen, an Israeli agent who infiltrated the Syrian government in the 1960s.
- Behind Her Eyes: Based on the novel by Sarah Pinborough, this psychological thriller revolves around a single mother (Simona Brown) who becomes entangled in a twisted affair with her boss (Tom Bateman) and his mysterious wife (Eve Hewson).
- The Last Dance:
- The Last Dance is a documentary limited series that chronicles the career of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls basketball team during the 1997-98 season, which was their final championship-winning year. The series combines rare footage from the team’s archives with interviews from Jordan, his teammates, coaches, and rivals, as well as commentary from journalists and celebrities who witnessed the team’s dominance and cultural impact.