As 2025 draws to a close, Netflix is looking back at a year filled with captivating stories that dominated our screens and sparked countless conversations. From gripping dramas to hilarious comedies and everything in between, here's a rundown of the best that Netflix offered this year.
Series That Had Us Hooked
Leading the pack in terms of viewership was "Adolescence," a British miniseries that adopted a unique approach by filming each episode in a single take. This innovative technique captivated audiences and critics alike, making it one of the most talked-about shows of the year. "Stranger Things" continued its reign as a cultural phenomenon with its final season, delivering a nostalgic blend of sci-fi and horror that resonated with longtime fans. The series wrapped up with the release of its final episodes in December, providing closure to a beloved story. "Squid Game" also returned with a highly anticipated third season, further solidifying its place as one of Netflix's biggest original hits. While the ending wasn't universally loved, it remained a must-watch event for fans of the dark and satirical series. Other notable series that kept subscribers glued to their screens included "American Primeval", "The Diplomat", and "A Man on the Inside".
Movies That Made a Splash
On the movie front, Netflix delivered a diverse range of films that catered to various tastes. "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery," the latest installment in the popular "Knives Out" franchise, brought back Daniel Craig as Detective Benoit Blanc to solve a new and dangerous case. The film's star-studded cast and intricate plot made it a critical and commercial success. "The Great Flood," a disaster movie depicting a world facing catastrophic flooding, offered a thrilling and visually stunning experience. For animation enthusiasts, "K-Pop Demon Hunters" provided a vibrant and action-packed adventure with catchy music and impressive visuals. Surprisingly, "Plankton: The Movie," a "SpongeBob SquarePants" spin-off, garnered positive attention for its unique animation style and engaging storyline.
Trends and Takeaways
Several trends emerged on Netflix in 2025. Thrillers and mysteries continued to be popular, with shows like "The Beast in Me" and "Dept. Q" capturing viewers' attention with their suspenseful narratives. Nostalgia also played a significant role, as evidenced by the success of "Stranger Things" and the continued popularity of shows like "Bridgerton". International content remained a key driver of growth, with series like "Squid Game" and "Adolescence" demonstrating the global appeal of diverse stories.
As Netflix prepares for 2026, the streaming giant is set to undergo significant changes, including the acquisition of Warner Bros. This merger promises to reshape the streaming landscape and bring even more content to Netflix's ever-growing library. With a mix of returning favorites and exciting new releases, Netflix is poised to remain a dominant force in the world of entertainment.
