Five essential biographical shows to binge on Netflix this weekend

Netflix has become a hub for biographical stories, be they fiction or non-fiction. These stories offer an intimate look into the lives of real people and the extraordinary situations that surround them.

With the recent conclusion of the acclaimed series The Crown and the arrival of Bradley Cooper’s directorial venture Maestro this week, there’s no better time to dive into the fascinating world of biographical shows. 

So, we have curated a list of essential biographical series for you. From gripping legal dramas to historical sagas, each show offers a unique perspective on the lives of real individuals who have left an indelible mark on history.

Here are five essential series that should be on your binge-watch list this weekend.

Five essential series to binge on Netflix this weekend:

When They See Us

Ava DuVernay’s powerful and emotionally charged miniseries, When They See Us, is a gripping portrayal of the Central Park Five case. The series follows the lives of five young Black men who were wrongfully convicted of rape in 1989. Through four episodes, it explores the profound impact of the justice system on these individuals and their families.

Superbly acted and emotionally resonant, When They See Us is a must-watch for its unflinching examination of systemic injustice.

Alias Grace

Sarah Polley’s Alias Grace is an adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s historical novel, offering a fictionalised account of the life of convicted murderer Grace Marks. Set in 19th-century Canada, the series is based on the real-life 1843 murders of Thomas Kinnear and his housekeeper Nancy Montgomery in Canada. Grace Marks, a domestic servant, was convicted alongside stable hand James McDermott.

The series explores the ambiguity surrounding Grace’s involvement and raises questions about her guilt in the infamous double homicide.

Scoop

Directed by Hansal Mehta and Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul, the story of Scoop unfolds as the shocking murder of a journalist entangles a prominent crime reporter in the complex web of police, media, and the Mumbai underworld.

Adapted from Jigna Vora’s memoir, Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison, the show depicts a fictionalised version of Vora’s real-life battle for justice after being accused of the June 2011 murder of mid-day reporter Jyotirmoy Dey.

Narcos

Narcos is a thrilling series that provides an immersive portrayal of the rise and fall of one of the most notorious drug lords in Colombia, Pablo Escobar.

The show combines crime drama with historical events. Created and produced by Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, and Doug Miro, the gripping series stars Wagner Moura and Pedro Pascal.

The Crown

While it recently concluded with its sixth season, The Crown remains an essential watch for anyone fascinated by the British royal family. Spanning decades, the series offers an intimate and sometimes speculative portrayal of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

With impeccable performances and meticulous attention to set detail, The Crown (the first two seasons, at least) will be a great addition to your weekend binge-watch lineup.