If this genre, then this drama

I used to think I would dislike the genre of drama. I don’t like drama, and I’m not dramatic. It’s a logical assumption, I thought, but I sure was wrong. I’m thankful to say that college made me wiser. I studied English and soon learned there’s no story or plot without drama. Drama is the conflict that drives a story, and when it comes to movies and shows, dramas are one of the best genres. They hold the key to entertainment with their continuous tension and captive a wide audience with their inclusion of other genres. There are romance dramas, sci-fi dramas, comedy dramas, et cetera. If all the other genres were agencies or small businesses, drama would be the parent company. Everyone can find a show for them in drama. So, to make things easier for you, here are my top picks for different types of genres in drama.

If Romance, then Bridgerton

Bridgerton is a beautifully constructed world full of romance and drama. It’s set in the Regency era of Britain, but pleasantly includes diversity with Simon, portrayed by the handsome Regé-Jean. The tension and connection between Simon and Daphne puts you on edge as you yell at the television for them to just admit their feelings already. The two are amazing to watch together as they struggle with how they feel. Furthermore, the drama surrounded by the two’s families romantic and familial relations, as well as the courtship season, adds to the suspense that captivates the viewers. This show will entice you and drag you into it emotionally.

If Fantasy, then Game of Thrones

There are many fantasy shows out there, but none quite as complex and detailed as Game of Thrones. Even the landscapes and cities vary with highlands, desert, tropical, and artic lands within the show. We watch multiple story lines, which entertains the viewers with more than one person’s perspective, ambitions and drama. The political wars between the characters for the iron throne are dramatic and get them killed. Even Drogon (one of the dragons) is dramatic. He melted the iron throne in a rage after Daenerys burns the city and John stabs her. This show is definitely dramatic, but one of the best fantasies I’ve ever seen.

If Science Fiction, then Dark

Honestly, I’ve never been more confused about the family tree of characters as I have been with Dark. So many people go into the past and end up related in the future. Charlotte’s mom is also her daughter. What?! It’s confusing and crazy, but so intriguing. Just don’t spend your time on Reddit and Google like I did in attempt to figure it out. It’s not the point and near impossible to do. There’s a lot of drama between characters in this German mystery as they try and understand their relationships, the past in relation to the future, and how to stop the apocalypse. The mystery of the town and the apocalypse captive the viewer as you try to understand how everything ties together and will end. It’s a must watch.

If Mystery, then Stranger Things

A gang of 70’s children goes on an adventure of saving their town and their friend, Will, with their new powerful friend, Eleven. The mystery of the Upside Down and the creation of Eleven’s powers are all too fascinating and will keep you interested throughout as they try to defeat the demogorgons and escape government agencies seeking power.

If Crime, then Mindhunter

Mindhunter is based (loosely) on real FBI agents John Douglas and Robert Ressler. It follows them as they work to understand and define notorious serial killers, such as Ted Bundy and Dennis Rader. Meanwhile, we see the emotional and mental toll it takes on them and the relationships they have which makes for a lot of drama.

If Comedy, then Maniac

Jonah Hill and Emma Stone play two characters that enter a drug trial to fix personal problems. While drugged, they enter simulated worlds, but things soon fall apart when problems arise with the doctor and the computer based on his mother. The show starts off seemingly serious, but the drama of the doctor and his struggles with his mother, as well as the drama with the two main characters, turns rather comedic. It’s a unique miniseries that is underrated.

If Action & Adventure, then Merlin

Merlin may be considered an old show, and it doesn’t contain the best visual effects, but the wholesome relationship between Merlin and Arthur and the antics they play a role in are rather entertaining. They get into a lot of trouble and drama as they venture off on adventures and fight their enemies. This spin on the classic King Arthur story is fun and humorous to watch no matter the year.

If you'd like to know which shows to watch that are purely considered dramas, I recommend Chernobyl and Evil. I hope you enjoy these dramas which you can find all on Netflix, with the exception of Game of Thrones and Chernobyl, which are on HBO. Happy Watching!