No movie or TV show has ever received a perfect 10/10 score. According to the IMDb Top 250, the film that came the closest is The Shawshank Redemption, with a rating of 9.3 and almost 3 million votes. Meanwhile, the TV series that almost did it is Breaking Bad, with a 9.5 and over 2 million polls.
Even though no motion picture was given the golden standard, there are still a lot of films and series that are 10/10 in fans’ hearts. Today we’re featuring plenty of such examples curated by Bored Panda and visualized by Episode Hive, so people looking for something to binge-watch next can easily find it. Scroll down to discover some of the must-watch TV series out there, and be sure to leave your own recommendations below!
While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out a conversation with writer, producer, and director Chris Presswell, who kindly agreed to share his insights on flawless movies.
#1 Chernobyl (2019)
This five-part miniseries captures the chilling horror and human bravery surrounding the 1986 nuclear disaster. Chernobyl excels in its attention to detail, combining tension, fear, and political intrigue to create a harrowing exploration of man-made catastrophe and the cost of lies.
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#2 Sherlock (2010–2017)
A modern reimagining of the classic detective, Sherlock stands out for its sharp writing, fast-paced plots, and charismatic lead performances. Each episode feels like a high-stakes game of wit and deduction, with the chemistry between Sherlock and Watson bringing the iconic partnership to life.
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#3 The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
A period drama centered around a young chess prodigy’s rise to the top while battling personal demons, The Queen’s Gambit captivated fans with its stunning cinematography, stylish period detail, and Anya Taylor-Joy’s compelling performance. It’s a rare blend of intellectual intensity and emotional depth.
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To find out more about movie ratings and the perfect ten, we reached out to writer, producer, and director Chris Presswell, who just released the movie The Whip, out now in UK cinemas.
He believes that no movie or TV series has been able to receive a 10/10 rating because such a medium is very subjective, and agreeing on one that would appeal to everyone is quite impossible. “Something like Die Hard may seem universally beloved, but it isn’t going to resonate with somebody who just doesn’t enjoy action cinema.”
He also notes that it might be the case that “no matter how good something is, we can always do better.”
#4 Band Of Brothers (2001)
A moving and gritty portrayal of Easy Company during WWII, Band of Brothers is not just about war, but about camaraderie, sacrifice, and survival. Fans praise its intense realism and emotional depth, as it offers a harrowing glimpse into the bonds formed on the battlefield.
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#5 Breaking Bad (2008–2013)
This crime drama redefined the anti-hero genre with Walter White’s transformation from a mild-mannered teacher into a ruthless [illegal substances] kingpin. Its flawless pacing, shocking twists, and unforgettable character arcs make it a pinnacle of modern TV, with each episode ratcheting up the tension to nearly unbearable levels.
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#6 Peaky Blinders (2013–2022)
With stylish visuals, razor-sharp dialogue, and intense performances, Peaky Blinders follows the rise of the Shelby family’s criminal empire in post-WWI Birmingham. Fans are drawn to its gritty atmosphere, epic story arcs, and the magnetic presence of its lead, Tommy Shelby.
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Presswell suggests that in order to appeal to a wide audience, a movie or TV series has to have engaging storytelling and investable characters. “That’s not to dismiss the value of its technical brilliance, but a wider audience at large is tuning in to be told a story. It won’t matter to them that a TV show is beautifully shot if they don’t care about what’s going on screen.”
He also kindly agreed to share his own 10/10, which is The Apartment (1960). He described it as “flawless a film as has ever been made.”
#7 Mare Of Easttown (2021)
A gripping crime drama set in a small Pennsylvania town, Mare of Easttown follows a detective unraveling a local [crime] while dealing with her own personal trauma. Fans praise its emotional weight, masterful character development, and Kate Winslet’s award-winning performance as a complex, flawed lead.
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#8 Better Call Saul (2015–2022)
A slow-burn masterpiece that serves as both a prequel and a companion to Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul dives deep into the moral unraveling of Jimmy McGill, the lawyer destined to become the sleazy Saul Goodman. Its meticulous pacing and attention to character development turn it into an emotionally rich tragedy.
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#9 The Expanse (2015–2021)
A grounded and meticulously crafted space opera, The Expanse captivates with its rich political intrigue, complex characters, and scientifically accurate portrayal of interplanetary conflict. Fans admire the show’s ability to blend hard sci-fi with human drama.
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Preswell signed off by saying, “There’s no shame in enjoying a show that sits at 3/10 on IMDb, and it’s okay to dislike a film that everybody else seems to think is a masterpiece. But it’s important to take storytelling risks, and not everything will work for everyone. That’s actually a good thing and makes for a much healthier landscape of storytelling and attitude towards art in general.”
#10 Twin Peaks (1990–1991, 2017)
David Lynch’s surreal, dreamlike series is a unique blend of murder mystery, supernatural elements, and eccentric small-town life. Fans love Twin Peaks for its bizarre, avant-garde style, its haunting characters, and its ability to subvert every genre convention.
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#11 The Crown (2016–)
Lavish, captivating, and deeply human, The Crown explores the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, delving into the personal and political struggles that shaped the monarchy. Fans appreciate the meticulous production design, powerhouse performances, and the show's ability to humanize historical figures.
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#12 Fleabag (2016–2019)
Fleabag combines dark humor with profound emotional depth, as it follows a young woman navigating grief, love, and existential crisis. Its witty fourth-wall breaks, sharp writing, and the raw vulnerability of its lead character have earned it a fiercely devoted fanbase.
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Indeed, many of us rely on movies or TV series reviews to find what to binge-watch next. But have we ever wondered how they come to be and whether or not they can be trusted? Read on, as we'll be attempting to find out just that.
Generally, movie review websites use a “weighted average.” This means that the average score isn’t calculated by adding all the votes and dividing them by the total number. Instead, such a formula doesn’t allow all votes to have the same amount of impact “weight” on the final consensus.
#13 Six Feet Under (2001–2005)
Set in a family-run funeral home, Six Feet Under tackles life, death, and everything in between with dark humor and emotional honesty. Its raw exploration of mortality and grief resonated deeply with viewers, culminating in one of the most satisfying series finales in TV history.
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#14 The Last Of Us (2023–)
Based on the critically acclaimed video game, The Last of Us combines emotional storytelling with post-apocalyptic survival, focusing on the bond between Joel and Ellie as they navigate a world ravaged by a deadly fungus. Fans appreciate its fidelity to the source material and its exploration of love, loss, and hope in a world teetering on the edge.
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#15 Ted Lasso (2020–2023)
This heartwarming comedy about an American football coach managing an English soccer team continues to win hearts with its blend of kindness, optimism, and laugh-out-loud humor. Fans adore its uplifting tone and positive outlook, with its emphasis on human connection and emotional growth making it a standout in modern TV.
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Since each movie review website operates its ratings slightly differently, we’ll be looking at two of the major ones and their processes.
Let's take IMDb, the most popular ratings and entertainment media database, as the first example. On their website, they propose that their ratings come from a mix of user votes and professional critic reviews from newspapers, magazines, and other publications.
“We aim to offer a variety of opinions on a title so users can make informed viewing decisions. We also always display the breakdown of the ratings so users can see the distribution of votes and determine how uniform or polarized the opinion of a movie is,” writes IMDb.
#16 Dark (2017–2020)
A mind-bending German series that expertly weaves together time travel, existential dread, and family drama, Dark is a puzzle box of intricate plotlines. Fans are drawn to its dense storytelling, atmospheric tension, and the way it forces viewers to grapple with the concept of fate and free will.
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#17 Fargo (2014–)
Inspired by the Coen Brothers’ film, Fargo combines quirky Midwestern charm with shocking violence and intricate criminal plots. Each season delivers a new story of crime and consequence, packed with dark humor, eccentric characters, and unpredictable narratives that keep viewers hooked.
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#18 Severance (2022–)
This dystopian workplace thriller explores the eerie concept of separating work and personal memories through brain surgery. Severance captivates fans with its haunting atmosphere, slow-burn suspense, and sharp critique of corporate culture. The unique premise is a fresh take on sci-fi, blending psychological horror with dark humor.
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They don’t fully disclose their “weighted average” formula. This ensures that their calculations remain reliable and prevents attempts to stuff the ballot and influence the voting system. However, it seems that website users tend to hold a heavier weight in deciding what score a title gets.
#19 Stranger Things (2016–)
An endearing mix of ‘80s nostalgia, sci-fi horror, and coming-of-age drama, Stranger Things has become a cultural phenomenon. Its lovable cast of characters and thrilling supernatural mystery, combined with its impeccable homage to classic ‘80s films, have made it a must-watch for fans of adventure and nostalgia.
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#20 The Haunting Of Hill House (2018)
A chilling, character-driven ghost story, The Haunting of Hill House combines family trauma with supernatural horror. Fans praise its non-linear narrative, emotionally resonant themes, and haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the final episode.
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#21 Gravity Falls (2012–2016)
An animated gem that mixes supernatural mysteries with heartfelt sibling bonds, Gravity Falls is both whimsical and complex. Its rich lore, clever humor, and emotional storytelling resonate with both kids and adults, creating a cult following that cherishes its imaginative world.
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Meanwhile, another widely known movie review website is Rotten Tomatoes. The way they work is that they separate professional movie critics from casual moviegoers by having a Tomatometer and Popcornmeter.
The former is a score formed according to movie and TV reviews from Tomatometer-approved critics. The Rotten Tomatoes team curates thousands of such reviews weekly, deciding if they’re negative or positive. The team is very deliberate when it comes to their critic curation and only selects those who have been actively putting out movie reviews over the last two years.
#22 The Sopranos (1999–2007)
The Sopranos changed the face of television with its complex portrayal of Tony Soprano, a mob boss grappling with the pressures of both organized crime and suburban family life. Its deep exploration of mental health, existential dread, and moral decay set a new standard for TV drama.
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#23 Succession (2018–)
A biting, darkly comedic exploration of power and privilege, Succession follows the ruthless Roy family as they vie for control of their media empire. The show’s sharp writing, acidic humor, and cutthroat family dynamics make it a gripping study of wealth and dysfunction.
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#24 The Mandalorian (2019–)
With stunning visuals, old-school Western influences, and a mysterious bounty hunter at its center, The Mandalorian quickly won over fans of Star Wars. The show revitalized the franchise with fresh, heartfelt storytelling, and Grogu (aka Baby Yoda) became an instant pop culture icon.
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Conversely, the Popcornmeter allows users to rate a movie or TV show to see how close the critic’s score is to casual moviegoers. It helps people to decide if a motion picture is really worth seeing and is calculated similarly to the critics’ reviews.
#25 The Wire (2002–2008)
A sprawling, ambitious look at the broken institutions of Baltimore, The Wire explores the interconnected worlds of law enforcement, drug trade, education, and politics. Fans admire its razor-sharp social commentary, nuanced characters, and its willingness to tackle systemic failure without oversimplifying.
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#26 Parks And Recreation (2009–2015)
Full of heart and humor, Parks and Rec is a charming comedy about small-town government and its optimistic, offbeat employees. It’s beloved for its lighthearted, uplifting tone and standout performances, particularly from Amy Poehler.
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#27 The Sandman (2022–)
Based on Neil Gaiman’s beloved comic series, The Sandman delivers a rich, fantastical world where dreams and reality intertwine. Fans praise its faithful adaptation of the source material, stunning visuals, and deep dive into philosophical themes about life, death, and the power of storytelling.
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Since these ratings are purely based on subjective and personal opinions, be they those of critics or the general public, one shouldn’t base their decision to see a movie solely on them.
Different people might enjoy or dislike entirely contrasting things, leading them to perhaps miss a movie they would’ve enjoyed or watch a film that seemed to them like a complete waste of time. On the other hand, having a general idea of what to expect from a movie can be useful and help to gauge if it's worth splurging on or saving money on the new premiere.
#28 The Handmaid’s Tale (2017–)
A dystopian drama with chilling relevance, fans praise its powerful performances and hard-hitting exploration of control and resistance.
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#29 The White Lotus (2021–)
A dark comedy-drama set in a luxury Hawaiian resort, The White Lotus examines the messy lives of its privileged guests. Fans are drawn to its sharp social commentary, satire of the wealthy elite, and its intricate blend of humor and tension that unravels in unexpected ways.
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#30 The Boys (2019–)
The Boys takes the superhero genre and flips it on its head, offering a brutal, satirical look at what happens when superheroes abuse their powers. Fans love its mix of shocking violence, dark humor, and smart social commentary on corporate greed and celebrity culture.
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#31 Watchmen (2019)
A bold reimagining of the iconic graphic novel, Watchmen explores race, justice, and legacy in a dystopian America. Its ambitious storytelling and striking visuals earned critical acclaim, while fans appreciated its fearless exploration of timely social issues.
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#32 Squid Game (2021–)
A South Korean survival drama where contestants play deadly versions of childhood games for a massive cash prize, Squid Game exploded into global fame with its intense suspense, biting social commentary on class disparity, and shocking violence. Fans appreciate its unpredictable, high-stakes narrative and emotional depth.
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#33 The Bear (2022–)
A gritty, high-stress drama set in a Chicago restaurant, The Bear dives deep into the chaotic, emotional life of a young chef struggling to keep his family’s sandwich shop afloat. Fans love its raw authenticity, fast-paced storytelling, and how it portrays the pressures of both culinary life and personal struggles.
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#34 Arcane (2021–)
Set in the League of Legends universe, Arcane broke new ground with its jaw-dropping animation and nuanced character development. Fans and critics alike praise its engaging storylines, rich world-building, and emotional resonance, making it one of the most successful video game adaptations to date.
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#35 Narcos (2015–2017)
Chronicling the rise and fall of [illegal substance] kingpins like Pablo Escobar, Narcos is a thrilling dive into the world of [illegal substance] cartels. Fans appreciate its intense pacing, gritty realism, and its in-depth portrayal of how power and corruption intertwine.
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#36 The Leftovers (2014–2017)
A haunting meditation on grief and loss, The Leftovers takes place in a world where 2% of the population has mysteriously vanished. Fans love its deep emotional exploration and philosophical reflections on faith, love, and the human need for meaning.
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#37 Bojack Horseman (2014–2020)
An animated dark comedy that explores fame, addiction, and depression with surprising emotional depth and satirical brilliance.
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#38 Yellowjackets (2021–)
A psychological thriller that mixes survival horror with mystery, Yellowjackets follows a girls’ soccer team stranded after a plane crash, alongside their adult lives grappling with what happened. Fans are drawn to its dark, suspenseful plot, strong performances, and the mystery that keeps deepening with each episode.
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#39 Station Eleven (2021–2022)
A post-apocalyptic drama following survivors after a global pandemic, Station Eleven is praised for its hopeful, human-centric narrative. Rather than focusing on destruction, it explores the rebuilding of society and the role of art and memory in sustaining humanity, making it a standout in the genre.
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