9 Sci-Fi Series on Netflix That Are Perfect from Start to Finish
By Brian VanHooker
Published Sep 14, 2026, 12:40 AM EDT
Polygon Lists
Unlike Stranger Things or The OA, these shows won’t leave you feeling unsatisfied.
Summary
Far too often, a show’s quality declines or it gets canceled abruptly, disrupting the overall viewing experience. However, some Netflix sci-fi series stand out for their consistent quality and engaging narratives from start to finish. Here are nine such shows:
1. 11.22.63
Based on Stephen King’s novel, this eight-episode miniseries follows Jake Epping (James Franco), an English teacher sent back in time to prevent President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. As Jake navigates the past, he makes mistakes and becomes emotionally attached to the people he meets, while sensing that time itself is pushing back against his efforts.
2. Maniac
A Netflix original created by Patrick Somerville (The Leftovers), Maniac is a darkly comedic miniseries starring Jonah Hill and Emma Stone. Two strangers with severe mental disorders volunteer for a groundbreaking experimental treatment, leading them to delve into their shared fantasies, ranging from domestic to otherworldly. The show explores themes of self-acceptance and is both "weird" and profound.
3. Bodies
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Image: Matt Towers/Netflix
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