7 BEST INTL SERIES NOW

Binge Worthy From Italy, Germany, Spain + more

image above: the poster for money heist; cover image: elisabeth moss in top of the lake

BY: Georgia Davis

The holiday season is here and that means people’s travel schedules will likely be busy. But, if you’re staying home for the holidays and want an international experience, try tuning into these PROVOKR-approved series:

BABYLON BERLIN

We can’t recommend Babylon Berlin enough. The German series takes place during the ‘20s and focuses on a detective. There is enough mystery and the leading performances are enough to keep you hooked for its two seasons. A third season is supposed to drop in 2020, so catch up now.

Babylon Berlin is available on Netflix.

MONEY HEIST

This crime series, from Spain, was supposed to be a limited two season series, but when Netflix acquired the rights in 2017, it ordered two more. The next season is set for release in 2020. It follows a group of bank robbers who use national capitals as pseudonyms. (Tokyo is the best, don’t @ me.) It’s a wild ride complete with utterly crazy masks and the perfect distraction from the hubbub of the holidays.

Money Heist is available on Netflix.

MEDICI

The Medici, the famous Italian family, serves as the inspo for this British-Italian series. Starring as leading man, Cosimo, is Game of Thrones alumnus Richard Madden. If you don’t think 15th century Florence is dramatic backdrop, then you’ll be pleasantly pleased binging on the three seasons of Medici.

Medici is available on Netflix.

MY BRILLIANT FRIEND

This reflective, enticing series takes you down the cobblestone streets of Naples. The shows are based on Elena Ferrante novels and follow an elderly woman remembering the life of her dear friend. It’s about a sisterhood that can never be compromised, as long as memories live on — and they do in the written word.

My Brilliant Friend is available on HBO.

BROADCHURCH

These days, Olivia Colman is playing Queen Elizabeth II. Before she landed the role in season three of The Crown, Colman starred in all three seasons of Broadchurch. The British actress was paired with former Dr. Who leader, David Tenant for the crime drama. If you’re looking for classic Olivia Colman, but in a different genre, you’ll want to check this series out.

Broadchurch is available on Netflix.

TOP OF THE LAKE

If you loved Elisabeth Moss in her 2019 hits, Us and Her Smell, then you’ll have a newfound appreciation after watching this 2013 show. Moss’ character is found frozen at the bottom of a lake in New Zealand, prompting a full-fledged investigation. There are only two seasons of this drama, but it’s perfect for the busy person with just a few days to relax this holiday season.

Top Of The Lake is available on Hulu.

BORDERTOWN

With three seasons and 31 episodes, this Finnish series has enough material to last throughout the holidays. The crime drama’s tagline is “If Sherlock was based in Finland this would be it.” Need we say more?

Bordertown is available on Netflix.