The Streaming Landscape is Overflowing – But These Shows Rise Above the Noise. In 2025, Disney+ and Hulu continue to dominate the conversation, offering a massive library of content fueled by iconic franchises. But beyond the familiar heroes and galaxies far, far away, lies a wealth of compelling original programming that deserves your attention. This isn't just about rehashing old favorites; it's about discovering the next binge-worthy obsession.
Disney, with its ownership of powerhouse brands like Marvel, Star Wars, and now Alien, naturally delivers a consistent stream of high-profile series. However, the real strength of Disney+ and Hulu lies in their willingness to explore diverse narratives, often in collaboration with networks like FX, resulting in gripping mysteries, intense crime dramas, and stories that venture far beyond established universes. If you're feeling fatigued by endless sequels and prequels, these platforms offer a refreshing alternative.
Below, we present a curated selection of the best Disney+ and Hulu shows of 2025, showcasing the breadth and quality of their original content.
Alien: Earth – A Terrifying Return to the Source
FX / Hulu
Adapting a beloved film franchise for television is a daunting task. Maintaining audience engagement over an extended season requires a compelling narrative and a consistent level of suspense. Noah Hawley’s “Alien: Earth” not only meets this challenge but surpasses expectations, delivering a truly visceral and captivating experience. It genuinely recaptured the feeling of being glued to the television, eagerly anticipating each new installment – a sensation rarely achieved in the age of streaming.
Initially, some skepticism arose following the somewhat convoluted explanations offered in Ridley Scott’s “Prometheus” and “Alien: Covenant.” However, Hawley masterfully expands the “Alien” universe, introducing terrifying new creatures and exploring fascinating new corners of the mythology, all while remaining deeply respectful of the atmosphere and tone established by Scott and James Cameron’s original films. Remarkably, the series even introduces a creature that manages to steal the spotlight from the iconic Xenomorph itself – a testament to the show’s creative ingenuity. (You can read more about this surprising development here: https://www.slashfilm.com/1946586/alien-earth-most-dangerous-creature-not-xenomorph/).
While not flawless, the standout flashback episode, “In Space, No One…” is a masterpiece of suspense and dread, ranking among the very best entries in the entire franchise. Its placement mid-season, however, created a significant hurdle for the remaining episodes, which felt somewhat rushed in comparison as they attempted to resolve the complex storylines before the season finale. Despite this minor pacing issue, “Alien: Earth” stands as a superior prequel series, boasting a compelling cast, assured direction, and stunning production design. The anticipation for the next season, and the fate of that unsettling eyeball creature, is already building. (Lee Adams)
Andor Season 2 – When a Space Opera Achieves Artistic Greatness
Des Willie/Lucasfilm
Here's where it gets controversial: Can a franchise traditionally aimed at children genuinely deliver sophisticated, thought-provoking storytelling? For many, “Star Wars” has been synonymous with spectacle and nostalgia, often prioritizing fan service over artistic ambition. But Tony Gilroy’s “Andor” shattered those expectations, and its second season elevates the series to a new level of excellence. It’s a stubborn, brilliant production that defied expectations and proved that “Star Wars” could be more than just action figures colliding.
The debut season was exceptional, but the second and final season is a masterclass in storytelling, political commentary, and thematic focus. It delves into the sacrifices and lengths to which unsung heroes will go in the fight against oppression. The series’ powerful depiction of organized rebellion resonated deeply, even inspiring real-world protests (as reported here: https://newrepublic.com/article/196781/no-kings-austin-texas-anti-trump-movement-andor). The emotional impact of Diego Luna’s portrayal of Cassian Andor, the chilling extremism of Stellan Skarsgård’s Luthen Rael, and the unsettling ambition of Kyle Soller’s Syril Karn and Denise Gough’s Dedra Meero demonstrate a level of writing and understanding of television as a medium rarely seen in mainstream entertainment. (You can find a review of Season 2 here: https://www.slashfilm.com/1839764/andor-season-2-star-wars-series-review/).
“Andor” didn’t just raise the bar for “Star Wars” television; it redefined what the franchise could be. It proved that ambitious, character-driven storytelling could thrive within a galaxy far, far away. We have friends everywhere, indeed. (Jeremy Mathai)
The Bear Season 4 – From Agony to Triumph
FX/Hulu
Season 3 of “The Bear” left many viewers feeling frustrated and disheartened, with its meandering plot and the characters’ seemingly endless cycle of self-doubt and misery. It wasn’t immediately clear whether this was an intentional artistic choice, designed to immerse the audience in the characters’ emotional state, or a sign that the show had lost its way.
Thankfully, Season 4 delivers a resounding return to form. The characters regain their focus and begin a journey of healing and growth. The season is energetic, purposeful, and filled with moments of genuine catharsis, even retroactively enhancing the impact of the previous season. It becomes clear that Season 3’s struggles were a necessary low point, setting the stage for the triumphant highs of Season 4. The performances from Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach are career-defining, culminating in a powerful and intimate finale centered around a single, intense conversation. These bold creative choices are what have always set “The Bear” apart, and in Season 4, they truly pay off. (Michael Boyle)
Daredevil: Born Again – A Gritty Revival
Marvel Studios
“It's not entirely unpleasant seeing you again.” This line, spoken by Wilson Fisk/Kingpin (Vincent D'Onofrio) to Matt Murdock/Daredevil (Charlie Cox), perfectly encapsulates the warm reception to “Daredevil: Born Again,” a revival of the beloved Netflix series.
Despite a decade-long hiatus, Cox and D'Onofrio seamlessly slip back into their roles, exploring new storylines – Kingpin as the mayor of New York City, Daredevil on trial for manslaughter – that resonate with the core themes of the character: the complexities of law and justice, and the ethical dilemmas of vigilantism. The show also embraces a more traditional television format, with weekly episodes and standalone narratives (https://www.slashfilm.com/1816138/daredevil-born-again-episode-5-marvel-standalone-episode/).
“Born Again” faced significant challenges during production, including extensive reshoots (https://www.slashfilm.com/1417662/marvel-studios-revamping-daredevil-born-again-new-writers-directors/), which reportedly involved a complete overhaul of the series. While these changes are occasionally noticeable, particularly in the development of some supporting characters, the revised season ultimately delivers a compelling and satisfying experience, culminating in a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that sets the stage for Season 2. (Devin Meenan)
Deli Boys – A Hilariously Dark Hidden Gem
Elizabeth Sisson/Hulu
Imagine “Succession” condensed into bite-sized sitcom episodes, focusing on the inept sons of a low-level crime lord who run drugs through their successful deli chain in Philadelphia. But instead of a thinly veiled satire of the Murdoch family, “Deli Boys” offers a unique perspective on the American dream, exploring the lengths to which a Pakistani-American family will go to achieve success, even if it means breaking the law. And this is the part most people miss: This isn't a prestige drama aiming for respectability; it's a deliberately irreverent comedy that subverts expectations.
Created by Abdullah Saeed, “Deli Boys” challenges conventional representations of underrepresented communities. Instead of portraying idealized characters, the series presents flawed, selfish, and often hilarious protagonists. Mir (Asif Ali) and Raj (Saagar Shaikh) are hardly the heroes we expect, and their bumbling attempts to take over the family business are a constant source of amusement. The show’s focus on cultural specificity and its unapologetically foul-mouthed humor make it a truly unique and refreshing addition to the streaming landscape. (Jeremy Mathai)
Ironheart – A Fresh Take on the Superhero Genre
Marvel Studios
In an era of “superhero fatigue,” “Ironheart” arrives as a breath of fresh air. The series focuses on Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne), a young genius who takes up the mantle of Ironheart, offering a small-scale, character-driven story that eschews the cosmic chaos and multiversal madness of some other MCU projects.
“Ironheart” excels at exploring the human side of heroism, focusing on Riri’s relationships with her friends and family as she navigates the challenges of being a superhero. Chinaka Hodge’s writing prioritizes character development and emotional resonance, while still delivering plenty of action and excitement. Don’t let the negative reviews dissuade you; this series is a reminder of what makes the MCU special – relatable characters with compelling stories. (Kieran Fisher)
Marvel Zombies – A Gory and Unexpected Twist
Marvel Studios
In a landscape dominated by polished superhero narratives, “Marvel Zombies” offers a welcome dose of gore and brutality. The animated series expands upon the “What If… Zombies?!” episode, delivering a terrifying and visceral take on the MCU.
The premise is simple: a zombie outbreak ravages the Marvel universe, turning heroes and villains alike into undead adversaries. But these aren’t your typical shambling zombies; they retain their powers and abilities, creating unprecedentedly dangerous and shocking confrontations. The series isn’t just about mindless violence; it serves a purpose, with Wanda Maximoff (Elisabeth Olsen) serving as the mastermind behind the outbreak (https://www.slashfilm.com/1970877/marvel-zombies-best-villain-scarlet-witch-win/). (Pauli Poisuo)
One Thousand Blows – An Underdog Boxing Drama
Elizabeth Sisson/Hulu
“A Thousand Blows” is a surprise contender, often overlooked amidst the buzz surrounding Stephen Graham’s other projects. This Victorian-era boxing drama, co-created by and starring Graham, delivers a compelling story of ambition, betrayal, and the brutal world of bare-knuckle fighting. The series benefits from a talented cast, many of whom also appeared in Netflix’s “Adolescence,” and a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of its characters. Malachi Kirby shines as Hezekiah Moscow, a Jamaican immigrant fighting to make a name for himself in London’s underground boxing scene, while Erin Doherty delivers a standout performance as a cunning and ruthless gang leader. (Nick Staniforth)
Paradise – Emotional Resonance and Twisting Mystery
Hulu
Dan Fogelman, the creator of “This is Us,” returns with “Paradise,” a gripping thriller that combines emotional depth with a multi-layered mystery. The series centers around Secret Service agent Xavier Collins (Sterling K. Brown) as he investigates the murder of the President (James Marsden). The show is filled with unexpected twists and turns, but it’s the emotional connection between Collins and the President that truly captivates the audience. Fogelman masterfully blends suspense and chaos, culminating in a mind-blowing reveal that will leave you breathless. (Akos Peterbencze)
Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man – A Fresh Take on a Classic
Marvel Studios
“Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” offers a fresh and visually stunning take on the iconic superhero. The animated series reimagines Peter Parker’s origin story, drawing inspiration from the Marvel Cinematic Universe while creating its own unique space within the larger multiverse. The show’s vibrant animation style and kinetic action sequences are a delight to watch, and its unique portrayal of classic characters and introduction of new supporting cast members add depth and complexity to the Spider-Man mythos. (Rafael Motamayor)
What do you think? Do these shows live up to the hype? Are there any hidden gems we missed? Let us know in the comments below – we’re eager to hear your thoughts and start a discussion!
