Stream Smarter: 10 Netflix Picks to Boost Your Creative Genius
Ever feel like your creative mojo’s gone AWOL? You’re staring at the screen, waiting for inspiration to strike, and all you get is the loading symbol of doom. We’ve all been there. But here’s the thing—sometimes the best creative fuel isn’t more work; it’s a little Netflix and chill. But not the brain-melting, binge-everything-for-hours kind. I’m talking about picking shows that spark new ideas.
So, I did the heavy lifting (a.k.a. watched a lot of Netflix “for research”) and compiled a list of the top 10 Netflix shows every creative should stream—along with a few of my hot takes. Because what’s the point of watching if you can’t drop some spicy, unsolicited opinions afterward?
From design docs to sci-fi dramas, this list covers all the creative goodness you need to get your brain cells firing again. Let’s dive in!
1. Abstract: The Art of Design
Documentary Series | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
This series takes a deep dive into the minds of the world’s leading designers across various fields, from graphic design to architecture. Each episode profiles a different creative, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how these innovators think, problem-solve, and push boundaries. It’s essentially a masterclass in design thinking.
My Hot Takes
Design is problem-solving, not just aesthetics. The best creatives ask ‘why’ before they ask ‘how.’
There’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach to creativity—different fields demand different design philosophies.
Even the most successful designers still struggle with imposter syndrome. Great work comes from constantly pushing past that.
2. The Creative Brain
Documentary | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores the science behind creativity, showing how anyone can tap into their inner innovator. The doc examines how breakthroughs in creativity occur and why stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for real growth.
My Hot Takes
Creativity isn’t magic—it’s science. Your brain can be trained to innovate just like a muscle.
Risk-taking is a non-negotiable part of the creative process. Playing it safe kills innovation.
Routine is the enemy of creativity. Embrace novelty to keep your brain sharp and your ideas fresh.
3. Chef’s Table
Documentary Series | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
Don’t let the culinary focus fool you—this series is about much more than food. Each episode delves into the mind of a groundbreaking chef, offering rich insights into the creative process, the struggles of maintaining artistic integrity, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. If you’re into storytelling or innovation, this show will speak to you.
My Hot Takes
Creativity isn’t just in the product, it’s in the process. Every dish tells a story.
Perfectionism is a double-edged sword—it can drive you to excellence but can also paralyze you if unchecked.
Innovation often comes from breaking the rules—don’t be afraid to turn tradition on its head.
4. La La Land
Musical/Drama | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
While technically a love story, La La Land is a poignant exploration of the struggles and triumphs of pursuing a creative dream. The film beautifully captures the tension between passion and practicality, making it a must-watch for creatives of any field. The striking cinematography, music, and vibrant colors alone are enough to inspire visual artists and filmmakers.
My Hot Takes
Passion alone doesn’t pay the bills, but the tension between dream and reality is where creativity thrives.
Sometimes, the journey matters more than the destination. Failure is just part of the creative process.
Beauty in creativity often comes from constraint—La La Land shows how limited resources can inspire stunning visuals.
5. Black Mirror
Anthology Series | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
Every episode of Black Mirror feels like a mini-film, packed with social commentary and high-concept ideas about the future of technology and humanity. For creatives, it’s a playground for narrative structure, world-building, and creative problem-solving. Plus, the series pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in storytelling.
My Hot Takes
Technology doesn’t just inspire creativity; it can also expose its dark side. The future is as terrifying as it is exciting.
Simplicity in storytelling allows complex themes to shine. Not every creative idea needs to be convoluted to make an impact.
The best creative work reflects humanity’s greatest fears and desires. Black Mirror is an exaggerated mirror of the world we live in.
6. The Playbook
Documentary Series | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
This series profiles some of the greatest coaches in the world, sharing their personal “rules for life.” For creatives leading teams, this series offers practical wisdom on leadership, strategy, and overcoming adversity. It’s a crash course in how to motivate and inspire others while staying true to your vision.
My Hot Takes
Great leadership is just as much about listening as it is about directing. Creative teams thrive on collaboration, not dictatorship.
Failure is inevitable. The key is learning to pivot rather than trying to control the uncontrollable.
Coaches lead from the sidelines, but the creative plays are made on the field. Trust your team to execute the vision.
7. Bo Burnham: Inside
Comedy Special | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
While it may technically be a comedy special, Inside is an introspective masterpiece that uses music, film, and visual storytelling to dive into the isolation of the pandemic. It’s a raw, innovative take on creativity under pressure, offering unique insights into mental health, the creative process, and self-expression during difficult times.
My Hot Takes
Vulnerability is a superpower. The more real you get, the more people connect to your work. (Read my #ShowYourWork post to explore this in more depth.)
Sometimes creativity is born from constraints—Inside proves that isolation can actually be a breeding ground for new ideas.
Humor is a vehicle for truth. Bo Burnham uses comedy to expose the human experience in raw, uncomfortable ways
8. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things
Documentary | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
In a world of endless distractions, this documentary argues that “less is more.” Creatives often feel the need to constantly produce, consume, and overcomplicate things. Minimalism reminds us that the best ideas are often the simplest—and trimming the excess can help unlock clarity in our creative work.
My Hot Takes
Less really is more. Stripping down to the essentials often leads to more powerful creative work.
Creativity isn’t about adding more—it’s about refining and focusing on what truly matters.
Consumerism is creativity’s biggest enemy. The need for constant consumption can stifle innovation and originality.
9. The Queen’s Gambit
Drama | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
This hit drama series follows the rise of a young chess prodigy, but it’s much more than just a story about chess. The show offers lessons in discipline, resilience, and the ability to see patterns—concepts that are crucial in the creative process. The visual style, emotional depth, and intense focus on mastery are sure to resonate with any creative professional.
My Hot Takes
Mastery comes from obsession, but obsession without balance can destroy you. Creativity needs limits to avoid burnout.
Strategy is key. Whether in chess or creativity, every move should serve a greater purpose.
Creativity thrives when you think ahead. Like chess, the most innovative ideas often come from planning and anticipation.
10. Stranger Things
Drama/Sci-Fi | Trailer
Why You Should Watch
More than just a pop-culture phenomenon, Stranger Things is a masterclass in world-building, character development, and balancing nostalgia with innovation. Whether you’re interested in writing, design, or marketing, the show’s ability to create an immersive, cohesive universe is something all creatives can learn from.
My Hot Takes
Nostalgia is a powerful tool—but only when used thoughtfully. Overdoing it can make your work feel derivative.
World-building is crucial to immersive storytelling. Every detail counts, from the dialogue to the design.
Genre-blending can make for the most compelling creative work. Stranger Things seamlessly mixes horror, sci-fi, and coming-of-age genres.
The Bottom Line
Inspiration can come from unexpected places. Whether you’re watching how a designer conceptualizes their next project or analyzing the visual splendor of La La Land, these Netflix picks offer lessons in creativity, storytelling, and leadership. So, the next time you’re struggling to come up with that next big idea, take a break and let one of these shows help you see things differently.