Although anthology television has now long been a unique format — withThe Collier Hour, which was released in 1927, being a great example — some gems have flown under the radar or were overshadowed by bigger releases of well-established, fan-favorite shows. The genre provides audiences with a bold and engaging structure with a fresh new tale in each season or episode, managing to keep audiences entertained through and through.
Despite lacking acknowledgment, there are several television shows that have pushed creative boundaries and delivered memorable stories. FromRoom 104toNight Gallery,we take a look back at some of the most underrated anthology shows that deserve viewers' time and full attention.
10’Room 104' (2017 - 2020)
Creators: Mark Duplass, Jay Duplass
MarkandJay Duplass’Room 104blends psychological horror, drama, fantasy, and comedy as it chronicles different anthology stories set in room 104 of a seemingly average American motel. The narratives follow the assorted guests who pass through, ranging from funny and fantastical, to dramatic and terrifying.
While arguably notthevery best addition to the anthology format in television,Room 104is still a creative and innovative hidden gem TV anthology that entertains audiences within a single room. Its unpredictability and the way it experiments with genres make it an intriguing and unique series, with its performances also helping elevate it. Still,despite all these intriguing elements,the spooky 2017 serieshas actively flown under the radar.
9’Slasher' (2016 - 2023)
Creator: Aaron Martin
Although it does count on a small fanbase,Aaron Martin’sSlasheris often overlooked in the realm ofhorror TV shows. Perfect for anyone who loves diving into the slasher genre, the anthology series features rampaging serial killers leaving carnage in their wake as their next victims fight for survival.
Despite staying true to its roots and essence,Slasherprovides the genre with a refreshing and modern twist, delving deeper into the backstories of its characters instead of solely providing audiences with blood and gore. Furthermore, Martin’s show also does a great job at focusing on its mystery elements, inciting audiences to join its whodunits by attempting to uncover the identity of each killer. All in all, the under-watchedSlasheris a gruesome, must-see horror that keeps audiences on edge.
8’The Outer Limits' (1995 - 2002)
Creator: Joseph Stefano
Joseph Strefano’sThe Outer Limitsis amonster horror sci-fi anthologyshow that has pushed boundaries throughout its run. Despite not being on the same level as the iconic 1960s series of the same name, it still provides viewers with an intriguing reimagining of a beloved classic, addressing thought-provoking contemporary issues and delving into different themes.
The Outer Limitsdoes not shy away from dealing with controversial topics throughout its run and remains a consistently enjoyable series. While it does not always get the same level of love as other sci-fi series, it is still a well-written show with innovative storytelling and a lasting impact on the genre, soit’s not unusual for fans of speculative fiction to end up enjoying this under-watched gem.
The Outer Limits
7’Cabinet of Curiosities' (2022)
Creator: Guillermo del Toro
Those keen onGuillermo del Toro’s visually striking works will surely loveCabinet of Curiosities. This horror mystery thriller anthology that sees eight different haunting tales unfold in a visually stunning and tingling horror collection. Despite its great feedback upon release, del Toro’s show can be considered underrated compared to some other prominent horror anthologies.
Although it did not earn mainstream attention like contemporaries such asBlack Mirror,Cabinet of Curiositiesis a cinematically rich and immersive show that is still worth checking, especially if audiences are fascinated by beautifully crafted horror that is just as pretty as it is unsettling. Del Toro has always been a master of memorable creatures, and the Netflix show certainly does not disappoint in that realm.
Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities
Watch on Netflix
6’Electric Dreams' (2017 - 2018)
Creator: Philip K. Dick
Based on the works of the beloved authorPhilip K. Dick,Electric Dreamsis a gorgeous anthology series that does not often get the appreciation it deserves. Fans oftencompare it to other sci-fi series likeBlack Mirrorfor its anthology format and philosophical approach to technology.
Despite its critical acclaim and thought-provoking, highly creative stories,the Amazon sci-fi epic is surprisingly underseen compared to other shows in the category. While this may have to do with its short run (it only features one season) and mixed feedback regarding some episodes, it is safe to say thatElectric Dreamsdeserves a wider audience, whether for its beautiful visuals and intriguing scenarios or its emotional depth.
Electric Dreams
Watch on Fubo
5’High Maintenance' (2016 - 2020)
Creators: Ben Sinclair, Katja Blichfeld
High Maintenanceis a highly creative show that tackles urban life and human connection by exploring the private lives of unique New York individuals through their weed deliveryman. Through its anthology format,SinclairandBlichfeld’s show provides viewers with an intimate look into the lives of its everyday characters, humanizing them and illustrating modern life in a unique light.
AlthoughHigh Maintenancehas received great feedback from critics,it remains a relatively underappreciated series in the broader TV landscape, and many viewers are missing out on it. Overall, it is the perfect pick for anyone who enjoys quiet narratives with great writing that captures the beauty of mundane things and human existence, with its humanistic and realistic perspective appealing to slice-of-life show enthusiasts.
High Maintenance
4’Channel Zero' (2016 - 2018)
Creator: Nick Antosca
Those who are not familiar with horror TV have still likely heard about major hits such asMike Flanagan’sThe Haunting of Hill House. However, lesser-known gems, such asChannel Zero, can be just as chilling viewing experiences. This anthology series is based on the popular Internet Creepypastas Candle Cove, The No-End House, Butcher’s Block, and The Dream Door.
Although it has eventually developed a cult following and remains a fan-favorite among horror fans, mainstream audiences who are new to the genre may not have heard aboutChannel Zeroand are probably missing out. This unique show is refreshing in how it adapts eerie Internet stories into self-contained seasons with different casts, keeping audiences invested in each and on edge with its unpredictability.
Channel Zero
3’Inside No. 9' (2014 - 2024)
Creators: Steve Pemberton, Reece Shearsmith
An engaging dark comedy and psychological drama created bySteven PembertonandReece Shearsmith,Inside No. 9is an engaging and thought-provoking series that thrives on its commitment to unpredictability and ability to delivershocking and scary twists. Each episode explores a new genre, taking audiences into some very different and enigmatic No. 9s.
Inside No. 9is generally regarded as an underrated anthology that deserves more love. Despite its critical acclaim, it is often overshadowed because of its unconventional structure, which some TV enthusiasts don’t enjoy as much. Still, the show’s highly creative episodes with self-contained stories are filled with engaging storytelling and compelling character development, balancing dark humor with layered narratives with great results.
Inside No. 9
2’Night Gallery' (1969 - 1973)
Creator: Rod Serling
Created byRod Serling,Night Gallerysurely deserves a place among the best and most underrated anthologies for several reasons, with Serling’s genius storytelling standing out. The fantasy drama presents tales of horror illustrated in various paintings. Serling stars in the lead role as himself/the host.
While still arguably in a different league than its predecessorThe Twilight Zone— one of the best anthology series of all time, mainly focusing on speculative science fiction and morality —Night Galleryis definitely worth checking, particularly if audiences are into darker and macabre themes. A pioneer in visual storytelling, eachNight Galleryepisode feels engaging and intriguing, presenting a wide variety of stories that range from Lovecraftian horror to psychological thrillers. While it hasn’t reached the cultural heights of Serling’s more popular show, the series was undeniably influential, remaining a great watch today.
Buy on Apple TV
1’Love, Death & Robots' (2019 -)
Creators: David Fincher, Tim Miller
WhileLove, Death & Robotsisn’t the most underrated out of all these shows, it is arguably the best, hence its high ranking. Created bymovie filmmakerDavid FincheralongsideTim Miller, this collection of animated short stories spans various genres, ranging from science fiction to fantasy and even horror and comedy.
Despite having gathered a fanbase and even acclaim for its artistry and unique storytelling,Love, Death & Robotsisn’t exactly the most popular show of its genre when it comes to mainstream viewership, often flying under the radar despite its creativity and beautiful visuals. LikeInside No. 9, this experimental 2019 series blends genres in a seamless way, tackling important and deep themes throughout its many narratives, and keeping boredom at bay. Furthermore, Fincher and Miller’s show has pushed boundaries for traditional storytelling formats in a meaningful and impactful way.
