Retirement often opens up something many of us didn’t have before…time. And more retirees are treating their screen time with the same care they give to travel plans or reading lists. Whether you’re after thoughtful storytelling, eye-opening documentaries, or something to share with friends, the right show can feel like a new adventure, or at least spark a great conversation.

We’ve compiled some recommendations that lean toward quality over quantity. They’re handpicked for the kind of viewer who values substance, craft, and maybe even a little surprise. So if you’re wondering what to queue up next, this guide is a good place to start.

For the Story-Driven Viewer

If you like shows that are well-written and well-acted, start here.

• Slow Horses (Apple TV+): A British spy series where the agents are stuck on the sidelines. Smart, dark, and dryly funny.
• The Diplomat (Netflix): Political drama with just enough personal tension to keep it grounded. Keri Russell plays the lead.
• Tokyo Vice (Max): A slow build, but worth it. Based on the true story of an American journalist covering organized crime in Japan.

For the Curious Traveler

Some documentaries make you want to go somewhere, or see a familiar place with fresh eyes.

• Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy (CNN): Beautifully shot and full of regional detail.
• Our Great National Parks (Netflix): Narrated by Barack Obama, this series offers a close look at landscapes you may want to visit for yourself.
• The Lost Leonardo (Amazon Prime): The story of a painting and the modern art world. Sharp and layered.

For the Conversation Starter

Some picks are less about spectacle and more about ideas. These are the shows that tend to come up at dinner tables and book clubs.

• The Bear (Hulu): A tense restaurant drama that’s also about family and life pressure. 
• Severance (Apple TV+): High-concept, but grounded by strong acting and a clear tone. It asks real questions about balance and identity.
• Drive My Car (Max): A Japanese film about loss and art. Long and quiet, but carefully made.

These are stories that stay with you, so make sure you’re prepared.

For the Hidden Gem Hunter

These picks flew under the radar but offer a real payoff.

• Somebody Somewhere (Max): A low-key comedy about loss and starting fresh.
• Patriot (Prime Video): Offbeat and moving. An understated spy show.
• Colin From Accounts (Paramount+): An Australian romantic comedy series with strong writing and sharp timing.

For Those Who Make It Social

Streaming doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Why not turn it into a monthly watch club? The setup is simple: pick one film or series, pair it with a bottle of wine, and take turns hosting. If the theme is Italy, open a Chianti. If it’s space, try something sparkling. The goal here is connection.

Streaming gets a bad reputation as passive entertainment, but with the right picks, it can be more than that. A good show gives you something to think about and a great one gives you something to talk about.