One-shot films and TV series have real power behind them, with an ability to cause the most amount of tension possible from behind a screen. From chaotic kitchens to crime dramas, there is something on this list to pique everyone’s interest. These are the top five one shot films and TV series you need to watch based on Rotten Tomatoes critics ratings.
5. Mr. Robot
Critics rating 94%
Psychological thriller series Mr. Robot follows Elliot Alderson (Rami Malek), a young, anti-social cybersecurity engineer and hacker who is recruited by an anarchist known as Mr. Robot (Christian Slater) to join a group of hacktivists. Their mission is to erase all consumer debt by attacking a powerful corporation.
4. Goodfellas
Critics rating 94%
Goodfellas follows Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) who knows he must put the Mob’s interests before everything, including his family, but when the good times turn bad, his loyalties dissolve in the face of greater rewards. Faced with a terrible decision, Hill can see only one way to get out alive. Goodfellas is often compared to The Godfather.
Where to watch: NOWTV
3. The Bear
Critics rating 96%
The Bear follows Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), a young, award-winning chef, who has returned home to Chicago to run his family’s Italian beef sandwich shop following the death of his brother to suicide. Carmy clashes with the chaotic culture of the restaurant and its staff, led by his cousin Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and tries to modernize the restaurant, facing resistance and dealing with his own personal demons. The fourth season of The Bear premieres on June 25 this year.
Where to watch: Disney+
2. Adolescence
Critics rating 99%
Adolescence is a one-shot crime drama series that focuses on a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, after he is arrested for the murder of his classmate, Katie. The series explores the impact of this event on Jamie, his family, and the wider community, while also covering themes of toxic masculinity, social media influence, and the challenges of navigating adolescence in the digital age.
Where to watch: Netflix
1. Boiling Point
Critics rating 99%
On the busiest night of the year at a popular London restaurant, charismatic and commanding head chef Andy Jones (Stephen Graham) is balancing multiple personal and professional crises that threaten to destroy everything he’s worked for. A surprise visit from a health and safety inspector sets the tone as the overbooked hot spot fills up. It is the second piece of work Graham features in on this list, including Adolescence.