The Netflix series _Ares_ grabbed our attention right away with its first three minutes, which had us exclaiming in surprise. This Dutch language original from Netflix consists of just 8 episodes, each lasting roughly 25 minutes—a brief but enjoyable experience. What's the show about? The description reads: _Rosa, a college student who’s both driven and smart and dealing with difficulties at home, is invited to join an exclusive and secretive group._ This isn't simply a horror drama; it feels like a work of art. It's clear that this series was created with considerable thought and detail. Visually, it brought to mind films such as _Holy Motors_, _Beyond the Black Rainbow_, _Neon Demon_, _Eyes Wide Shut_, and _Suspiria_. It’s more than just visually appealing, though; the captivating story elevates it considerably. The mystery surrounding everything and the gradual build-up of a disturbing atmosphere really drew us in, leaving us wanting to immediately watch the next episode after each ending. Jade Olieberg, who plays Rosa, delivers an outstanding performance, showcasing a talent for conveying emotion and depth without relying on dialogue—something I appreciate. Witnessing her reactions to events and discoveries was quite engaging, and following her character’s development proved rewarding. The series effectively reveals information bit by bit, and we never felt that the pacing lagged. I'm glad many new dramas are now around 30 minutes instead of the usual 40 or 45, and _Ares_ is a good example of how a shorter length can enhance a show’s sense of mystery and urgency. If you appreciate visually striking shows that create an unsettling feeling while also presenting a compelling narrative, and don't mind reading subtitles, I think this one is worth adding to your list.

Source on TMDB