If you’ve ever scrolling through Netflix and wondered which special is worth the click, you’re not alone. Specials are those one‑off episodes, movies, or mini‑series that sit outside the regular season line‑up. They can be holiday‑themed events, exclusive documentaries, or surprise drops that aren’t tied to a longer series. The good news? You don’t need a Ph.D. in streaming to hunt them down.
First, check the “New Releases” row on the home screen. Netflix often flags specials with a tiny “Special” label right under the thumbnail. If you’re into genre hunting, use the search bar and type “special” or the name of a show you like followed by “special”. For example, typing “Stranger Things special” pulls up any extra episodes or behind‑the‑scenes content. Another tip: follow the official Netflix Twitter or Instagram accounts – they post a quick shout‑out whenever a fresh special drops.
Specials give creators a chance to experiment without committing to a whole season. That means you’ll get holiday‑themed episodes like “The Office: Christmas Party Special”, deep‑dive documentaries such as “The Social Dilemma” (which is technically a film, but Netflix calls it a special), or unique collaborations like a stand‑up comedy special tied to a popular series. Some fan‑favorites to add to your queue are the “Friends: The One with All the Special Episodes” and the short “The Queen’s Gambit: Chess Mastery” behind‑the‑scenes mini‑doc. They’re short, packed with fresh content, and perfect for a quick binge when you only have an hour.
When you’re deciding which special to watch, think about the vibe you want. Want a cozy feel? Look for holiday or seasonal specials released in November‑December. Craving a mind‑blowing story? Check out limited‑run documentaries or spin‑offs that dive deeper into the world of a show you love. You can also use the “My List” feature – add any special that catches your eye and Netflix will remind you when it becomes available.
Finally, remember that Netflix’s recommendation engine learns from what you watch. If you binge a few specials, the platform will start suggesting more of the same type. So don’t be shy about marking them as “watched” or giving a thumbs‑up. It helps the algorithm fine‑tune future picks, making your next discovery even easier.
Bottom line: Netflix specials are a shortcut to fresh, high‑quality content without the time commitment of a full season. Use the home page labels, search tricks, and social media hints to stay ahead. Then grab a snack, hit play, and enjoy the unique extra that only a special can deliver.
Explore the quirky journey of comedy shows in London, from the days of vaudeville theatres to Netflix specials streaming in your flat. Packed with local insights and tips for Londoners.