1. McMillions

Okay, so McMillions. This one’s a bit of a wild ride, I reckon. It’s all about the McDonald’s Monopoly game and how it was rigged. Seriously, who would’ve thought something so simple could turn into such a massive scandal?

The documentary series follows the FBI investigation into how an ex-cop managed to steal millions of dollars worth of winning game pieces. It’s got everything: undercover agents, mob ties, and a whole lot of ordinary folks caught up in something way bigger than themselves.

It’s one of those stories that’s so bonkers, you almost don’t believe it’s true. But trust me, it is. If you’re after a true crime doco that’ll keep you hooked from start to finish, McMillions is definitely worth a watch. You’ll be saying ‘Strewth!’ at every twist and turn.

Here’s why you should give it a go:

• It’s a true story that’s stranger than fiction.
• The characters are fascinating, even the dodgy ones.
• It’ll make you think twice about playing Monopoly again.

2. Tom Jones

Alright, so next up we’ve got ‘Tom Jones’. This isn’t your average period drama; it’s got a bit of everything – romance, scandal, and some seriously stunning costumes. Based on Henry Fielding’s classic novel, it follows Tom, a bit of a rogue, and his complicated love life.

The series really shines because of its cast, especially Solly McLeod as Tom and Sophie Wilde as Sophia. They’ve got great chemistry, and you can’t help but root for them, even when they’re making questionable decisions. Hannah Waddington also pops up, and she’s brilliant as always.

If you’re in the UK, you can catch it on ITVX. It’s free to watch, but you’ll need a TV licence. Over in the States, it aired on PBS, and you might still be able to find episodes on their website. If you’re keen to binge the whole thing, a PBS Passport might be the way to go. For those of us stuck overseas, a VPN could be your best mate to tune in like you’re back home.

It’s a good watch if you’re into period dramas with a bit of spice. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something to sink your teeth into this week.

3. Stranger Things

Right, so Stranger Things. Where do I even start? It’s not exactly a mini-series in the strictest sense, given it’s got multiple seasons, but heaps of people treat each season like its own contained story. Plus, with the way the plot unfolds, each season kinda feels like a self-contained movie anyway.

I reckon the first season is the best place to start if you’ve somehow missed the hype. It’s got that perfect blend of 80s nostalgia, creepy monsters, and a group of kids you can’t help but root for. The later seasons get a bit more complicated, but that first one? Absolute gold. If you’re looking for something to sink your teeth into over a weekend, you could do a lot worse than heading back to Hawkins, Indiana. Just maybe double-check your power’s working before you start watching, yeah?

4. The Goss

Alright, let’s get into it, yeah? Everyone loves a bit of drama, and "The Goss" delivers it in spades. It’s like reality TV but, you know, scripted… kinda.

I reckon the best part is trying to figure out what’s real and what’s just for the cameras. It’s got all the classic tropes: backstabbing, fake friendships, and enough champagne to fill the MCG.

Here’s a few reasons why I reckon you should give it a burl:

• The accents are hilarious (even if they’re trying to be posh).
• The fashion is outrageous – think sequins and stilettos at breakfast.
• You’ll feel better about your own life, no matter how messy it is.

Honestly, it’s the perfect show to switch your brain off and just enjoy the chaos. Don’t expect Shakespeare, but do expect plenty of "did they really just say that?!" moments.

5. Star Trek

\Alright, Trekkies, listen up! If you’re hankering for some space exploration with a modern twist, the latest Star Trek mini-series is a ripper. It’s got all the classic Trek elements – philosophical dilemmas, intergalactic diplomacy, and phaser fights – but with updated special effects and storylines that actually feel relevant today.

It’s not just nostalgia bait, either. The writing is sharp, the characters are well-developed, and the plot keeps you guessing. I was genuinely surprised by some of the twists and turns. Plus, the cast is fantastic; they really bring these iconic characters to life. I reckon even non-Trek fans might find something to enjoy here. It’s a good entry point to the franchise, without being too bogged down in the lore.

Here’s why you should give it a go:

• The special effects are top-notch. Seriously, the space battles look incredible.
• The storylines tackle some pretty interesting themes, like artificial intelligence and the ethics of exploration.
• It’s a relatively short commitment. You can binge the whole thing in a weekend, easy.

6. Sanditon

Right, Sanditon! This one’s a bit of a period drama rollercoaster. Based on Jane Austen’s unfinished manuscript, it’s all about a young woman, Charlotte Heywood, who visits a developing seaside resort. Think bonnets, beaches, and a whole lotta social climbing. It’s got that classic Austen vibe, but with a bit more… spice, if you catch my drift.

It was actually cancelled after its first season, which caused a bit of a ruckus. But thanks to the fans, it got picked up again for two more seasons. So, if you’re after a bit of escapism with some beautiful costumes and scenery, Sanditon’s seaside resort is worth a look.

Here’s why you might want to give it a go:

• The Scenery: Seriously, the coastal views are stunning. Perfect for a bit of armchair travel.
• The Characters: You’ve got your charming heroes, your scheming villains, and everything in between. Plenty to keep you entertained.
• The Drama: It’s Austen, so expect some romance, some heartbreak, and a fair bit of social awkwardness. What’s not to love?

7. Circus Oz Non Stop

Right, so Circus Oz is back, and honestly, it’s like they never left. I caught their "Non Stop" show at the Melbourne Comedy Festival earlier this year, and it was a ripper.

The energy was just infectious from start to finish. It’s not your typical circus; it’s got that Aussie larrikin spirit woven right through it. Think acrobatics, juggling, and a healthy dose of silliness.

I reckon it’s a great night out if you’re after something a bit different. It’s not highbrow, it’s just good, honest fun. Plus, it’s family-friendly, so you can drag the kids along without worrying about anything too dodgy. If you’re looking for Melbourne Comedy Festival entertainment, this is a good bet.

Here’s a quick rundown of what I liked:

• The sheer physicality of the performers – they’re seriously fit units.
• The Aussie humour – it’s dry, it’s witty, and it’s spot on.
• The music – a live band that really gets the crowd going.

8. Woolworths Irresistible Cinnabon Hot Cross Buns

Okay, so this might seem like a weird one to include in a list of mini-series, but hear me out. The hype around these things is real. I saw them pop up on the shelves at Woollies back in February, and the internet went wild. I had to try them, of course.

Honestly, they’re pretty good. They’re not your traditional hot cross bun, that’s for sure. They’re super soft, and that cinnamon flavour is definitely there. They’re sweet, but not so sweet that you can’t eat more than one (trust me, I’ve tested this theory extensively). My kids absolutely love them, and they’ve become a bit of an Easter tradition in our house, even though it’s still July. I’d recommend giving these delicious buns a go if you can find them.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Soft texture
• Strong cinnamon flavour
• Sweet but not overpowering
• Kid-approved

9. Amazon Prime Login

Okay, so you’re trying to settle in for a night of binge-watching on Amazon Prime, but you’re stuck at the login screen? Annoying, right? It happens to the best of us. Here’s the lowdown on getting past that hurdle.

First things first, double-check your email and password. I know, I know, it sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many times a simple typo is the culprit. Caps lock is the enemy here, mate.

If you’re still having dramas, try these:

• Password Reset: Hit that ‘Forgot Password’ link. Amazon will send you an email to reset it. Make sure to check your junk mail, just in case.
• Two-Factor Authentication: If you’ve got this set up (and you should!), make sure you have your phone handy for the code. No code, no entry.
• Check Your Subscription: Is your Prime membership still active? Sometimes, payments fail, and your access gets cut off. Head to your account settings to check.

Still no luck? Maybe Amazon’s servers are having a bit of a barney. Give it a few minutes and try again. If it’s still playing up, contacting Amazon support might be your best bet. They’re usually pretty good at sorting things out.

10. Stan Free Trial Code

Alright, so you’re keen to dive into some top-notch Aussie streaming, eh? Stan’s got a fair whack of good stuff, but before you chuck your hard-earned dosh at it, let’s see if we can snag you a Stan free trial.

These things can be a bit like finding a needle in a haystack, but they do pop up from time to time. Keep your eyes peeled for promotional periods, especially around big holidays or when Stan’s launching a new series.

Here’s the lowdown on how to potentially score a free trial, or at least a sweet deal:

• Check Stan’s Website Directly: This seems obvious, but it’s the first place to look. Sometimes they’ll have a sneaky offer hidden away on their homepage or in their FAQs.
• Keep an Eye on Promo Code Sites: There are websites dedicated to rounding up promo codes and deals. Just be wary – some of them can be a bit dodgy, so stick to the well-known ones.
• Bundle Up: Sometimes, other companies (like telcos or internet providers) will offer a Stan subscription as part of a bundle. It’s worth checking if your current provider has any deals going.

And if you can’t find a free trial, don’t despair! Stan often has introductory offers or discounts for new subscribers. It’s always worth a look-see before you commit to the full price.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Well, there you have it, a bunch of top-notch mini-series from 2024 that are just waiting for you to hit play. Seriously, whether you’re into a good laugh, a bit of a cry, or something that makes you think, there’s a show on this list for everyone. Grab some snacks, get comfy on the couch, and dive into these stories. You won’t regret it. Happy watching, mates!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s a mini-series, exactly?

A mini-series is like a super long movie, usually with a few episodes, but it tells a complete story. It’s not meant to go on for seasons and seasons, just a short, sharp burst of awesome TV.

Where can I watch these mini-series?

You can usually find these ripper mini-series on streaming services like Netflix, Stan, Binge, or Amazon Prime Video. Some might even pop up on regular free-to-air TV if you’re lucky!

What does ‘binge-watch’ mean?

Binge-watching means watching a bunch of episodes, or even a whole series, one after another without much of a break. It’s perfect for mini-series because they’re short and sweet, so you can finish them in a weekend.

Can I get a free trial to watch these shows?

Yep, most streaming services offer a free trial period. It’s a great way to check out what they’ve got before you commit to paying. Just remember to cancel if you don’t want to keep it!

What’s a VPN and why would I need one?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, helps you pretend you’re browsing from a different country. This can be handy if a show is only available in a certain region, but be careful, some streaming services don’t like it.

How do I choose which mini-series to watch first?

The best way to pick is to read reviews, watch trailers, and see what your mates are talking about. Our list is a pretty good starting point too, since we’ve picked out the top ones for you!

Are these mini-series suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Many mini-series are family-friendly, but some are definitely for older viewers. Always check the rating before you press play, especially if little tackers are watching.

How can I find out about new mini-series coming out?

Keep an eye on the streaming platforms’ ‘New Releases’ sections. They’re always adding fresh content, so you’ll often find new mini-series popping up there. We’ll also keep our list updated, so check back here!