Top 10 Most Confusing Netflix Shows

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, we take a look at the series rated as the top 10 most confusing Netflix shows, and what their endings could mean.

Ever finished a Netflix series feeling like you just stepped out of a funhouse mirror maze? You’re not alone. The streaming giant has become a haven for complex narratives, mind-bending twists, and endings that leave you scratching your head. Fear not, fellow viewers! We’re here to delve into the enigmatic world of Netflix’s most confusing shows.

From genre-bending sci-fi to psychological thrillers, this list tackles the top 10 series that left audiences bewildered. We’ll dissect the mind-numbing plots, explore the cryptic symbolism, and most importantly, crack open those ambiguous endings. So, grab your metaphorical decoder ring and join us as we attempt to unravel the mysteries that have kept you up at night wondering, “Wait, what just happened?”

Trevor Cooke, the online privacy expert at EarthWeb, sent over a list of the top ten most confusing series available on Netflix, judged by how many times baffled viewers searched online to try and decode the series’ endings.

Top 10 Most Confusing Netflix Shows

This table analyses the volume of search queries generated following the finale of various Netflix series:

Rank Series   Monthly Google Search Volume

1         Inside Man     2800

2         Loki Season 2   2600

3         Silo    1800

4         Fool Me Once   1300

5         Manifest         1100

6         Succession    1100

7         Beef   1100

8         Happy Valley 1100

9         Lupin 800

10      The Twelve     700

Inside Man

Spike Lee’s “Inside Man” intricately weaves together multiple plot threads, immersing viewers in a high-stakes bank heist orchestrated by Dalton Russell. As detective Keith Frazier navigates the labyrinth of deception and misdirection, the audience is left questioning every character’s motives and every twist of the plot. The series’ ending, with its unexpected revelations and unresolved questions, leaves viewers pondering who was the true mastermind behind the heist.

Interpretations

Dalton’s Moral Victory:

• This interpretation sees Dalton, the mastermind thief, as a complex character with a moral compass. His hidden escape plan and the stolen Nazi diamond left for Frazier could be seen as a way of exposing the bank owner’s dark past and delivering a form of justice. Frazier, recognizing the diamond, gains a grudging respect for Dalton’s skills and principles, even if they remain on opposite sides of the law.

Respect Over Money:

• Another interpretation focuses on Dalton’s quote, “Respect is the ultimate currency.” His escape with a single, valuable diamond, rather than a large sum of cash, could be seen as a statement about the true value of respect and his desire to challenge the system that prioritizes wealth over morality.

Open to Interpretation:

• Some argue that the film intentionally leaves the ending open-ended, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions about the characters’ motivations and the overall message. This ambiguity reflects the complexity of the situation and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

Unrealistic Twist:

• A more critical view sees the ending as an unconvincing plot device. The idea of Dalton hiding undetected within the bank for such a long time is considered unrealistic. This interpretation focuses on the film’s entertainment value rather than its message.

Loki Season 2

The second season of “Loki” delves deeper into the complexities of alternate timelines and multiverses within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Trevor says, ‘As Loki grapples with existential questions and confronts variants of himself, viewers are thrust into a dizzying whirlwind of cosmic proportions. The season’s ending, with its mind-bending twists and unresolved paradoxes, leaves viewers questioning the very fabric of reality and the implications of their choices.’

Interpretations

Loki, the New Guardian (and Prisoner):

• This interpretation suggests Loki becomes a new guardian of the multiverse, replacing He Who Remains and the TVA. He sits on the throne in the void at the end of time, seemingly holding the timelines in balance. However, he’s also trapped in this role, unable to return to his own timeline or influence the events unfolding.

A Cycle of Destruction:

• Another view focuses on the potential for a dangerous cycle. With He Who Remains gone, the TVA may not be able to effectively prune timelines, leading to a multiversal war as Kang variants battle for dominance. This interpretation paints Loki’s role as a desperate attempt to hold back the inevitable chaos he might have inadvertently unleashed.

An Act of Sacrifice:

• Some see Loki’s actions as a form of sacrifice. He understands the danger of Kang variants and chooses to take on this burden, knowing it means isolation and loneliness. This interpretation highlights Loki’s character growth, showcasing his newfound willingness to act for the greater good.

A Reset Button:

• A contrasting view suggests the ending sets the stage for a potential reset. With the timelines branching out and the TVA seemingly fractured, the story could return to a new version of the Sacred Timeline, potentially one where Loki’s actions have consequences that haven’t fully unfolded yet.

Ambiguity for Future Exploration:

• Many fans argue that the ending is intentionally ambiguous, leaving room for further exploration in future seasons. It creates a sense of intrigue and allows the writers to delve deeper into the complexities of the multiverse, Kang variants, and Loki’s evolving role within it.

Silo

“Silo” is a psychological dystopian thriller that challenges viewers to discern truth from fiction in a world where nothing is as it appears. With its non-linear narrative and unreliable narrator, the series immerses audiences in a web of uncertainty, leaving them questioning the very nature of reality. The ambiguous resolution and open-ended questions of the series’ enigmatic ending invite viewers to interpret the events in multiple ways and question the protagonist’s fractured psyche.

Interpretations

The Mystery of the Green Field:

• A Simulated Reality: One interpretation suggests the lush green field Juliette sees after venturing beyond the wasteland is a hologram. This aligns with Martha’s earlier suspicion that the “bad air” warnings might be a lie to keep people inside the Silo. The “clean-up” suits might be faulty, allowing them to breathe but not truly protect them from the outside world.
• A Hidden Truth: Another view proposes that the green field is real, but its existence is a secret from the Silo residents. The ruling body might be controlling access to a habitable area, possibly for their own benefit, while keeping the majority of the population trapped in the Silo.

Multiple Silos:

• A Network of Survival Bunkers: The final shot reveals multiple structures resembling the Silo in the distance. This suggests a network of Silos exists, raising questions about their purpose and the level of communication between them. Are they isolated pockets of humanity, or is there a central authority controlling them all?
• A Class System: The existence of multiple Silos could also represent a class system within the post-apocalyptic world. Perhaps some Silos offer a more luxurious existence than others, creating a stratified society even in a supposedly “equal” system.

Interpreting Juliette’s Fate:

• A Witness Silenced: Juliette’s unknown fate adds to the ambiguity. Did she succumb to the “bad air” despite the improved suit? Or was she silenced by those who want to maintain control of the narrative within the Silo?
• A Spark of Hope: Despite the uncertainty, Juliette’s journey can be seen as a spark of hope. Her questioning and exploration challenge the established order, potentially inspiring others to seek the truth about the world outside the Silo walls.

Fool Me Once

In “Fool Me Once”, viewers are thrust into a quest for answers after a murder, encountering a web of deceit and betrayal. Trevor says, ‘With each revelation, the series keeps audiences on edge, questioning the motives of every character and the true nature of the conspiracy at its core.’ The series’ perplexing ending leaves viewers grappling with the ambiguity of truth and the complexities of human nature.

Interpretations

Maya’s Sacrifice and Acceptance:

• A Deliberate Plan: One view suggests Maya planned her own death. Knowing the Burketts would try to silence her, she set up a live stream with Corey and Sami, ensuring the truth about their corruption would be revealed even if she perished. Her decision to put down her gun and accept her fate could be seen as a form of martyrdom for justice.
• A Tragic Loss: Another interpretation focuses on the tragedy of Maya’s death. Despite her efforts, she is ultimately silenced by the corrupt Burketts. This view emphasizes the lengths to which powerful families will go to protect their secrets, even if it means taking a life.

The Burketts’ Accountability:

• A Public Shaming: The live stream capturing Maya’s murder throws the Burketts’ crimes into the spotlight. Millions watch as their dark deeds are exposed, potentially leading to legal repercussions and social backlash. This interpretation suggests a form of justice, albeit a harsh one.
• An Incomplete Victory: While the truth is revealed, it’s unclear if the Burketts face any real consequences beyond public humiliation. Their wealth and influence might allow them to escape severe legal punishments, leaving a sense of frustration for viewers who crave a more definitive resolution.

The Future for Lily and Sami:

• A Legacy of Strength: Lily, raised by her loving uncle Eddie after Maya’s death, is shown to be a strong and capable young woman. She carries on her mother’s legacy and even names her own daughter Maya, suggesting a lasting respect and admiration. This view emphasizes the importance of family and carrying on the fight for justice.
• A Lingering Loss: Despite Lily’s strength, the ending leaves viewers with a sense of loss. Maya is robbed of the opportunity to watch her daughter grow up, and the emotional impact of her absence is left unaddressed.

Manifest

“Manifest” follows the passengers of Flight 828 as they grapple with inexplicable phenomena and cryptic messages. With its supernatural elements and intricate character dynamics, the series challenges viewers to ponder the enigma of fate and free will, leaving them questioning the boundaries of reality. With its unresolved mysteries and unanswered questions, the ending leaves viewers contemplating the nature of destiny.

Interpretations

A New Timeline:

• A Reality Shift: The major clue lies in Ben and Saanvi’s confirmation that the events they remember (including the callings and the death date) actually happened. However, the world around them seems to have reset, with people lacking memories of the 5.5 years the passengers were missing. This suggests a shift in timelines, with the passengers retaining their memories while everyone else starts anew.
• A Second Chance: This interpretation sees the reset as an opportunity. The passengers get a chance to rewrite their futures, avoid the death date, and potentially create better relationships with those around them. This raises questions about free will vs. destiny and whether the passengers can ultimately alter their fate.

Selective Memory:

• Subconscious Recollection: While most people seem to have forgotten the events, the ending hints at a deeper connection. The characters like Zeke, Jared, Drea, etc., feel inexplicably drawn to the passengers, suggesting a subconscious memory or a lingering connection from the previous timeline.
• The Callings Persist: The passengers continue to experience callings, hinting that the underlying mystery and their connection to the divine remain intact. This suggests a deeper purpose beyond simply avoiding the death date, which may still be looming in this new timeline.

The Fate of Eden and Hope:

• A Brighter Future: The ending emphasizes a happy ending for Eden and Hope. They are seemingly reborn in this new timeline, allowing Eden to have a carefree childhood free from the trauma of the Flight 828 disappearance. This offers a sense of hope and closure for the characters who lost years with their loved ones.
• Questions Remain: While Eden and Hope get a fresh start, the fate of the original versions of these characters remains unclear. Did they cease to exist? Are they somehow intertwined with the new versions? This ambiguity adds another layer of mystery to the overall narrative.

Succession

“Succession” delves into the complexities of power dynamics within a wealthy media dynasty. Through morally ambiguous characters and labyrinthine plot twists, the series confronts viewers with uncomfortable truths about ambition and privilege, leaving them uncertain of where true loyalty lies. The series’ confounding ending, with its shocking revelations and unresolved conflicts, leaves viewers questioning the nature of power and the price of success.

Interpretations

Who “Won” the Power Struggle?

• Tom’s Unexpected Rise: The final board meeting results in a 6-6 tie, leaving the future of Waystar Royco seemingly undecided. However, Tom Wambsgans’ selection by Matsson as CEO of the American division throws a curveball. This could be seen as Tom’s unexpected rise to power, albeit under the control of a new player.
• Shiv’s Strategic Maneuver: Despite initial resentment towards Tom, Shiv ultimately backs him, potentially recognizing the advantage of having a malleable CEO who wouldn’t challenge her influence. This suggests a strategic maneuver by Shiv, giving her a backdoor to exert control over Waystar without directly holding the top spot.
• Kendall’s Moral Defeat: While Kendall fails in his attempt to regain control, he maintains his conviction about the need for change at Waystar. This could be seen as a moral victory, even if it doesn’t translate to a leadership position.

A Family Divided, But Not Broken:

• A Shared Meal and a Glimmer of Hope: Despite the backstabbing and betrayals throughout the season, the siblings share a seemingly genuine laugh while indulging in Kendall’s smoothie creation. This fleeting moment of connection suggests a possible reconciliation or at least a begrudging acceptance of their dysfunctional family dynamic.
• Logan Remains the Puppet Master: While not physically present, Logan’s shadow looms large over the ending. His manipulation and scheming may have secured his legacy by ensuring Waystar stays within the family, albeit through Shiv’s indirect control and Tom’s figurehead position.

Beef

“Beef” defies genre conventions with its surreal comedy and unconventional narrative structure. As viewers are thrust into a world where reality and fantasy blur, the series challenges perceptions and leaves audiences questioning the very nature of reality itself. Trevor says, ‘The surreal ending invites viewers to interpret the events through a lens of absurdity and introspection, while the unresolved plotlines suggest the potential for a second season.’

Interpretations

A Cycle of Violence and Destruction:

• Mutual Destruction: The shootout between Danny and Isaac leaves both sides severely injured or potentially dead. This violent resolution emphasizes the destructiveness of their petty feud, with neither character achieving any real victory. It paints a bleak picture of unchecked anger and the devastating consequences for those involved.
• Escape from the Cycle: Another interpretation views Paul’s escape as a potential break from the cycle. He finally leaves Danny behind, taking some form of control over his own life. This offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that some characters can choose to walk away from negativity, though it comes at a heavy price.

Uncertain Fates and Lingering Questions:

• Who Lives and Who Dies?: The ending doesn’t explicitly show the aftermath of the shootout or the fate of the characters. This ambiguity leaves viewers questioning who survives and what becomes of Junie. It heightens the sense of chaos and the lasting impact of the conflict.
• The Price of Vengeance: While Danny might achieve some sense of “revenge” by confronting Isaac, it comes at a tremendous cost. He loses his wife Amy, his sense of safety, and potentially his own life. This reinforces the show’s theme of the hollowness of vengeance and the emotional wreckage it leaves behind.

Interpreting the Absurdity:

• A Darkly Comedic End: The absurdity of the situation, culminating in a shootout over a minor inconvenience, can be seen as darkly comedic. It highlights the pettiness of human conflict and the unpredictable nature of seemingly trivial situations escalating into violence.
• A Reflection of Reality: Some argue the ending reflects a more disturbing reality. Road rage incidents and escalating arguments are all too common, and the show presents a warped version of those scenarios, highlighting the potential for violence lurking beneath the surface.

Happy Valley

“Happy Valley” is a dark and atmospheric crime drama that peels back the layers of corruption within a small town. With its morally complex characters and layered storytelling, the series challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and society’s darker underbelly. The lingering questions left by the series’ enigmatic ending leave viewers reflecting on the complexities of justice and morality.

Interpretations

Tommy Lee Royce’s Fate:

• Self-Inflicted Demise: Tommy, fatally injured by Darius’ men, chooses to take his own life rather than face capture or return to prison. He sets himself on fire, denying Catherine the satisfaction of putting him away. This could be seen as Tommy maintaining a twisted sense of control even in his final moments.
• A Form of Justice: While not a conventional resolution, Tommy’s death can be interpreted as a form of justice. He is finally removed from the equation, preventing him from causing further harm to Catherine or Ryan. This offers a sense of closure for Catherine, who has spent years pursuing him.

Ryan’s Path Forward:

• Breaking the Cycle: By refusing to follow in his father’s footsteps and choosing to stay with his family, Ryan demonstrates a break from the cycle of violence. He chooses a life of normalcy over vengeance, suggesting a hopeful future for him.
• The Scars Remain: Despite Ryan’s positive choices, the trauma he experienced continues to affect him. He is visibly shaken by the events, and the ending doesn’t shy away from the lasting impact of abuse and violence on young minds.

Catherine’s Resolve:

• A Bittersweet Victory: Catherine, finally free from her obsession with Tommy, can focus on rebuilding her life and supporting Ryan. However, a sense of weariness remains, reflecting the toll these investigations have taken on her. The ending is bittersweet, acknowledging the emotional cost of pursuing justice.
• Continuing the Fight: While Tommy is gone, Catherine’s dedication to her work as a police officer is unwavering. She may have achieved a personal victory, but the fight against crime continues. This highlights the ongoing nature of police work and the dedication required from those who serve.

Lupin

“Lupin” follows the exploits of a master thief as he orchestrates elaborate heists, inspired by the classic French literary character. With its intricate plots and unexpected twists, the series keeps viewers guessing until the very end. Trevor says, ‘However, the show’s finale, with its multitude of unresolved threads and unanswered questions, leaves viewers bewildered and eager for closure. As the protagonist’s intricate schemes unravel, audiences are left pondering the true motivations behind his actions and the consequences of his deception.’

Interpretations

Assane’s Choice and the Fate of the Pearl:

• Selfless Sacrifice: Assane turns himself in, ensuring the safety of his son Raoul and potentially protecting Claire from Pellegrini’s further pursuit. He uses the pearl, a symbol of his father’s legacy and his own journey, to pay off Bruno and create a new life for him. This can be seen as a selfless act, prioritizing his loved ones over revenge.
• A Strategic Move: Another interpretation views Assane’s actions as a strategic move. By turning himself in and seemingly accepting defeat, he might be buying himself time to plan something bigger against Pellegrini. The remaining pearl necklace could hold clues to his next move.

An Uncertain Future:

• A New Beginning?: The ending leaves Assane’s future ambiguous. While he is imprisoned, the final scene shows him receiving a photo hinting at a larger conspiracy beyond Pellegrini. This suggests a potential continuation of his fight, albeit from a different perspective.
• A Legacy Lives On: Even if Assane remains imprisoned, his actions have a lasting impact. Inspired by his father’s legacy and Assane’s exploits, Raoul seems determined to follow in his path. This suggests that the fight for justice may continue through a new generation.

Interpreting the Mystery Letter:

• A New Enemy?: The identity of the person who sent Assane the photo in the prison cell is unknown. It could be an ally offering him information or a new enemy setting him up. This ambiguity creates suspense and leaves room for further exploration in future seasons.
• A Hidden Message: The photo seemingly depicts Assane as a teenager holding a copy of “The Revenge of the Countess of Cagliostro,” a Lupin story. This could be a clue to a hidden message or a connection to a larger plot that Assane wasn’t previously aware of.

The Twelve

“The Twelve” is a riveting courtroom drama that unfolds through multiple perspectives, presenting conflicting testimonies and hidden agendas that challenge viewers’ perceptions of guilt and innocence. As the trial progresses, viewers are drawn into a web of intrigue and deceit, questioning the nature of truth and justice. But the series’ conclusion, with its ambiguous resolutions and lingering doubts, leaves viewers grappling with uncertainty and the complexities of the human condition. As the final verdict is delivered, audiences are left to ponder the true meaning of justice and the elusive nature of closure.

Interpretations

Did Roos Kill Brechtje?

• Deliberate Murder: Some believe Roos deliberately pushed Brechtje from the balcony, silencing her after she discovered Roos’s connection to the drug ring and potential involvement in Mieke’s death. The look of fear on Roos’s face before the fall could be interpreted as guilt or a desperate attempt to prevent the truth from coming out.
• An Accident: Another interpretation suggests it was an accident. Roos, stressed and overwhelmed, might have pushed Brechtje in a heated argument, not intending to kill her. The ambiguity of their exchange before the fall leaves room for this possibility.
• Ambiguous Motive: The lack of a clear motive adds to the mystery. While Roos’s involvement in the drug ring is evident, it’s unclear if this directly connected to Brechtje’s death. This ambiguity keeps viewers guessing about Roos’s true intentions.

Did Fritz Know the Truth?

• A Loving But Deceived Husband: Fritz’s unwavering support for Roos could be seen as genuine, suggesting he remains unaware of her potential crimes. He may have been manipulated by Roos, truly believing her story about Brechtje’s accident.
• Willful Ignorance or Co-Conspirator?: Another view suggests Fritz might suspect Roos’s involvement but chooses to turn a blind eye. His insistence on believing her innocence could be a form of denial or a way of protecting himself from the truth. Some viewers even explore the possibility that Fritz could be a co-conspirator, aiding Roos in covering her tracks.

The Gloves and the Necklace:

• Roos Planted Evidence: The discovery of the incriminating gloves and necklace in Mieke’s belongings seems suspicious. This could be Roos’s attempt to frame someone else, potentially Lisa, for Mieke’s death.
• A Deliberate Misdirection: Another interpretation views the evidence as a deliberate misdirection by the real killer. This person could have planted the items with the intention of implicating someone else, further clouding the truth.

About EarthWeb

Earthweb helps you discover the best research guides and resources for tech and online privacy. Their mission is to help you simplify processes and make informed buying decisions.

Trevor Cooke is the online privacy expert at EarthWeb. His personal mission is to help keep consumers safe by keeping them informed of privacy tips and common online scams.

Methodology

The data on the number of searches for each TV show was taken from ahrefs.com. We used keywords such as ‘[tv show] ending’ to find the data. We also analysed keywords like ‘tv show confusing ending’ to find related searches for specific confusing shows. This data was collated into a spreadsheet and ranked based on the number of searches found for each show.

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