Featured Image Credit: Nanci Santos/Getty Images
Topics: Netflix, Streaming, Film and TV, Horror
Ellie Kemp
Topics: Netflix, Streaming, Film and TV, Horror
Netflix has finally revamped its interface, making it easier for us to find our next watch.
We're still all guilty, though, of spending more time scrolling through Netflix deciding what to stick on than actually enjoying some decent TV.
And if you're still not sure what to binge, then these secret codes will revolutionize how you use the streaming platform.
The world's largest streamer tailors recommendations by analyzing your watch history, ratings and preferences, as well as metadata about each title.
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But then we end up missing out on certain hidden gems that don't get pushed forward by the algorithm.
And with more than 7,000 titles on the site, there's bound to be shows that slip under your radar completely.
Well, there are some 265 genre codes which can be used to whittle down your Netflix search - and they're super straightforward to use.
We've rounded up our top 10 to help you find your next obsession. You're welcome.
Netflix’s secret codes are almost like digital keys to hidden vaults. So here’s how you crack them open.
Fire up your browser and type in https://www.netflix.com/browse/genre/ and tack on your code (for example, https://www.netflix.com/browse/genre/1568 for action, sci-fi and fantasy).
Hit Enter, then sit back while Netflix loads every show and movie tucked into that niche category.
If prompted, log in, and there you have it; you’ve just unlocked a whole new corner of Netflix.
Despite constantly having some form of playlist in my ears pretty much 24/7, I don't tune into music-focused TV shows as much as you'd expect.
Netflix recently pushed Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE to me and I binged the entire thing (about a year late, I know!), but I didn't realize how extensive the platform's music catalogue was until using this code.
For example, this 100 per cent Rotten Tomatoes rated mini-series dramatizing the making of Spotify - called The Playlist - was brought to my attention, and immediately added to my watch-list.
I then discovered the Lewis Capaldi documentary How I'm Feeling Now, which admittedly I never knew existed, as well as I'm With The Band: Nasty Cherry, a 2019 documentary following it-girl Charli XCX as she forms an all-girl rock band.
From docuseries to movies and 16-episode long K-dramas, there's all sorts under the music genre - what a find!
Fans of horror already know Netflix is brimming with captivating originals - usually in the form of mini-series, like Marianne, which even Stephen King loves.
But if you want to get lost in the wild lore of satanic cults, then this code is the one you need to try.
From fascinating documentary series to hair-raising movies, this sub-genre could keep you thrilled for days.
For a wider selection of horror - including cult horrors and vampire films - use 8711.
Netflix's action catalogue is huge, with recent hits including Dylan Sprouse's war drama Aftermath and Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman's Christmas thriller Carry-On.
But if more of the hijacking genre is what you're after, then look no further than this code.
From a movie inspired by a 1993 plane-jacking in Nigeria (Hijack 93) to a supernatural spin on the genre (Blood Red Sky), there's plenty on offer here.
For more action and adventure - including martial arts, military and Westerns try 1365.
Everybody needs a laugh now and then - and if you prefer yours on the darker side, this code’s got you covered.
This sub-genre includes recent additions like the Nicholas Hault-led thriller-comedy Kill Your Friends and 2022 horror-comedy The Blackening.
Some forgotten originals are there too, such as 2023 Thai crime movie The Murderer.
To explore even more comedies, including stand-up, satire and slapstick, then type in code 6548.
If you're in the mood for a film night, with no genre off-limits, then you have the entire selection at your finger tips here.
Useful to avoid annoyingly scrolling by all the TV show categories, too.
All codes sourced via Netflix Codes.