Web series these days aren’t just about high-end visuals—they offer a perfect blend of gripping storytelling, powerhouse performances, and top-tier production. From fantasy epics to thrilling crime dramas, these big-budget shows justify their massive price tags with stunning sets, immersive world-building, and stellar performances. If you’re looking for a premium web series that offers both spectacle and substance, here are seven of the most expensive web shows you shouldn’t miss.
1. Citadel
Duration: 6 Episodes (~40 min per episode)
IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
Available Languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
One of the most expensive web series ever made, Citadel boasts a staggering budget of $300 million (₹2,500 crore+). The show follows elite agents Mason Kane (Richard Madden) and Nadia Sinh (Priyanka Chopra Jonas), who once worked for Citadel, an independent global spy agency. After losing their memories in an attack by a sinister group called Manticore, they must return to their past lives to save the world. The series features high-end action sequences, stunning international locations, and a gripping espionage storyline.
2. Heeramandi (Netflix)
Available Languages: Hindi (with subtitles in multiple languages)
Where to Watch: Netflix
With a budget reportedly over ₹200 crore, Heeramandi is one of India’s most expensive web series. Set in 1940s Lahore, the show explores the lives of courtesans in a red-light district during India’s freedom struggle. Created by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the series is known for its extravagant sets, intricate costumes, and powerful storytelling. This historical drama is a visual treat featuring Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Richa Chadha.
3. House of the Dragon
Duration: 10 Episodes (~60 min per episode)
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Available Languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
A prequel to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon explores the Targaryen family’s rise and fall nearly 200 years before Jon Snow’s era. With a $125–$200 million budget per season, this show offers breathtaking battle sequences, intense political drama, and, of course, fire-breathing dragons. The story focuses on Princess Rhaenyra and Prince Daemon Targaryen, whose rivalry sparks the brutal civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons.
4. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power
Duration: 8 Episodes (~60 min per episode)
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Available Languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
With a budget of around $58 million per episode, this is one of the most expensive shows in history. Set in Middle-earth’s Second Age, The Rings of Power follows Galadriel, a warrior elf on a quest to uncover rising darkness, leading to the rise of Sauron. The show transports viewers into a world of elves, dwarves, and humans, packed with spectacular CGI, massive world-building, and gripping storytelling.
5. Stranger Things
Duration: 4 Seasons (~50–80 min per episode)
IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Available Languages: English (Dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu)
Where to Watch: Netflix
One of Netflix’s biggest hits, Stranger Things is an 80s-inspired sci-fi horror series with a $30 million per episode budget. It follows a group of kids from Hawkins, Indiana, who uncover secret government experiments, alternate dimensions, and terrifying creatures like the Demogorgon and Mind Flayer. Featuring Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, and David Harbour, the show has an engaging mix of horror, adventure, and heartwarming friendships.
6. The Crown
Duration: 6 Seasons (~50–60 min per episode)
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Available Languages: English (Subtitles available in multiple languages)
Where to Watch: Netflix
This critically acclaimed series chronicles Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, covering major political and personal events in British history. With a budget of $130 million for the first season, The Crown is known for its lavish period detailing, elaborate sets, and top-tier performances. The show provides an in-depth look into the royal family’s struggles and triumphs, making it a must-watch for history lovers.
7. Rudra: The Edge of Darkness
Duration: 6 Episodes (~50 min per episode)
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Available Languages: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, Marathi
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
An Indian adaptation of the hit British series Luther, Rudra is a gripping psychological crime thriller starring Ajay Devgn. With a production cost of nearly ₹200 crore, the series features dark, gritty storytelling and Bollywood-style action sequences. Set in Mumbai, the show explores complex criminal investigations, mind games, and moral dilemmas faced by a troubled cop.
Premium Web Series: Wrapping It Up
If you’re in the mood for high-budget web shows with stunning storytelling and top-notch performances, these seven series should be on your watchlist. Whether you love fantasy, crime thrillers, historical drama, or sci-fi, there’s something for everyone.
