Netflix subscribers have been singing the praises of an actor typically cast in "good guy" roles after his "absolutely chilling" turn in a gripping new series left them genuinely unsettled. The streaming giant's top 10 charts reveal which programmes are capturing audiences' attention, and one recent addition has been generating significant buzz.

The Beast In Me, an eight-part psychological thriller, has been captivating viewers after arriving on the platform. Claire Danes stars as Aggie Wiggs, a grieving author struggling to put pen to page following her young son's death.

Her life takes an unexpected twist when Nile Jarvis becomes her neighbour, and she becomes convinced that documenting his story could be the answer to her creative drought.

The Americans star Matthew Rhys portrays Jarvis, and he's earned widespread acclaim for his nuanced depiction of the disturbing character, who appears to be hiding away with his second wife following accusations he murdered his first wife.

The limited series has resonated strongly with audiences and currently holds an 84% "fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Critic Riese Bernard wrote on the platform: "Danes, as always, delivers a masterclass in vacillating vulnerability; in moments where the mask falls and in those where smoothly puts it on."

Ricky Valero commented: "Each week, you have ample options to watch on TV, but The Beast In Me is a can't-miss crime thriller. Matthew Rhys gives one of the most terrifying performances of the year."

On Reddit, one viewer was particularly taken with Matthew Rhys' performance, noting it as a departure from his usual roles.

They penned: "I have been a huge fan of Matthew Rhys for years. Hello Brothers and Sisters and The Americans. He usually plays the good guy. What a departure this role was.

"His facial expressions alone are so telling. He definitely pulled off the suave sociopathic part hands down."

They were slightly critical of Claire Danes' facial expressions, although the gifted actress has received acclaim from other viewers and critics, particularly for her ability to express her emotions so powerfully and adeptly.

The Reddit user added: "This was one of the best Netflix original series in a while. They've been pumping out a lot of junk lately. I was genuinely excited to hit play on the next episode and see how this all ended up."

In the comments section, fellow viewers were eager to share their opinions.

One person said: "He was so scary, I was scared".

Another concurred: "Absolutely chilling performance. Loved him in The Americans too."

A third simply said: "me too!!! Evil!!"

A fourth commented: "He is one of my favourite actors and I loved him in this. However, I also thought Claire Danes was excellent. Her portrayal of that character was perfect."

Someone else agreed: "I've never been a fan of Claire Danes but I loved her in this series. Her character was tormented/rage driven and guilt ridden.

"I thought she portrayed her realistically. She has a face that emotes and MOVES!! Let's hear it for real facial expressions!"

Another viewer commented: "I just finished this series. I am hoping its popularity will help propel similar types to be made."

The Beast in Me is currently available to watch on Netflix.