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Mad Men (92 episodes): Alongside epics like True Detective, Breaking Bad, and House of Cards, Matthew Weiner’s Mad Men led the resurgence of “Prestige TV” in the 2010s. From its love of the 1960s, to impeccable production design, acting and writing, as well as genuinely complex explorations of masculinity and trauma - I continue to appreciate all the components of this show, done with a seemingly effortless and low-intensity approach. I discovered Mad Men at university, with it ending just as I was finishing my education, thus bookending a period of my life that, by the programme’s existence, was made even more special.
Community (110 episodes): Not to sound like a cliche, but Dan Harmon’s Community has to take the crown for the most genuinely cinephile programme ever made. The first, fourth and sixth seasons are not the strongest. However, the lighthearted tone, intricate system of in-jokes and references as well as many heartfelt moments help sell an oddball love letter to fandom and personal growth. I discovered Community in lockdown thanks to my partner. I also remember hearing about it when it first made it to air while I was still studying - but having seen it several times since, I often hear it dismissed as geek TV. Don’t be fooled, this is great TV. Chuck (91 episodes): Politics aside, I started watching Chuck as a teenager - it was in fact the first American show to which I really felt a connection. Josh Schwartz and Chris Fedak managed to create a sweet-natured, gentle action-comedy programme whose central message was that kindness could cure even the greatest evils. It was so inspiring to see a high-concept story where the central character wasn’t particularly fit or skilled at fighting - using his friendships, geek brain and loyalty instead. Beautiful Super 16mm cinematography helps sell this as a premium show for fans of all action movies. Maniac (10 episodes): Patrick Somerville and Cary Joji Fukunaga’s limited series is messy, confusing and certainly not perfect. However, I appreciate how achingly detailed the Japanese-inspired, retro futuristic storytelling complements a strange but clear message about loneliness, modern life, purpose and mental health. It’s also a rare show in which the two main characters don’t get involved romantically. This show won’t please everyone, but I am constantly surprised with how immersive it can be - if you can take a leap of faith. Succession (39 episodes): Jesse Armstrong’s juggernaut story about a media mogul’s family felt very real to me - especially as I worked in news myself for three years. It’s hilarious, dark, disquieting and genuinely thrilling. I love programmes that manage to create tension and laughs just by having a few great actors in dull meeting rooms - really showcasing the power of great dialogue. Cinematography also plays a large part in my appreciating for the show, with contrast and filmic sensibilities on full display. Gilmore Girls (153 episodes): Once again, I have my partner to thank for watching this brilliant show. Shot on Super 16mm, Amy & Daniel Sherman-Palladino’s witty and dream-like ode to youth, privilege and version of (painfully bourgeois) small-town America has too many qualities to cite. It’s funny, sad, endearing, lighthearted, and wistful - in a way that isn’t annoying. It reminded me very much of the sort of serial literature young kids would be encouraged to read at school, with a powerful simplicity and direct impact. Superstore (113 episodes): Justin Spitzer’s class-conscious sitcom gets better with every re-watch. With an incredibly-written cast of zany characters, as well as plenty of laughs, you can’t really go wrong. It’s easily digestible yet retains a sharp undertone of labour-friendly messaging, reminding us of the power of human connection. It never feels patronising or condescending. This is another show for those (including myself) who sometimes feel like outcasts, rejects and weirdos. I was sad to see it end. Honourable mentions: Shogun (12 episodes so far), Key and Peele (55 episodes), Stranger Things (42 episodes so far), The Penguin (10 episodes so far), Toast of London (24 episodes), Schitt's Creek (80 episodes), Servant (40 episodes), Euphoria (26 episodes so far), Batman: The Animated Series (85 episodes), Altered Carbon (18 episodes), The Sinner (32 episodes), This Is Us (106 episodes), The Boys (40 episodes so far) |