Favourite shows of 2019

Watchmen (HBO / Warner Bros): a gripping, genre-blending and timelessly relevant story. Continuing (in spirit) Christopher Nolan’s realistic take on modern superheroes, this sequel to the original graphic novel succeeds on all levels. Its compact 9-episode run is also a refreshing change from American shows with extended runtimes.

Swamp Thing (Warner Bros / DC): it’s a real shame this show was cancelled immediately after its first season. With lots of atmosphere, grit and genuinely disgusting body horror, DC’s Swamp Thing excels at telling a kind of small-town horror story wrapped in 80s-style low budget filmmaking techniques.

Dear White People (Lionsgate): I was dubious of this adaptation at first, given my appreciation for the original film. However, the show lifts its material to new heights, with cinematic visuals, great character-driven episodes and a sense of humour like no other show I’ve seen. It’s unmissable.