TV Series Reviews
Anne with an E
My Rating: 6 of 10 stars.
Another series with an undeserved IMDB rating, this one is a modern adaptation of L.M. Montgomery's beloved classic, but it misses the mark in several ways. Despite its beautiful cinematography and ambitious attempt to reimagine the story, the series often feels uneven and inconsistent in its execution.
The biggest issue with Anne with an E is its departure from the charm and simplicity of the original novel. The show incorporates contemporary social issues and modern sensibilities that feel out of place within the historical setting. While Amybeth McNulty brings energy and enthusiasm to the role of Anne, the portrayal can feel overly dramatic and inconsistent. The series underestimates its viewers repeatedly, and pushes Anne’s quirks to the point of caricature, which can be jarring for viewers familiar with the more nuanced character of the book. Additionally, some of the supporting characters lack depth and come off as one-dimensional, which undermines the relationships that are central to the story. The series often drags with subplots that feel unnecessary or poorly integrated into the main storyline.
The series feels more like a platform for contemporary political agendas than a faithful adaptation of L.M. Montgomery’s novel. It seems driven by an agenda to address woke issues such as gender identity, feminism, and racism, sometimes at the expense of the original storyline and character development. It introduces new events and characters that were never part of Montgomery's work, to push particular moral narrative. This not only deviates from the source material but also disrupts the natural flow of the story as it was originally intended. In comparison, the earlier adaptations of Montgomery’s books, including the classic films, remained faithful to the source material and preserved the charm and essence of the original story.
Downton Abbey
My Rating: 8 of 10 stars.
Downton Abbey is a masterclass in historical drama, offering a rich and immersive experience that transports viewers to the opulent world of early 20th-century British aristocracy. The series effortlessly combines the grandeur of high society with the intimate stories of its inhabitants, both upstairs and downstairs, creating a captivating tapestry of historical and personal drama.
The show excels in its meticulous attention to detail, from the stunning period costumes and lavish sets to the nuanced portrayal of social and historical changes. Set against the backdrop of significant events such as World War I and the interwar period, Downton Abbey skillfully weaves these historical milestones into the lives of its characters, providing a compelling look at how these events impact the upper class and their servants alike. The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, with Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern shining as the Earl and Countess of Grantham.
Their portrayal of the family's dynamics and struggles adds depth to the series. Even if historical dramas aren't your usual genre, Maggie Smith's performance in Downton Abbey is reason enough to tune in. Smith's impeccable timing and delivery make her character both formidable and endearing, with her sharp one-liners and insightful observations providing some of the series' most memorable moments.
Unlike some recent historical dramas that trend on streaming platforms, which may insert characters or themes to align with current social agendas or rewrite history, Downton Abbey remains faithful to the historical context of early 20th-century Britain. It doesn’t engage in rewriting history or introducing characters that wouldn’t have been present in that era purely for the sake of political correctness. The series also distinguishes itself by avoiding the reliance on shock value that often characterizes contemporary historical dramas. Instead of focusing on sensational elements like low-cut blouses, explicit content, or gratuitous nudity, the series maintains a sophisticated approach to its storytelling. While the show does address themes of scandal and moral conflict, it does so with a level of restraint and subtlety that enhances the narrative rather than overshadowing it.
Freaks and Geeks
My Rating: 7 of 10 stars.
Freaks and Geeks is a cult classic that perfectly captures the essence of adolescence with its blend of humor, heart, and authenticity. Set in the early 1980s, the series delves into the lives of high school students navigating the trials of teenage life, and it does so with a rare and refreshing honesty.
As one of the first shows to offer an honest, nuanced portrayal of adolescence, it deviated from the typical, idealized representations of teenagers in media. The performances by the talented cast, including Linda Cardellini, John Francis Daley, and James Franco, bring a remarkable sense of realism to their roles.
The series combines sharp, insightful humor with genuine drama, addressing the ups and downs of teenage life without veering into melodrama. The show's use of period-appropriate music, fashion, and cultural references grounds it in its time, creating a backdrop that feels both genuine and immersive.
Afterlife
My Rating: 9 of 10 stars.
Afterlife, created by and starring Ricky Gervais, is a poignant and often hilariously dark exploration of grief, loss, and the search for meaning in life. Set in a quaint British town, the series follows Tony Johnson, a man grappling with profound sorrow after the death of his wife. Gervais delivers a masterful performance as Tony, blending biting humor with deep emotional vulnerability.
The show's strength lies in its authentic portrayal of grief. Gervais doesn’t shy away from the raw pain and existential questioning that accompanies loss, yet he balances this with moments of sharp wit and unexpected humor. Tony’s journey from a man consumed by bitterness to someone who slowly finds reasons to reconnect with life and those around him is both heartwarming and deeply relatable.
The series is laced with Gervais's trademark humor, but it’s the tender moments and insightful reflections that make it truly impactful. The episodes are well-paced, with each one contributing meaningfully to Tony’s emotional arc and the overall narrative.
Dark
My Rating: 5.5 of 10 stars.
This series is a German sci-fi thriller that initially captivates with its intriguing premise of time travel and interconnected families in the small town of Winden. However, as the series progresses, it becomes increasingly convoluted, making it a challenging and often frustrating watch.
The show's intricate plot, while ambitious, can be overwhelming and difficult to follow. With numerous timelines, a large cast of characters, and complex relationships, Dark demands constant attention and memory from its viewers. The frequent jumps between different eras and the multitude of subplots can leave even the most attentive audience members confused and disoriented.
Character development also falls short. While some characters are well-developed and compelling, others feel underutilized or one-dimensional. The series spends so much time on its intricate plot mechanics that it often neglects the emotional depth and growth of its characters.
Furthermore, the show's pacing is uneven. Some episodes are slow and drag on, focusing on minor details, while others rush through critical plot points without giving them the necessary time to develop. The dark and somber tone of the series, while fitting for the subject matter, can also be off-putting. It lacks the balance that many successful series achieve by interspersing moments of levity within their narratives. For those looking for a more straightforward and emotionally engaging sci-fi thriller, there are better options available. Frankly, I never understood why it has such a high IMDB rating.
Young Sheldon
My Rating: 8.5 of 10 stars.
The series is set in East Texas, offering a heartwarming and humorous glimpse into the early life of Sheldon Cooper, the beloved and quirky character from The Big Bang Theory. This prequel series masterfully explores Sheldon's childhood as a prodigious yet socially awkward boy navigating the complexities of family, school, and growing up.
Sheldon, portrayed brilliantly by Iain Armitage, is a child genius whose intellect often sets him apart from his peers and even his family. His unique perspective on life, combined with his lack of social skills, results in a myriad of amusing and touching moments. The show is anchored by a strong supporting cast, and the dynamics within the Cooper family are central to the series, offering a blend of warmth, humor, and relatability. Each family member, from Sheldon's siblings to his feisty grandmother Meemaw, adds depth and charm to the story.
The series shines in its ability to combine humour with heartfelt storytelling. The series captures the nostalgia of the late '80s and early '90s, appealing to a broad audience. Whether you're a fan of "The Big Bang Theory" or new to Sheldon's world, the show offers an engaging look at the formative years of one of television's most iconic characters.
Jessica Jones
My Rating: 7 of 10 stars.
This series takes viewers into the gritty, noir world of Marvel’s most complex and formidable private investigator. Set in the streets of New York City, the series explores themes of trauma, redemption, and the dark side of heroism through its titular character, Jessica Jones.
Jessica is not your typical superhero. Her superhuman strength is matched only by her sharp wit and even sharper tongue. She’s deeply flawed, haunted by a traumatic past, and struggles with PTSD, alcoholism, and a caustic attitude that often pushes people away. Yet, it’s these very imperfections that make her relatable and compelling. David Tennant’s portrayal of Kilgrave, in particular, stands out as one of the most chilling and psychologically intricate villains in recent memory.
The writing is sharp, the dialogue is biting, and the cinematography captures the moody, shadowy essence of Jessica’s world. I watched Jessica Jones in my early 20s, and its intense themes and youthful edge might resonate more with a younger crowd than with viewers in their late twenties or thirties.
The 100
My Rating: 7.5 of 10 stars.
The 100 propels viewers into a dystopian future where humanity's survival depends on the resilience and ingenuity of a group of young people sent to a desolate Earth. Achieving the right balance in the dystopian/post-apocalyptic genre can be challenging, but "The 100" manages to strike a compelling chord.
The initial episodes can be a bit frustrating, especially with characters like Octavia, but most characters, including her, undergo significant and often unpredictable development as the series progresses. The numerous unexpected plot twists keep viewers hooked, and the show deserves credit for this. Additionally, "The 100" doesn’t shy away from depicting controversial or morally ambiguous decisions made by its lead characters, such as genocide, murder, and infidelity. Unlike many series with Mary Sue type female leads, "The 100" features complex, morally grey characters who still remain likable.
The series captures the many faces of humanity, showcasing both its beauty and ugliness in the face of existential threats. The constant ethical dilemmas faced by the main characters add depth and intrigue. With a blend of fantasy, sci-fi, drama, and adventure, "The 100" appeals to a wide range of audiences.
For those in search of a series that combines riveting action with deep philosophical questions about society, leadership, and human nature, The 100 is a good choice.
The Waltons
My Rating: 9 of 10 stars.
This series is very close to my heart.
The Waltons takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the heartfelt trials and triumphs of the Walton family, set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and World War II. It's not just about a family living on Walton's Mountain; it's about the strength of human spirit and enduring bonds in the face of adversity.
The characters are authentic, endearing, and deeply relatable, often making tough decisions that reflect the realities of the era. They sometimes make decisions that reflect the era's complexities and constraints, and their challenges and triumphs resonate with viewers on a profound level. At times, they engage in debates or voice opinions that might seem old-fashioned or contentious today, but this adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative. Channeling the spirit of classic family dramas, "The Waltons" is a mix of humour, warmth, and wisdom.
If you're looking for a show to watch with your family, this is the one for you. The episodes are on the longer side (45 mins to 1 hour) and the pace might seem slow to today's audience, not to mention there are a total of ten seasons, but for fans, it just means more Walton goodness. On a more personal level, I particularly enjoy the show because the lead character, John-Boy, embodies the kind of writer I aspire to be more closely than anyone else I have come across, with the exception of John Steinbeck.
Gilmore Girls
My Rating: 10 of 10 stars.
This is my favourite tv series, bar none. I have watched it no fewer than ten times.
The show masterfully navigates the labyrinth of dysfunctional family dynamics and relationship rollercoasters. It's not just about coffee, it's about the bitter and sweet complexities of life served in a quirky, small-town setting.
The characters are flawed, relatable, and make decisions that may not always endear them to the audience. At times they make politically incorrect statements or voice unpopular opinions, which makes for more amusement.
Gilmore Girls is like an espresso shot, delivering a whirlwind of pop culture references at a pace that makes the Flash look like he's taking a leisurely stroll. Whether it's a nod to classic movies, the latest music, or obscure trivia, every episode is like a game of "spot the reference" where winning means a deeper connection with the characters and a chuckle at their impeccable taste.
The show channels the spirit of classic screwball comedies of the 1930s and 40s, especially through the witty banter between the mother and daughter that is so sharp, it could cut through steel—only to be softened by the warmth of their genuine affection. Simply put, it’s all Lorelai’s world, we’re just living in it.
One Tree Hill
My Rating: 7.5 of 10 stars.
Truth be told, I haven’t ever watched the series until its last episode. I like the first five or six seasons much better than the later ones, and I’ve watched them several times.
One Tree Hill brilliantly captures the essence of growing up in a pre-digital era, a time when social media drama meant passing notes in class, not posting status updates. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who remember the days when connecting with friends required more than just a click or a swipe. The show beautifully mirrors the complexity of friendships and relationships in an analog world, where face-to-face conversations were the norm, not the exception.
The beautiful depiction of sports (basketball) is more than just a backdrop; it's a metaphor for the highs and lows of life. Whether it's a game-winning shot or a heartbreaking defeat, the emotional resonance is palpable.
However, One Tree Hill might not be the Gen Z generation’s cup of tea. It's like a time capsule that preserves views and values from a bygone era. Commitment-based relationships, the sanctity of marriage, and the traditional path to motherhood are all celebrated here, often at odds with the more modern and fluid perspectives of today's audience. It's not afraid to critique choices like hookup culture, abortion, and other contemporary views.
One Tree Hill boasts a parade of guest appearances by bands that could headline any music festival. It also uses a lot of great rock music as soundtracks. Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" becomes a rallying cry, echoing the characters' determination in the face of adversity. The Fray's "How to Save a Life" sets the stage for heart-wrenching moments, underscoring the emotional depth that the series is known for.
Fleabag
My Rating: 7 of 10 stars.
While I like this show for the most part, I have mixed views about some of it. I have watched another of Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s shows, called Crashing, but I did not like it. The protagonist should be more likeable than unlikeable, especially in a show that focuses singularly on a single character and other characters are developed too shallowly to save the series. In this regard, Fleabag is much better than Crashing. While flawed characters are the bread and butter of great storytelling, there are moments when the protagonist’s unlikability feels like a stubborn stain on your favourite shirt. Don’t get me wrong, if the protagonist was younger, say 23 or 24 years old, it would have been fine, but you tend to expect more from a 33-year old character. It's a testament to the writing and acting that you still watch, but you can't help but wish for a tad more likability to balance the scales.
One of the unique things about the show is the use of the kind of stream of consciousness method that helps the viewer navigate through the chaotic mind of our dear protagonist. The protagonist switches between talking to the audience and dialogue between the other characters, a transition that is amusing to watch.
Talking about the plot events—bizarre doesn't even begin to cover it. Fleabag's life is a carnival of absurdity, and we see the show's willingness to embrace the weird and wonderful aspects of life. From awkward family dinners to emotionally charged confrontations, the show captures the nuances of dysfunctional family dynamics in a relatable yet cringe-worthy way.
And now, for the elephant in the room—the normalisation of deviance. Fleabag seems to have a penchant for making the abnormal seem run-of-the-mill. While it adds to the show's irreverent charm, there are moments when it's a fine line between pushing boundaries and erasing them, and Fleabag gleefully tap-dances on that line. In conclusion, Fleabag is like a bag of assorted candies—you love most, you're indifferent to some, and one or two might leave a peculiar aftertaste.
Firefly
My Rating: 8.5 of 10 stars.
Firefly is a cosmic anomaly—a show that blends genres and throws together characters that are so diverse, you wonder how they live in harmony on a ship as small as Serenity. How I wish Firefly hadn't met the grim fate of cancellation! This show had the potential to soar to intergalactic heights, exploring uncharted territories of storytelling. The decision to end it prematurely is like closing a book mid-sentence; you're left hungry for more words, more adventures, and more sarcastic one-liners from Captain Malcolm Reynolds.
This show is a unique blend of retro aesthetics and modern storytelling that leaves you with a mix of satisfaction and a lingering taste of 'what could have been.' The space-faring future meets the rugged Wild West, creating a visual feast that's as inventive as putting a laser gun in the holster of a cowboy. The result is a universe where spaceships sail through the stars with the swagger of a safari jeep on a dusty trail, and it's nothing short of spectacular.
The interplay of emotions among the characters is Firefly's emotional engine, propelling the narrative through the emptiness of space. From heartfelt camaraderie to the bitter taste of betrayal, the crew of the Serenity becomes a microcosm of the human experience. The acoustic guitar soundtrack weaves seamlessly with the interstellar adventures, creating a symphony that's both haunting and exhilarating.
Mindhunter
My Rating: 8 of 10 stars.
Mindhunter is a psychological rollercoaster that takes you on a chilling journey through the minds of serial killers.
Firstly, the sinister plot development in Mindhunter is like watching a suspenseful chess match between the agents and the psychopaths. The unravelling of criminal minds is riveting, creating a narrative tension that's as taut as a high-stakes interrogation.
The attention to detail in bringing these real-life monsters to life is both commendable and bone-chilling. I actually saw the real interviews of most of these killers, and realised that the show has gone to great lengths to capture both their appearance as well as the demeanour. It's a testament to the show's commitment to authenticity, making you feel like you're staring into the abyss alongside the investigators.
The personal lives of the agents are woven into the narrative, revealing the toll that hunting psychopaths takes on their sanity. It's a delicate balancing act that adds depth to the characters and underscores the high stakes of their chosen profession. The repartee between the two cops, Holden and Tench, is sharp, witty, and occasionally darkly humorous—a stark contrast to the grim subject matter they deal with daily. It's like watching a buddy cop comedy in the middle of a psychological thriller, providing moments of levity that prevent the show from descending into unrelenting darkness.
What I didn’t like was the overt and unnecessary depiction of same-sex bedroom scenes. While Mindhunter is known for pushing boundaries, there are instances where it feels like the show veers into sensationalism for the sake of shock value. The attempt to educate viewers on what should be considered normal may come across as heavy-handed, diverting attention from the core narrative.
Black Mirror
My Rating: 8 of 10 stars.
The show builds slowly, and viewers might be put off after watching the first episode, but I strongly recommend they continue. The first two seasons build up slowly (with the exception of the 1st episode), and I like the third and fourth seasons best of all. I did not like the fifth season too much. Like many others, such as Game of Thrones, the show peaks in the middle and isn’t quite left with more good ideas to wrap up loose ends in the last season. There is a sixth season also, but I never got around to watching it, after the debacle in the fifth one. Who knows, perhaps the show redeems itself?
The show's dystopian narratives and spot-on depictions of the consequences of technology invasion are both its greatest strength and a reminder that perhaps a little moderation in screen time wouldn't hurt. The show's ability to imagine worst-case scenarios for our tech-addicted society is nothing short of mind-bending.
Each episode is unrelated to the last, so one can watch a random episode or season in any order. I would not recommend beginning with Episode 1 of Season 1. In case one does not want to watch the full series, my highly recommended episodes would be: Nosedive (Season 3), Hated in the Nation (Season 3), Arkangel (Season 4) and Hang the DJ (Season 4).
