When browsing through television providers such as Netflix, Hulu, Max, etc, it can be hard to find a truly entertaining and thought-provoking show relevant to today’s current problems and with an enticing authenticity that captures your attention completely. Throughout the years, I have watched countless shows, only to preoccupy my time in an attempt to find a show that stuck with me. Sometimes, I get fortunate enough to come across terrific shows that have fascinated me with the critical and complex thinking behind the script, cinematography, acting, soundtrack, and many other things. For many, TV shows are a way to escape their harsh reality, allowing them to relax and live someone else’s life while simultaneously living their own. In no way has this been easy, but I have formulated a list of my all-time top-five favorite shows that have stuck out to me.
- 13 Reasons Why
I could go on and on about this show forever, as I am still in shock. I started watching this show in November of 2023, and without a doubt, it has changed a lot for me. When watching, I felt nothing but anxious and disturbed. Plenty of scenes are purposely put in the show to make the audience uncomfortable, although, through the discomfort, you see how genuine and realistic this show is. You go through the stressful and chaotic lives of teenagers at Liberty High School, and there is no lack of drama. From substance abuse, suicide, and bullying to challenging rape culture and stigmas on sexuality, 13 Reasons Why breaches all topics and is made to show that no one should feel alone in whatever problems they are facing. I also appreciate the much-needed light it shines on people’s personalities, especially in high school, where everyone is constantly changing while maturing. No one is perfect. However, I think we all try to persuade ourselves otherwise, especially with the daunting social media pressure we have nowadays. There are many character arcs where they do the most horrific things, but somehow, you find yourself showing empathy towards them after learning all they have been through. Without excusing their actions, you see that no one is born bad; they are taught bad, which is all they know. Throughout the show, we see that no matter how perfect someone may seem on the outside, there can always be another story in their personal life.
2. Game of Thrones
Undoubtedly one of the most well-known shows of our time, with its impeccable character developments, fantastic plots, and ethereal cinematography, Game of Thrones is my second favorite show of all time, and rightfully so. I recall starting it the summer before my sophomore year because I had nothing else to do, and I couldn’t be more thankful I did. You go through the storylines of various characters only to come across a similar desire: greed. I can relate those problems to today’s problems because of how similar our situations are, with corrupt government officials, famine, poverty, and discrimination amongst all minorities. Additionally, characters such as Tyrion Lannister, Jaime Lannister, Jon Snow, and Daenerys Targaryen are essential to the complex plot with their enticing and problematic storylines. I was faced with Daenerys’ power-hungry intent to conquer and Jaime’s start as a jaded, branded kingslayer to someone trying to do good. While also admiring Tyrion as he overcomes his predicaments with his stature and learning how to beat those around him without the fortune of the general man, I further enjoyed the show with these characters. What truly amazes me about this show is how somewhat chaotic yet perfect it is. With the many character plots they had occurring, they miraculously found ways to tie the show together beautifully to make it one of the top shows on everyone’s lists.
3. Anne With An E
This show represents the struggles that aid girlhood and the harsh expectations that follow. At first, I was reluctant to watch the show as I thought it would be more childish than I would prefer. However, I found myself quickly being proved wrong. This show was one-of-a-kind for all audiences. It provided a deeper understanding of the importance of timing and how love can come to people in all forms. It takes us through the ups and downs of childhood and the beauty of girlhood. The main character, Anne, came from an adoptive shelter; she had to navigate through people who didn’t initially have the best impression of her, yet they had begun to love and respect her distinct personality. Anne represented happiness and cheer, which was new for Prince Edward Island. Her joyous and exciting personality spread through the town. I adored the representation of family not being defined by blood, a comforting theme throughout the three seasons.
4. Normal People
I got a tremendous reality check from this show. It made me pause and appreciate the reality of real-world relationships and how delicate yet beautiful they are. With the media’s romanticized, idealistic version of a relationship, we have lost a sense of its significance. No relationship is flawless, as we have to bear our partner’s changes and our changes simultaneously. This show goes through the troubled yet loving relationship of Connell and Marianne. It was nice to see that no relationship is without its problems; there will be fights and screaming matches, but there will also be loving and tender days where you can live with each other at ease, just settling with each other’s presence and respecting it. From the growth of Marianne’s self-confidence and troubled relationships to Connell’s battle with anxiety and mental health, you watch the pair’s intense, turbulent relationship evolve beautifully. Normal People is a tear-jerker but fantastic all the same.
5. Peaky Blinders
With some of the best acting I have ever seen, Cillian Murphy, Paul Anderson, and Helen McCrory astonish the audience with captivating and award-worthy performances. Along with the boundless talent of these actors, you have profound and disturbing characters, followed by the exciting plot of the iconic terrifying gangsters of Birmingham. I loved this show for many reasons, but primarily because it enlightens the audience with the chaotic business of these gangsters, the Peaky Blinders, and how they navigate the remains of World War I. It gives us insight into how crucial family was, especially to those in the Peaky Blinders. I must mention Cillian Murphy; he is one of our generation’s best actors and completely perfected Thomas Shelby’s persona. With the tedious tasks asked of him, he never fails to deliver such breathtaking and staggering performances. This show is not light; however, it does give you plenty to contemplate about, while also being able to think about the complexion of it.
