As global restrictions took hold earlier this year due to the coronavirus outbreak, countless individuals found themselves with extra hours to fill. Many embraced opportunities to acquire fresh abilities, like picking up a new language or mastering an instrument, whereas others channeled their energy into home makeovers, tidying up, and tackling long-overdue tasks.
In the midst of this uncertainty, one common pursuit emerged: exploring fresh TV series and films. The sheer abundance of options on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime can make it overwhelming to select something truly captivating, often leading to endless browsing sessions. To streamline your search, we’re highlighting a selection of engaging shows worth diving into, drawing from popular recommendations and viewer feedback.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
This comedic police procedural centers on the witty and resourceful detective Jake Peralta and his eclectic team at the 99th Precinct of the New York Police Department. The ensemble frequently lands in absurd predicaments, relying on their sharp investigative talents to untangle mysteries with humor and heart. Premiering in 2013, the series has garnered a loyal following for its blend of laughs and clever plots, featuring standout performances from a talented cast that brings depth to each character.
Spanning eight seasons in total, there’s ample material for a marathon viewing session, with episodes that balance comedy and character development effectively. The show’s future wasn’t always secure; after five seasons, Fox canceled it amid declining ratings, but NBC quickly picked it up within just 31 hours, showcasing the power of fan support. This revival highlights a broader trend in television, where audience advocacy can influence a series’ fate, as seen in cases like “Community” or “Lucifer.” Resources online, such as dedicated TV tracking sites, offer updates on show statuses, helping fans stay informed and avoid the disappointment of abrupt endings.
Nothing frustrates viewers more than getting hooked on a narrative only to face a cliffhanger with no resolution in sight, making it essential to choose series with strong continuations.
After Life
Building on its growing acclaim, After Life has been greenlit for a third season, captivating audiences worldwide with its raw emotional depth. The story revolves around Tony, whose world is shattered by the loss of his wife to breast cancer, prompting him to navigate grief in brutally honest ways that mix heartache with humor.
Ricky Gervais delivers a tour-de-force performance as the creator, writer, and star, blending sharp wit and vulnerability to evoke both laughter and tears. The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring actors from Gervais’s previous works, which adds layers of familiarity and authenticity. Released in 2019, the series explores themes of loss and resilience, drawing from real-life inspirations and earning praise for its unflinching portrayal of mental health struggles.
Killing Eve
This acclaimed British production proudly represents the best of UK television, blending comedy, drama, and espionage in a gripping tale. At its core is Eve Polastri, a determined intelligence officer tasked with tracking down the elusive and dangerously charismatic assassin Villanelle. Their intense pursuit unfolds as a thrilling game of wits, filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and witty dialogue that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Crafted by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the series has won multiple awards, including Emmys, for its innovative storytelling. With the second season already available and further installments in development, fans of high-stakes thrillers won’t have to wait long for more, as the show continues to explore complex character dynamics and moral ambiguities.
Big Mouth
Developed by Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, and Jennifer Flackett, this animated comedy draws heavily from the creators’ own adolescent experiences in New York during the 1980s. It humorously depicts the awkward trials of puberty, following a group of middle schoolers as they grapple with hormonal changes, social pressures, and personal growth.
The introduction of imaginative elements, like the “hormone monsters,” adds a layer of absurdity and genius to the narrative, making it a standout in adult animation. Since its debut in 2017, the show has been praised for its candid approach to topics like sexuality and identity, resonating with audiences through its relatable humor and insightful commentary.
This Country
This witty British mockumentary offers a satirical look at rural life, focusing on the everyday antics of two young adults in a quaint Cotswolds village. Through clever observations of social awkwardness, human quirks, and the peculiarities of country living, it delivers laughs while highlighting cultural nuances.
Its popularity led to rapid renewals, with the third season airing in 2020, and it appeals even to international viewers by universalizing themes of isolation and community. For American audiences, the show’s exploration of small-town dynamics provides a humorous contrast to urban life, drawing from real British traditions and earning a spot in global comedy lineups.
BlackAF
Making its debut on April 17th this year, BlackAF stands out as a fresh addition to the sitcom genre, crafted by Kenya Barris. The series stars Barris as a loosely fictionalized version of himself, navigating the chaotic, unapologetic realities of family life and personal ambitions with sharp humor and social insight.
Just two months after launch, it was renewed for a second season, underscoring its instant appeal and critical success. Building on Barris’s experience with shows like “Black-ish,” it tackles race, parenting, and identity in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Friday Night Lights
Though not a traditional sitcom and originating back in 2006, this compelling drama deserves a prominent place on any watchlist. Set in the small town of Dillon, Texas, it chronicles the highs and lows of the local high school football team, the Dillon Panthers, under the guidance of head coach Eric Taylor.
The narrative weaves together sports rivalries, personal relationships, and the challenges of youth in a tight-knit community, earning accolades including Peabody and Emmy awards. Over its five seasons, it explores themes of teamwork, resilience, and American culture, offering a realistic portrayal that resonates with themes of aspiration and hardship in rural settings.
In a streaming landscape overflowing with choices, turning to curated suggestions can simplify your entertainment decisions. Each of these series boasts stellar reviews and a track record of engaging storytelling, ensuring you’ll be eager for more. So, settle in with your favorite snacks, perhaps some popcorn and a cold drink, and queue up one of these standout shows for an unforgettable viewing experience.