Television has seen a rebirth in the last ten years, resulting in several creative, compelling shows that have fundamentally altered the way we watch television.
Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
Breaking Bad, created by Vince Gilligan, is a significant television moment. This gripping thriller follows Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a former chemistry instructor who now manufactures methamphetamine, transformation. Breaking Bad blends engrossing character development with subtle storytelling and a complex plot. With its top-notch writing, standout acting, and nail-biting intensity, Breaking Bad is a must-watch series that perfectly captures all that television narrative has to offer.
Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
An international sensation, Game of Thrones is an eight-season fantasy television series based on the novels of George R.R. Martin. Global audiences were captivated by the epic story of political intrigue, power struggles, and magical elements in the fictional country of Westeros. Game of Thrones enthralled viewers with its vast ensemble cast, gorgeous production qualities, and unexpected plot twists. Although reviews for the show’s last season were divided, there is no denying the series’ impact on television and popular culture.
Stranger Things (2016-present)
Stranger Things, a supernatural suspense drama by the Duffer Brothers, is an homage to 1980s pop culture. In the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show follows a group of adolescents navigating puzzling government experiments, parallel universes, and bizarre creatures. Stranger Things has built up a loyal following among viewers of all ages due to its charming characters, engrossing world-building, and captivating narrative. As a result, it has gained widespread cultural recognition.
The Crown (2016-present)
The fictional book The Crown by Peter Morgan offers a detailed look at the British royal family. This lavish historical play that analyses the Queen’s reign depicts the Queen’s political and personal challenges. Critics have praised The Crown for its exceptional attention to detail, stellar performances, and in-depth exploration of power dynamics. It provides a fascinating glimpse into royal life.
Mad Men (2007-2015)
Mad Men, a television series produced by Matthew Weiner, immerses viewers in the fascinating world of New York City’s advertising agencies in the 1960s. This intelligent and thought-provoking drama, which examines problems of identity, ambition, and the changing social environment, follows the complex life of Don Draper (Jon Hamm). Mad Men is a must-watch for every fan of television due to its meticulous attention to historical detail, fantastic character development, and nuanced storytelling.
The Handmaid’s Tale (2017-present)
The Handmaid’s Tale, based on Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel, shows a terrifying future in which women’s rights have been eliminated. In the show, Offred (Elisabeth Moss) struggles to live as a handmaid under a patriarchal system that wants to restrict her autonomy and body. The Handmaid’s Tale is a sobering reminder of the significance of gender equality and reproductive rights thanks to its gripping storyline, stirring acting, and social criticism.
Fleabag (2016-2019)
The dark comedy Fleabag, written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and features her as the lead, provides an unvarnished glimpse into the title character’s life. Fleabag breaks conventional narrative norms with its snappy writing, creative storytelling tactics, and Waller-Bridge’s outstanding acting. It offers a new and genuine look at contemporary relationships, loss, and growth in oneself.
The Americans (2013-2018)
Joe Weisberg’s suspenseful spy thriller The Americans is set in the Cold War era. The show centers on Elizabeth and Philip Jennings, two Soviet intelligence agents who pose as a suburban American couple and are played by Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys. The Americans excel at exploring the moral challenges of its heroes and have compelling spy storylines and complicated character relationships. The Americans are one of the decade’s most riveting and underappreciated series because of its tense storyline and outstanding performances.
Black Mirror (2011-present)
Charlie Brooker’s provocative anthology series Black Mirror examines the sinister side of technology and how it affects society. Black Mirror’s stand-alone episodes explore ominous and frequently dystopian views of the near future while addressing issues including artificial intelligence, social media, and surveillance. The show encourages viewers to consider the moral and societal ramifications of our world’s growing interconnectedness.
Better Call Saul (2015-present)
Better Call Saul, a prequel to Breaking Bad developed by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, explores the early life of the ethically dubious attorney Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk). Better Call Saul upholds the high bar established by its predecessor with its riveting character study, thorough attention to detail, and outstanding performances. It demonstrates human nature’s complexity, ambition’s cost, and the hazy boundaries between good and evil.
Summary
Television experienced a golden era in the last ten years, with several outstanding programs that broke new ground, enthralled viewers, and had a long-lasting influence on the industry. The top 10 must-watch TV programs of the past ten years have revolutionized narrative, pushed boundaries, and established themselves as cultural touchstones. They range from intense dramas like Breaking Bad and Game of Thrones to avant-garde comedies like Fleabag. Let’s honor these programs as we reflect on this wonderful age of television and recognize its creative accomplishments, social commentary, and lasting influence on how we watch and value television.
