The creative output on broadcast television far exceeds the re-hashed plotlines, remakes, kiddie pablum, cookie cutter sequels, artsy-fartsy borefests and special effects-driven mindless fare Hollywood keeps churning out.
Here are 23 great shows you can see on air. Some are subscription based, but many are free, and almost all are available on Netflix or on demand. It’s a feast of storytelling and rich, complex character development.
Get a load of these:
Justified, Falling Skies, Mad Men, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Luther, Downton Abbey, Weeds, Hell on Wheels, Boardwalk Empire, The Daily Show, Game of Thrones, Louie, Portlandia, Dexter, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Homeland, The Colbert Report, Modern Family, Breaking Bad, The Middle, Treme, Californication and The Walking Dead.
That’s 23 terrific shows, everything from period pieces to fantasy to gritty drama to sharp political satire and commentary to gripping psychological character studies to absurdist humor to family friendly comedy to rich explorations into the human condition.
It’s no wonder some of the sharpest talent in entertainment has gone from the big screen to the smaller one. There is more freedom to create, to develop, to take risks, to tell truly interesting stories and to succeed.
In short, contrary to what our parents always told us, we should all be watching more TV.
10 responses to ““And The Oscar Goes To… Television!””
And that’s not counting all the wonderful shows on the DIY Network.
I never watch DIY Network. I’m not sure I know how. Do they have a program for how to tune in?
Call them for training conducted by an expert. Usually, they videotape the training for future programming. I think the show is called “This Old Doofus.”
That sounds like a show I might like. Thanks for the tip, Curvin.
23 shows? Man, when do you sleep? I miss the glory days of HBO — 6 Feet Under, Ali G, Sopranos, Curb, Larry Sanders. Amazing run they had. Just isn’t the same now. Tried to watch Boardwalk Empire. Just couldn’t get into it.
Some of these shows are slow builds, but worth it. Quit your job and start watching more TV!
Job? You’re funny.
Touche’.
Ole’.
I’m having Downton Abby withdrawals!!!! What should I watch now???
Are you watching season 2– it’s three weeks on! We’re in WWI. Come along, dress appropriately!