Game of Thrones (2011-2019):
Game of Thrones was a fantasy television series that aired on HBO from 2011 to 2019. It was based on George R. R. Martin’s series of novels “A Song of Ice and Fire”. The show became a cultural phenomenon and captivated audiences worldwide with its gripping storyline, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters.
Set in the fictional world of Westeros, the series follows the political and personal struggles of several noble families as they fight for control of the Iron Throne, the seat of the King of the Seven Kingdoms. The show is known for its complex and intricate plot, as well as its willingness to shock viewers with unexpected twists and character deaths.
Game of Thrones boasted an impressive cast of actors, including Peter Dinklage, Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Lena Headey, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, among others. The show’s production values were also top-notch, with elaborate costumes, stunning visual effects, and grandiose sets and locations.
Throughout its eight seasons, Game of Thrones won numerous awards, including 59 Primetime Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. The show’s finale, however, was met with mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.
Despite its controversial ending, Game of Thrones remains one of the most influential and beloved television shows of the 21st century. It has inspired countless memes, fan theories, and discussions, and its impact on popular culture is undeniable.
Stranger Things (2016-present):
Stranger Things is a science fiction/horror television series that first premiered on Netflix in 2016. The show is set in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana and follows a group of friends as they uncover supernatural mysteries and government conspiracies.
The main characters of the show are a group of young friends: Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Will. When Will goes missing, the group is thrust into a world of horror and intrigue, encountering a mysterious girl named Eleven who possesses telekinetic powers. As they work together to find Will and uncover the truth about the strange occurrences in their town, they face terrifying creatures from an alternate dimension known as the Upside Down.
The show has become famous for its blend of science fiction, horror, and 80s nostalgia. Its references to popular culture from the time period, such as Dungeons & Dragons and classic films like E.T. and The Goonies, have won over audiences of all ages. Stranger Things also boasts a talented cast of actors, including Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Gaten Matarazzo, and Winona Ryder.
Since its premiere, Stranger Things has received critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards. The show’s popularity has also spawned a wide range of merchandise, such as clothing, toys, and video games.
As of 2021, the show has released three seasons on Netflix, with a fourth season currently in production. Stranger Things has become a cultural phenomenon and shows no signs of slowing down in popularity anytime soon.
The Crown (2016-present):
The Crown is a historical drama television series that first premiered on Netflix in 2016. The show follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, starting with her ascension to the throne in 1952 and continuing through to the present day. The Crown has been praised for its impeccable attention to detail, outstanding performances, and engrossing storytelling.
The show is a fictionalized account of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, played by Claire Foy in the first two seasons and then by Olivia Colman in the subsequent seasons. The Crown explores the Queen’s relationships with her family, including her husband Prince Philip (Matt Smith/Tobias Menzies), her sister Princess Margaret (Vanessa Kirby/Helena Bonham Carter), and her mother Queen Elizabeth (Victoria Hamilton).
Throughout its run, The Crown has covered many historical events, such as the Suez Crisis, the Kennedy assassination, and the dissolution of Princess Margaret’s marriage. The show’s creators have been praised for their meticulous attention to historical detail, with the sets, costumes, and props all accurately representing the time period.
The Crown has received critical acclaim for its performances, particularly those of Foy and Colman, as well as for its direction and writing. The show has won numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.
As of 2021, The Crown has released four seasons on Netflix, with a fifth and final season in the works. The show has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its portrayal of the royal family and the events that have shaped modern British history.
Breaking Bad (2008-2013):
Breaking Bad is a crime drama television series that aired on AMC from 2008 to 2013. The show follows the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking and selling methamphetamine after he is diagnosed with lung cancer and needs to provide for his family.
The show is known for its complex characters, gripping plot, and intense action scenes. Throughout its run, Breaking Bad received critical acclaim for its acting, direction, and writing, winning numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award.
Bryan Cranston stars as Walter White, the show’s main character. He is joined by Aaron Paul, who plays Jesse Pinkman, Walter’s former student and partner in the meth business. The show also features a talented supporting cast, including Anna Gunn, RJ Mitte, and Giancarlo Esposito.
Breaking Bad is often cited as one of the best television dramas of all time, due in large part to its exploration of the consequences of Walter’s choices and the transformation of his character from a mild-mannered teacher to a ruthless drug lord. The show’s themes of morality, family, and power have resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a cultural touchstone of the 21st century.
The show’s finale was highly anticipated and did not disappoint, providing a satisfying conclusion to the series. Breaking Bad also spawned a spin-off prequel series, Better Call Saul, which has received critical acclaim in its own right.
Breaking Bad remains a fan favorite and is often recommended as a must-watch show for those interested in drama, crime, and character studies.
The Mandalorian (2019-present):
The Mandalorian is a space western television series that premiered on Disney+ in 2019. Set in the Star Wars universe, the show follows the adventures of a bounty hunter known as the Mandalorian, who travels the galaxy in search of his next job.
The Mandalorian is set after the events of Return of the Jedi, and follows the Mandalorian (played by Pedro Pascal) as he takes on various bounties and navigates the complex politics and dangers of the galaxy. Along the way, he encounters characters such as the Child (affectionately known as “Baby Yoda” by fans), a young member of the same species as the Jedi Master, and former rebel shock trooper Cara Dune (Gina Carano).
The show is known for its action-packed scenes, stunning special effects, and the incredible performance of Pascal in the lead role. The Mandalorian has also been praised for its reverence to the Star Wars franchise while still managing to tell an original and engaging story.
The show has been a critical and commercial success, garnering numerous award nominations and winning multiple Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards for its visual effects, cinematography, and sound design. Its popularity has spawned a wide range of merchandise, including toys, clothing, and even a Baby Yoda-shaped toaster.
As of 2021, The Mandalorian has released two seasons on Disney+, with a third season in development. The show’s success has also led to several spin-off series in the works, including The Book of Boba Fett and Ahsoka. The Mandalorian has become a cultural phenomenon and is widely considered to be one of the best Star Wars productions in recent memory.
