What Ish Is Watching #3
I have been watching far too much (interesting) television to not share it with you. If you've been looking for a new show this New Year, perhaps this can help.
Drama/Thrillers
Black Mirror - Each episode revolves around a different set of concepts. What if we could replay every memory we've ever had? Where could artificial intelligence progress to? What if we could talk to lost ones? Multiple scenarios surrounding society and technology ('Black Mirror'...like a screen...do you get it? A screen is like a BLACK MIRROR) are explored (on a more micro level) in this freaky, highly-intelligent, mind-bending and fascinating show. Special mention to the actors, they're all very strong in an incredibly engrossing thriller.
Stranger Things - Ah yes, stranger things. Just a low-key show that came and went and nobody noticed. Set in the 80s, after their best friend goes missing, a group of kids unravel strange happenings in their small town. Expect secret government organisations, illegal experimentation and monsters. What makes this show stand out against others in it's genre is how heavily influenced by 80s classics this show is. You can clearly see elements of films such as Close Encounters of a Third Kind and Stand By Me. Finally, it has an incredibly strong cast, and the child actors are beyond brilliant.
Westworld - The concept for this show is intriguing. A technologically advanced company have created a Wild West World with artificial intelligence robots (called hosts), that look/feel like humans. Supremely wealthy clients pay to stay in the park and indulge in all their weirdest, bloodiest most primal urges. It brings up ideas of AI, consciousness, destiny and more. Especially as there are storylines that the guests can participate that repeat and repeat (for the hosts). What happens if the robots remember past lives? Who is a host and who isn't? If they think they're real humans, how do you know you're not a host?
Comedies
Atlanta - I don't know where to begin. Donald Glover AKA Childish Gambino has created one of the most insightful, thought-provoking intricate and beautifully crafted dramedies of the year, if not the decade. Subtly touching upon multiple cultural nuances and adeptly weaving through many current/topical issues, this show about a down-on-his-luck boyfriend/father/friend becoming his rapper-cousins manager never ceases to amaze me. I've watched some episodes three times and I still find new things to love about it. Don't go for strong story lines, the story simply unfolds at its own pace.
Always Sunny in Philadelphia - Where to begin with this absolutely divisive programme. It took me almost 5 years to get into this comedy. Once you understand how despicable, weird, politically incorrect and destructive these characters on, IASIP reveals itself as the most underrated comedy I've every watched. Hilarious, intelligent, wacky, innovative and refreshing, this comedy isn't trying to pander to anyone, just as the characters would never pander to anybody. I would recommend you to give the following 5 episodes a watch to fully understand the breadth of the show, and to see if you'd like it or not.
The Gang Solve The Gas Crisis
Charlie Work
The Gang Buys a Boat
Mac Day
The Gang Reignites The Rivalry
P.S. If you're a television nerd, 'The Gang Tries Desperately To Win an Award' is one entire episode of meta humour where there bar isn't winning an award (but it's all about the show not winning awards).
Broad City - This comedy evolved from a successful web-series from comediennes Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson. It's about two best friends trying to get by and have a good time in New York. It's humour is wacky, fast and very funny. The story lines are incredibly unpredicatble and unique. Very easy watching, and refreshing to see an off-beat stoner comedy with two female leads.
Brooklyn Nine Nine - I love Andy Samberg, therefore I love B99. Based around a group of detectives in a police precinct, this sitcom isn't ground-breaking, or highly intelligent. But goofy, light-hearted and fun. The characters play well off each other, when it's funny, it is very funny. I will admit it does go through lulls, but ultimately it finds a way to find its rhythm again. If you want a safe bet sitcom, this my favourite right now.
High Maintenance - I've added this in a little late, but it's a mesmerisingly beautiful show. Best described as a series of vignettes revolving around people in New York. The only thing these people (and in one incredible episode, a dog) have in common is that directly/indirectly they have crossed paths with a charming, laid back, caring and non-judgemental drug dealer simply knows as 'The Guy'. It's a glorious, wacky and insightful show, perfect for the stoners out there.
Lovesick - This netflix original (that previously aired on Channel 4) revolves around a man that finds out he has chlamydia. Hilarious, I know. Each episode focuses on a previous lover he's had (who he will need to inform of his condition) and obviously how the deed comes about. These come in the form of flashbacks taking us to University, weddings and pub quiz's. Originally titled Scrotal Recall (what a stupid name) this show excels in its combination of heart and humour. The three friends have beautiful chemistry, supporting each other through the minefield that is life. It's got thought behind and it and that's what sets this apart as a stellar British comedy for me
