We’ve been witness to many great films this year, but dare I say it is TV that has stolen the crown so far. From the latest Black Mirror series to the most recent of The White Lotus, there has been many generous offerings to choose from. I myself still have a short list to get through but of those I have watched, there have been some stand outs. Here are my top five series of the year so far – and where to watch them.
The White Lotus
The White Lotus is an anthology series that follows the exploits of various guests and employees at the fictional White Lotus resort chain, which is often set in exotic places. Each season features a different group, bar the odd crossover, of wealthy guests whose holiday is never what they plan. It is a social satire series that explores themes of power, class and revolves around the death of one of the characters. It is unlike anything else I have seen and this third season, set in Thailand, despite being a bit of a slow burner, had me obsessed by the end.
Where to watch: NOWTV
Overcompensating
The new queer coming-of-age series, Overcompensating, focuses on Benny, who, has spent his life so far deep in the closet. When he starts college he struggles to work out who he really is and is faced with societal expectations and pressures. The series is a light-hearted look into a very relevant topic with The series themes of identity, sexuality, and the challenges of self-discovery. Charli XCX’s music soundtracks the series with the star cameoing in a couple of episodes, giving us an insight into what to expect in her upcoming acting pursuits.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Black Mirror
British sci-fi anthology series, Black Mirror explores the dark side of humanity, technology and the future of society. Each episode is a standalone story, often set in near-future dystopias, while featuring different individuals and delving into societal issues. The show is known for its thought-provoking narratives, often with bleak settings, and its exploration of techno-paranoia. The most recent season triumphs and is more consistent within its storytelling in comparison to season six.
Where to watch: Netflix
Adolescence
Adolescence is a one-shot crime drama series that focuses on a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, after he is arrested for the murder of his classmate, Katie. The series explores the impact of this event on Jamie, his family, and the wider community, while also covering themes of toxic masculinity, social media influence, and the challenges of navigating adolescence in the digital age. It has received much critical acclaim since its release and depicts a powerful message that is all too real.
Where to watch: Netflix
The Bear
The Bear follows Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), a young, award-winning chef, who has returned home to Chicago to run his family’s Italian beef sandwich shop following the death of his brother to suicide. Carmy clashes with the chaotic culture of the restaurant and its staff, led by his cousin Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and tries to modernize the restaurant, facing resistance and dealing with his own personal demons. The fourth season of The Bear premiered on June 25 and it has been met with glowing reviews
Where to watch: Disney+