If I could marry a TV show, I’d choose this one about a bearded man – The Irish Times
Television viewers currently have a wealth of options, but several recent series are standing out for their originality and engaging storytelling. From supernatural mysteries to quirky comedies and compelling dramas, a diverse range of shows are capturing audiences. Here’s a look at some notable programs and what makes them worth watching.
A Look at Current Television
Small Prophets
Small Prophets, a new series on BBC Two, has garnered significant praise for its unique premise and heartwarming narrative. The show centres around Pearce Quigley’s character, a man who creates homunculi – magical prophesying spirits – in his shed. The series is the creation of Mackenzie Crook, who pitched the unusual concept to the BBC, resulting in a truly original story about loss, connection, and grief.
The Lowdown
The Lowdown, available on Disney+, features Ethan Hawke and Peter Dinklage and presents a rare noir detective story that deliberately avoids cynicism. The show focuses on a journalist and bookshop owner, Lee Raybon, who investigates a mystery rooted in unequal power relationships rather than inherent human darkness. It emphasizes the importance of community and involvement.
Evil
Evil, streaming on Now, distinguishes itself with its realistic portrayal of family dynamics. Despite its supernatural premise – a priest, a psychologist, and a scientist investigating paranormal phenomena – the show’s strength lies in its depiction of a believable, often chaotic, family life with Dr. Kristen Bouchard and her four daughters.
The Iris Affair
The Iris Affair, available on Sky/Now, stars Niamh Algar and Tom Hollander in a twisty story involving a genius attempting to evade a billionaire to prevent an AI from causing global disruption. The dynamic between Algar and Hollander is particularly noteworthy, with Hollander portraying a surprisingly empathetic villain.
Slow Horses
Slow Horses, on Apple TV, offers a refreshing take on the spy genre by subverting the trope of the traditionally heroic protagonist. The show’s appeal lies in its characters’ flaws and the constant undermining of the ostensibly heroic River Cartwright by his colleagues, particularly Jackson Lamb.
Scavengers’ Reign
Scavengers’ Reign, on Netflix, is a visually stunning animated series about humans stranded on a hostile alien planet. The show’s intricate animation and inventive storytelling have resonated with viewers, despite its cancellation after one season, highlighting the value of niche programming.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, on Now, revisits the world of Game of Thrones with a focus on a more grounded story featuring Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Egg. The show embraces a classic “big fella/small fella” dynamic and incorporates Irish accents into its characters.
Fisk
Fisk, available on Netflix, is a deadpan sitcom about a Melbourne-based attorney. The show’s humor and the appeal of Australian culture contribute to its unique charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central premise of Small Prophets?
Small Prophets follows a man who creates homunculi in an attempt to understand what happened after his partner disappeared.
What distinguishes The Lowdown from typical noir detective stories?
The Lowdown shuns cynicism, focusing on the importance of community and addressing darkness rooted in unequal power relationships.
What makes Slow Horses stand out in the spy genre?
Slow Horses subverts the traditional heroic archetype, presenting a protagonist who is often undermined by his colleagues.
With such a diverse range of new shows available, what kind of television are you most drawn to – complex mysteries, heartwarming comedies, or something else entirely?