Gone are the days when finding good content was equivalent to a treasure hunt. The dawn of technology has given birth to a gamut of innovations where discovering good content is imperative because good is in galore. In the past, films were considered the dominant medium for storytelling, offering a contained narrative within a couple of hours. However, the landscape has transformed dramatically with the rise of television and streaming platforms. Likewise, the boom of TV content fostered many talented writers across the world serving as an avenue to tell unrestrained stories.
Time plays a pivotal role in the making of a film. It dilutes the multi-layered content to fit into a traditional template, thus narrowing down the vastness of the characters and stories. However, TV shows provide an alternative platform for storytellers to explore narratives in a more detailed and immersive fashion. The longer format of TV allows for in-depth character development, complex storylines, and exploration of intricate themes. This extended storytelling format enables viewers to form deeper connections with characters and become more invested in their journeys. Moreover, the evolution of streaming platforms has brought about a paradigm shift. The binge culture has fueled the demand for serialized storytelling, where plotlines can unfold gradually and cliffhangers keep audiences eagerly awaiting the next episode.
Humans are curious creatures! The need for good stories and the urge to immerse in the matrix of storytelling is intrinsic in nature. TV offers such an exclusive experience where selecting, watching, pausing, and resuming becomes a luxurious experience. Today, television networks and streaming platforms are inundated with outstanding content, which can be overwhelming when it comes to choosing. Hence the FOMO.
Underrated TV shows often find themselves in a peculiar position within the vast landscape of television. While shows like Succession and House of the Dragon dance in the spotlight, a reservoir of great hidden content fails to see the light of the day thus amassing the title “underrated.” This article will help you find the 20 most underrated TV shows of the last 5 years to amp up your watchlist with new engaging content.
20 Made for Love
Warner Bros.
Made for Love is a masterful amalgamation of science fiction and drama that explore the perils and consequences of technology's intrusion into personal lives. The series revolves around the story of Hazel Green, brilliantly portrayed by Cristin Milioti. As the story progresses, Made for Love delves into thought-provoking themes, exploring the impact of technology on personal relationships, privacy, and the boundaries of control.
Hazel, having lived in a suffocating and controlling marriage with tech mogul Byron Gogol, played by Billy Magnussen, decides to escape her husband's clutches and the dystopian world he has created. The premise kicks off when Hazel, after ten years of marriage, finds herself implanted with a cutting-edge, experimental microchip called Made for Love. With each episode, the stakes escalate, leading to a gripping climax that challenges societal norms and raises important questions about the nature of love, autonomy, and human connection.
19 Pieces of Her
Based on the book by Karin Slaughter, the eponymous series tells the story of Andrea Oliver, portrayed by Bella Heathcote, whose world is turned upside down after a shocking act of violence occurs at a local diner involving her mother. Kicking off the incident, Pieces of Her unravels a web of intrigue, deception, and danger. As Andrea grapples with her mother's hidden identity, she becomes determined to uncover the truth about her mother’s past and her own upbringing. Alternating between present-day events and flashbacks to Laura's earlier life, the series skillfully constructs a narrative that gradually reveals the secrets lurking beneath the surface.
With its compelling plot, inimitable performances, and skillful storytelling, Pieces of Her promises to keep the audience enthralled as the layers of the mystery are peeled away, leading to the ultimate plot twist.
18 The Light In Your Eyes
The Light in Your Eyes is a heartfelt and imaginative show, also known as Dazzling, that takes viewers on a captivating journey through time, exploring the power of dreams, the bittersweet nature of life, and the true meaning of happiness. The series follows the story of Kim Hye-ja (Han Ji-min), a young woman with a unique ability to travel through time using a mysterious pocket watch.
Overall, it is a beautifully crafted series that combines fantasy, drama, and romance to deliver a touching and introspective journey. Through its engaging characters, time-traveling premise, and poignant storytelling, the show captures the essence of human existence and leaves a lasting impression, reminding us to embrace the light that shines in our own eyes.
17 A Very English Scandal
A Very English Scandal is a captivating and darkly comedic show that tells the true story of a scandalous affair and a murder plot that rocked British politics in the 1970s. The series revolves around the infamous relationship between Jeremy Thorpe, played by Hugh Grant, a prominent member of the British Parliament, and Norman Scott (Ben Whishaw), a former lover. The series encapsulates the consequences of forbidden love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the fight for justice against a backdrop of political intrigue and manipulation. It explores themes of sexuality, power dynamics, and the clash between personal desires and societal expectations.
16 Class of ‘07
Class of ‘07 wears the word "underrated" as a crown; this is a show embellished with a talented ensemble, alluring cinematography, and great writing. The story follows an unprecedented tidal wave that submerges the whole world, except an all-girls high school where a group of women celebrates their ten-year reunion. Led stupendously by Emily Browning, Caitlin Stacey, and Megan Smart in the lead roles, Class of ‘07 assures an adorable, quirky, and ruminating watch with funny twists and vivacious characters.
The series is dotted with a satirical undertone on nature, survival, trauma, and women empowerment, each complimenting the humorous situations. The eight-part survival comedy created by Kacie Anning is a multi-layered didactic drama that tells more than it shows. If you are a fan of apocalyptic dramedies with a bunch of eccentric girls who might be the only living traces of humanity, then Class of ‘07 is a must-watch. From a deeper perspective, the show tantalizes an exciting prospect of women rebuilding the world from nothing using their innate abilities of resilience, charm, endurance, acuity, kindness, and forgiveness. A must-watch!
15 Asur
With its gritty atmosphere, compelling performances, and intricate storytelling, Asur promises an immersive experience into a world of darkness, moral dilemmas, and the battle between good and evil.
The Indian series revolves around the story of Nikhil Nair (Arshad Warsi), a former forensic expert turned professor, and Dhananjay Rajpoot (Barun Sobti), a highly skilled CBI officer. Together they embark on a relentless pursuit of a mysterious and ruthless serial killer who draws inspiration from mythical figures and their dark ideologies. Asur delves into the depths of their complicated relationship as they become entangled in a series of heinous crimes that bear a connection to ancient Indian mythology.
In conclusion, Asur is a dark and twisted journey into the minds of two brilliant individuals, where mythology meets modern-day crime-solving.
14 The Devil’s Hour
Every night at 3:33 a.m., involving a mysterious phenomenon known as "the devil's hour,” Lucy (Jessica Raine) becomes trapped in a horrifying time loop, forced to relive a traumatic event from her past.
The Devil's Hour skillfully balances supernatural elements with character development, delving into the emotional turmoil and psychological impact of the time loop on the protagonist.
The show offers a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of time, fate, and the consequences of our actions. It is a must-watch for fans of supernatural mysteries and those who enjoy spine-tingling tales that push the boundaries of reality. The show also stars Peter Capaldi as a serial killer who delivers one of the best performances of his career.
13 Slow Horses
Slow Horses, unlike the name, is a taut, gripping, intelligent show that dives into the world of espionage, focusing on a group of MI5 agents called Slow Horses. When one of their own agents, Catherine Standish (Saskia Reeves), stumbles upon a mysterious conspiracy, the Slow Horses begin their investigation, only to find themselves entangled in a complex web of political intrigue, deceit, and high-stakes espionage. The show stars the great Gary Oldman in the lead role followed by nuanced performances by the rest of the ensemble.
12 Minx
Joyce Cooper, brilliantly portrayed by Ophelia Lovibond, a bold and ambitious young woman finds herself at the center of a feminist movement when she accidentally becomes the editor of a groundbreaking pornographic magazine. Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, Minx by Ellen Rapoport explores Joyce's journey of self-discovery, sexual empowerment, and the challenges she faces in a male-dominated industry.
The show's strength lies in its fearless portrayal of Joyce's struggle to challenge societal norms and redefine traditional notions of femininity. It delves into the complexities of the pornographic industry, addressing issues of consent, exploitation, and the blurred lines between empowerment and objectification. With its vibrant period setting, nostalgic aesthetics, and engaging performances, Minx immerses viewers in a world of disco, liberation, and social change.
11 The Better Things
The Better Things revolves around the life of Sam Fox, portrayed by Pamela Adlon, a single mother and working actress raising three daughters. The Better Things elucidate the joys, struggles, and everyday chaos of balancing career aspirations with the responsibilities of motherhood.
Pamela Adlon's performance as Sam stands out as a modern-day mother. She brings a rawness and vulnerability to the character that resonates deeply and adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling. With its authentic portrayal of complex characters, heartfelt storytelling, and compelling performances, the show offers a relatable and emotionally resonant viewing experience.
10 Through the Darkness
Through The Darkness is a gripping Korean psychological thriller that delves into the depths of the human psyche, offering an enthralling exploration of suspense, mystery, and the complexities of human nature. The series dissects the brains of eerily human criminals and their notorious crimes with great realism and ordinariness. Kim Nam Gil as lead pulls off one of the most captivating performances as a criminal profiler laced with the prowess of a supporting ensemble. In a nutshell, Through The Darkness is Korea’s version of Mindhunter with less gloominess and endearing characters.
9 Dahaad
Storytelling soars above in Prime Video’s latest Indian show about a serial killer who targets innocent, underprivileged women. Dahaad explores the paucity of social awareness and caste discrimination that’s still prevalent in parts of India while accurately chronicling the personal trauma of police officers trying to nab a deviant. The show gains strength from the lead character played by Sonakshi Sinha, and her triumph over societal prejudice and discrimination. Created by Reema Kagti and Zoya Akhtar, the eight-episode series is decorated with great writing and sensible characters.
Dahaad is a bold, unapologetic attempt at depicting the abhorrent practices perpetuated in the name of caste and the everyday struggle a woman has to face to fulfill her duties as a police officer. Fan of police procedurals and authentic India? This show’s for you.
8 The Secrets She Keeps
The Secrets She keeps revolves around the intertwined lives of two pregnant women, Meghan (Jessica De Gouw) and Agatha (Laura Carmichael), coping with the polarity of motherhood. What appears to be a family drama soon gets entangled in a web of hidden desires, visceral implications, unspoken truths, dark identities, and the lengths a mother can go to protect her child. Laura Carmichael as Agatha dominates the screen with her nuanced portrayal of the grieving mother and a delusional force. In conclusion, The Secrets She Keeps is a meditative drama laced with strong writing and great visual storytelling.
7 Love, Death & Robots
TV shows never looked more beautiful and stunning than Netflix’s Love, Death & Robots, created by the film goliaths, David Fincher and Tim Miller. The anthology shows take the viewers on a wild and imaginative ride through a collection of animated science fiction short films. From dystopian futures and alien encounters to futuristic technology and time travel, Love Death + Robots covers a broad spectrum of science fiction themes. The series delves into thought-provoking concepts, often exploring the impact of technology on society, the nature of humanity, and the consequences of our actions.
Presented with a diverse range of stories, each exploring unique concepts, themes, and visual styles, Love Death + Robots promises a maverick storytelling that relies highly on futuristic filmmaking approaches. The series boasts a variety of animation techniques, including traditional 2D animation, CGI, and experimental art styles, which contribute to its visual richness and captivating aesthetics. The visually mind-bending show explores alternate histories, life for robots in a post-apocalyptic city, and a plot for world domination by super-intelligent yogurt.
6 Workin' Moms
Workin' Moms is a bold and cathartic attempt at encapsulating the hustle-bustle of modern women in an urban setting, and it rightfully succeeds in delivering a finely balanced dosage of fun and frustration that accompanies being a leading woman. The story promises palpable emotions and three-dimensional characters, all set within a funny and irreverent tone, making it an important and liberating watch.
Catherine Reitman, the show's creator, leads the series as the conflicted protagonist, imbuing her character with inspiring traits. The show is further elevated by stupendous performances from Dani Kind and the rest of the talented cast. Workin' Moms does not shy away from or sugarcoat the plight of being a mom and a boss. The exceptional writing honors both the hats modern women wear to succeed in their professional and personal lives.
5 1899
Netflix’s 1899 is a marvel, with its meticulous attention to period detail, stunning production design, and skillful cinematography. The makers offer a captivating and ambitious series set aboard a transatlantic ship carrying European immigrants to America. The story unfolds in the late-19th Century, following the passengers' journey as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The series deftly weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and historical drama. As tensions rise and paranoia sets in, the passengers find themselves trapped in a claustrophobic environment, questioning their own sanity and the true nature of the supernatural forces that seem to be at play. The series was created by Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese, the same creative team behind the critically acclaimed German series Dark. Much like the creator's predecessor, 1899 is a cerebral sport with an ambiguous narrative.
4 Bad Sisters
Apple TV's Bad Sisters is a standalone series on sisterhood that stands out for its gripping plot, strong performances, nonchalance, and exploration of complex family dynamics. The limited series plays a game of conscience with its deplorable characters and poignant theme set in the picturesque landscapes of Ireland. Sharon Horgan, the co-creator and the lead, supported by Anne Marie Duff, Sarah Greene, and Eve Hewson navigates the complexities of their roles, portraying a range of emotions with subtlety and conviction.
With its unpredictable twists, rich character development, and atmospheric storytelling, the series offers a compelling and satisfying viewing experience. It is a must-watch for fans of dramas and thrillers seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narrative that is riveting from start to finish.
3 My Brilliant Friend
My Brilliant Friend is a celebration of the eponymous novel created by Elena Ferrante. Set against the backdrop of post-war Naples, the show beautifully traces two girls' journey from childhood innocence to the complexities of adolescence and adulthood. Their intertwined lives become a poignant and powerful metaphor for the challenges, joys, and heartbreaks of growing up.
With its visually arresting and thematically rich adaptation, the series stays true to the spirit of the source material keeping the soul intact. The vibrant and meticulous portrayal of the Neapolitan neighborhood, combined with exceptional period design, transports the audience back to a bygone era. The series captures the nuances of the time and place while maintaining the veracity of the social and cultural tapestry of post-war Italy.
2 Derry Girls
Lisa McGee’s coming-of-age television show, Derry Girls, brilliantly captures the essence of teenage life in 1990s Northern Ireland during a tumultuous period known as The Troubles. Embraced by the inimitable performances of the lead, the show exhibits an exceptional display of talent, imbuing their performances with an exquisite blend of wit, nuance, and charisma.
With impeccable comedic timing and an innate understanding of the complexities of history, the show delicately balances humor and emotional depth with effortless grace. In summary, Derry Girls is historically and comically significant as it fearlessly captures the spirit of teenage life during The Troubles in 1990s Northern Ireland.
Through its brilliant blend of comedy, historical context, and diverse female characters, the series offers a unique and relatable perspective on the challenges faced by young people in a divided society. What makes the show an unforgettable experience is its lead characters and animated supporting cast who collectively deliver indelible performances making Derry Girls a must, joyous watch.
1 Unbelievable
Unbelievable on Netflix is a pristine, breathtaking, and equally provoking eight-episode story centered around two women detectives swimming against the stream to apprehend a serial rapist on a spree. The series masterfully encapsulates the plight of a despairing woman while extolling the valiance of women in the police force. Blessed with one of the greatest performances in a TV show, the enigmatic Merritt Wever portrays a detective entangled in self-conflict, striving for justice, alongside the prodigious Kaitlyn Dever, who portrays a victim enduring societal prejudice as she seeks justice. The duo’s towering performances are complemented by Toni Collette's mystical charm and elegance.
The show takes its audience on an inexplicable journey into a transcendental neuro-visceral space, evoking a plethora of emotions that penetrate deeply into the heart and soul. The show is an embodiment of a quintessential investigative drama and splendid writing prowess that cements the importance of writers in a TV show.
Unbelievable is undisputedly one of the greatest literary and artistic emeralds of television. It was co-created by the legendary Susannah Grant, Ayelet Waldman, and Michael Chabon. In conclusion, Unbelievable on Netflix is a meditative masterpiece on morality and hope that fully deserves the title of "underrated."
"TV" - Google News
July 20, 2023 at 04:30AM
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20 Most Underrated TV Shows of the Last 5 Years, Ranked - MovieWeb
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