Whether it be medical dramas, irreverent comedies, or dark thrillers, TV has a certain "hook" that no other medium can replicate. In the age of streaming, no wonder TV has caught on with the mainstream. Everyone out there has their own comfort shows, favorite sitcoms, and 5-star programs - but some are a lot more prevalent than others.
From a sweeping chronicle of a Southwestern drug lord, to a sharp, compelling tale of familial succession, there definitely are favorites among the TV community. Their acclaim is rapidly growing in the modern scene; TV has made enough of a stir in pop culture to nearly match the movies in adoration. But some shows, in the eyes of this writer, are a lot more deserving of this level of acclaim than others. Here are some of the most popular TV series out there, and we'll be seeing if they're overhyped or worth all the love; at least in my eyes.
STRANGER THINGS: Worth It
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It shouldn't be a surprise to see the Duffer brothers' hit at the top of our list. "Stranger Things" has garnered some wild acclaim for it's compelling, yet heartfelt narratives, a whimsical, lovable cast, and a colorful, moody directorial style. But despite its numerous technical features, is it worth the hype?
The answer is a resounding yes. "Stranger Things" has found a way to connect with a younger audience, including myself, with how it works its narratives and mythological elements through its main characters. Combining a fanciful, eccentric group of characters with some sweeping, incredibly stylized and visualized horror, it's a true masterclass in contemporary filmmaking. Each season has left me with anticipation, and each episode has made me want to get to the next; and if that doesn't make a great show, I'm not sure what does.
BREAKING BAD: Worth It
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Perhaps the most beloved show of all. Vince Gilligan's "Breaking Bad" has fans across every spectrum; it's been set as the gold-standard for modern TV, with characters, narratives, and lines still being studied and glossed over. This drug-[censored]-gangster-drama is an absolute monument in pop culture; legendary in its acclaim and unmatched in regards to its fanbase - but does it live up to the hype?
This one's a no-brainer; another resounding yes. In my eyes, "Breaking Bad" is one of the most brutal, heartbreaking, painful, and memorable artistic experiences of my life. Each and every performance is utterly jaw-dropping; whether it be Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Giancarlo Espositon, or Anna Gunn.
Gilligan's writing takes the audience into an unpredictable world; a world of lies, blood, deception, but also one where humanity prevails. It is the greatest drama ever produced for television, the greatest character study ever written, and one of the greatest stories ever told. Take my word for it; check out "Breaking Bad" if you somehow haven't already.
THE WALKING DEAD: (Slightly) Overhyped
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This one's gonna hurt. "The Walking Dead" has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the television landscape. It brought the zombie genre to the forefront of pop culture and introduced viewers to complex characters in a post-apocalyptic world - played wonderfully by Andrew Lincoln, Jon Bernthal, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Steven Yeun... the list goes on. The show's early seasons (1 through 6 in particular) were filled with suspenseful, compelling storytelling, and gritty survival scenarios that drew audiences in.
However, as the series progressed beyond season 6, I felt that it struggled to maintain the same level of quality. The pacing and storytelling at times became uneven; turning the raw, unrelenting masterclass in TV horror we had into a polarizing, rather brash series. Nonetheless, TWD is still a good one, and season 9's up there with the best of its seasons.
THE OFFICE: Worth It
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It's often lauded for its unique blend of humor, relatable characters, and mockumentary style - but the heart of "The Office" is what makes it so lovable for audiences. It's what made it a household name, a benchmark in TV history.
And in all honesty, the show absolutely lives up to that level of acclaim. It's loaded with wit and charm around every corner. Steve Carrell, John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson, Jenna Fischer... each and every person in the cast is memorable and makes magic out of their moments.
It's an absolutely brilliant series as well; remarkable tonal awareness and excellent pacing. And yeah; seasons 8 and 9 were pretty rough. Yeah, the episodes without Steve Carrell were painful. But I can't bring myself to dislike "The Office." It's one of the greatest comedies out there.
SUCCESSION: Worth It
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L to the OG. Provocative intensity, hysterical dialogue, complex dynamics, and all-round excellence made "Succession" one of the greatest dramas of the century. This prestige drama is the top dog in the awards season and the hearts of fans, even with its very technical, specific dialogue and elaborate, hidden intricacies. It is the most acclaimed and famed HBO series since "Game of Thrones," and when I say it utterly destroys your expectations, you best believe it.
"Succession," more than anything else, is a family story. It’s about death, love, the moments that define what makes a family dynamic. It explores father-son, father-daughter, brother-brother, brother-sister, and many more dynamics which all evolve over 39 picture-perfect installments.
It is the perfect series; a Shakespearean tragedy at its core, with Jeremy Strong's compelling, powerful portrayal of a prideful, sensitive, superficial opportunist playing off a heavy, vicious Brian Cox perfectly. Sarah Snook, Keiran Culkin, Matthew Macfadyen, Nicolas Braun, and Alan Ruck are no less than Strong; absolutely perfect in their roles. All in all, it's not just one of the best shows in recent times, but one of the greatest of all time.
SQUID GAME: Overhyped
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“Squid Game” is undeniably a gripping, provocative, and riveting series that took the world by storm upon release. Its concept of life-or-death games, combined with good characters and social commentary, makes for an engaging watch. The show reigned in the Emmys, taking home "Best Director" and "Best Lead Actor" in the drama category.
The series is gripping, fun, terrifying, and quite excellent; no doubt about that. However, it’s hard to ignore the fact that “Squid Game” has been incredibly hyped; and it's not quite the award-winning masterpiece I expected it to be. It's rather safe and mediocre visually, even with its gorgeous, sweeping sets, and the story can sometimes come off as rather bland, pale - it surely isn't as dense as it could've been.
But even with that being said, it surely is an engaging watch, with Lee Jung-jae shining throughout, and the games getting more thrilling and amusing as the characters keep leveling up. If you're looking for an entertaining thriller, I wouldn't completely back off from this one, since it does seem to appeal to most viewers. But if you're looking for an international series, I'd recommend checking out "Cowboy Bebop" or "Babylon Berlin."
BETTER CALL SAUL: Worth It
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Despite numerous snubs at the Emmys, "Better Call Saul" seems to captivate its audience like no other; whether it be their fascination with Vince Gilligan's "Meth-verse," their love for Bob Odenkirk's eccentric, outrageous, and lovable Saul Goodman, or just the series's outstanding storytelling and emotional core. It's one of the most popular and acclaimed shows out there; and it's just as good, and if not better, than what people claim it to be.
"Better Call Saul" is a powerhouse of a series; combining captivating storytelling, razor-sharp dialogue, and complex character dynamics. It delves deep into the moral complexities of its characters, particularly Jimmy McGill's transformation into the morally ambiguous lawyer Saul Goodman. Bob Odenkirk's performance is nothing short of phenomenal, matched by an outstanding supporting cast including Rhea Seehorn, Jonathan Banks, and Giancarlo Esposito.
The final season in particular is, in my opinion, the greatest in TV history, and the series finale, "Saul Gone," is one of the most poignant, raw, and heartbreaking episodes of all time. This prequel to "Breaking Bad" not only lives up to its predecessor, but often surpasses it with its meticulous character development and rich storytelling. "Better Call Saul" is a masterclass in television, solidifying its place among the greatest shows of all time.
AVATAR:THE LAST AIRBENDER: Worth It
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"Avatar: The Last Airbender" is a series that has cemented its place in pop culture as a beloved and critically-acclaimed masterpiece - it's a show that has garnered a dedicated fanbase and widespread recognition for its exceptional storytelling, character development, and world-building. Its influence can be seen in the countless discussions, fan theories, and conventions it continues to inspire - whether it be through spin-offs (i.e. "The Legend of Korra"), live-action adaptations, or video games.
And in the world of animation, "Avatar: The Last Airbender" shines as a shining example of how to craft a compelling narrative for all audiences. It's the gold standard for a show for general audiences; memorable characters, intricate lore, and exploration of deep themes. There really is no other show that's quite as accessible, yet stylistically and narratively unique.
It's a true, timeless classic that captivates all kinds of people - from those looking for an escape to children discovering the world of the media. Whether you're revisiting Aang's journey or experiencing it for the first time, the series' enduring appeal is, without a doubt, deserved. An absolutely incredible series, and a masterclass in fantasy storytelling.
THE BIG BANG THEORY: Overhyped
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"The Big Bang Theory" achieved massive popularity and undoubtedly contributed to the sitcom landscape, but its widespread acclaim often overshadows its shortcomings. While it undoubtedly has moments of comedic brilliance, it occasionally leans on predictable, formulaic humor that grows stale over its long run.
The show's portrayal of highly intelligent characters sometimes slips into caricature, relying on stereotypes for cheap laughs. However, it deserves credit for addressing topics like geek culture and science in a mainstream format. The ensemble cast, including Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki, and Kaley Cuoco, delivers solid performances; portraying their eccentric, whimsical characters to their fullest ability. All in all, a good show; just not on the level of other top-tier TV sitcoms as some may claim.
THE SIMPSONS: Worth it
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Simply iconic. "The Simpsons" is a legendary animated series that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. With over three decades of episodes, it's become a beloved institution and a cultural touchstone. Its influence on humor, satire, and even language itself is immeasurable. The show's longevity and ability to evolve with the times have earned it a special place in the hearts of viewers worldwide.
From its humble beginnings as a satirical take on the American nuclear family to its somehow coincidental "predictions" of real-life events, "The Simpsons" has demonstrated a remarkable ability to remain relevant, and also entertain. The show's irreverent humor, memorable characters, and wit are simply too niche and distinct for any other to replicate; it's a household name for a reason.
As a cultural juggernaut, it's not just a show, but a phenomenon that has contributed to shaping the landscape of animated television and comedy. An American classic, if there ever was one.
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CONCLUSION
No matter what my thoughts are, one thing's clear: television has the unique ability to unite people across the globe, fostering a sense of shared experience and community. It has the power to educate, inform, and entertain simultaneously - and that's why it's the most versatile tool in the world. Every line of dialogue, every season, and every episode is a personal experience, and nothing can take that away.
As we continue to witness the evolution of television in the digital age with streaming services and on-demand content, it's clear that this medium's potential is boundless. It will remain a source of innovation, creativity, and cultural significance for generations to come. So, no matter what I say about any of these works, don't back off. Keep looking, keep watching, and keep exploring - otherwise you may miss the artform's most beautiful feature.
