Amid the global shutdown triggered by the coronavirus earlier this year, countless individuals found themselves searching for ways to make the most of their downtime. While some embraced opportunities to acquire fresh abilities, such as picking up a new language or mastering an instrument, others focused on home improvements and overdue tasks around the house.
In this era of uncertainty, one activity emerged as a universal favorite: exploring fresh television series and films. The abundance of options on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime can make selection overwhelming, leading to endless scrolling sessions. To streamline your search, we’re highlighting a selection of engaging shows worth your time, drawing from popular recommendations and viewer insights.
Brooklyn 9-9
This comedic police procedural centers on the witty detective Jake Peralta and his eclectic team of officers at New York City’s 99th Precinct. The series thrusts them into a series of amusing predicaments where their sharp investigative talents shine through unexpected scenarios.
Each character brings a distinct charm and standout portrayal, contributing to the show’s enduring appeal. With six seasons available for streaming, viewers can enjoy extended marathons that offer ample entertainment. Notably, the series faced a brief cancellation after five seasons due to declining ratings on Fox, but NBC quickly picked it up within just 31 hours, thanks to fervent fan support—a testament to the power of dedicated audiences in the TV industry.
Many programs encounter similar uncertainties regarding renewal, sparking ongoing debates about their future. Fortunately, dedicated resources online provide up-to-date status reports on beloved shows, helping fans stay informed and avoid the frustration of abrupt endings.
Nothing frustrates viewers more than getting hooked on a gripping narrative, only to hit a season finale with unresolved tension and no immediate follow-up.
After Life
Recently greenlit for a third season, After Life has captured widespread attention for its blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling. The narrative tracks Tony, whose world is shattered by the loss of his wife to breast cancer, forcing him to navigate a profound life transition.
In response to his grief, Tony adopts a brutally candid approach to interactions, resulting in both comedic and poignant moments. Ricky Gervais delivers a compelling performance as the lead, writer, and producer, skillfully balancing laughter with emotional depth that resonates deeply. The supporting cast is equally well-chosen, featuring familiar talents from Gervais’s prior projects, which adds layers of authenticity. After Life stands out as a must-watch series that explores themes of loss and resilience with genuine flair.
Killing Eve
This acclaimed British production excels as a comedy-drama spy thriller, tracking the relentless pursuit by intelligence officer Eve Polastri of the elusive assassin Villanelle. Their intense game of pursuit delivers thrills, fascination, and unexpected laughs, all thanks to the sharp scripting by the series creator.
As a psychopathic figure, Villanelle adds a complex layer to the chase, making it a riveting watch. With the second season already on the horizon at the time of its announcement, eager followers won’t face a prolonged wait for more installments, underscoring the show’s growing momentum in the genre.
Big Mouth
Devised by Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, and Jennifer Flackett, this animated comedy draws from Kroll and Goldberg’s own adolescent experiences in New York. It humorously portrays the challenges of puberty and school life through the eyes of its young characters.
The innovative inclusion of hormone monsters as guides injects pure comedic genius, turning awkward growing pains into side-splitting scenarios. Since its debut, the show has garnered praise for its candid take on maturation, appealing to audiences with its blend of irreverence and insight—data from streaming services show it consistently ranks high in animated comedy viewership.
This Country
This British mockumentary-style sitcom delves into the everyday antics of two youths in a quaint Cotswolds village, highlighting themes of social unease, human quirks, and the peculiarities of rural English existence.
Its popularity led to rapid renewals, with a third season airing earlier this year. Even for viewers outside the UK, the show’s universal humor—rooted in relatable human experiences—transcends cultural boundaries, offering laughs that stem from the absurdities of small-town dynamics and drawing in American audiences with its fresh perspective on community life.
BlackAF
Premiering on April 17th this year, BlackAF represents a fresh addition to the sitcom landscape, crafted and led by Kenya Barris as a fictionalized version of himself. It comically explores the chaotic, raw, and amusing realities of family life and personal ambitions.
Just two months after its release, the series earned a second-season order, reflecting its instant hit status and positive reception metrics, including strong viewer engagement on streaming platforms.
Friday Night Lights
Though not the newest entry and diverging from traditional sitcom formats, Friday Night Lights deserves a spot on any must-watch list. Set in the small town of Dillon, Texas, it chronicles the highs and lows of the high school football team, the Dillon Panthers, blending sports drama with personal stories.
The show weaves together multiple narratives, from the pressures faced by head coach Eric Taylor to the interpersonal dynamics among players and the broader challenges of adolescent life in a tight-knit community. As an award-winning production—garnering multiple Emmys and praised for its realistic portrayal—it offers a compelling mix of triumph and turmoil that resonates widely.
In the vast sea of content available on streaming services, curated suggestions like these can simplify your choices. Each of these series boasts stellar reviews and a knack for keeping viewers hooked, so settle in with some snacks, kick back, and dive into one of these captivating options for a fulfilling viewing experience.
