Top 10: TV Shows on Netflix UK
- mammamedia
- Aug 11, 2018
- 13 min read
Updated: Sep 2, 2018
Firstly, hello and welcome to MammaMedia! This is a really exciting adventure to begin as any chance to discuss entertainment makes me really happy.
I'm going to start off with a Top Ten list to let you get to know a bit about me and what kind of things I'm passionate about. Todays branch of entertainment will be..... TV Shows available on Netflix UK!
10. Arrested Development (2003 - Present)
Arrested Development is arguably one of the funniest shows around. It's whacky, it's weird but above all, it's hilarious.
Seasons: 5, currently.
What is it: A dysfunctional American family involving a felon Father, a self-obsessed Mother who is about as nurturing as a machete, an awful Magician and a brother who is one step away from breastfeeding are amongst some of the characters you'll encounter. The trials and tribulations of the family and their business is basically the crux of the show.
What's great: The level of comedy and satire is unparalleled. The 'next on Arrested Development' section is really funny, as you never actually see these storylines come to fruition. Buster and Tobias are standout characters and both weirdly wonderful and make for a great watch.
What's lame: The episodes don't ever really link together, which makes it easy to pick a random episode to chill out with. However, this makes me feel less invested in the show as nothing really carries on. The newest season is also not great, in my opinion.
Best moments: Buster getting his arm eaten off by a seal and the jokes regarding this are brilliant. Silly storylines such as secret twin brothers, the world's worst Doctor, failed magic tricks and mentally retarded girlfriends are some of the standouts.
Worst moments: The newest season, as I said, really isn't great. The show seems to have lost it's way a little bit but the earlier seasons are definitely worth your time.
9. The Rain (2018 - Present)
The Rain popped up to me through a trailer on Netflix and I was instantly intrigued. Post-apocalyptic shows aren't usually for me but I knew I was going to really enjoy this one.
Seasons: 1. I've heard there is a 2nd in the mix.
What is it: It's a Danish web-series that came to Netflix UK about murderous rain, essentially. A storm comes and the rain contains a virus that wipes out almost the entire human race. Spooky.
What's great: The story in itself is really interesting and keeps you on your toes. The shots of the abandoned city are also amazing and it's about as nail biting as it gets.
What's lame: I thought that I would struggle with the English dubbing but surprisingly, it was fine. I have heard others say that they found this difficult, though.
Best moments: Rasmus' immunity to the rain is really interesting and finding out the backstory for their parents is also pretty cool.
Worst moments: Stumbling across a Cult that engage in forced cannibalism is pretty grim but also very good TV. The death of Simone and Rasmus' Mother is also very sad.
8. Queer Eye (2018 - Present)
'Queer Eye' is one of those uplifting shows with so much heart that makes you feel there is still good in the World. Easy to watch, joy-inducing and also helpful for general life tips.
Seasons: 2, with a 3rd being filmed.
What is it: It's a reality reboot of Bravo's 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' and revolves around 5 experts who help people to become the best version of themselves. The specialties are Fashion, Grooming, Design, Culture and Food & Wine and they stay with their subject for a week and help them in various ways.
What's great: The chemistry between the 'Fab Five' is like nothing you'll ever see. Truly best friends, this group of men are the funniest and friendliest bunch. The genuine difference they make is lovely to see and the fact that they keep in touch with the people they help just goes to show that this is not just for TV's sake. Also, Jonathan Van Ness steals the heart of everybody who watches the show and is the star for sure. I want to marry him, in all honesty.
What's lame: The seasons are quite short in comparison to other shows and if you binge a lot, it can get a little samey as it is the same format each time.
Best moments: Seeing people cry when the Fab Five leave and watching people put their new life hacks into practice whilst the group watch from The Loft is very heartwarming. Seeing people feel confident in themselves is a great thing to gain from a TV show and I can't recommend it enough.
Worst moments: There was one guy who was trying to be a stand up comedian who seemed very off. They set up a website for him to promote himself, which he promptly took down after the show. I have also heard that somebody sold his house once Bobby had spent a lot of time and money decorating it for him, which is pretty rude.
7. 13 Reasons Why (2017 - Present)
A Netflix Original hit, '13 Reasons Why' swept onto the scene like a hurricane. I was instantly hooked, bingeing both seasons within a few days. The show has gathered a lot of controversy and there's been lots of negative press but I think it's a very important show.
Seasons: 2, with speculation of a 3rd.
What is it: 17 year old Hannah Baker commits suicide, leaving behind 12 tapes detailing what went wrong and the parts people played in this. Each episode is a new tape and we learn about the people on the tapes and what went on at Liberty High School.
What's great: The performances are stellar, especially for such a young cast. The subject matter is dark and bringing this to younger audiences is a bold move. The show has created conversation about mental illness which is amazing. It has made audiences more aware of the consequences of their actions too, which is very positive. There isn't another show quite like this one, for sure.
What's lame: It's very, very heavy. Season 2 feels a little bit like you're being beaten over the head and every time you try to get up, you get knocked back down again. It's not a feel good show but it can be life affirming. It is sometimes very dramatic and feels as if things are being done to provoke a controversial reaction - but if this is to raise awareness, I'm all for it. I just hope that it's not for the sake of gaining viewers. They also didn't necessarily need a 2nd season, although I am glad that they did.
Best moments: Best is a strange word as it's all pretty heavy. Seeing lighter moments between Hannah and Clay is nice (although still tragic because you know what the outcome is going to be). There aren't specific moments but the whole show is very good.
Worst moments: Hannah's suicide scene is something that will never leave me. This show does not shy away and you see the whole thing, start to end. Watching her Mum find her dead broke my heart, so have your tissues at the ready (and DON'T watch it alone unless you have no heart).
6. Orange is the New Black (2013 - Present)
Another Netflix original hit, 'Orange is the New Black' pretty much went viral instantly. The show's support seems to have calmed but for those who have stuck with it, we know that it's worthwhile.
Seasons: 6 has just been released (oops, I've already finished it).
What is it: Goody two-shoes Piper Chapman has a dark secret: 10 years ago, she helped to smuggle money across borders with her ex-lesbian lover, Alex Vause. Now, she has to go to prison for it. Who happens to be there? Vause, correct. Excellent.
What's great: The inmates are colourful to say the least. There's Morello, the stalker who is obsessed with her upcoming (fictional) wedding, Red the Russian prison chef who once punctured a Mafia wife's breast implant and Susan 'Crazy Eyes' Warren who insists on making Piper her prison wife, for example. The show breaks the stereotypes of prisoners, showing that one mistake can cost anybody their freedom. Learning each character's story is interesting and even after 6 seasons, we are still learning. Hard subjects are tackled, such as racism, abuse, pregnancy within prison and even a riot. Somehow, the show still manages to be humorous, darkly amusing and heartfelt.
What's lame: I find that it has become a little harder to binge now and some of the best characters are featured less. Plus, once Alex and Piper end up back together, it's not quite as much fun as the secret will-they-wont-they prison romance.
Best moments: Crazy Eyes. She is brilliant (fun fact: Bob the Drag Queen from RPDR impersonates her in Season 8 and it is HILARIOUS). Anyway, the characters are what make this show. The writing is great as well (it's a true story, you should check out the book from the real Piper).
Worst moments: The injustice can be depressing if you watch a lot in one go. The balance of this with humour is about right but Daya giving birth in Prison and the death of Poussey is particularly sad. There are some strange but amusing storylines, like the prison becoming obsessed with a chicken that was seen in the yard. Piper can also be really annoying sometimes.
5. How I Met Your Mother (2005 - 2014)
In some ways, a bit of a Friends rip off. However, How I Met Your Mother is a very smart show and has a lot of great storylines and excellent catchphrases (haaaaaave you met Ted?)
Seasons: 9
What is it: 5 friends, in New York City. But what's different is the framing device. Ted Mosby begins the show by telling his kids how he met their Mother. It just takes him 9 seasons' worth of time. He begins each episode by taking his kids through his younger days before we are plunged into the story ourselves.
What's great: This device is a clever idea and you really feel like you're on the inside (more so than with 'Friends'). The characters are hilarious, the storylines great and my favourite part is the inside jokes that keep coming back. The writers were really big fans of finding continuity errors and so you will struggle to find one here. You could find something out in Season 8, go back and see something you didn't notice to prove it in Season 2. It's very smart.
What's lame: The whole concept is a little overdone. The characters are a little Friends-like, with Barney the womaniser, Ted the dork and the group's token couple, Lily and Marshall. But the lamest thing about this show is the ending. No spoilers here but you will feel wronged and it will cross your mind that you wasted a lot of time. But the beauty of HIMYM is that it's not about the destination, it's about the story and how you get there so just bear that in mind (and watch the alternate ending).
Best moments: Barney and Marshall's slap bet that features in various seasons. A few musical outbursts that are classic Neil Patrick Harris and the inside jokes that are actually funnier than Friends. Finding out that Robin used to be a teenage Canadian popstar brings endless hilarity also.
Worst moments: That. Damn. Ending. Oh, and the storyline between Ted and his girlfriend Zoey who wants to keep a building he wants to knock down is really annoying. Ted also can be super annoying (sorry to any Ted fans but come on, he's supposedly the main character, why is he so rubbish?)
4. American Horror Story (2011 - Present)
American Horror Story is something I never thought that I would enjoy, being that I'm scared of my own shadow. It's twisted, it's gory, it's creepy and it's also very, very weird at times (okay so, I knew I would enjoy the weirdness).
Seasons: Season 8 is on it's way.
What is it: It's a new horror story every season (but with the same cast). AHS has covered topics such as Religion, Ghosts, Witches, Slavery and Serial Killers. Sounds cheery, huh? The show is dramatic, intense and has twists and turns for days. Killer performances (get it?), killer subject matter and really beautifully shot, too.
What's great: Jessica Lange is truly remarkable in every character that she plays, stealing the show from the second she steps on screen. The subject matter is tough and all based on true historic events, which makes for an interesting watch.
What's lame: Sometimes the show crosses from dramatic to ridiculous but hey, it's TV right? If you're not a fan of gore, I wouldn't recommend it. The violence seems a little tongue in cheek sometimes as it is so extra. Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk (Glee creators) made AHS and actually made Glee afterwards to cheer themselves up, funnily enough. The credits also creep me out and are really loud.
Best moments: Whenever Jessica Lange is on screen, basically. Asylum and Coven are my favourite seasons and watching Sister Jude's demise is both satisfying and devastating at the same time. Also, Lady Gaga's portrayal of The Countess in the Hotel season is outstanding.
Worst moments: Freak Show season was a bit off. I didn't actually watch Season 6 but I have heard is that it wasn't very good. The new season looks incredible though so catch up before then!
3. Gilmore Girls (2000 - 2007)
Gilmore Girls really is one of the best shows out there. In all honesty, I don't know of many males that watch it (they really should) but I know plenty of females who are obsessed, and with good reason.
Seasons: 7. Then there's 'A Year in the Life' which has 4 longer episodes, one for each season.
What is it: Lorelai Gilmore leaves her uptown life with her pushy parents when she falls pregnant at 16. She raises an adorable (if not slightly spoilt) daughter, they become best friends and live in a charming, tiny town called Stars Hollow. The show has super fast-paced writing packed with pop culture references and the main characters drink lots and lots of coffee.
What's great: The crazy characters within Stars Hollow make for brilliant viewing. There's Kirk, the giant Man child who is babied by the entire town and has an obscure new job each week. There's Babette, the vocal neighbour who is obsessed with her cat and spreads gossip faster than an STD and Luke, the grumpy Diner owner who hates just about everything. Then there is Paris who I have no words for, really. The show is super heartfelt and the bond between Lorelai and Rory is amazing to watch.
What's lame: Nothing, really. I was concerned for the revival (Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life) but even that turned out to be excellent. The dialogue is so fast that sometimes it takes a few days to realise a joke but don't worry, you get used to it.
2. Friends (1994 - 2004)
Although I am just as passionate about other TV shows nowadays, Friends has to be 2nd on the list because it was my childhood. Even today, after countless years of watching and despite knowing every line before it happens, this show still makes me smile. Now that this is on Netflix, those who missed the trend the first 1000 times around can now become obsessed too.
Seasons: 10
What is it: It's a basic concept that's been recycled since. 6 friends living in New York City spend every day together and go through the usual ups and downs of 20 somethings. Sounds rubbish but can confirm, it is not.
What's great: The writing is fantastic. The 6 main characters interact so incredibly with each other and the show is genuinely both heartwarming and hilarious. There are so many reasons why this has become such a cult TV show.
What's lame: Not much. Watching back some episodes now, there are aspects that feel a little dated. For example, there's a few touches of sexism here and there and seeing the size of Chandler's work computer is a little alarming, but it's still relatable and comforting as ever.
Best moments: All of the usual quotes. Joey not sharing food, Phoebe becoming Princess Consuela Banana Hammock, Ross being FINE, Monica freaking out over broken plates and Rachel being indignant that she had a lesbian kiss once. Oh, and of course, Janice who has arguably the most famous laugh in the World.
Worst moments: I personally don't like Phoebe's triplets storyline. It's just a bit odd and unnecessary to me. Chandler's temporary roommate Eddie drives me insane too.
1. RuPaul's Drag Race (2009 - Present)
YASSSSSS HUNTY, SLAY THE HOUSE DOWN, YOU BETTER WERK!
No idea what I just said? Then where have you been?!
Seasons: 10, so far. Plus 3 seasons of All Stars.
What is it: Don't be fooled into thinking that RuPaul's Drag Race is just another throwaway reality TV show. This show has heart, comedy, artistry, celebrity guests, drama... You name it, this show will have it. RPDR has a classic reality gameshow format - up to 14 Drag Queens compete to be crowned America's Next Drag Superstar for $100,000 and a lifetime supply of make-up (okay, they really just want the money and fame but y'know). The show has become a huge hit, with spin off shows, RuPaul's Drag Con, various albums and arguably one of the largest TV fan bases ever.
What's great: Everything. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll scream at the TV when your favourite Queen is robbed. You don't have to know anything about drag - you'll get to see that this really is an Art form and that being a Drag Queen takes a lot more than heels and glitter.
What's lame: When your favourite goes home. Oh, and for me personally, the drama is a little too much sometimes. Also, Netflix have taken off all Seasons except for 8-10 which SUCKS. Season 1 is not worth your time FYI.
Best moments: Too many to mention. Chi Chi De Vayne's dramatic lipsync performance to 'And I Am Telling You' (her beads fall off and scatter accidentally at the perfect time), Shade Throwing (aka the best insults you'll hear in your life), Comedy and Musical challenges, Tatianna vs Alyssa lip sync etc.
Worst moments: There are some tragic backstories that rip your heart out. But it's okay, that same Queen will have you cracking up again in a few minutes.
Bonus:
Miranda (2009 - 2013)
Okay, so this is one of my favourite shows but I know that it's not for everybody. It took me a few episodes to click with the humour but once I did, it became excellent to me.
Seasons: 3, and some Specials.
What is it: Miranda Hart is a comedienne and 'Miranda' is a show that is based around herself. A lot is made up but the sense of humour and characterisation is very authentic. It revolves around her life and how much of an embarrassment she makes of herself, basically (relatable).
What's great: The show is farcical and ridiculous but you can't help but laugh. There are some kooky characters, slapstick comedy, some brilliant observations (why do old people go for a 'what I call, walk'?) and breaking of the fourth wall, which is strangely amusing.
What's lame: The comedy is very specific and either you're a fan of the show or you can't stand it, from what I've heard. It's very quintessentially British and so if you find that funny, you'll love this. The on-off thing with Gary is a bit annoying at times and sometimes you would like to see Miranda actually function as an adult but mostly it's just amusing to watch.
Best moments: There are so many. My personal favourite is the Therapist episode in which Miranda and her Mother must attend court mandated therapy (don't ask) and try their best to 'act normal'. It's a truly great piece of TV so definitely watch that one. I also enjoy the scene in which Miranda's date comes back to a flat full of baby stuff. Gold.
Worst moments: There aren't really many, for me. Like I say, sometimes the embarrassment and cringe level is pretty high which isn't the most relaxing experience and I wouldn't say it's always a 'laugh out loud' show. It's definitely amusing, though.
Did you agree with my list? Post any comments below!
Honourable Mentions:
Manhunt: Unabomber - Incredible. Watch this immediately. Stranger Things (Eleven is my hero)
How to Get Away with Murder (Shonda Rhimes is the Queen of emotional intensity)
Suits (featuring our new Princess, Meghan Markle. Haven't watched this for while which is probably why it isn't on my list)
The Confession Tapes (somewhat concerning, to say the least)
Girls: Incarcerated (will literally make you go outside and appreciate that you even can)
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