Photo credit: movieweb.com
It’s essential to clarify right away that Game of Thrones will not make this list. While it is often regarded as one of the best television series ever made, the later seasons did not live up to the standard set in its earlier years. The same criticism applies to Black Mirror and House of Cards.
The 2010s represented a pivotal decade in television, signifying a shift away from traditional viewing habits like must-watch weekly episodes or collecting DVDs to a streaming-centric model. As binge-watching became commonplace, social media provided fans with new platforms to discuss and critique their favorite shows. This accessibility also allowed audiences to discover international hits from countries like South Korea and Spain.
With so many options available today, viewers often find themselves overwhelmed when trying to choose what to watch next. To assist in navigating this vast landscape, we present a curated list of the most engaging television series from the 2010s, featuring no episodes that disappoint.
10 ‘Better Call Saul’ (2015 – 2022)
Release Date: 2015 – 2021
Network: AMC
Directors: Vince Gilligan, Thomas Schnauz, Peter Gould, among others
Writers: Ann Cherkis, Marion Dayre, and others
A spin-off of Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul tells the story of Jimmy McGill’s transformation from a petty criminal into a well-known criminal attorney, known as Saul Goodman. As he struggles for acceptance in Albuquerque’s elite circles, Jimmy delves deeper into the criminal underbelly, attracting a variety of morally compromised clients. The series also offers a detailed look into the backstories of several characters from its predecessor.
Arguably the Greatest Spinoff of All Time
Creators Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould deliver a tightly woven narrative filled with gripping twists. Bob Odenkirk stars as a lawyer whose desperation drives him to unethical lengths. Rhea Seehorn shines as one of the few characters who genuinely wishes for Jimmy’s success, but it’s Jonathan Banks’s performance, which adds depth after an abrupt exit in Breaking Bad, that resonates profoundly with audiences. The show’s writing is so meticulous that finding a flaw in the plot becomes a challenge.
9 ‘Jane the Virgin’ (2014 – 2019)
Release Date: 2014 – 2018
Network: The CW
Showrunner: Jennie Snyder Urman
Directors: Melanie Mayron
Writers: Jennie Snyder Urman
In Jane the Virgin, Jane Villanueva (Gina Rodriguez) is a devoted young Latina woman aiming for her ideal relationship. Unexpectedly, she discovers she is pregnant due to an accidental artificial insemination during a medical examination, and the father is none other than the son of a rich hotel proprietor. Will romance follow?
The Messiah Cometh? Not Really
This delightfully extravagant soap opera from producer Jennie Snyder combines heart, humor, and chaos, reminiscent of her previous works like Gilmore Girls. Jane the Virgin shares the joyous and exhilarating essence seen in its predecessors. Despite the sometimes ludicrous plot twists, Snyder demonstrates a masterful grip on storytelling. Gina Rodriguez’s performance is a standout, amplifying the show’s charm.
8 ‘Rick & Morty’ (2013 – Present)
Release Date: December 2, 2013
Network: Cartoon Network
Writers: Dan Harmon, Justin Roiland, among others
Rick and Morty explores the chaotic lives of Rick Sanchez, a jaded and inebriated scientist, and his innocent grandson Morty. Together, they embark on increasingly outrageous interdimensional adventures filled with strange aliens and unpredictable scenarios.
Pure Animated Magic
This animated phenomenon is a quick-witted satire of societal norms and pop culture, interlaced with humor that rivals even the best episodes of The Simpsons. Each episode is packed with sharp dialogue and clever satire, making multiverse escapades hilariously entertaining.
7 ‘Succession’ (2018 – 2023)
Release Date: 2018 – 2023
Network: HBO Max
Showrunner: Jesse Armstrong
Directors: Mark Mylod
Writers: Jesse Armstrong
Succession intricately depicts a family’s struggle for power within the Roy family, as they grapple with leadership tensions following the deteriorating health of their father, the head of the Waystar Royco media empire. Each of his adult children seeks influence, attempting to navigate familial bonds and corporate ambitions.
Plenty of Despicable Roy Family Members
This dialogue-rich series expertly satirizes corporate America while exploring the bitter dynamics within the Roy family. Although often compared to Billions, it is Succession that has solidified its place in Emmy history. The continuous clash between ethical practices and familial loyalty creates a captivating viewing experience, allowing audiences to glean insights about corporate governance through both engaging and entertaining story arcs.
6 ‘Veep’ (2012 – 2019)
Release Date: 2012 – 2018
Network: HBO Max
Veep follows Selina Meyer (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) on her journey from Vice President to President, showcasing her struggles with political pitfalls and staff blunders. Selina’s laughable misadventures provide comic relief amid the complexity of political life.
A Less Serious Political Gem
5 ‘Downton Abbey’ (2010 – 2015)
Release Date: 2010 – 2015
Set within a fictional estate in Yorkshire, Downton Abbey transports viewers through significant events between 1912 and 1926, as observed through the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their staff. Major historical occurrences, like the Titanic sinking and World War I, leave indelible marks on their lives.
An Alluring Aristocratic World
The series boasts breathtaking production quality, from its stunning locations to rich period costumes, combined with impactful storytelling. Having once been recognized in the Guinness Book of Records as the most critically acclaimed show, its labor-intensive storytelling rewards viewers with immersive experiences filled with emotional depth.
4 ‘The OA’ (2016)
Release Date: 2016 – 2018
Network: Netflix
Directors: Andrew Haigh
Writers: Dominic Orlando, Henry Bean, among others
The OA, although short-lived, remains a standout in the realm of sci-fi on Netflix. The narrative centers on a woman named Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling), who mysteriously reappears after a seven-year absence—having been blind at her disappearance but now miraculously able to see. The scars on her back tell an enigmatic story as she adopts the name “The OA” (Original Angel).
#SaveTheOA
This profound narrative transcends typical sci-fi tropes, intertwining philosophy and spirituality to create a unique viewing experience. Many critics have included it in their “greatest of all time” lists, leaving fans baffled by its cancellation after just two seasons. A social media campaign emerged to #SaveTheOA, gaining traction from influential figures in the industry, igniting hopes of a revival.
3 ‘Vikings’ (2013 – 2020)
Release Date: March 3, 2013
Network: Amazon Prime Video, History Channel
Showrunner: Michael Hirst
Vikings initially chronicles the adventures of the legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel), showcasing his evolution from warrior to king. Subsequent seasons shift focus to his sons, Bjorn Ironside and Ivar the Boneless, as they pursue further conquest throughout Europe.
The Best of Norse Mythology
With strong performances and well-crafted scripts, Vikings captivates audiences with its action and drama. The emotional weight of Ragnar’s departure echoes throughout the series, allowing it to maintain a compelling narrative even after the character’s exit—an achievement that is often difficult for many shows to achieve.
2 ‘Ozark’ (2017 – 2022)
Release Date: 2017 – 2021
Showrunner: Bill Dubuque
Financial advisor Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) finds himself in dire straits after an $8 million heist orchestrated by his partner, which implicates him with a dangerous Mexican cartel. To save his life, he proposes a scheme to launder money in the tranquil but crime-ridden Missouri Ozarks. Can he deliver on this risky promise? Ozark constantly surprises viewers with its dark twists.
Dancing Between Family Drama and Cartel Drama
Though often compared to Breaking Bad, Ozark forges its own identity, weaving conflicts stemming from familial relationships alongside cartel dealings. The performances by Jason Bateman and Laura Linney are exceptional, while Julia Garner steals scenes with her fast-paced and witty dialogue, adding complexity and humor to the darker aspects of the storyline.
1 ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013 – 2021)
Release Date: 2013 – 2020
Network: FOX, NBC
Set against the backdrop of NYPD’s 99th precinct, Brooklyn Nine-Nine centers on a vibrant team of detectives led by the always-comical Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg). Amidst their crime-solving adventures, they navigate a host of everyday dramas within the precinct.
Maintaining Law and Order Is Never Too Serious Here
The series strikes a balance similar to The Office, employing an impressive ensemble cast whose comedic chemistry shines brightly. Featuring talents like Terry Crews and Stephanie Beatriz, the show’s humor prevails over crime procedural motifs, making it a delight not only for its comedic moments but also for the authentic relationships captured in each episode. Its swift renewal after initial cancellation further demonstrates its popularity and appeal.
Source
movieweb.com