The Best TV Shows of 2024

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the mesmerizing world of television, I can confidently say that 2024 was a year that truly showcased the power of storytelling and the human spirit. The series that stood out to me the most was undoubtedly HBO’s “The Penguin.

In this economic crunch and post-election period of uncertainty, streaming platforms and networks are adapting, while creators and performers continue to offer an impressive variety of top-notch TV series. Once more, TV critics Alison Herman and Aramide Tinubu from EbMaster have found common ground in their selection of the standout shows of the year, indicating the extensive talent pool they had to select from.

Among these series, some have been blockbuster successes like HBO’s “The Penguin” and FX’s “Shōgun,” while others, such as the prematurely canceled, ahistorical “My Lady Jane” on Prime Video and CBS’ procedural “Elsbeth,” have also garnered significant attention. Tinubu’s selections are quite diverse, ranging from Netflix’s emotional romantic drama “One Day,” which explores the pain and enchantment of a 20-year friendship, to The CW’s intense and thought-provoking “Joan.” These 19 shows demonstrate the richness and complexity of modern television in an ever-evolving and reinventing industry.

Alison Herman’s Top 10

10. “My Lady Jane” (Amazon Prime Video)

In today’s era, the historical romance genre, particularly those set in space, seems to have an abundance of productions. However, what shows like “Bridgerton” and “The Buccaneers,” and their counterparts lack is a captivating love interest who transforms into a horse! The brief Amazon series “My Lady Jane,” based on the book of the same name, offers a unique twist by setting the story in 16th-century England where Catholics and Protestants are replaced with characters known as Verities and Ethians, or shape-shifters. This fantasy world is presented to the audience with a casual, humorous tone, boasting an outstanding lead performance by Emily Bader and a spark between its romantic leads that truly ignites. (When Guildford, Jane’s husband, isn’t a horse, he is portrayed by Edward Bluemel.) The original Lady Jane Grey reigned for just nine days before she was beheaded, and “My Lady Jane” only streamed for about two months before its sudden termination. Thus, this series serves as an appropriate homage to its subject, even if it doesn’t adhere strictly to historical events.

9. “Interview With the Vampire” (AMC)

AMC’s adaptation of Anne Rice’s well-known novel has garnered praise for its unique portrayal of the tale of New Orleans vampires Louis (Jacob Anderson) and Lestat (Sam Reid), whose relationship was reinvented as an interracial gay romance in Season 1. In Season 2, we delve further into Louis’ relationships, including his with Daniel (Eric Bogosian), his ailing human confidant; Armand (Assad Zaman), who initially serves as Louis’ rebound but hides Lestat-like control issues behind a friendlier exterior; and Claudia (Delainey Hayles, replacing Bailey Bass), the eternal teenager whom Louis took with him to Europe. Balancing intellect and sensuality, “Interview With the Vampire” seamlessly blends dark humor with an insightful perspective on dysfunction. As it turns out, when you have all eternity to address your problems, they can always become more complicated.

8. “Elsbeth” (CBS)

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but appreciate the resilience of Robert and Michelle King in preserving the essence of procedural storytelling, a genre that seems to be dwindling in today’s entertainment landscape. Although we bid farewell to their supernatural spin-off “Evil,” let’s instead applaud the continuation of “Elsbeth,” the second offshoot of “The Good Fight.” This series is an intriguing take on the classic “how-catch-’em” format, which seems to be making a comeback, thanks in part to the success of Rian Johnson’s “Poker Face.” However, “Elsbeth” sets itself apart by stripping down some of the flashy production and big-name stars for a more authentic portrayal of the genre.

7. “Say Nothing” (FX)

Few stories manage to strike a balance between the grand scope of historical events and the intimate feelings of individuals as effectively as ‘Say Nothing’ does. This unique aspect makes the FX limited series an excellent adaptation of journalist Patrick Radden Keefe’s nonfiction book with the same title. The show provides a comprehensive account of Northern Ireland’s conflict, known as The Troubles, and the complex peace process that followed, focusing on the specific traumas that are often overlooked in statistical analysis – like the children who lost their mothers due to false accusations of leaking intel to the English, or the paramilitary fighters grappling with their past actions. The narrative uses poetic license to delve deep into its characters’ perspectives and explore the subtle complexities usually missing from ideological debates, without shying away from a stance. In essence, ‘Say Nothing’ serves as a poignant reflection of contemporary issues while offering a fresh perspective contrasting the dominant discourse.

6. “John Mulaney: Everybody’s in LA” (Netflix)

John Mulaney’s latest stand-up special, “Baby J,” has been praised as his most personal work due to its focus on his commitment to sobriety following an intervention and rehab. However, the talk show “John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s in LA” offers equally revealing insights into Mulaney’s private life in a subtle, indirect manner. Unlike traditional talk shows that are generic and aimed at longevity, this one is unique, reflecting Mulaney’s music preferences, theatrical flair, and peculiar interests. An example of this uniqueness can be seen in the “Helicopters” episode, where Marcia Clark and Zoey Tur discussed O.J. Simpson’s recent death while wearing sunglasses indoors, creating a dream-like conversation that mirrored someone’s surreal dreams – just as it was intended to do.

5. “The Sympathizer” (HBO)

The main character and narrator of “The Sympathizer,” Hoa Xuande (the Captain), is a North Vietnamese Communist who infiltrates a South Vietnamese general’s circle in Los Angeles following the end of what they refer to as the Vietnam War. To adapt this complex tale from Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel for the screen, director Park Chan-Wook and co-showrunner Don McKellar craft a world that mirrors conflicting identities and loyalty struggles. Robert Downey Jr. portrays not one character but four distinct representations of American dominance, including a CIA agent, an Orientalist professor, a filmmaker, and a Congressman; Park also directs an impressive scene where a burning cigarette transitions into a falling bomb. The series is both intellectual and energetic, culminating in a powerful portrayal of despair and self-denial, as the Captain is captured and questioned by his former best friend who has been severely injured. Additionally, “The Sympathizer” incorporates a critique of its own medium, establishing itself as a significant portrayal of the Vietnam War while mocking “Apocalypse Now.

4. “Tokyo Vice” (Max)

Screenwriter J.T. Rogers had the assurance of at least two seasons to transform his friend Jake Adelstein’s memoir on Japan’s organized crime into an ensemble series, with Ansel Elgort portraying a millennium-era American journalist. This extended timeline enabled a comprehensive Season 2 narrative, leading to an epic climax involving Adelstein, detective Katagiri (Ken Watanabe), rising yakuza boss Sato (Show Kasamatsu), and their common adversary. The villainous Tozawa (Ayumi Tanida) symbolized the transition of the underworld from a traditional moral code to a cold, corporate new world that would eventually consume the yakuza itself. Despite the unfortunate cancellation by Max, the conclusive ending highlighted the unrealized potential, particularly in expanding the ensemble and exploring diverse aspects of Tokyo’s bustling landscape, from hostess clubs to public baths. “Tokyo Vice” never felt intrusive in its extensive curiosity – it mirrored Jake’s attitude even as it expanded beyond his narrow viewpoint.

3. “Industry” (HBO)

The finance-centered drama series “Industry” by HBO, previously good, significantly improved in its third season, demonstrating greatness. This transformation is not only a reflection of the growing self-assurance among its creators and actors, but also the merit of allowing a show to mature over time – an opportunity that’s becoming scarce in today’s cost-conscious, post-Peak TV era.

2. “Shōgun” (FX)

Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo have reimagined James Clavell’s novel “Shogun,” shifting the perspective from English sailor John Blackthorne (portrayed by Cosmo Jarvis) to several key characters in 17th century Japan, where Blackthorne’s ship crashes. This reinterpretation has resulted in a captivating 10-episode limited series that bridges the gap between Clavell’s original work and modern epics like “Game of Thrones,” serving as a benchmark for complex, violent, and epic television. Lord Yoshi Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) recruits Blackthorne to aid in a power struggle, introducing him to a society so disconnected from Great Britain it might as well be an alien planet. However, by the series’ conclusion, characters such as translator Lady Mariko (Anna Sawai) and the self-serving feudal deputy Yabushige (Tadanobu Asano) are no longer merely familiar; their motivations and psychological complexities become the heart of the narrative. It’s not surprising that FX has invested in extending this story into future seasons, as it is rare to find a world with such depth these days. Given its richness, it seems a shame to let it end after just one installment.

1. “Somebody Somewhere” (HBO)

In contrast to the trend of TV shows escalating budgets and action-packed plots over the past five years, “Somebody Somewhere” is remarkably low-key. The character of Sam, portrayed by New York cabaret star Bridget Everett, is a fictionalized version of herself who hasn’t yet tapped into her healing potential through performing onstage. After the loss of her only family member who truly appreciated her, Sam begins to bond with residents from her Kansas hometown. These include Joel (Jeff Hiller), a former classmate sharing her love for singing and witty conversation, Trisha (Mary Catherine Garrison), her remaining sibling, and Frank (Murray Hill), a trans professor at the local agricultural college. Over time, Sam constructs a genuine community, with the show often highlighting these connections through subtle, authentic moments rather than grand gestures. The third and final season, its best yet, concluded “Somebody Somewhere” much as it started: with Sam still evolving, ready for whatever comes next.

Honorable mentions: The Acolyte; Evil; Fargo; Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show; Mr. & Mrs. Smith

Aramide Tinubu’s Top 10

10. “A Man on the Inside” (Netflix)

Titled “A Man on the Inside,” this charming comedy-mystery series streams on Netflix and marks a reunion for Ted Danson with Michael Schur, creator of “The Good Place.” In the show, Danson plays Charles, a widower in his twilight years, living a routine life. Eager to find purpose, he takes up work as a detective’s assistant under Julie (Lilah Richcreek Estrada). As the story unfolds, Charles becomes an undercover agent in a retirement community, on a mission to catch a thief. While the mystery forms the heart of the series, it also reveals the unexpected joys of friendship and camaraderie that Charles finds among his new neighbors. Filled with moments guaranteed to make you chuckle, “A Man on the Inside” delves into themes of curiosity, human connection, and life’s serendipitous journeys.

9. “Genius MLK/X” (National Geographic)

This National Geographic series, titled “Genius: MLK/X”, offers a distinct perspective on the lives of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (portrayed by Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Malcolm X (Aaron Pierre). Instead of merely revisiting their well-known stories, it delves deep into their personal and professional legacies. The show follows these influential figures from their youth to maturity, focusing on the pivotal events that sparked their radicalization and molded them into the powerful leaders they ultimately became.

Although the main characters in “Genius: MLK/X” are the men, the series also highlights the lives of Coretta Scott King, portrayed by Weruche Opia, and Betty Shabazz, played by Jayme Lawson. Their sacrifices and personal aspirations enabled their husbands’ influential legacies to echo throughout history.

8. “Joan” (The CW)

In “Joan,” a television series based on Joan Hannington’s memoir, “I Am What I Am: The True Story of Britain’s Most Notorious Jewel Thief,” Sophie Turner plays the role of Joan, a young mother yearning to shape her own fate. This drama unfolds in 1985 London, chronicling Joan’s evolution from a fearful woman to a bold and tenacious jewel thief, determined to improve her daughter’s life no matter the consequences. The series is characterized by its gripping narrative and meticulous execution. What sets it apart is the way Turner and creator Anna Symon delve into Joan’s emotional depths, providing viewers with insights into her remarkable intellect and startling decisions. Filled with unexpected turns, “Joan” presents a compelling exploration of the price of obsession.

7. “Criminal Record” (Apple TV+)

Though many police dramas fill our TV screens, Apple TV+’s “Criminal Record” stands out by delving into intricate issues such as racism, oversight, and inconsistencies within London’s law enforcement. The narrative focuses on Detective Sgt. June Lenker (played by Cush Jumbo), whose investigation into a missing person takes an unexpected turn towards an old murder case previously handled by Detective Chief Inspector Daniel Hegarty (portrayed by Peter Capaldi). As June delves deeper, the threads of Hegarty’s career and reputation begin to fray, exposing decades-long corruption within the force. As June confronts this evidence, her race and gender make her a target of the old-school network, who will stop at nothing to preserve their stranglehold on power for life.

6. “One Day” (Netflix)

I had the pleasure of experiencing the captivating adaptation of David Nicholls’ enchanting novel, “One Day,” on Netflix. This heartwarming drama spans two decades, focusing on the profound themes of love and friendship. Set in the U.K., the series follows the lives of Emma Morley (Ambika Mod) and Dexter Mayhew (Leo Woodall), who cross paths by fate on their last day of college and forge a lifelong bond that evolves with time’s unpredictable currents. As I journeyed through this thought-provoking series, I was moved by its portrayal of how our relationships strengthen and fray as we navigate the ups and downs of life.

One Day” is a collection of stories that will linger in the hearts of viewers, serving as a tribute to camaraderie, love, and the enchantment, as well as the apprehension, inherent in life’s experiences.

5. “Presumed Innocent” (Apple TV+)

David E. Kelley’s adaptation of Scott Turow’s 1987 hit novel, “Presumed Innocent” on Apple TV+, delivers a captivating psychological thriller experience. The series focuses on Rusty Sabich, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, who is a senior deputy prosecutor in Chicago, and finds himself standing trial for the murder of his colleague and lover, Carolyn Polhemus, portrayed by Renate Reinsve.

Beyond being a simple “whodunit,” “Presumed Innocent” portrays a man struggling with his self-image against his actions. The story not only explores the mystery of the murder but delves into the complex, tumultuous politics within a prosecutor’s office. Furthermore, it sheds light on Rusty’s personal life, revealing the strain on his family, particularly his wife Barbara (played by Ruth Negga) and their teenage children, due to his self-centered behavior. With numerous unexpected events, “Presumed Innocent” is a thrilling ride that demonstrates how even indulgent entertainment can be captivating and thought-provoking.

4. “The Day of the Jackal” (Peacock)

In a departure from traditional action thrillers, “The Day of the Jackal,” originally penned by Frederick Forsyth in 1971 and adapted for television by Ronan Bennett (“Top Boy” creator), tells an intriguing story. The Peacock series (airing on Sky in the U.K.) features Eddie Redmayne as the meticulous assassin, Jackal, and Lashana Lynch as MI6 arms specialist Bianca Pullman. This captivating series is a heart-pounding game of cat and mouse between these two characters. With stunning visuals and pulse-quickening action scenes, “The Day of the Jackal” offers an adrenaline-fueled journey revolving around two relentless individuals who are willing to risk everything, even their families, in their single-minded pursuit of victory in this tense game of espionage.

3. “Baby Reindeer” (Netflix)

The original Netflix series, titled “Baby Reindeer,” is a comedian Richard Gadd’s fictional account of being harassed and stalked. It takes place in the U.K., where Gadd plays Donnie, a barkeeper with aspirations in comedy. One day, an older woman named Martha (played by Jessica Gunning) stumbles into his bar and shows interest in him. At first, Donnie is charmed by Martha’s affection and attention. However, their relationship soon turns obsessive and violent, affecting all aspects of Donnie’s life. This forces him to revisit a troubled time from his past and deal with it.

Exploring themes of mistreatment and distress, “Baby Reindeer” is a heart-wrenching collection that delves into the self-deceptions people employ to endure and reveals why confronting reality can be so excruciatingly difficult and overpowering.

2. “Somebody Somewhere” (HBO)

In her review, my fellow critic pointed out that in its third and last season, HBO’s “Somebody Somewhere” firmly established itself as outstanding television. The Peabody-winning dramedy stars Bridget Everett as Sam Miller, a forty-something woman who goes back to her small Kansas hometown following her older sister’s illness and passing. Throughout the first two seasons, we see Sam dealing with her grief and anger, forging a strong friendship with Joel (Jeff Hiller). However, in the third season, we witness Sam grappling with change as she tries not to fall back into old patterns of solitude and self-condemnation. This series is all about friendship, kindness, and bravery; it encourages us to strive for the lives we desire, even if we falter along the way.

1. “The Penguin” (HBO)

An enthralling crime series titled “The Penguin,” airing on HBO, delves deeper into the world of criminality, surpassing “The Batman.” Starring an unmissable Colin Farrell as Gotham’s ruthless kingpin Oz “The Penguin” Cobb, this show presents a character shaped by adversity and despair, yet fueled by an insatiable hunger for power and prestige. Farrell delivers a captivating performance, while the narrative also explores the story of Sofia Falcone. In a powerful portrayal, Cristin Milioti brings to life a woman who has been wronged by her family, her emotions simmering with calculated fury and relentless pursuit of revenge.

In my opinion, “The Penguin” is an exceptional series that delves deep into themes of survival, monstrosity, and the dark corners of our world where evil thrives. This work masterfully showcases the most grotesque aspects of humanity.

Notable mentions: How to Live (Almost) Alone, Black Pigeons, My Lady Jane’s Story, Supercell, Fallout, Fight Night, Under the Bridge by Eric; Diarra from Detroit; The Noble Men

2024-12-06 22:22

Alison Herman’s Top 10