Television shows have come a long way in the past decade, with advancements in technology and the popularity of streaming services revolutionizing the industry. This article highlights ten must-see TV shows of the decade, including the critically acclaimed Breaking Bad and Game of Thrones, as well as popular series like Stranger Things and Parks and Recreation. The Handmaid’s Tale and Black Mirror explore dystopian futures and the implications of technology on society, while Fargo and Better Call Saul are dark comedies featuring complex characters. The Crown highlights the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, and Atlanta showcases the struggles of two cousins in the rap scene. These ten shows have pushed the boundaries of storytelling, production value, and cultural impact, leaving a lasting impression on the history of television.
10 Must-See TV Shows of the Decade
Over the past decade, television shows have transformed the way we consume entertainment. With advancements in technology and the rise of streaming services, the television industry has reached new heights in terms of creativity, production value, and storytelling. This decade has seen some of the most critically acclaimed and popular TV shows ever. In this article, we’ll take a look at 10 must-see TV shows of the decade.
1. Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad is a TV show that needs no introduction. The drama thriller, created by Vince Gilligan, aired from 2008 to 2013 and follows the story of high school chemistry teacher Walter White, who transforms into a ruthless drug dealer to secure his family’s future after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. The show is widely regarded as one of the best TV shows of all time and won 16 Emmy Awards.
2. Game of Thrones
Game of Thrones is a medieval fantasy epic drama based on George R.R. Martin’s novel series A Song of Ice and Fire. The show, created by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss, aired from 2011 to 2019 and follows the power struggle for the Iron Throne of the seven kingdoms of Westeros. It became a cultural phenomenon, breaking records and winning 59 Emmy Awards.
3. Stranger Things
Stranger Things is a science fiction horror series created by The Duffer Brothers. The show, set in the 1980s, follows a group of kids in Hawkins, Indiana, who uncover supernatural mysteries, government conspiracies, and alternate dimensions. The show became Netflix’s most popular original series and has been praised for its nostalgic charm, amazing cast performances, and production design.
4. The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian drama series based on Margaret Atwood’s novel, set in a future where a totalitarian society overthrows the United States. The show, created by Bruce Miller, follows Offred, a handmaid forced to bear children for her captors. The series won 11 Emmy Awards, and is praised for its strong performances, exceptional writing, and haunting visuals.
5. Parks and Recreation
Parks and Recreation is a mockumentary sitcom that aired from 2009 to 2015. The show follows the absurdity and hilarity of local government in Pawnee, Indiana, and features an incredible ensemble cast that includes Amy Poehler, Nick Offerman, and Chris Pratt. It is regarded as one of the best comedy shows of all time and has a legion of dedicated fans.
6. Atlanta
Atlanta is a comedy-drama series created by Donald Glover. The show, set in the eponymous city, follows Earnest ‘Earn’ Marks and his cousin Alfred ‘Paper Boi’ Miles, as they navigate the rap scene, family, and poverty. The show has been praised for its realism, artistic direction, and Glover’s exceptional writing and acting.
7. Black Mirror
Black Mirror is a British sci-fi anthology series created by Charlie Brooker. The show, often dark and unsettling, explores the implications of technology on society and human nature. Each episode is usually a self-contained story, allowing the show to explore a wide variety of genres and themes. It has won six Emmy Awards and has been praised for its storytelling, cinematography and social commentary.
8. The Crown
The Crown is a historical drama series created by Peter Morgan. The show, which focuses on the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, has received critical acclaim for its superb acting, writing, and production design. The show has won seven Emmy Awards and is now streaming its fourth season, which covers the late 1970s and 1980s.
9. Fargo
Fargo is a dark comedy crime anthology series created by Noah Hawley, inspired by the Coen Brothers’ film of the same name. The show is set in a different location and time period each season, and features complex characters in unexpected situations. The show has been praised for its storytelling, direction, and acting, having earned multiple Emmy Awards.
10. Better Call Saul
Better Call Saul is a spin-off prequel series to Breaking Bad, created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. The show follows the story of Jimmy McGill, a struggling lawyer who eventually transforms into the criminal lawyer known as Saul Goodman. The show has been praised for its nuanced storytelling, cinematography and performances, earning multiple Emmy Awards.
In conclusion, the 2010s have seen some phenomenal television shows that have pushed the boundaries of storytelling, production value, and cultural impact. The above ten shows are just the tip of the iceberg, and there are many more shows that are worth a watch. Regardless, these ten shows have left an indelible impression on the history of TV and will continue to inspire viewers long into the future.