I haven’t been watching much in terms of actual shows for a good while, then while listening to a podcast a host casually mentioned they had rewatched Chernobyl, how it still holds up, that there’s a reason it got as much acclaim as it did, etc. So I thought I’d give it a go and wow, loved it (still one episode left to watch).
Had me thinking, what else have I missed out on? What are some “absolute cinema” TV shows that still hold up and and are considered must watch?
Ted Lasso. Surface level it’s a “fish out of water” story of an American College Football coach going to England to coach Professional Football (soccer). In actuality it’s a show about loss, growth, relationships, and packs more emotions than you’ll know what to do with. I know a lot of people gush about it, but I’m not being hyperbolic when I say that it might be the most perfect show I’ve ever watched.
Similarly, Schitt’s Creek. A lot of similar themes, also a nearly perfect show. I will say that it took me a little bit to get past the first couple of episodes because it seemed like all of the characters were kinda awful, but that’s really setting things up for character growth.
The characters in Schitt’s Creek are characters you think are awful people who hate each other, but you quickly realize they’ve got hearts of gold and really do love each other.
Heard nothing but good things about Ted Lasso as well so I think this one is now on my list, thanks!
Schitt’s Creek I think I tried to watch way back but don’t think I even got through the first episode for the reason you just said, couldn’t stand the characters.
Third season of Ted Lasso gets to be pretty saccharine and certain plots are rushed, but by then the characters have built up so much goodwill that you’re willing to ride it out.
Also, if you find him immediately grating, give Ted himself about three episodes at the very beginning to turn into an actual human. It’s worth it.
We will see if the upcoming season four can recapture any of the magic.
Whoa season 4?! Yay: Wednesday August 5th, nice! Thx
I promise, if you make it past the beginning of Schitt’s Creek the show will reward you with some real emotional payoff.
Seconding cowfodder’s comment, if you can manage to tolerate the Rose family at the beginning of Schitt’s Creek, seeing the character growth is so very worth it, in my opinion. YMMV of course, but I’d encourage giving it another shot.
Ted Lasso also has some great character redemption arcs. Though in this case the main character (Ted) is immediately likeable, which I think makes for an easier start in comparison. And in case “immediately likeable” infers thoughts of him being a simple or shallow charter, he is not.
Ted lasso was good but I will caveat it- as someone who likes football and that angle the series strayed very far from being about football and went heavy into emotions, etc. Notably season 2 and on.
Schitts is amazing though start to finish.
As someone who hates football, Ted Lasso was wonderful because at no point was it ever really about football.