The Student Room Group

The Ultimate TV Show and Miniseries Recommendations Thread

Welcome to the Ultimate TSR TV

and Miniseries Recommendation Thread!


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If you would like to recommend a show just post it in the thread with the relevant information as shown below (TV shows in black and miniseries in blue)


TV Show/Miniseries name (years active, number of seasons)
Short synopsis with a similar show listed if possible (description of the show can be from IMDB if you can't think of anything :wink:)



We get a lot of questions in this section asking for recommendations so I thought I'd collate all of TSR's collective knowledge of TV shows into one thread. If you have any ideas on how to make the thread better or think a shows genre/synopsis could do with changing just post in this thread and I'll change it if people agree. If you're looking for a very particular type of TV show I'm sure if you post what you're looking for people will be more then willing to help you out. The last 10 years have been a great time for TV with quite a few shows having the qualities to match Hollywood films.



------------------------------------------------- Thanks to Danny111 for the help :sexface: -------------------------------------------------




Action/Adventure

Lost (2004-2010, 6 seasons)
After a plane crash onto a mysterious island a group of survivors are forced to work together to survive the place. Along the way they meet unexpected obstacles. Some of the most developed characters you'll come across and my favourite show ever.

Arrow (2012-, 2 seasons so far)
After being suck on an island for years a playboy billonaire comes back a changed man. Good action scenes and enough twists to keep it interesting.

Agents of Shield (2013-, 1 season so far)
Based on the group SHIELD from the Marvel universe. Showcases them dealing with various threats and focuses more on the human parts of the team with Agent Coulson as their boss.

Banshee (2013-, 1 season so far)
Like Strkeback this is another show that has a bunch of unrealistic action scenes and over the top sex and violence but the story is interesting enough to make it a very entertaining watch. A recently released convict takes the identity of a cop (unrealistic I know) and becomes Sheriff in the town of Banshee where his past comes back to haunt him.

Under the Dome (2012-, 1 season so far)
Based on Stephen King's novel, the premise of this show revolves around a town which suddenly has a dome surrounding them cutting them off from the outside world. They have to work together to survive both from outside and inside threats.



Comedy

Arrested Development (2003-2013, 4 seasons)
Tied with The Inbetweeners as my favourite comedy. After the head of the family gets put in jail one of the sons has to take over his fathers business, and with it comes the responsibility of sorting out his crazy family. IF you give this time I'm sure you'll love it.

The Inbetweeners (2008-2010, 3 season)
Not much I can say really as I'm assuming nearly everyone's watched it. The lives of 4 'inbetweener's' as they navigate through college. With already one film and another one to come out soon, definitely watch this if you've somehow avoided it

Friends (1994-2004, 10 seasons)
Six young people, on their own and struggling to survive in the real world, find the companionship, comfort and support they get from each other to be the perfect antidote to the pressures of life. never watched this show until at university and my friends would randomly put it on, I love it now though

How I Met Your Mother
Gets compared to Friends a lot and it's similar in the sense that it's about a bunch of friends living in new York who g through hilarious events together.

Blue Mountain State (2010-2012, 3 seasons )
Follows the journey of 3 guys through college. It's basically American Pie in TV series form, if you like crude/teen comedy you'll enjoy this.

The Office (2001-2003, 3 seasons)
Arguably one of the best British comedies of the last few decades it's the story of an office that faces closure when the company decides to downsize its branches. A documentary film crew follow staff and the manager Brent as they continue their daily lives.

Extra's (2005-2007, 2 seasons)
For me this is Gervais's best TV show with him portraying an extra in tv and films constantly trying to get his parts with the help of his hilarious agent Steve Merchant. With some great appearances from the likes of Samuel L. Jackson this is definitely a must watch,

Peep Show (2003-, 9 seasons so far)
Another great British comedy about Mark and Jez are a couple of twenty-something roommates who have nothing in common - except for the fact that their lives are anything but normal. Mayhem ensues as the pair strive to cope with day-to-day life. These two are a great duo.



Crime/Gangsters

Sons of Anarchy (2008-, 6 seasons so far)
Follows Jax Teller as he becomes a dad for the first time and tries to balance it with his life in a motorcycle gang. Pretty explicit but the show has many interesting storylines which will make you want to keep watching

Boardwalk Empire
Follows Nucky Thompson as he build his influence in Atlantic City. Great characters which also include Al Capone and the cinematography of 1920's America is awesome.

The Soprano's (1999-2007, 6 seasons)
Constantly regarded as one of the greatest shows ever. Follows the day and life of the mob boss Tony Soprano with various insights in meetings with his psychologist.

Ray Donovan (2013-, 1 season so far)
Ray Donovan is a 'fixer' of problems and the show follows him as deals with various problems, mainly from his own family. After his dad comes out of Prison his life gets turned upside down and his past comes back to haunt him.

The Black Donnellys (2007, 1 season)
Follows four brothers in the criminal underground in New York. Very good show with a pilot episode which could be passed of as a film.

Peaky Blinders (2013-, 1 season so far)
Cillian Murphy stars as the head of a family run gang (known as the Peaky Blinders due to the razor blades they keep hidden at the front of their caps) in 1920s Birmingham, trying to keep his 'business' alive when the police begin to track down a crate of guns they suspect the Peaky Blinders are going to sell to the IRA



Detective/Police

Sherlock (2010-, 3 seasons so far)
Another re-imagining of Sherlock and Watson's adventures set in modern times, with this one arguably being the best yet. Great acting and creative stories this show is sure not to disappoint.

Dexter (2006-2013, 8 seasons)
Unique, suspenseful, dark and downright funny. Michael C Hall portrays everyone's favourite serial killer who is facing various obstacles, ranging from normal to bizarre, as he tries to navigate trough life. The show sets such a high standard that it struggles to maintain itself

Justified (2010-, 4 seasons so far)
Based in Kentucky the show follows US Marshall Raylan Givens after he is forced back to go back to his hometown. His familiarity with the town and people ends up being a great advantage and disadvantage. One of the best written shows of the last 10 years

Luther (2010-2013, 3 seasons)
The Awesome Idris Elba portrays the genius but unstable Detective Luther. Filled with great and unique storylines the main pull for this show is definitely it's characters, the antagonists and protagonists.

The Shield (2002-2008, 7 seasons)
Vic Mackey is one of my favourite character ever. The show follows his team as they navigate the streets of Los Angeles, where he and his team blur the meaning of the word anti-heroes. One of the best endings to a TV show ever.

The Wire (2002-2008, 5 seasons)
Commonly regarded as the greatest show ever this scarily realistic show portrays the lives of both the police and the gangsters in Baltimore and showcases the social and political problems present in Baltimore at the time very well.

Hannibal (2013-, 1 season so far)
Arguably the best new show of 2013 this show follows Detective Will Graham, who is an FBI profiler and his budding friendship with the psychiatrist Hannibal, excellently played by Mads Mikkelsen. With creepy visuals and scenes which will make you jump, this show has been constantly improving.

Life (2007-2009, 2 seasons)
Damian Lewis stars in a very underrated and unknown cop show where he portrays a cop who was wrongly imprisoned for murder. Coming out after 12 years, he has a completely different outlook on life and policing and works to find out who framed him.

Southland (2009-2013, 5 seasons)
One of the more realistic police shows that has been on in recent years. If you liked show like The Wire and The Shield, this will be your kind of show. Relies on it's writing and characterisation to move the plot forward.

The Bridge (2013-, 1 season so far)
A remake of a Danish show, this show portrays the solving of a murder on both sides of the border, from USA and Mexico. The show includes Diane Kruger, playing a detective with aspergers, who's forced to work together with her Mexican counterpart to solve the mystery of someone left murdered on the border line.

Dark Blue (2009-2010, 2 seasons)
A show about undercover detectives who are/have faced various problems from going deep undercover to catch the biggest criminals in Los Angeles, with some unsure which side they're on anymore.

Graceland (2013-. 1 season so far)
Another undercover cop show that is less darker than Dark Blue and hasn't really got going yet but there are signs of potential. A new cop joins an undercover group of agents.

White Collar (2009-, 5 seasons so far)
A very successful white collar criminal agrees to help the FBI capture similar criminals after being caught. With a lot of twists and engaging storylines this show definitely starts off addictive.

Blue Bloods (2010-, 4 seasons so far)
Follows the lives of a family of cops, detectives and lawyers as they deal with criminals in New York. A mainly episodic show where plenty of interesting topics get discussed at family dinner.

Common Law (2012, 1 season)
A comedic police show where two partners are sent to couples counselling to deal with their problems. When working together they're very effective, but it doesn't happen often enough...

The Following (2013-, 1 season so far)
Kevin Bacon stars as an FBI investigator forced to come back to catch a criminal who took everything he has, literally, to catch him again.

Castle (2009-, 6 seasons so far)
Famous crime author Rick Castle wants to join the NYPD to get inspiration for a new series of novels. He gets assigned to Detective Becket and her team, whom he appears to be attracted to. He manages to use his popularity and fame to become a "consultant" with the NYPD and help Becket solve crime. As far as cop show goes, I really like this. Has a female lead, which is interesting and the chemistry between Castle and Becket is great. The will-they-won't-they going on is probably only rivaled by Booth and Bones. Similar to: The Mentalist, Bones



Documentaries


Drama

Boss (2011-2012, 2 seasons)
Kelsey Grammer excellently portrays Mayor Tom Kane, who has been diagnosed with a dementia disorder, as he struggles to keep his grip on power in Chicago. A top quality show with a lead who we don't know whether to support or not.

Suits (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
While running from a drug deal gone bad, Mike Ross, a brilliant young college-dropout, slips into a job interview with one of New York City's best legal closers, Harvey Specter. Tired of cookie-cutter law school grads, Harvey takes a gamble by hiring Mike on the spot after he recognizes his raw talent and photographic memory. Both serious and hilarious at the same time, this is a show with so much potential still.

Hell on Wheels (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
Cullen Bohannon, a former soldier and slaveholder, follows the track of a band of Union soldiers, the killers of his wife. This brings him to the middle of one of the biggest projects in US history, the building of the transcontinental railroad. After the war years in the 1860s, this undertaking connected the prospering east with the still wild west.

Rectify (2013-, 1 season so far)
Another show about someone incorrectly imprisoned, this time for 19 years. The show follows him as he tries to adjust to outside life again whilst dealing with all the pressure, including most locals believing he's still guilty.

Chicago Fire (2012-, 2 seasons so far)
Follows a group of firefighters in Chicago as they tackle work problems and personal problems. Quite a lot of relationship drama and the like but it makes for an entertaining watch. Don't go in expecting something realistic.

Hatfields & McCoys (2012, 3 episodes)
A clash of clans that evoked great passion, vengeance, courage, sacrifice, crimes and accusations, which changed the families and the history of the region forever. The Hatfield-McCoy saga begins with 'Devil' Anse Hatfield and Randall McCoy. Close friends and comrades until near the end of the Civil War, they return to their neighboring homes - Hatfield in West Virginia, McCoy just across the Tug River border in Kentucky - to increasing tensions, misunderstandings and resentments that soon explode into all-out warfare between the families.

Friday Night Lights (2006-2011, 5 seasons)
In the small town of Dillon, Texas, one night matters: Friday Night. Eric Taylor has recently been hired as the head football coach for the Dillon High School Panthers, the town's pride and joy. Friday Night Lights displays the stress that the town gives the high school players to win, and the hope that the team gives to a small town, and how a team has its low points, its high points, and how they come together as a team on their way to victory.

Everwood (2002-2006, 4 seasons)
When Manhattan surgeon Andrew 'Andy' Brown is widowed, he decides to start a whole new life in the idyllic Colorado town Everwood, but gets more than he bargained for - it takes an eternity for a city-boy to fit in the small community, which already had a popular physician, and it's even worse for his unearthed kids, whom he must now parent alone: Ephram, a sensitive kid and gifted pianist, and his little sister Delia.

House of Cards (2013-, 1 season so far)
Another contender for best new show of 2013. The show includes Kevin Spacey who portrays a Congressman who works with his equally conniving wife to exact revenge on the people who betrayed him.

Breaking Bad (2008, 2013, 5 seasons)
Went from being severely underrated to becoming one of the most critically acclaimed shows of recent times.

Homeland (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
When Marine Nicolas Brody is hailed as a hero after he returns home from eight years of captivity in Iraq, intelligence officer Carrie Mathison is the only one who suspects that he may have been "turned". A great first season which like with most American shows goes on for too long. But I would recommend this show on the basis of it's first season alone as it's that good.

The Good Wife (2009-, 5 seasons so far)
The pilot starts with the DA of Chicago admitting to sleeping with prostitutes and some other stuff and going to jail. His wife goes back to work after being absent for so long taking care of the kids. She gets hired by the law firm of an old friend. If you like female lead characters and law shows, watch this. Similar to: Suits, Shark

Scandal (2012-, 3 seasons so far)
Olivia Pope is a fixed in Washington D.C. You have a problem, you go to her. She has assembled a team with a great set of skills and solves problems of the rich and powerful. Additionally she was the campaign director of the president during his election and had an affair with him, the backlash of which is a major plot theme throughout. If you liked Michael Clayton you will love this. Similar to: Suits, House of Cards (also set in DC, also a lot of political intrigue).



Horror

American Horror Story (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
An anthology series that centers on different characters and locations, including a haunted house, an insane asylum and a witch coven. A very well received show in a genre that is pretty neglected in TV

The River (2012, 1 season)
It got cancelled pretty early on but from what I saw I thought it was a decent TV show that ad it's share of creepy and jumpy moments. Execution isn't the best but if you have some time it won;t take you long to finish it.



Historical/Fantasy

Game of Thrones (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
Probably one of the greatest feats in TV, this adaptation of George R.R. Martin's A song of Ice and Fire is produced on an epic scale. Westeros is a vast area incorporating the Seven Kingdoms and there is only one iron throne which everyone wants to sit on. All I can is watch this show.

Rome (2005-2007, 2 seasons)
Another epic produced by HBO, detailing the last days of the Roman Republic. If you're a fan of GoT this show will definitely be one to watch, ended prematurely due to costs the how, the showcases all the politcal intrigue around the time and show you the lives of ordinary Roman's through various points of view.

Vikings (2013, 1 season so far)
Vikings follows the adventures of Ragnar Lothbrok: the greatest hero of his age. The series tells the saga of Ragnar's band of Viking brothers and his family as he rises to become King of the Viking tribes. As well as being a fearless warrior, Ragnar embodies the Norse traditions of devotion to the gods: legend has it that he was a direct descendant of Odin, the god of war and warriors.

The Tudors (2007-2010, 4 seasons)
This costume drama features England's splendid Renaissance dynasty under King Henry VIII. Beginning in Season 1 when Henry VIII was growing desperate for an heir and growing distant from his first wife, the series moves quickly to the period when Anne Boleyn became his obsession.

Spartacus (2010-2013, 3 seasons)
Another epic which gets a lot of hate due to the over the top violence and sex but beneath all that there's the entertaining story of Spartacus. Fast paced from the beginning with hilarious dialogue, I'd recommend this to anyone that likes epics.

Deadwood (2004,2006, 3 seasons)
No idea how to describe this show other than great acting, great dialogue and a great setting. Set in the late 1800s, revolving around the characters of Deadwood, South Dakota; a town of deep corruption and crime.

Pillars of the Earth (2010, 8 episodes)
Based on the book by Ken Follett the show is set against a backdrop of war, religious strife and power struggles which tears lives and families apart. In that time, there rises a magnificent Cathedral in Kingsbridge. Against the backdrop, love-stories entwine: Tom, the master builder, Aliena, the noblewoman, the sadistic Lord William, Philip, the prior of Kingsbridge, Jack, the artist in stone work and Ellen, the woman from the forest who casts a curse.

Atlantis (2013-, 1 season so far)
Set in a mythical land called Atlantis in which Jason (a person from our 'real' world accidentally enters when he's trying to find out what happened to his father) finds a variety of different Greek 'myths' actually being true. Despite being largely based on Greek mythology, it is a light-hearted show with some good drama, amusing moments and interesting characters. It's from the makers of Merlin, so it could be on the same wavelength but I haven't watched Merlin, so can't comment on the similarity between the two. But overall, worth a watch if you're looking for some mythical adventures.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003, 7 seasons)
Buffy is the Slayer, the one girl in all the world (well...) whose job it is to stake vampires and deal with demons while trying to get through high school/college/life. BtVS is a seminal show which combines wit with high school angst, genuine tragedy, and slayage. If you liked those bits in The Avengers where they all bantered with each other before missions, you will love Buffy. Similar to: Arrow, Teen Wolf, Agents of SHIELD, Sherlock, Castle (chances are if it has characters balancing witty one-liners with supernatural/wacky goings on, Buffy's influence is felt)

Being Human UK (2008-2013, 5 series)
A vampire, a werewolf and a ghost share a house in Bristol, and bicker. A lot. Arguably jumps the shark around Series 3. Similar to: Buffy, Teen Wolf

Grimm (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
A Portland cop learns that fairy tale creatures really do exist - but they look just like ordinary people to everyone but him. It has some schlocky horror but its fun character moments make it. Watch series 1, but I was told to dip in and out of series 2 and 3 so I'd say watch S2: 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 22 and S3: 1, 2, 3, 8, 9.

Once Upon A Time (2011- 3 seasons so far)
The protagonist, Emma, is reunited with her 10 year old son Henry who she gave up for adoption. To her disbelief the town where he lives is not what it seems, and things get complicated when she finds out the truth about her own destiny. A compelling modern day take on fairytales.



Post-apocalyptic

Revolution (2012-, 2 seasons so far)
One day, like a switch turned off, the world is suddenly thrust back into the dark ages. Planes fall from the sky, hospitals shut down, and communication is impossible. And without any modern technology, who can tell us why? Now, 15 years later, life is back to what it once was long before the industrial revolution: families living in quiet cul-de-sacs, and when the sun goes down lanterns and candles are lit. Life is slower and sweeter. Or is it?

Terra Nova (2011, 1 season)
In 2149, earth is nearly wrecked by pollution. Police detective Jim Shannon is jailed for illegally raising an extra child, Zoe. He's sprung from jail just in time to join his family on the latest 'pilgrimage', through a unique time-space-continuum rip, to Terra Nova, a colony run with modern technology in a dino age forest. Colony commander Nathaniel Taylor soon recruits as security professional Jim, who gradually finds out about some threats, notably from Saurian monsters, the 'sixers' and his own, bitterly estranged son Lucas.

The Walking Dead (2010-, 4 seasons so far)
Based on the comic book this show revolves around a group of survivors in a world were zombies freely roam. With some intense moments and stories, and many memorable characters, for any fans o zombies this is a must watch.

Jericho (2006-2008, 2 seasons)
After a nuclear bomb, the US is in disarray. A small town in Kansas is literally left in the dark after seeing a mushroom cloud over near-by Denver, Colorado. The townspeople struggle to find answers about the blast and solutions on how to survive. A very good post-apocalyptic that was cancelled too early.

Falling Skies (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
After earth gets attacked by aliens a group of people band together to take the fight back to the aliens. A show with a lot of potential which it's struggling to meet right now.

(edited 9 years ago)

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Sci-Fi

Fringe (2008-2013, 5 seasons)
A television drama centered around a female FBI agent who is forced to work with an institutionalized scientist in order to rationalize a brewing storm of unexplained phenomena. Dubbed as the new X-Files when it first came out this show is definitely entertaining.

Firefly (2002,203, 1 season)
Notorious for only getting one season this show is set five hundred years in the future, and is about a renegade crew aboard a small spacecraft trying to survive as they travel the unknown parts of the galaxy and evade warring factions as well as authority agents out to get them. A very good watch with a movie called Serenity to finish the story.

Flashforward (2009,2010, 1 season)
So much potential and so much waste, but the first few episodes definitely make for interesting viewing. A special task force in the FBI investigates after every person on Earth simultaneously blackouts and awakens with a short vision of their future. Should have gone on for longer

Roswell (1999-2002. 3 seasons)
Could easily have goon in the teen show section but this is effectively about some aliens that have ended up in Roswell and the show revolves around how they've built there live there and the dangers they face.

Kyle XY (2006-2009, 3 seasons)
A Seattle family takes in an amnesiac teen (Dallas), whom they eventually learn has mysterious powers and psychic abilities, the result of a secret human cloning experiment conducted years earlier. The family helps teach Kyle human behaviours such as anger, joy and love, and guards him against forces who seek to use Kyle for their own nefarious purposes. Ends prematurely but has an interesting premise that can hook you.

The Event (2010, 1 season)
When a man goes looking for his missing girlfriend, he stumbles upon a government conspiracy that is bigger than the president himself. Another show with a lot of unfulfilled potential.

The Tomorrow People (2013-, 1 season so far)
Has only started recently so is still finding it's feet but t reminds me of the film Jumper. Kids with special abilities getting chased by Government forces, what's not to like.

Smallville (2001-2011, 10 seasons) Soapy, silly, angsty, occasionally accidentally hilarious version of Clark Kent's journey to become Superman, but the big superhero TV show of the last decade and part of the reason comic book movies are big now. I'd recommend picking up odd episodes if it interests you as it regularly goes bonkers for long periods (personal favourite episodes in chronological order are Heat, Red, Exile/Phoenix, Perry, Transference, Reckoning, Arrow, Justice, Arctic, Infamous, Hex, Absolute Justice, Shield, Homecoming). Similar to: Arrow, Teen Wolf, Vampire Diaries (early seasons)

Dollhouse (2009-2010, 2 seasons)
From IMDB to avoid spoilers - " A futuristic laboratory assigns different tasks to its various residents, who then have their memories erased upon the completion of their assignments." At its best, this is tense, well-acted, paranoia-inducing stuff. Similar to: Arrow, Buffy, Agents of SHIELD

Orphan Black (2013-, 1 season so far)
Beth witnesses the suicide of a woman who is exactly identical to her. This is fast-paced and Tatiana Maslany is criminally overlooked for acting awards. Similar to: Anyone watch this, anyone? Please help if you do!

Torchwood (2006 - 2011 4 seasons)
A Doctor Who spin-off intended for a older audience. It features the beloved Captain Jack Harkness who investigates the mysterious incidents in Cardiff alongside his team. Humorous with just the right amount of horror and heart-wrenching moments.



Spy

Chuck (2007-2012, 5 seasons)
The premise is based on a supercomputer built by the government that a person can download into their brain, containing all of NSA/CIA secrets. By accident (or not) this is sent to a computer geek upon which his life is turned upside down - he now is protected by 2 agents, one of which he falls in love with, and chaos ensues. Definitely worth a watch if you like spy stuff and don't mind a bit of romance. Imo it also contains excellent humour. No real similar show, Leverage if anything, I would maybe even say it's similar to Suits and White Collar, but more comedy.

Nikita( 2010-2013, 4 Seasons)
A top secret government agency called Division recruits people of death row and trains them to be the world's best assassins. However, not all is what it seems, they often operate outside the law and for their own personal profit, killing many innocent in the process. Nikita, one of their best operatives has had enough and goes rogue to fight them. Together with a mysterious girl that she sends undercover into Division she takes them on. Season 1 and 2 are great, real fast paced, action spy stuff. Highly recommended if you are into the genre. 3 is annoying but the short finale season 4 is great so overall go watch! Similar show Covert Affairs, The Unit and Strike Back

Covert Affairs (2010-Ongoing, 4 seasons so far)
A young go-getter, Annie Walker, is training at The Farm for the CIA when she is pulled out of training to assist on a mission. She impresses her superiors and starts to work as a CIA operative. This is more on the intelligence gathering and asset cultivation side than "covert ops shoot em up" style, although especially towards the later seasons (as she evolves) there is enough of that. Worth a watch. Similar show Nikita

The Unit (2006-2009, 4 seasons)
Follows one particular unit of the Delta Force special forces branch. They have missions all over the world and go around being bad ass. The show deteriorates a bit imo because it starts to focus a lot, too much, on their lives at home and the intrigues of their wives/home life. This was okay at the start to show how they balance work/life but gets too much. Still worth a lot if you are into stuff like Bourne and the like. Similar show Nikita and Strike Back

Strike Back (2010-Ongoing, 4 Seasons so far)
Follows the secret branch called Section 20 of the British military as they travel the world fighting bad guys. This is probably my favourite kick-ass show. There is a break between S1 and S2 (I think production also changed quite a bit) and it gets even better. There is good chemistry between the main 2 guys and the story lines are always season long arches that are always exciting. Similar to Nikita and The Unit

Burn Notice (2007-, 7 seasons)
Michael Westen, a seasoned US spy, is suddenly 'burned', i.e. discredited, without any form of procedure. He survives by doing impossible jobs for desperate people in Miami, where his mother lives. Michael is usually aided by trusted former FBI informer Sam and his ex girlfriend Fiona.

Leverage (2008-2012, 5 seasons)
An ex-insurance investigator puts together a team of master thieves all with a different and highly useful skill set in order to right wrongs, mainly wealthy criminals and corrupt businesses that screwed over average Joe. I would class the thief angle very similar to spy (and one of the guys in the crew is ex-special forces as well). Must watch if you like the Robin Hood-esque idea and the thievery aspect - every episode is about how they can con a particular bad guy, or steal from him. If you enjoyed this aspect in movies like Ocean's 11 or The Thomas Crown Affair, go watch this. Similar to Chuck don't really know any other show. Maybe White Collar as Neal would fit into this show.

The Americans (2012-Ongoing, 1 Season so far)
Watch this. It's amazing. It centers about a married couple in Cold War USA that are in fact KGB agents, having replaced US children whose parents were killed abroad i.e. they took the place of US kids and grew up in the states. Similar to the movie Salt. In fact pretty much the same idea.

The Blacklist (2013-Ongoing, 1 Season so far)
Centres on an ex-FBI agent who went rogue and sold information, weapons, everything on the world black market. He returns to hand himself in and offers information on bad guys in return for not being jailed. But he will only work with one particualr FBI agent, a young woman just graduated from Quantico whom he has a mysterious fascination and affection for. It's rather similar to White Collar so if you like that, give this a watch.

Person of Interest (2011-Ongoing, 3 Seasons)
A computer whiz has created a computer (the machine) that incorporates every camera in the country into it's database and analyzes it for threats. But the government doesn't care for any crimes other than terrorism. So he sets out to combat ordinary crime predicted by the machine such as someone planning to murder a person. He hires an out-of-luck ex-special forces man and together they try to create good. A mix of spy/action/detective show, can only recommend. Can't think of a show it's similar to tbh. It's kind of unique.



Teen drama's/mysteries

The OC (2003-2007, 4 seasons)
Probably my biggest guilty pleasure as a young teenager, the show follows Ryan, a troubled teenger who moves into the OC after being taken in by a family. Lots of drama and some funny parts as well. Best soundtrack ever as well.

The Vampire Diaries (2009-, 5 seasons so far)
My biggest guilty pleasure of the last few years. It's not as good now but the first few seasons are genuinely exciting if you can look over all the love triangle stuff. I love shows with good soundtracks as well and this is definitely one of them. Nina Dobrev is smoking hot as well. Basically about two brothers and a girl in the town of Mystic Falls and the weird happenings.

Teen Wolf (2011-, 3 seasons so far)
Similar to the show above this is an entertaining watch with a lot of surprisingly good comedy. has entertaining storylines and if you're looking for an easy watch with cliffhanger endings these are the type of shows I'd recommend

Hidden Palms (2007, 1 season)
Only had one season but I would liken it to The OC It's a lot more mystery then drama and revolves around a family moving into a new area and the boy settling in. There are loads of mysteries around ton (i.e. the previous occupants of his house), weird girl in the house opposite. Had potential and also introduced Amber heard who looks amazingly great in this :sexface:

Twisted (2013, 1 season so far)
Another teen mystery sow about a boy who comes out of a correctional facility after being found guilty of murdering someone. The show revolves around him setting back in, trying to make new friends and get close to old one's again, and solve a mystery.

Revenge (2011, 3 seasons so far)
The daughter of a framed executive makes it her mission to infiltrate upper Hamptons society and exact revenge on the people who set her father up. I don't think this show is anything special but it's first two seasons are an entertaining watch.

The Lying Game (2011-2013, 2 seasons)
About a teenager who is going trough the foster system and ends up at an abusive family. After finding out she has a twin who is with a wealthy family they switch lives so one can find the truth about who their parents are. Lots of teen drama along the way

Point Pleasant (2006-2007, 1 season)
A series of supernatural events begin in a small coastal New Jersey town after the arrival of a mysterious teenage girl whom apparently has ability to make people and events act on her behalf.

Dawson's Creek (1998 - 2003, 6 seasons)
A show that follows the movie enthusiast Dawson and his close knit-group of friends as they progress into adulthood in their small town. Features lots of drama, romance, jealously and philosophical questions from Dawson as he tries to follow his dreams and make it big.

Beverly Hills 90210 (1990 - 2000, 10 seasons)
Follows the lives of privileged teenagers in Beverly Hills, as they grow up into adulthood. Expect social and political conflicts that arise in 90's America alongside the usual teenage problems. An attempt to show how these teenagers are just as 'ordinary' as everyone else.



War

Band of Brothers (2001, 10 episodes)
The best TV show ever made for me. Follows the actual events (though fictionalized) of "Easy Company" part of the 506th Parachite Regiment of the 101st Airborne division of the US Army in WWII. Based on interviews and diaries. Starting from training in the US to preparing for D-Day up to storming Berchtesgarten (Hitler residence in Bavaria) it follows Easy Company's exploits throughout the war. Go watch. Please.Similar to The Pacific

The Pacific (2010, 10 episodes)
In the same spirit as following Easy Company, this miniseries follows the real life events of this time not a company, but 3 marines within the 1st Marine Division. Almost as good Band of Brothers, which is only better imo because you feel more part of the "band". It is also a must watch for anyone who is interested even slightly in war. Similar to Band of Brothers.

Generation Kill (2008, 7 Episodes)
Based on the experiences of reporter Evan Wright who followed the Marine Corps 1st Reconnaissance Battalion during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Again a must watch, only 7 episodes so it's really worth it. Similar to Pacific and Band of Brothers. More modern obviously.

(edited 9 years ago)
Reply 2
Qi
To add to the gangster category:

Peaky Blinders (2013 1 season so far) 8.4/10 on IMDB

Cillian Murphy stars as the head of a family run gang (known as the Peaky Blinders due to the razor blades they keep hidden at the front of their caps) in 1920s Birmingham, trying to keep his 'business' alive when the police begin to track down a crate of guns they suspect the Peaky Blinders are going to sell to the IRA
Reply 4
Original post by Deshi
I've seen the first few episodes of The Newsroom, Mad Men and Community but could never properly get into them. Have been thinking about trying Mad Men again as it gets a lot of praise.


Same. I think I even saw 4 of 5 of The Newsroom and even thought it was really good but I kind of stopped watching. Like it was well made well acted, and yet I didn't get hooked.
Reply 5
Hmm, the best spy show is missing there - Archer.
Reply 6
Original post by justanotherposter
To add to the gangster category:

Peaky Blinders (2013 1 season so far) 8.4/10 on IMDB

Cillian Murphy stars as the head of a family run gang (known as the Peaky Blinders due to the razor blades they keep hidden at the front of their caps) in 1920s Birmingham, trying to keep his 'business' alive when the police begin to track down a crate of guns they suspect the Peaky Blinders are going to sell to the IRA


Cheers mate. I've seen the adverts for this. Will update the page tomorrow, need to add Smallville as well.

Original post by danny111
Same. I think I even saw 4 of 5 of The Newsroom and even thought it was really good but I kind of stopped watching. Like it was well made well acted, and yet I didn't get hooked.


I was on IMDB this morning and actually saw it got cancelled today so it'll only have 3 seasons, might give it another shot at some point
Reply 7
Agents of SHIELD is AH-MAZING! Love it so much! Especially now we're into the thick of the series :tongue:



But none of my friends watch it... :sad: :sadpanda:

<3 x
Reply 8
Original post by LETSJaM
Agents of SHIELD is AH-MAZING! Love it so much! Especially now we're into the thick of the series :tongue:



But none of my friends watch it... :sad: :sadpanda:

<3 x


Not feeling it really. Gave up on like episode 6. Might try it again at some point.
Reply 9
To add to the Fantasy category:

Atlantis (2013- 1 season so far)

Set in a mythical land called Atlantis in which Jason (a person from our 'real' world accidentally enters when he's trying to find out what happened to his father) finds a variety of different Greek 'myths' actually being true. Despite being largely based on Greek mythology, it is a light-hearted show with some good drama, amusing moments and interesting characters. It's from the makers of Merlin, so it could be on the same wavelength but I haven't watched Merlin, so can't comment on the similarity between the two. But overall, worth a watch if you're looking for some mythical adventures.
Original post by ProgFeanor
Hmm, the best spy show is missing there - Archer.

Archer is brilliant and massively underrated - the script is genius.
Reply 11
Original post by Iamyourfather
Archer is brilliant and massively underrated - the script is genius.


Someone recommended this to me, but I didn't get into it. I think I don't like the fact it's cartoon. And it's not that I think "ah its for kids". I just didn't like the feel of it.
Reply 12
Original post by Iamyourfather
Archer is brilliant and massively underrated - the script is genius.


To me, it's one of the few shows that still make laugh out loud. I can see why people can't get into it, like I myself didn't particularly like it for the first few episodes, but as soon as you learn to appreciate the characters and get "into it", it's a brilliantly written show, I agree.
Reply 13
Original post by ProgFeanor
To me, it's one of the few shows that still make laugh out loud. I can see why people can't get into it, like I myself didn't particularly like it for the first few episodes, but as soon as you learn to appreciate the characters and get "into it", it's a brilliantly written show, I agree.


Hm interesting, might give a watch over the summer when current shows are off.
Original post by danny111
Hm interesting, might give a watch over the summer when current shows are off.

Yes, it might have to grow on you (I also didn't get into the "flow" of it until after the first couple of episodes). Give it another shot and try not to write it off because of its animated style :tongue:

What are you currently watching?
(edited 10 years ago)
Reply 15
Peachz
x


Was wondering if I could edit the thread or if the bug is still happening? :holmes:
Reply 16
Original post by Deshi
Was wondering if I could edit the thread or if the bug is still happening? :holmes:


Not 100% sure to be honest with you. Try and it and PM me if it disappears again.
Reply 17
Original post by Iamyourfather
Yes, it might have to grow on you (I also didn't get into the "flow" of it until after the first couple of episodes). Give it another shot and try not to write it off because of its animated style :tongue:

What are you currently watching?


Too much. I usually watch one of Modern Family/TBBT/Brooklyn 99/Trophy Wife whenever I'm bored, or just before bed.

Otherwise my favorite shows currently are White Collar, The Blacklist and Person of Interest and since I like detective shows, I also watch Castle and The Mentalist regularly.

Other shows that I don't follow whenever they come out are Arrow, Elementary Hawaii Five-0 and the Good Wife.

Oh and Psych just came back on, love that and still waiting for Suits and The Americans to come back on :smile:
Original post by danny111
Too much. I usually watch one of Modern Family/TBBT/Brooklyn 99/Trophy Wife whenever I'm bored, or just before bed.

Otherwise my favorite shows currently are White Collar, The Blacklist and Person of Interest and since I like detective shows, I also watch Castle and The Mentalist regularly.

Other shows that I don't follow whenever they come out are Arrow, Elementary Hawaii Five-0 and the Good Wife.

Oh and Psych just came back on, love that and still waiting for Suits and The Americans to come back on :smile:

Wow - that's a lot of American TV.

I spent the entire Christmas holidays watching all of Maison Ikkoku and Steins;Gate but now I'm beat :redface:. I started watching the Canadian Sci-Fi fantasy Lost Girl but I thought it was nauseatingly melodramatic - I stopped watching it by the start of season 2. I might have to retreat back to old British sit-coms.
Reply 19
Original post by Iamyourfather
Wow - that's a lot of American TV.

I spent the entire Christmas holidays watching all of Maison Ikkoku and Steins;Gate but now I'm beat :redface:. I started watching the Canadian Sci-Fi fantasy Lost Girl but I thought it was nauseatingly melodramatic - I stopped watching it by the start of season 2. I might have to retreat back to old British sit-coms.


Have you seen Ambassadors with Mitchell & Webb? I found that hilarious. Only 3 episodes though.

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