17 July,2018 07:03 PM IST | | mid-day online correspondent
Friends
Friends (comedy)
Friends changed the sitcom landscape when it released in the early 90's. It was one of the first ever shows that didn't have a conventional authority figure like a parent or a boss. It introduced a concept that revolved around the new gen X-ers. Something that was uniquely original to the youth of that time. The show had everything from unique catchphrases (Remember? 'How you doin') to funky hairstyles. But its claim to fame is the hilarious and freestyle form of comedy it projected. It was fun, entertaining, and most of all hysterical. What friends as a television show brought to the table that no one else had done before, was that each episode could be watched in isolation yet had long term story arcs. Friends airs on Comedy Central in India.
West World (Sci-fi)
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Westworld is not your regular science fiction show. What makes it unlike other shows in its genre, is the fact that it is a perfect blend of realism and fiction. It is not just a futile exercise in looking at technology from a moral perspective but something much more. It is detailed in its storytelling and its essence lies in the fact that it focuses on the interaction between humans and technology. Each character within the show has a particular character arc that is not easily disposable. Transformation of characters as the series progresses relies heavily on insight and research than just application of mindless technological jargons. This compelling sci-fi airs on Star World in India.
Game of Thrones (Fantasy)
Game of Thrones reimagined the fantasy genre with its widespread characters and an intriguing storyline. However GoT is not your regular fantasy show. It isn't just about sword fighting or dragons but it is so much more. It is primarily about Power, which remains one of the main motives that drive the storyline. Another reason to love this show, is its intelligent dialogue. Dialogue here are used not just to fill up scenes but to enhance them. The show is filled with wit and vision and is one most expensive television shows for good reason. Game of Thrones airs on Star World in India.
Breaking Bad (crime)
Breaking Bad is not a just your average crime fiction show. It delves deeper into its premise and has a lot of subtext. That means there's lot more going on in the scene that what meets the eye. The underlying dark humour is what makes it distinct from its counterparts. The violence too, is nuanced. It is not merely an attention seeking tactic rather a plea to viewers to reimagine death. The show by all means is refreshing in its conceptualisation. The crime is centred on a moral perspective which again is invigorating in its approach.
House (Medical)
House M.D is one of the first serious medical dramas to hit television screens and bring in something new and bold. It introduced humour and witty dialogue all centring around serious medical issues. As close to real medicine as possible (considering its fictional television) it was realistic and hard hitting. It turned medicine from a boring plot to something way more interesting for ordinary viewers.
Modern Family (Mockumentry)
The Modern Family basically brought the Mockumentary form of storytelling in the limelight. The breaking of the fourth wall is unique but this show does not just do that. Unlike other faux documentary styles the show never reveals who the people are talking to, which adds a surprise element to format. The documentary format is of course a style statement but there is no denying that it is what makes it different from a host of other generic sitcoms. Modern Family airs on Star World in India.
Gossip Girl (Teen Drama)
Gossip Girl heralded a new era of pop culture awareness. It was all about the glamorous parties, the designer clothes and the epic romances. It was much more than a regular teen drama, it had something other shows did not have at that point. Aspirational value. It gave us major goals (and chuck bass) and was complimented with twists that no one could predict. It catered perfectly to teenage and young adult audiences with the perfect mix of drama and backstabbing. Gossip Girl is available on Netflix in India.
Stranger Things (Horror)
Stranger Things brought in a new side to the horror fiction. This show puts a unique spin to horror. There is no dearth of humour and they beautifully balance both horror and elements of human failing and behaviour. It is not completely based on the supernatural and that is what makes it exceptional. It isn't also doesn't use its scare tactics frivoulsly, yet still manages to seep in the horror. Stranger Things is available on Netflix in India.
Sherlock (Thriller)
Sherlock helped reinvent the idea of a thriller. Unlike other thrillers that were too archaic in their formats, Sherlock brings camaraderie, wit, humour all together besides being highly compelling. Sherlock is the ultimate thriller because you never know what is coming. A modern spin to an age old idea is what makes this a beautiful series to watch. Sherlock airs on AXN in India.
Desperate Housewives (Drama)
Desperate Housewives is a drama that has literally everything within its spectrum. It has suspense, the melodrama of a soap, and is highly relatable, which is what makes this show well defined and interesting. The episodic drama is enthralling for the simple reason that it battles dangerous murders in a suburban setting to capture audience's attention throughout the series. The drama goes beyond just a whodunit and is masterful in its storyline.
Shows that broke genres is what we need to watch. Something that goes beyond the ordinary and offers creativity and a break from traditional formats. These shows redefined their respective genres and stood out.
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