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As the holidays approach, many people will be spending time with their loved ones. However, many will be looking to escape their loved ones, and find some respite in the form of a small-screen binge. So, without further ado, here are the 5 best new shows to binge over your holiday break:
5: The Good Place
The Good Place is a comedy that revolves around a case of mistaken identity: Eleanor Shellstrop is welcomed into the good place, the place where only the best of the best go after their time on Earth has come to an end, only Eleanor is not the best of the best; someone made a huge mistake. The comedy explores what a theoretical afterlife could be like, without singling in on a single religion, but rather a non-denominational paradise. The Good Place is hailed by critics as one of the most original of this fall’s new broadcast comedies.
4: No Tomorrow
No Tomorrow is a quirky rom-com that is centered around a shy, risk-averse Evie Covington who meets the free-spirited Xavier Holiday in the midst of a romantic crisis. What sets it apart from the average TV rom-com is Xavier’s theory that the world is going to end, and his mission tolive every day to the fullest. Together, they both learn to open themselves up to new experiences, while falling in love.
3. This is Us
This is Us is a drama centered around 4 people who all share the same birthday, and how their lives are interconnected. Essentially, this show is Game of Thrones for regular people. But the world building in the first episode alone justifies the shows huge popularity. It is one of the few shows on television that is centered not on superheroes, or robots, but just people. The first episode alone feels special. Also, the plot twist at the end of the first episode will make the viewer need to continue watching.
2. Designated Survivor
Designated Survivor is a political thriller about Thomas Kirkman, a low level cabinet member who becomes the President of the United States after a terrorist attack kills most of the government during the State of the Union Address. This show is based off of the very real, of well-known concept of a designated survivor, and explores both the rebuilding of the government and the investigation into the terror attack that wiped out the government. The show sees Kiiefer Sutherland’s return to TV after 9 years of 24, which alone makes the show worth watching.
1. Westworld
Westworld is not only the best new show of the fall, but the best show of the year. Based off of the movie of the same name, it is essentially Jurassic Park, but with robots instead of dinosaurs. The theme park is a western theme experience where the wealthiest guests can come and take part in the adventures written by the people behind the scenes…or people who create their own. The show is so excellent because it makes the viewer care about the AI (Artificial Intelligence) characters just as much as the organic humans. It raises interesting questions about the future of technology and the human condition. 8 episodes in, the show has not slowed down and continues to be one of the best hours on television. With the budget it currently has, HBO is grooming the Game of Thrones’ successor, and this show deserves it. A flawless cast, stellar scripting, and an interesting plot make this show one not to be missed.