1. “Succession” (HBO)
For four riveting seasons, we’ve eagerly awaited the moment when one of “Succession”‘s conniving, manipulative, and occasionally sympathetic Roy siblings would wrest control from their domineering father, Logan (portrayed by Brian Cox). Yet, creator Jesse Armstrong would commence the show’s final chapter with a twist so ingeniously unexpected: In just four episodes, Logan seemingly passes away offscreen while aboard a plane, leaving the rest of the family scrambling to determine his fate.
This maneuver is exasperating for viewers, yet quintessentially “Succession,” a series renowned for its moral and thematic ambiguity.
Are the Roys irredeemably corrupt symbols of capitalism’s most deplorable excesses? Are they wounded souls, forever ensnared in their father’s ominous shadow regardless of their efforts to break free? The truth lies somewhere between these extremes and beyond, all encapsulated within Armstrong’s impeccably crafted, tragicomic dialogue. Thus, it’s fitting that the show denies any of these fractured individuals the ultimate prize—the very thing they would sacrifice everything for, be it marriages or the pillars of democracy itself.
2. “Reservation Dogs” (FX)
Grieving is a universal experience, but “Reservation Dogs” ingeniously explores the myriad ways in which individuals navigate loss and mourning. Sterlin Harjo’s brilliantly crafted series follows four Indigenous teenage friends across three seasons as they confront the harsh realities of life and death. Initially grappling with the aftermath of a friend’s suicide, Elora (Devery Jacobs), Bear (D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai), Willie Jack (Paulina Alexis), and Cheese (Lane Factor) embark on a journey filled with both uproarious comedy and poignant moments of reckoning.
As the seasons progress, we witness their evolution. In its final installment, “Reservation Dogs” presents an alternative narrative to pervasive suffering. The series culminates in a poignant depiction of a ‘good death’—the culmination of a life well-lived, mourned openly within the embrace of community. The younger generation, having gleaned valuable insights from their experiences, leads the way, demonstrating the importance of bidding farewell with grace and dignity. This narrative serves as a powerful testament to the essence of what truly matters.
Moreover, “Reservation Dogs” amplifies Indigenous voices often overlooked in mainstream Hollywood narratives. By authentically portraying Indigenous communities with clarity, self-awareness, and humor, the series challenges preconceived notions and offers a refreshing perspective on storytelling.
3. “The Last of Us” (HBO)
In the midst of a waning interest in zombie-themed media throughout the 2020s, the announcement of a television adaptation of the popular video game “The Last of Us” raised eyebrows. Despite initial skepticism from fans, the premiere of the show proved that the source material was in capable hands. What sets this adaptation apart is its refusal to be confined by genre conventions; instead, it subverts clichés and delves into the deeply human elements of a world torn asunder.
The third episode serves as a prime example of this approach, diverging from the action-packed pace of its predecessors to shine a spotlight on Bill (Nick Offerman) and Frank (Murray Bartlett), peripheral characters who are not directly tied to the central narrative. It’s here that the show’s true focus becomes apparent: exploring the significance of forging connections in a world where human bonds can be both a source of solace and a potential downfall. With talents ranging from newcomer Lamar Johnson to seasoned veterans like Melanie Lynskey, each actor graces the screen with poignant performances, delivering gut-wrenching monologues that leave audiences eagerly anticipating the show’s forthcoming second season.
4. The Last Of Us (2023)
The Last of Us” stands as a masterclass in storytelling and emotional resonance, transcending its status as a mere video game to become a seminal work of art. Developed by Naughty Dog and released in 2013, this survival horror masterpiece takes players on an unforgettable journey through a post-apocalyptic America ravaged by a deadly fungal infection that has transformed much of the population into ravenous, cannibalistic creatures known as the Infected.
At its heart, “The Last of Us” is a deeply human story. Players assume the role of Joel, a hardened survivor grappling with profound loss and trauma, who is tasked with escorting Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to humanity’s salvation, across the treacherous landscape. What unfolds is a poignant tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope amidst despair.
From its breathtakingly atmospheric environments to its meticulously crafted characters, every aspect of “The Last of Us” is imbued with an unparalleled level of detail and authenticity. The game’s narrative is expertly woven, seamlessly blending moments of heart-pounding action with quiet, introspective interludes that allow players to fully immerse themselves in the lives of its protagonists. The bond that forms between Joel and Ellie feels achingly real, their relationship evolving organically as they navigate the dangers of their world together.
Visually stunning and sonically haunting, “The Last of Us” boasts some of the most breathtaking graphics and immersive sound design ever seen in a video game. Every dilapidated building, overgrown street, and shadowy corner is rendered with painstaking realism, while the haunting score by composer Gustavo Santaolalla sets the perfect tone for the game’s somber, melancholic atmosphere.
However, what truly sets “The Last of Us” apart is its unflinching exploration of complex moral and ethical dilemmas. As players progress through the game, they are forced to confront difficult choices that challenge their notions of right and wrong, forcing them to grapple with the consequences of their actions in a world where survival often comes at a steep price.
In conclusion, “The Last of Us” is nothing short of a triumph of interactive storytelling. With its gripping narrative, immersive gameplay, and emotional depth, it has rightfully earned its place as one of the greatest video games of all time. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, “The Last of Us” is an experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll, a testament to the enduring power of art to move and inspire.
5. The Bear
Picture a sumptuous dish before you, brimming with a symphony of textures—crunchy, creamy, crispy, chewy—each bite a revelation of perfectly balanced flavors: tartness, sweetness, spiciness, umami, bitterness. With each mouthful, you embark on a culinary journey, discovering a new world of taste sensations that leave you both satisfied and enriched.
In much the same way, “The Bear” achieves a similar culinary feat. Its second season centers around Carmy Berzatto (played by Jeremy Allen White) as he finally realizes his dream of opening a restaurant with his late brother Mikey (portrayed by Jon Bernthal). Creator Christopher Storer expertly seasons the ten episodes: tartness in the form of generational trauma, brought to life by a poignant performance from Jamie Lee Curtis as the troubled Berzatto matriarch and Bob Odenkirk as her irksome boyfriend; sweetness and spice in Carmy’s blossoming romance with ER doctor Claire (charmingly portrayed by Molly Gordon); the compelling Ayo Edebiri as Sydney, wrestling with bitterness as she embarks on her last shot at running a kitchen; and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, with a delightful cameo by Olivia Colman, infusing the narrative with the warmth of umami, as Richie discovers that hospitality is his path to success and self-respect.
The soundtrack is a marvel: Tangerine Dream evokes Michael Mann-inspired nostalgia, Pearl Jam and Animal provide weight, Wilco captures both joy and sorrow, and David Byrne’s music resonates with longing. (I could easily fill another thousand words discussing the show’s homage to Chicago-area restaurants and their delectable offerings.) By keeping most episodes to a concise 30 minutes, Storer tantalizingly leaves us wanting more, eagerly anticipating the feast that will be season three.