I’m sure some of you might be thinking, this blog is called Guy Movies, why on earth is he writing about TV shows that we should be watching?
But during lockdown, I’ve decided to change things up over the last couple of weeks and have basically spent my whole evenings and weekends binge-watching some fantastic TV series that are available on popular streaming services.
You may have watched some of these series, or this could be the first time you’ve encountered them; but I reassure you, they’re all worth your precious time.
Normal People – BBC iPlayer
(2020) – 12 Episodes – 23-32mins – All Available Now
Based on Sally Rooney’s 2018 best-selling novel of the same title, this 12-part BBC iPlayer series only dropped on 26 April (that’s Sunday for anyone who’s lost track of the days), but I’ve already finished it.
Connell (Paul Mescal) is shy and a secret bookworm, but due to his athletic ability and good looks, he finds himself as the most popular kid at school, while Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones) is a highly intelligent outspoken loner who lives an unaffectionate family life.
Taking place during their final year of school in Sligo, before they both head to Trinity College in Dublin, the two agree to see to each other’s sexual needs, but Connell doesn’t want anyone to find out that he’s meeting Marianne, and swears her to secrecy.
Modern, relatable and heart-breaking, this series also boasts a fantastic soundtrack and is gaining rave reviews from everyone who’s seen it, with the novel now currently sold out on Amazon.
Gangs of London – Sky Atlantic/ Sky Box Sets
(2020) – Nine Episodes – 53-93mins – All Available Now
Set in present day London, this Sky Atlantic crime-action-drama is gaining rave reviews on social media from viewers and is set to gain a lot of momentum over the coming weeks.
After London’s most powerful crime family is assassinated, the city is then torn apart by international gangs trying to take power of the capital.
Gangs of London may not boast an A-list cast, but certainly has some recognisable faces in Joe Cole (Peaky Blinders, Black Mirror), Lucian Msamati (Game of Thrones, His Dark Materials) and Michelle Fairley (Game of Thrones, Suits).
This nine-part drama varies in episode length from 50 to 90 minutes, but most of us all have plenty of time on our hands, and be advised that some of these scenes aren’t for the faint-hearted!
The Bonfire of Destiny – Netflix
(2019) – Eight Episodes – 45-59mins – All Available Now
Now, something very different; a French period drama. Turn off the English dubbing, put the subtitles on and enjoy one of the best pieces of television I have ever seen.
The Bonfire of Destiny or Le Bazar de la Charité, is a fictionalised account of the aftermath from the 1897 Charity Bazaar that killed around 125 people, most of whom were aristocratic women.
Focusing on three women, from three different backgrounds in society, the drama explores deception, identity theft and betrayal in 19th century Paris, but despite that it’s set over 120 years ago the characters feel relatable.
Some may read the plot and find it boring, but I urge you to watch this eight-part series that’s full of twists and turns, coupled with some breath-taking acting, edge of your seat storylines and some heart-breaking scenes.
The Nest – BBC iPlayer
(2020) – Five Episodes – 56-59mins – All Available Now
Another hit drama that is available on BBC, The Nest is a five-part series that follows a wealthy couple who essentially pay a troubled 18-year-old, Kaya, to become their surrogate mother.
However, it turns out that Kaya (the superb Mirren Mack) has quite an interesting past that the soon-to-be Dad, and well-known businessman, Dan Docherty (Martin Compston) is hoping to keep quiet.
The series is gripping and well-written, and there’s also a throwback for all Harry Potter fans as The Nest’s cast also includes Katie Leung and the terrifying Shirley Henderson who played Cho Change and Moaning Myrtle respectively in the films.
The Mandalorian – Disney+
(2019) – Ten Episodes – 31-46mins - 7/8 episodes available, last episode available May 1
As the Americans were treated to Disney+ as early as November, us Brits spent many months staring at memes and waiting patiently for The Mandalorian to be released over here.
A eight-part series, with the final episode dropping on Friday (1 May), The Mandalorian is set between Return of the Jedi (Episode VI) and The Force Awakens (Episode VII), and follows a Bounty Hunter who is sent to capture “the child”, that turns out to be Baby Yoda.
The Bounty Hunter grows a fondness to Baby Yoda, and rather than sending him to be killed, tries his best to protect the child.
Each episode reportedly cost around $15million to make (the same as each episode in the final season of Game of Thrones) and was mainly written by Jon Favreua (director of the most recent The Jungle Book and The Lion King, also Happy in the MCU). This series has become a worldwide hit and the second series is already well on its way.
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