Here we are in 2020! What a crazy number, huh? This piece signifies, not only the coming of a new year, but an intro to a new decade (your accusations of ‘romanticism may just be right as you). As we enter this year, as we entered last year, and as we did every year before that: in natural uncertainty, topped with variable mixtures of hope, fear, and excitement for what lies ahead of us. Many thoughts fill our minds, whether they are ambitions, curiosities, and just plain ponderings; things like what will transpire with the in the continued advocation, prevention, and fight against climate change, or a helplessly dangling hope that no further destructive absurdity might make itself heard from The White House in remaining year of Mr Trump’s presidency.

Last year, we were all granted and refused and surprised with many of our predictions held for the future, as diversity in the workplace, in politics, and on screen has never before been so prevalent and celebrated. Influential figures including Greta Thunberg, Michelle Obama, BTS, and Baby Yoda (yes, correct) graced us, alerting our times to flaws of modern society through their works and words, bestowing such beauty and mastery of their art (Time 100).

As well as being a decade filled its share of discoveries, tragedies, and landmarks in technology, culture, politics, and science, the 2010s were also an explosive year for TV, as it rose to a grand range of topics, and new heights of storytelling. Netflix sparked the  competition we see today among services to better their content in the 'streaming wars’ (a little more about that in one of my reviews here). In this newfound empire, viewers were given more choices than they could ever have imagined, and a new outlet was made open to established and upcoming filmmakers of all different backgrounds, races, and genders. Powerhouse shows rose to the forefront of battle, in series like Veep, Game of Thrones, Orange is the New Black, and Adventure Time; icons of pop culture and art. 2019 was the culmination of ten years of episodic histories as they came to dramatic closes, and the conception of even characters and worlds to accompany us.

Now, dancing to a more casual beat, this leads me present this special piece I have prepared for you all today. We will be covering some of the best TV shows of 2019 here, in delightful, hopefully insightful, bite-sized fashion. If the absence of any show on this list catches your attention, it tell you it is simply the labored product of editing, small sprinkles of contempt, plain exhaustion, and the reality that there are too many shows in the US alone for one person to keep up with (as a result, I missed some of the great shows you might see showcased other articles) . That’s just facts.

This year, I actually spent some time ranking these fabulous entries from good, to outstanding, which, in and of itself, might have been harder than writing the actual reviews. Anyway, I’m excited to show this collection I’ve slaved over. Requiring no further patience, lets look at some of the best shows of 2019, shall we?

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The Episodic Catch:

10. GLOW • Season 3

Best Episode: Outward Bound (Episode 6)

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Pushing through in this strong third season, this series follows an oddball band of actresses and producers in LA of the 80s, as they strive to bring the risky and unique idea of female wrestling to the screens of people’s homes and hearts, with their colorful and delightfully cheesy production, The Glorious Ladies of Wrestling. Eventually striking success through their hardy labors, Sam Sylvia and Bash Howard (Marc Maron and Chris Lowell) direct the girl warriors, along with help from dedicated wrestler Ruth Wilder (Betty Gilpin), as they continue developing the show, getting in shape, and and perfecting their routines to be the best possible version of their show. They are are excited, though not quite braced, when the grand offer to be a header act at a Las Vegas casino comes in. In this big move, the whole group tries to maintain the quality and heart of their show, while still carving out time time to make fair use of the surrounding “amenities”. With more money, more sex, and more fun comes more responsibility of course, as this change will prove to be a big test to everyone involved. This drives the nostalgic and heartfelt saga of these women, as they continue to brave sexism, motherhood, sexual harassment, discipline, and friendship.

Showrunners Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch guide this comedy/drama smoothly, as they bring smiles to our faces and tears to eyes with each episode, really immersing us in the lives, hardships, and motivations of each sizzling character, healthily inching away from the sole glamour of the spotlight. I always love being brought back to the 80s through film/TV, with shows like this (and Stranger Things) that give fascinating spins and portrayals of this time with all around crazier reign (basically an existence with shoulder pads, drugs, without an iPhone. Better times). The cast is so spread out, and function so well together that make for a real comedic highlight of the show. Season 4 of the Netlfix original is set to premiere sometime in the late summer (quick note, I’m really impressed with the volume of episodes that have been released annually since 2017). Anyway, this serves as a great addition to modern pop culture, and lovely watch if you’re in the mood to binge the day away.

GLOW Season 4 is currently streaming on Netflix.

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Debbie Eagan (Betty Gilpit)he tried relationship of friends and fellow athleta

9. Silicon Valley • Season 6

Best Episode: Exit Event (Episode 7)

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This unique gem of TV, from comedy writing genius Alec Berg (Barry, Seinfeld), is being brought to a final close, as we continue to follow the tumultuous journey of groundbreaking data compression company, Pied Piper, as its founder and CEO Richard Hendrix finally has a chance to give the average consumer something game changing: “a new internet” (a new creation that, unlike Google or Facebook, gives the user full control of his privacy in digital life. But as always, with the noise Hendrix and his his trusted team of weird, sarcastic, but dedicated coders (played by Kumail Nanjiani, Martin Starr, Zach Woods, and Amanda Crew) generate in the Valley, they grab the passionate souls of many, create a few enemies along the way, as every victory they receive seems to be followed by three times its fair weight in daily dilemmas. With the fight for this complex, but pure vision in the cutthroat landscape of Silicon Valley, former CEO of shriveled tech giant Hooli, Gavin Belson (Matt Ross) continues his dirty scheming, in greater influence with his foul play of moral ethics, and the press, to sabotage any spot of success that shines its face on the rightfully paranoid Hendrix. 

I have loved watching this show. It certainly has seen better seasons, but this finale, amidst the swift growth and improved problem solving of Pied Piper, deals with the idea of: “just how big is too big?”. The writing in this show is absolutely hilarious, and, equally as fascinating, immerses the audience in a faithful view of how innovation, money, talent, and power all interlink with each other, and as well as being able to bring good, can create a true relentless monster in this strange hierarchy. I’m not a coder, but the delicate writing explains everything, and lets me think that I am just for a precious moment. I will miss this show, but I am satisfied in knowing that this is where the journey of this persistent company naturally ends. No more, no less on the subject.

Silicon Valley is currently streaming on HBO.

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8. Love, Death, and Robots

Best Episode: Zima Blue

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I could not have asked for something more thrilling, diverse, and/or beautiful this year than this visual treasure of a series. Much like the Twilight Zone-esque anthology show Black Mirror, this series comes with 18 different stories, all of which couldn’t be more different from each other. The obvious contrasts between each 6-19 minute short story are so very exciting, and are greatly relatable to the feeling one may experience when opening row of red, green, and gold-wrapped Christmas presents. 

Offered in these tales are varied themes of redemption, tragedy, comedy, or action, all of which seem to execute their genre at their very peak levels (for the most part. With 18 chapters, you’re bound to have a few that fall flat). And alongside these aforementioned divergences, is an array of beautiful animation styles that readily reflect these distinctions. 2D, 3D, motion-capture, and mixtures of these animation forms are represented throughout, and make the perfect showcase of artistic exposure and inspiration for any creative mind. Different studios and artists are able to represent their visions and stories (all of which are products of lengthy and strenuous teamwork) in this new show (like a digital Netflix gallery of sorts); and for that, I am very glad. 

But be wary if your mindset hovers over thoughts like, “Oh, animation...Couldn’t be that bad”. Because I can tell you now, some of the visuals shown in these films top my list for the incredibly graphic and explicit. So if the kids are lingering about, save for it another time. But with ‘Volume 2’ of this animated curation currently underway, this show definitely proves itself among the best of the best in this year’s slate of TV ___, and was just an unexpected delight. Kind of like when I meteorite just hits you on the head for no reason. You know?

Love, Death, and Robots currently streaming on Netflix.

All chapters premiered at SXSW this year 

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7. Good Omens 

Best Episode: In the Beginning (Episode 1)

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In this offbeat adventure adapted from the original book by Neil Gaman and Terry Pratchett, we are entangled in the forces of good and evil as we follow odd pair, Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and Crowley (David Tennant). An angel and a demon, friendship between the two entities is forbidden, but nevertheless a bond has formed between the two that has lasted since the beginning of time itself. But in recent years, tensions between heaven and hell have risen greatly, as Satan has created a son, the anti-christ, who is prophesied to bring a final reckoning to the holiest of holies. The antichrist will bring upon the world the long foretold world-ending Armageddon. So in a hurried attempt to save the world they have so grown to love, Aziraphale and Crowley set out on a quest to stop the end times, encountering along the way everything from witch finders to necromancers, the British lot a Stranger Things kids, to even the dreaded Four Horsemen. The End is Nigh…

Neil Gaman has such a distinct style of storytelling, that can be so tongue-in-cheek and is so whimsical, all while still perfectly managing to instill and deliver very interesting morals and themes. Good Omens is so delightfully written, giving memorable lines; and with the British touch, no less (a favorite dialect of mine).

Despite stirring great controversy among Christian groups for its lighter, more irreverent portrayal of Satanism, the very definitions of "good and evil” diluted, that familiarity and lack of distinction between the otherwise black and white is pretty fun ride. Both the sides of heaven and hell are mocked for the stupidity and arrogance shown among the highest, and lowest of ranks, so neither really comes out the smarter, or more informed. Anyway, though the story does kind of gloss over a few things I would’ve liked further explored, it gets away with (most) all in its weirdness and fresh sense of unwinding play.

Good Omens is currently streaming on Amazon Prime. 

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6. A Series of Unfortunate Events • Season 3

Best Episode: The End (Episode 7)

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2 years ago, I discovered this wonderful show on Netflix, the likes of which I had only seen briefly surrounding the 2004 film adaption of the novel book series by Lemony Snicket (aka Daniel Handler). 

The story follows the nifty Baudelaire Orphans, Violet (Malina Weissman), Klaus (Louis Hynes), and Sunny (Presley Smith), as they continue to evade the greedy and cruel clutches of their closest living relative by a hair's length; the under talented and the over-dramatic Count Olaf (played by Neil Patrick Harris). Heirs to an enormous fortune, the children make for a perfect target for quick wealth in the eyes of the eccentric thespian-wannabe. No matter how far The Baudelaires run, or how different they make themselves to look, The Count and his bumbling theatre troupe always manage somehow to catch up to them, and in full costume too. Their most recent escapade, however, nears a critical point as their search for the lost headquarters of a secret organization linked to the disappearance of their parents, V.F.D, is being swiftly sabotaged by their clumsy enemies. And so, in one last effort to rid themselves of Olaf, and the dangerous enemies they’ve collected along the way, the orphaned trio attempt to avenge, and rescue, their fallen friends, before anything atrocities befall them all.

I have loved watching this series with my family, and find it a little sad that its now ending. The production design in this show was delightful. There was always something fun to look at, whether it was a submarine with a fine library, a random sailor man costume, or a beautiful green-themed hotel. 

The story follows, as obviously stated, a series of unfortunate events. So our reaction to the unfailing of this story should technically be anything but surprised. Can’t be helped in some strange way though. In this last season, we are able to further understand the motives, with stories, behind each villain (which is always interesting), thus no longer making this a ‘one-sided story'. I’m all happy and set to rewatch this show, so perhaps my next step should be to read the books. Definitely recommend.

A Series of Unfortunate Events is currently streaming on Netflix.

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5. The Mandalorian 

Best Episode: Chapter 1

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The huge arrival of the Disney’s new streaming platform last month, Disney+, caused a lot discussion of what limits can be expanded in the name of the (very) profitable business, and the general consumer. The game changing venture from the House of Mouse has marked a new age in what has been an already tumultuous era in the war among streamers. And at the forefront of original content this new service has to offer, Star Wars spinoff series, The Mandalorian, is something that has everyone talking, and meme-ing away. So let’s get to it quickly, shall we?

The story begins with a mysterious introduction to a nameless Mandalorian bounty hunter (played by Pedro Pascal), who proceeds to establish himself to everyone as somebody who is not to be trifled with. After working more mediocre jobs that he can bear, the mercenary finds himself in search of more rewarding work from the Bounty Hunter’s Guild. Finally, from his contact Greef Carga (Carl Weathers), he is given an fitting offer: apprehend a special target, in turn for a very handsome prize. Our character travels to the far reaches of the Outer Rim, encountering everything from savage natives and wildlife, to rival hunters who crave the very same reward with greater determination, but less prowess than our masked protagonist. So, in a gripping, blaster-filled struggle to reach his objective, he reigns successful (a worthy show of his told skill). But what he discovers is something, someone, both hi past and future in ways he’d never have thought.

(Apologies if this went right over anyone’s head— my no spoiler policy in action). This is a work that aims to please even the most anti-compatible with the force (I said it tries). For many years there have been shows that take place in the galaxy far, far away for many years now (a personal favorite being The Clone Wars), but this new series from director Jon Favreau builds a new, significant bridge between the cousin realms film and TV, as it showcases movie-quality set and costume design, never before seen worlds and characters, and riveting action that contends with the best action from the big screen. It totally opens up a whole world of opportunity, to explore this fantastical universe in episodic storytelling. Anyway, if you couldn’t already tell, I’m super excited for this show (we'll see how the rest of thew series plays out, with Season 2 already underway), and I guess the last thing to say is…may the force be with you.

Read my full review of The Mandalorian here, which is currently streaming on Disney+.

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4. When They See Us

Best Episode: Part Four

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Acclaimed director Ava DuVernay (Selma, The 13th) returns with this jarring episodic adaption of the infamous Central Park Jogger case of 1989, where in which 5 teens were falsely arrested and convicted for the brutal rape of a nearby night runner, Trisha Meili. An astounding 30 years after these inconceivable events, we travel back in time to meet The Five, as they are suddenly snatched away from their happy families and lives to face trial for crimes they did not commit. Ultimately condemned to serve time at the hands of sloppy New York prosecutor, Linda Fairstein (Felicity Hoffman), we watch in appall as each adolescent makes his own way into lockup, to await any chance of parole for good behavior, or even better, exoneration. Though things are worst for the oldest of the detainees, 16-year old Korey Wise (played by Jharrel Jerome), as he is sent directly to adult prison, rather than traditional juvie. As a dark and painful part of history, we soak this story, that is all the more relevant to our current society in more ways than one. We watch with great hope, and fierce outrage at the injustice shown to these innocent boys in a chilling portrayal of prison life, and the mental, physical, and emotional effects that entail this doomed verdict.

One of the many sad, but important parts of history, I believe this account is and event everyone learn about, and learn even more from (reform needed in prison and legal systems). This is an account of which I had no previous knowledge; myself along with, I have to believe, many other Gen Z’rs. Shocking, prison life is.

The powerful acting in this series gives viewers a healthy, but incomplete (in the best context) glimpse of the traumas sustained to these boys behind bars, as well as the immense helplessness felt by their families (heartbreaking and really surreal). Expanding to life after incarceration, it is staggering the number of consequences the label of ‘felon/rapist’ have on all walks of life (professionally, casually, etc.). 

For his gripping performance of young Korey Wise, Jerome won a well deserved Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series (after appearing in the Oscar-winning Moonlight. The period design of the late 80s showcased throughout was gorgeous, and gave me a nice, authentic taste of the decade I always dreamed of visiting (now a little more cautiously, I'd say). DuVernay adapts this story to the finest of her cinematic talents, with an honest delicacy that summons a sense of justice to this victims of damned latency, and manages to echo a certain resonance; potent narrative that hits us harder than ever in our bumbling climate of modern society. 

When They See Us is currently streaming on Netflix.

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3. Chernobyl 

Best Episode: Please Remain Calm (Episode 2)

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This chilling drama miniseries, explores the devastating events following the Chernobyl nuclear power plant explosion of 1986, largely considered one the largest man-made disasters in history. Rather than wait for several episodes in wait of the cataclysm, we start right in muck of things at the recently destroyed nuclear facility. The freak accident quickly begins to emit a very dangerous level of radiation into the surrounding areas, skies, and poses a fatal risk to the citizens. In hurried response to "incident", the Soviet government decides to cut off the town of Chernobyl from the rest of the world, rather than let word spread out and cause a panic. Appointed to visit and analyze the infected zone are high ranking politician Boris Scherbina (Stellan Skarsgård) and nuclear chemist Valery Legasov (played by Jared Harris). Amidst the constant political desire to sugar coat the incident, we are right along side these brave characters as they formulate reasons for why the core blew up in the first place (which was previously thought impossible), and, more importantly, find solutions to what could be an absolute, irreversible injury to the world.

It’s incredibly hard to comprehend the sheer scale and effect radiation has on every element. And, similar to the manner in which vast technological concepts are explained to us in Silicon Valley, writer and creator Craig Mazin (screenwriter, and co-host of the podcast Scriptnotes) perfectly, throughly, and simply conveys the ideas realties of ingredients that work on an atomic level. Being part of a younger generation, I had no previous knowledge of this horrific tragedy. And though I expect, and know, a few artistic liberties were taken with story, I am glad to have been introduced in this striking and eerie way. Thanks Craig!

Chernobyl is currently streaming on HBO.

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2. Fleabag • Season 2

Best Episode: Episode 1

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Breakout writer/actress Phoebe Waller Bridge returns as the incredibly naughty and dreadfully charming character known only to the audience as ‘Fleabag’, in this delightfully worthy followup. She is chummier, wittier, and more British than ever with her viewers, despite the fact that she has given up her reputative life of voracious sex. Relations with her sister Claire and her father (played by Sian Clifford and Bill Paterson) hang strongly, but by a fine set of threads, as a big fight has placed the group in a still supportive, but awkward state.

Her life is on a better path now, her cafe business runs sturdily, but she still searches for new meaning past mere tomfoolery or sexual attention, as the tragic death of her closest friend Boo (Jenny Rainsford) still gloomily hangs . While on this road to gaining inner peace, she meets ways with a middle aged bachelor of the Lord given the sole nickname of “The Hot Priest”. Sworn to celibacy, the dashing, foul-mouthed cleric is different from anyone, or anything, Fleabag has encountered in the past. This opportunity might prove tempting. And so begins the more “behaved" journey of Waller-Bridge’s hilarious character as she navigates the leading of a healthy, wealthy, and wise life, muttering to us, her invisible mateys, all the way up.

I love the idea of this show. At first glance, the concept might seem simple enough. But, in a manner comparable to few others, Waller-Bridge brings a unique style of writing, comedy, and real life perspective to the table, that simultaneously builds, stimulates, and shatters the tradition of narrative with frequent fractures of the fourth wall and a masterful sense self-awareness.

This is a brilliant show that empowers women, and men alike by, rather than proclaiming accomplishments of great status, showing the small and relatable victories one individual strives to achieve in the face of a despicable lifestyle (of which we have all known at least 3 times in our life). (Again, not enough time int his article, but) Such wonderful acting and casting to match script's dry wit, and despite statements from ‘Fleabag’ herself of character’s course being run to its limit, the fact that they let this sarcastic sweetheart lead the show to a natural ending. Go watch this.

Fleabag Season 2 is currently streaming on Prime Video.

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1. Barry • (Season 2)

Best Episode: ronny/lily (Episode 5) 

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In renewal of its second season after a critically acclaimed reception last year, we return this ever brilliant dark comedy/drama, where we continue to follow the captivating journey of hitman-turned-actor, Barry Block (Bill Hader). Our tragically comic character steadily strives to make a new life for himself with acting, and with his girlfriend , despite his disabling history of murdering others for the right money, and the great guilt that comes with that career choice. But the temporarily distracted police department, as well as the newly reorganized Chechen mob (now partners with their Bolivian criminal counterparts), don't stay out of Block’s life for long, as each inches a little closer to either apprehending or recruiting him for his killer skills; neither of which [Barry] wants contact with. And so continues the addictive story of a man trying to rewrite his life with his girlfriend Sally (played by Sarah Goldberg), in spite of past sins that just won’t stop grinding away.

It is nothing new from anyone to state the sheer entertaining and heartfelt caliber of this masterfully written series. This Emmy Award grabbing show, and a spectacular cast (including Henry Winkler, Stephen Root, and Anthony Carrigan) support the intimately ironic character study of Barry Block. Whether it's funny, heartbreaking, awkward, disturbing, or just incredibly tense, Season 2 of Barry delicately picks up the reigns of this potent story, and takes it to dark, murky depths that invigorate the formidable, but obscure, risks posed to our characters, on an equal, if not a better, level than given in season one. I tip a figurative hat to the writers, Alec Berg and Bill Hader, and to everyone else involved with this marvelous story! The show has been renewed for a Season 3, and slated to premiere in the early quarter of this year sometime. So, be on the eager lookout!

(Read my solo review of Season 1 of Barry here, currently streaming on HBO.

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The Honorable Mentions.

Black Mirror • Season 5

The Boys

I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson

Stranger Things • Season 3

Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee • Season 6

Umbrella Academy

Brooklyn 99 • Season 6

Euphoria

The Righteous Gemstones

Documentary Now • Season 4

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Conclusion.

So there we have it. A thrilling year for TV, don’t you think? Different from my piece last year, I invested much more time, minutes and hours stolen from school or reading, in the diverse stories coming on multiple sized screens (iPad, for me). I have much more of an appetite for episodic storytelling, as its potential can exceed that of the feature film format, where story arcs and engaging drama or action must all occur within the span of around 2 hours. Through several episodes though, you are able extend the journey of a character, and introduce, as well as immerse, the average person to this foreign (sometimes familiar) life on screen. Major investment, dedication, and emotion are easily created from the viewer; and all of this transpires within the comfort of your own home, let’s not forget.

Getting back on track, my point is in my amazement for the scale and levels of potential that TV industry has grown to. So much spans over the likes of charming services such as Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu, with new contestants Apple TV+ and Disney+ making big splashes in the virtual and economical batle. HBO has done a dapper job of laying out a whole slate of shows in recovery of its biggest money grabber, Games of Thrones. Other shows that will returning this year include Better Call Saul, The Walking Dead, and Curb Your Enthusiasm, while the pilot seasons of Avenue 5, Mythic Quest: Ravens Banquet, and an episodic adaption of the Bong Joon-ho’s 2013 film Snowpiercer are set to premiere, each adding a brick to the towering stacks we have acmes to (hopefully few will be memorable bricks. Not like one of those plain bricks. I simply don’t have the time for them).

Anyway, I should probably start tying things up. I’m very excited and curious as to what will happen in this new year. The 2020 Summer Olympics will be taking place in Tokyo for the first time in over 50 years, and the 2020 will be tied up in the definite discussion and debate of the Presidential Primary Elections, which will hopefully, and most definitely see the world wishing the rude orange a deserved and contented farewell. We’ll see if that impeachment actually goes anywhere, alongside numerous other allegations of corruption; things like that.

Also, make sure to ready up and cast your personal movie ballots, as the awards season is fast approaching (the 77th Golden Globes are on January 5th (this Sunday) at 7:00pm CST. Also check out the SAG Awards, as well as the 92nd Academy Awards, for kicks). In the sister review of this piece, A Guide to the Films of 2019. The End of an Era, at the end I include a tribute to this past, with a hopeful view of what then next ten years of the future holds in store.

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Thanks to everyone for, or for not, reading Luminary View this year. It has been an immensely meaningful creative outlet that I hope holds the same value in others’ hearts as it does in mine. And if that turns out not to be the case, then I’ll just keep thrusting away through this year. I’m hopeful, and content-esque. Hold your head high walking into 2020 (not in a prideful way). You may not be braced for the certain changes, good or bad, but you’ll know you have me to wish you well, not just on the holidays (is this the type of relationship I’m wanting to cultivate with the reader? Think, think, think.)

So, until my next tardily-fashioned review, keep watching films, reading books, gazing at art, and doing whatever diets your doing (hope they’re actually working). Cheers!

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