Cross
While Cross follows similar formulas of police thriller dramas, it finds a way to feel new with exceptional performances from Aldis Hodge and Ryan Eggold. Some dialogue choices come off as corny, but it does not deter from a suspense-driven show that draws you in with the horror of a creative serial killer and an obsessive detective. The first two episodes can be harder to get through than most, but from then on, it is high gear full of risk and shifting power dynamics. It would have worked better without the stalker plot, but the rest makes up for it.
Dune: Prophecy
Dune: Prophecy delivers a lore-driven series filled with drama, twist and deaths that has the grandeur of Villeneuve’s masterpiece but serves as a great companion. Sometimes the tone can feel different from the movie but that is fine given the setting, yet it still feels very cemented in Herbert’s world. Movie and book fans will enjoy this look into the Bene Gesserit and a look into some interesting characters driven by captivating performances.
The Pradeeps of Pittsburgh
The Pradeeps of Pittsburgh is full of tired stereotypes that are reminiscent of early 2000s comedies and not in a fun way that seems outdated in the modern age. Had this show released a decade or two earlier then it would have fitted better, but it lacks enjoyment even with a talented cast and hijinks in the plot, it doesn’t seem to combine well due to bad writing.
Sweetpea
There’s almost something ridiculous about the show that works great in combining the dark humour and the murderous nature of the show. Main character Rhiannon can keep the series fresh with her reckless actions and balances the self-titled vigilante and victim well to justify her crimes and fix her mistakes. It is a revenge fantasy coming to life but full of grounded characters in heightened situations that make for a fun and interesting series that focuses on character.
Nobody Wants This
Chemistry is key in the romantic drama "Nobody Wants This." Bell and Brody's believable chemistry helps build up Joanne and Noah's relationship, with Brody bringing a calm and endearing quality to Noah. Despite shorter episodes, the story focusses on their romantic relationship, with subplots enhancing their dynamic. The predictable pattern in the episodes can be frustrating, but supporting characters like Morgan and Sasha steal the show, adding depth to the series. The exploration of religion and culture falls short, lacking depth in Joanne's character.
Daryl Dixon - The Book of Carol
Bringing Carol into the show creates more depth andis able to create fear that the first season lacked. It is a stronger show with Carol and showcases the trauma of her grief and actions. Daryl continues to be the narratively weaker aspect of the story but the inclusion of new and interesting Walkers and humanities reactions to old and new Walkers keeps the show interesting. New characters like Ash bring more to the series as it starts to grow into an ensemble and look at the impact of trauma and grief in all characters.
Agatha All Along
Agatha All Along is a perfect mix of spooky, funny and mysterious that crafts a perfect blend while making moments of horror. The ensemble cast and characters work well together and while Agatha is the star, the mystery surrounding Teen adds more to the story. Each episode follows a signature style when in the Witches’ Road that quickly changes with the aesthetic and genre of the trial. It keeps everything fresh, creative and fun and will easily be a fan favourite from that and the cast.
The Penguin
The Penguin is a masterclass in balancing sympathetic and malicious characters. The story's complexity distinguishes it from similar shows, as it avoids mob stereotypes and presents intricate archetypes. The Penguin adds a new dimension to Gotham, emphasising corruption as an important aspect of the city's character. Despite lacking the necessary cinematic budget, Farrell and Milioti's performances make The Penguin a pleasure to watch.
High Potential
High Potential offers viewers an enjoyable crime drama that doesn’t focus on the bleakness of the crimes that Morgan and Karadec solve. Instead, it showcases how Morgan is an integral part of the team. High Potential proves to be a clever, witty show that has a perfect ensemble. The new crime a week has been a common formula for most detective-based shows, but High Potential really does bring a fresh take to it with Kaitlin Olsen bringing the right amount of chaotic, carefree energy.
Kaos: Review
An entertaining, dark but comedic and grounded series that takes on Greek Myths and updates them for a modern setting while keeping them grounded to make the show fun and feel epic. If you know the myths and characters, there are still new takes built into the story that weaves together with care. Goldblum is a selling point of a series and is fantastic as the malicious but funny Zeus, yet it is the three humans and Dionysus that steal the series. Netflix should continue this story as there is more to tell and many more myths to look forward to with Kaos’ immersive world and shocking moments.