TV Fans Crown the Most Unmissable Shows of All Time, Surpassing Cinema
In today's era of endless streaming options, keeping up with every new TV release can feel overwhelming. To help narrow down the essentials, Metro readers have shared their picks for series that are absolutely unmissable and must be watched at least once in a lifetime. Their selections span genres and decades, offering a curated list of stellar shows that stand out as more impressive than cinema.
Band of Brothers: A Wartime Epic
Top Metro reader Stephen Price highly recommends the critically acclaimed wartime period drama Band of Brothers. Created by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, this 2001 series stars Damian Lewis and Ron Livingston, following American paratroopers during World War II based on Stephen E. Ambrose's book. Tom Hanks emphasized the show's poignant impact, noting its focus on brotherhood and unity. A Guardian review praised it, stating, "I've seen nothing in the cinema this past year that impressed me as much as BBC2's 10-part Band of Brothers." Available on HBO Max, it remains a timeless masterpiece.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Supernatural Action
Barbie Roe champions Buffy the Vampire Slayer as a must-watch, featuring Sarah Michelle Gellar as Buffy Summers battling evil. Despite a recent reboot cancellation, the show's legacy endures, available on ITVX and Disney Plus. Its blend of action and supernatural elements continues to captivate fans worldwide.
Frasier: A Sitcom Classic
Gerard Heine highlights Frasier, starring Kelsey Grammer and David Hyde Pierce, which aired from 1993 to 2004. Though a recent revival struggled, the original is revered for its unique humor and character-driven plots. The Atlantic noted its enduring appeal, with episodes that avoid cringe-inducing tropes. Stream it on Channel 4 and Paramount Plus.
The Wire: Gritty Realism
Asim Raymond insists on The Wire and The Sopranos as unbeatable picks. Reddit users praise The Wire for its brilliant writing, realistic plot, and ensemble cast that portrays Baltimore's justice system with authenticity. Described as "gritty, unvarnished realism," it's available on HBO Max and remains a benchmark for crime dramas.
The Sopranos: Mob Drama Excellence
Lynda Baker, Kim Edwards, and Sureshkumar Khanna all recommend The Sopranos, with James Gandolfini's portrayal of Tony Soprano hailed as iconic. David Remnick of The New Yorker compared it to a 19th-century social novel, rich in character development. Following Gandolfini's death, his son Michael played a younger Tony in the prequel film. Watch it on HBO Max.
Yellowstone: Modern Western Saga
Gareth Taloy suggests Yellowstone for western enthusiasts, premiering in 2020 with Kevin Costner and Kelly Reilly. Despite a controversial finale, its legacy thrives with spin-offs like 1883 and 1923. Reddit fans commend Reilly's performance, available on Netflix and Paramount+.
Breaking Bad: Crime Drama Phenomenon
Daniel Jack Dorton selects Breaking Bad, starring Bryan Cranston as Walter White, a chemistry teacher turned meth manufacturer after a cancer diagnosis. The spin-off Better Call Saul, recommended by Carlton Kenzie, adds depth to the universe. Creator Vince Gilligan's new show, Pluribus, continues his innovative storytelling. Stream Breaking Bad on Netflix.
These Metro reader picks showcase TV's power to deliver unforgettable experiences, proving that some series truly are more impressive than cinema. From historical epics to gritty dramas, these shows offer essential viewing for any fan.
