With new releases of popular shows, such as Stranger Things' fourth season, scripted television is arguably better than it has ever been. Streaming giants like Netflix, AppleTV, and HBO Max have bigger budgets than ever before, and the quality of the shows audiences are receiving is truly exceptional.
2022 has seen many favorite shows return this year, but even more new and fresh releases have come to the small screen. With a lot of content based on novels and comics, television is still finding ways to make stories fresh and original. Many stories are bending genres, like sci-fi with slow-burn dramas, action with comedy, and so much more. This year has shown audiences that there is plenty of original content to enjoy in the age of sequels and reboots.
Night Sky: 7.5
Night Sky is an Amazon Prime original series starring A-list actors Sissy Spacek and J.K. Simmons. They play a couple harboring an interesting secret that quickly up-ends their previously quiet existence.
IMDb reviews praise the show for its unique genre-bending premise. J.K Simmons and Sissy Spacek give great performances, as well. While the show is more of a slow burn, Night Sky creates a sci-fi tale that is truly driven by the characters.
Moon Knight: 7.5
The latest addition in Moon Knight quickly became a fan favorite. The show follows Oscar Isaac's character, Steven Grant, navigating his dissociative identity disorder while trying to uncover a deadly mystery.
Oscar Isaac and Ethan Hawke give great performances in their respective roles. The show continues the Phase Four pattern of doing a deep character study with deep-seated wounds. Marvel fans were pleased with another thought-provoking character study, with many welcome additions to the MCU.
Under The Banner Of Heaven: 7.5
Based on the non-fiction novel Under The Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith by John Krakauer follows detective Jeb Pyre, played by Andrew Garfield, as he tries to solve the murder of Brenda Wright Laferty and her baby girl. The case leads to some shocking findings of the Latterday Saints Community.
The performances are what make the show. Andrew Garfield and Daisy Edgar Jones are fantastic in their respective roles as Jeb Pyre and Brenda Laferty. True crime fans enjoyed the slow burn yet engrossing story. While Under the Banner of Heaven isn't anything revolutionary when it comes to true crime adaptations, this series will definitely satisfy the itch that fans of the genre crave.
The Dropout: 7.5
Another 2022 adaptation of true events, The Dropout follows the true story of Elizabeth Holmes and the fallout of her health technology company, Theranos. The miniseries stays mostly true to the actual events of one of the greatest scandals of the modern generation.
Amanda Seyfried's portrayal of the controversial Elizabeth Holmes is the best thing to come from the series. While many know the ins and outs of the scandal, the show is able to portray each facet of the story in a way that still feels shocking and unbelievable. The Dropout is another must-watch for true crime fans who want something a bit different.
The Gilded Age: 8
The Gilded Age did not disappoint.
The over-the-top sets and costumes are a true delight to behold, leaving any period piece connoisseur delightfully satisfied. Both Christine Baranski and Cynthia Nixon give great performances as well as the rest of the ensemble cast. For those that love a comedy-drama that is over the top, The Gilded Age is must-see television.
Reacher: 8.1
Based on the popular series by Lee Child, Reacher follows the titular character Jack Reacher, played by Alan Ritchson. The plot center's around Reacher being convicted of a murder he did not commit and being caught up in one crazy conspiracy after another.
The cast is excellent and the story is engaging. Reacher is a great adaptation of the books, staying true to many of the key plot points. There is a perfect blend of comedy, action, and tension. Action shows do not always please such a wide array of audiences but Reacher accomplishes just that.
Winning Time: The Rise Of the Lakers Dynasty: 8.4
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty centers around the dynamics of the iconic sports team. John C. Reilly leads a talented cast that also includes Jason Clarke and Quincy Isaiah that succeed at bringing this story to life.
Whether viewers were avid basketball fans or not, Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is engaging and entertaining. John C. Reilly's performance as Laker's owner Jerry Buss is truly a show-stealer. The series is nostalgic, stylish and a pleasant surprise to audiences.
Peacemaker: 8.4
While the second Suicide Squad film, The Suicide Squad, wasn't universally enjoyed, Peacemaker was a pleasant surprise to HBO's show roster. The series picks up where the 2021 Suicide Squad film leaves off, following Peacemaker after his experience with Bloodsport.
John Cena's character translates very well to the small screen, delivering an excellent over-the-top performance. Peacemaker takes all there is to love about superheroes (or anti-heroes in this case) with outrageous setups but backs it up with excellent writing and storytelling. Whether viewers loved or hated The Suicide Squad, Peacemaker is worth the watch.
Severance: 8.7
Apple TV plus is no stranger to producing popular television shows, and with Severance. Starring Parks and Recreation star Adam Scott, the show follows a group of people who have their memories surgically split between their work lives and personal lives.
With a similar atmosphere to something like Black Mirror or The Twilight Zone, Severance is an excellent choice for fans of dystopian television. Many reviews describe the show as a masterpiece and like nothing, audiences have seen before. Severance takes a beloved genre that has succeeded before but makes it fresh and interesting.
Heartstopper: 8.9
The break-out hit of the year thus far, Heartstopper is Netflix's newest hit. This wholesome show is based on the Heartstopper series by Alice Oseman, which chronicles young teens Charlie and Nick's unexpected friendship.
This coming-of-age tale is beautifully heartwarming tackling teenage sexuality in a way that is honoring to its characters. Viewers loved the sweet nature of the show that also tugs on one's heartstrings. Many high school shows take a darker tone and cover triggering themes but audiences found Heartstopper a refreshing and welcome change.