By Maria Bregman, writer and film critic
As 2024 draws to a close, the time has come to reflect on the most remarkable television series that defined the year. From gripping adaptations of contemporary literature to genre-bending experiments, this year’s offerings pushed creative boundaries and captivated global audiences. Here, we present a meticulously curated list of standout shows that demonstrate the power of storytelling in its finest form.
Disclaimer: A Cinematic Masterpiece on Apple TV+
Helmed by Alfonso Cuarón, Disclaimer is a haunting exploration of memory and identity. The story revolves around journalist Catherine Ravenscroft (Cate Blanchett), whose life unravels after receiving a self-published book that mirrors her past in unsettling detail. Cuarón’s signature cinematic style elevates the source material, drawing on the expertise of cinematographers Emmanuel Lubezki and Bruno Delbonnel. The result is an atmospheric drama where every frame pulsates with tension. Cate Blanchett delivers a career-defining performance, navigating a labyrinth of secrets and betrayals. From provocative themes to its visually arresting sequences, this series redefines the psychological thriller genre.
The Day of the Jackal: Reinventing the Spy Thriller
Sky Atlantic and Peacock revived Frederick Forsyth’s classic tale in an enthralling adaptation starring Eddie Redmayne as the enigmatic assassin, “The Jackal.” This iteration combines the intrigue of the original novel with contemporary geopolitical tensions. MI6 agent Bianca Pullman (Lashana Lynch) leads the pursuit, setting the stage for a high-stakes game of cat and mouse across Europe. Complemented by a nostalgic Bond-esque score from Celeste, this show captures the sophistication of British espionage dramas while subverting audience expectations by placing the antihero at its core.
The Gentlemen: Guy Ritchie’s Dazzling Return
Netflix’s The Gentlemen transforms Ritchie’s beloved crime caper into a serialised format with a fresh narrative arc. Starring Theo James as Eddie Holsted, a recently anointed duke who inherits more than just a title, the series blends aristocratic decadence with Ritchie’s signature street-smart energy. The narrative’s foundation – a marijuana empire housed within crumbling estates – offers biting social commentary while maintaining a sharp comedic edge. Ritchie’s flair for memorable characters is amplified by the extended runtime, creating a world that feels both luxurious and perilously chaotic.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith: A Reinvented Spy Fantasy
Amazon Prime’s reimagining of Mr. & Mrs. Smith flips the original film’s premise on its head. Donald Glover and Maya Erskine star as undercover agents tasked with masquerading as a married couple while tackling clandestine missions. This inventive take fuses millennial relationship dynamics with the kinetic energy of a spy thriller. Balancing humour, romance, and visceral action, the series carves its identity while honouring its cinematic predecessor.
Baby Reindeer: Netflix’s Unlikely Sensation
Adapted from Richard Gadd’s award-winning play, Baby Reindeer offers an unflinching portrayal of stalking and trauma. Gadd, playing a fictionalised version of himself, anchors the series with an authentic vulnerability that’s both disarming and harrowing. The show’s rawness resonates, earning six Emmy wins, including Best Limited Series. Unapologetically intense, this production stands as a testament to Netflix’s willingness to champion unconventional narratives.
The Penguin: HBO’s Gritty Gotham Saga
Spinning off from Matt Reeves’ The Batman, HBO’s The Penguin dives into the criminal underbelly of Gotham City. Colin Farrell reprises his role as Oswald Cobblepot, charting his ruthless ascent to power. Under Lauren LeFranc’s direction, the series offers a noir-infused character study, packed with atmospheric tension and morally ambiguous choices. This gripping exploration of ambition solidifies its place as one of the year’s standout dramas.
The Idol: Provocative and Polarising on HBO
Sam Levinson’s The Idol polarised audiences with its portrayal of fame’s darkest undercurrents. Co-created with The Weeknd, the series follows Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp), a rising pop star drawn into a sinister world. Featuring explicit themes and provocative storytelling, it sparked debates about artistic expression versus gratuitousness. Love it or loathe it, The Idol undeniably left a cultural mark.
Echoes: Science Fiction with Heart
Apple TV+ delivered a genre-defying gem in Echoes. The series intertwines family drama with speculative science fiction, exploring parallel lives and the choices that define us. Anchored by an emotional performance from Gugu Mbatha-Raw, the narrative’s complex themes resonate on both intellectual and visceral levels. Its seamless blend of intimate storytelling and grand concepts ensures its place among the year’s best.
Lessons in Chemistry: A Literary Delight on Apple TV+
Based on Bonnie Garmus’s bestselling novel, Lessons in Chemistry brought wit and charm to the small screen. Brie Larson shines as Elizabeth Zott, a scientist-turned-TV chef challenging 1950s societal norms. The show’s meticulous period detail and sharp writing breathe life into this empowering story of resilience and ambition.
The Bear: A Culinary Triumph on Disney+
The second season of The Bear exceeded expectations, delivering a deeply personal exploration of family, grief, and the pursuit of perfection. Jeremy Allen White’s portrayal of chef Carmen Berzatto remains magnetic, with each episode a masterclass in storytelling. With its relentless pacing and emotionally charged moments, The Bear continues to redefine culinary dramas.
This year has showcased television’s unparalleled ability to entertain, provoke, and inspire. From the intricate narratives of Disclaimer to the cultural commentary of The Gentlemen, these series demonstrate why 2024 has been a landmark year for storytelling. Whether you seek thrillers, comedies, or boundary-pushing dramas, this list captures the essence of a transformative era in television.
