beyond the Blockbusters: 5 Apple TV+ Shows You Need to Be Watching
Apple TV+ has quietly become a powerhouse of compelling television, offering a curated selection that often flies under the radar despite its quality. Forget endlessly scrolling – we’ve compiled five shows that deserve your attention, spanning genres from quirky mysteries to historical dramedies and breathtaking nature documentaries. As a long-time television critic, I’ve seen trends come and go, and these series represent a unique blend of artistry and entertainment that sets Apple TV+ apart.
1. Shrinking – A Hilariously Heartfelt Dive into Grief and Growth
If you’re looking for a show that expertly balances poignant drama with laugh-out-loud comedy, Shrinking is your answer.Starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, the series follows a grieving therapist who begins to break the rules and tell his clients exactly what he thinks.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
Extraordinary Performances: Patricia Arquette delivers a particularly captivating performance as a complex and wounded woman reinventing herself as a private investigator. Brad Garrett provides a grounded mentorship, while Christine Taylor adds a relatable dose of practicality.
Emotional depth: Shrinking doesn’t shy away from the messiness of grief, trauma, and the challenges of personal growth.
Unique Tone: The show seamlessly blends dark humor with genuine emotional resonance, creating a viewing experience that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Recurring Brilliance: Bernadette Peters’ appearances as the late mother add layers of emotional complexity and warmth.
This isn’t your typical sitcom; it’s a show that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
2. Big Beasts - A Stunning Journey into the animal Kingdom
Discovery isn’t the only network capable of delivering captivating wildlife documentaries.big Beasts is a visually stunning 10-part docuseries that immerses you in the lives of some of the planet’s most magnificent creatures – elephant seals, brown bears, orangutans, and giant otters, to name a few.
What sets this series apart?
Breathtaking Cinematography: The visuals are simply spectacular, offering an intimate look at these animals in their natural habitats.
Tom Hiddleston’s Narration: Hiddleston’s voice lends a unique charm and gravitas to the series. It’s surprisingly delightful to hear the voice of Loki discussing the wonders of the natural world. Educational and Engaging: you’ll learn fascinating facts about these animals while being completely captivated by their stories.
Pure Escapism: Sometimes,you just need to disconnect and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature,and Big Beasts delivers that in spades.
3. servant – A Psychological Thriller That Will Keep You Guessing
M. Night Shyamalan’s involvement frequently enough sparks debate, but Servant is a clear win for the filmmaker. This psychological thriller, which he executive produces and occasionally directs, is a masterclass in suspense and atmosphere.
Here’s why you should watch:
Intriguing Premise: A Philadelphia couple experiences a devastating loss, only to have a mysterious baby reappear with the arrival of a new nanny. The show deliberately keeps you questioning reality.
Moody and Atmospheric: The show’s cinematography and sound design create a truly unsettling and immersive experience.
Four Seasons of Twists and Turns: With four seasons available, you’ll have plenty of time to become fully invested in the mystery.
Unexpected humor: Despite its dark subject matter, Servant occasionally injects moments of dark humor that add to its unique appeal.
4. The Essex Serpent – A Gothic Romance with a Mythological Twist
If you enjoy period dramas with a touch of mystery and intrigue, The Essex Serpent is a must-watch. Based on the novel by Sarah Perry, the series follows a recent widow who travels to the Essex countryside to investigate rumors of a mythical sea dragon.
Why it’s worth your time:
Stellar Performances: Claire Danes delivers a nuanced and captivating performance, while Tom Hiddleston shines as a skeptical vicar.
Lush and Atmospheric Setting: The show’