KAOS
In Charlie Covell's series KAOS, ancient gods slam surreptitiously across the modern-day world. They “were so preoccupied with whether or not they could that they didn't stop to think if they should.” (oh, wrong movie!) The result is a mythology that shines with a unique flair that I wasn’t expecting. This Netflix original series explores the divine drama that results when the eternal questions of humans and immortals clash around Zeus (Jeff Goldblum,) whose curiosity and narcissistic tendencies could destroy the world as we know it. Goldblum offers a stirring, scene-stealing portrayal (as usual) as the aging deity confronts forces beyond his control.
Terminator Zero
Set within The Future War (and before it,) TERMINATOR ZERO delivers a “modern” twist on this classic saga as it attaches itself to an anime aesthetic and strengthens its narrative storytelling. Mattson Tomlin leads the writing team on this series, which seamlessly blends the well-paved world of the Terminator we all know with a mix of contemporary storytelling to draw both fresh eyes and nostalgia-loving fans alike.
Coronaville
Take a look back in time as we navigate through the echoes of a world grappling with an unprecedented crisis; CORONAVILLE offers a window into the absurd yet poignant realities of pandemic life. This series merges sharp wit with deep dives into the human psyche, illustrating how people from various walks of life managed—or mismanaged—the upheaval brought on by global lockdowns.
Mr. Throwback
Stephen Curry trades the basketball court for the sound stage in MR. THROWBACK, premiering on Peacock on August 8, 2024. In this new comedy series, Curry portrays an alternate version of himself, reconnecting with childhood pal Danny Grossman, played by Adam Pally. As Danny tries to revive their old friendship for his personal gain, viewers are treated to a cascade of comedic mishaps showing the unpredictability of resurrecting past relationships and how far a “little white lie” can go if unchecked.
Ted Lasso: The Richmond Way
As the dust settles on her recent divorce, Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham) seizes control of AFC Richmond, introducing Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) as the head coach in an inspired move that infuses the football club with a unique blend of American enthusiasm and British tradition. Sudeikis brings Ted to life with a captivating charm while his sidekick, Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt,) joins him in navigating English football's complex yet heartwarming waters.
Batman: Caped Crusader (season 1)
Once again, the shadows of Gotham envelop us as BATMAN: CAPED CRUSADER reintroduces us to The World’s Greatest Detective. This series, the brainchild of J.J. Abrams, Matt Reeves, and Bruce Timm, reinvigorates the classic Batman narrative, marrying the dark charm of film noir with a modern twist on some of the franchise's most iconic characters. It's an invitation for both newcomers and die-hard fans to delve deeper into the psychological intricacies of Gotham City’s inhabitants.
Futurama: Season 12 (Episodes 1-6)
FUTURAMA SEASON 12 splashes back onto the screen, delivering a well-crafted blend of humor and future-focused satire that has long been the series' hallmark. Under the guidance of creators Matt Groening and David X. Cohen, this new season reinvigorates its beloved characters with sharp wit and fresh, engaging narratives, sure to appeal to long-time followers and those just tuning in. With season 12, the meta, real-world humor is more palpable than ever!
Time Bandits
Apple TV+ brings us the reimagining and slightly less crazed version of the 1981 Terry Gilliam classic TIME BANDITS. This refreshing take on the original film navigates historical timelines with an engaging mix of humor and intrigue, breathing new life into a beloved narrative. The series' creators, writers, and directors offer a synergy that electrifies the story. The narrative unfurls with young Kevin (Kal-El Tuck,) a history enthusiast who teams up with a diverse group of “outlaws” intent on correcting historical wrongs, aiming to alter the course of history itself.
Women in Blue (Las Azules)
Step back into the 1970s with WOMEN IN BLUE, the latest series to hit Apple TV+ this July. This enthralling dive into the lives of Mexico's trailblazing female police officers blends actual historical events with intense drama, all under the adept direction of Fernando Rovzar. The fact that this story is based in part on actual events adds such an impact to the experience!
Lady in the Lake
Step back in time to the heated atmosphere of 1960s Baltimore with LADY IN THE LAKE, a riveting new series from Apple TV+ that masterfully blends drama with biting socio-political insights. The series intertwines the lives of two remarkably different women, Maddie Schwartz (Natalie Portman) and Cleo Johnson (Moses Ingram,) who find their destinies intertwined under ominous circumstances. Through their eyes, viewers explore a divided city grappling with deep racial and social conflicts, delivering a narrative rich with intrigue and deep reflection.
The Ark: Season 2
Step aboard THE ARK for its season 2 premiere as it launches into the vast unknown, where the drama intensifies, and the quest for survival becomes more critical than ever. This season promises to take viewers on an edge-of-your-seat journey through the cosmos, packed with new challenges and intriguing discoveries. With desperation setting the pace, the crew's determination to find a new world is more compelling than ever, making for a gripping watch.
Kite Man: Hell Yeah!
From the dimly lit streets of Gotham, KITE MAN: HELL YEAH! springs forth, catapulting its rag-tag team of characters, including Kite Man (Matt Oberg) and Golden Glider (Stephanie Hsu), from their infamous bar hangout at Noonan’s into the limelight of a new set of adventures. This isn't just a tale about mixing drinks; it's about mixing up the right amount of chaos and charm under the imposing shadow of Lex Luthor's (Lance Reddick) Legion of Doom. The couple dishes out beverages and witty banter in their bar-turned-battlefield, drawing in Gotham's most colorful characters.
True Detective: Night Country (Season 4)
The latest journey into the haunting Alaskan wilderness brings us a riveting installment of their acclaimed series, TRUE DETECTIVE, enveloped in perpetual darkness and mystery. This season promised a complex narrative with twists and turns and delivers for the most part. While it kicks off on a high note, painting a chilling journey of suspense, it leaves us yearning for more clarity as it navigates through its labyrinthine plot.
Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer
In the captivating docuseries MASTERMIND: TO THINK LIKE A KILLER, Dr. Ann Burgess guides us through the innovative world of criminal profiling. Guided by Abby Fuller's directorial vision, the series blends deep investigative research with engaging narrative elements that appeal to a broad audience beyond crime buffs. This incredible story proves that we should never underestimate the abilities of someone in a field just because they don’t fit the norm of the times.
WondLa
Venturing into the animated universe of WONDLA is akin to embarking on a thrilling expedition into the unknown, where peril and spectacle coalesce seamlessly. This Apple TV+ series transports us into the life of Eva Nine (Jeanine Mason,) a teenager whose entire existence has been within the confines of an underground sanctuary under the watchful guidance of her robotic guardian, Muthr (Teri Hatcher.) As she marks a significant turning point in her life, the tranquility of her world is shattered, thrusting her into the mysterious and dangerous terrains of the unknown planet above. The adaptation of Tony DiTerlizzi’s celebrated book series captivates its audience with a profound blend of speculative fiction and deep emotional engagement.
Land of Women
Eva Longoria's return to the small screen in LAND OF WOMEN is a compelling journey into the depths of familial ties and self-discovery. In this engaging series, she portrays Gala, a New Yorker who finds herself uprooting to the Spanish countryside under challenging circumstances. Alongside her are her resilient mother, Julia (Carmen Maura,) and strong-willed daughter, Kate (Victoria Bazúa,) who are navigating the reality and hurdles of a small town where every corner whispers tales of the past. As secrets begin to surface, the picturesque setting of a vineyard-laden city becomes more than just a backdrop—it becomes a catalyst for revelations and transformations.
Babylon Berlin
Anticipation has been building, and the fourth season of BABYLON BERLIN is finally almost here, premiering on June 25 via MHz Choice. This much-loved German series is back with a fresh chapter, delivering twelve new thrilling episodes. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of early 1930s Berlin, the season promises an exhilarating mix of crime, politics, and personal drama.
Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series
I was the prime target audience for this series (albeit maybe a little older than its core audience.) Rediscovering the charm and innovation of DEXTER'S LABORATORY felt like taking a time machine back to a world of creativity and humor. This Cartoon Network gem, brought to life by Genndy Tartakovsky, holds a special place in the hearts of 90s animation enthusiasts. Its unique mix of science fiction, comedy, and the playful chaos of sibling rivalry keeps it relevant and enjoyable even today.
Cult Massacre: One Day In Jonestown
Navigating the tumultuous journey from utopian ideals to disastrous reality, CULT MASSACRE: ONE DAY IN JONESTOWN recounts the horrific downfall of Jim Jones’ Peoples Temple. The three-part series from David Glover, Marian Mohamed, Dan Lindsay, and T.J. Martin takes us on an expedition that will never be forgotten. This National Geographic series transcends the story at its core, plunging viewers into the heart-wrenching demise of people, swallowed by their blind faith and manipulated enthusiasm—a proper warning sign of the dangers of following without questioning.
Welcome Back, Kotter
This new DVD release of WELCOME BACK, KOTTER, takes us on a delightful trip back to James Buchanan High. It serves up a slice of the 1970s through the shenanigans of the incomparable Gabe Kotter (Gabe Kaplan) and his classroom of spirited students known as the Sweathogs. Under the lively tutelage of Kotter, who brings a hearty mix of charisma and sharp wit to his role, this series not only entertains but also provides intelligent commentary on the educational and social issues of its time. Some remain as relevant today (fortunately and unfortunately) as they did during their initial run from the mid to late 70s.