Seasons: 3 seasons, 39 episodes. Starring: Charlie Cox, Deborah Ann Woll, Elden Henson, Toby Leonard Moore, and Vondie Curtis-Hall. Description: Daredevil is based on the Marvel comic of the same name and features Matt Murdoch, a lawyer by day and a crime-fighting vigilante by night. Due to being blinded as a child, Murdoch discovers that his other senses are heightened, especially after nightfall. Along the way, he discovers the criminal underworld of New York City. Murdock may follow the letter of the law by day, but when the sun goes down, he takes matters into his own hands, going above the law to pick up where the justice system fell short.
Why it’s a keeper: Daredevil mixes drama and humor effortlessly. It captures the essence of the comic with excellent character development. The show finds a place to explore the characteristics of both hero and villain, which is especially interesting when they fight against each other.
The End of the F***ing World (BEST)
Seasons: 2 seasons, 16 episodes. Starring: Alex Lawther and Jessica Barden. Description: The End of the F***ing World is based on the book of the same name by Charles Forsman. This is a dark story of a teenage boy named James who thinks he might be a psychopath, as he enjoys harming animals as a hobby. Together with Alyssa, a classmate with whom he develops a bond, they run away together, which she sees as an opportunity to escape her difficult home life. Along the road, there are inevitable mishaps, but as they travel, they begin to develop a very interesting relationship.
Why it’s a keeper: The End of the F***ing World is extremely dark at times but very endearing at others. It is very British in nature, and through their road trip across the UK, you can’t help but fall for these characters, just as they fall for each other. The show has received critical acclaim due to the brilliant performances of Lawther and Barden.
Narcos (BEST)
Seasons: 3 seasons, 30 episodes. Starring: Wagner Moura, Pedro Pascal, Boyd Holbrook, Paulina Gaitan, Joanna Christie, and Juan Pablo Raba. Description: Narcos is based on the true story of a famous Colombian lord, Pablo Escobar. The first two seasons show his rise to becoming one of the most prolific suppliers and distributors of illegal substances in history. Alongside his dealings with fellow lords, there is also a heavy focus on his relationship with the DEA agents, specifically, Steve Murphy, who makes it his life mission to bring Escobar down.
Why it’s a keeper: Just like its subject matter, Narcos is addictive, especially when it’s focusing on Escobar, whom the viewers quickly form a love-hate relationship with. The makers of Narcos decided to focus on a different lord for Season 3, which they renamed Narcos: Mexico.
Sense8 (BEST)
Seasons: 2 seasons, 24 episodes, and a Christmas special Starring: Aml Ameen, Doona Bae, Jamie Clayton, Tina Desai, Tuppence Middleton, Max Riemelt, Miguel Ángel Silvestre, and Brian J. Smith. Description: Created by The Wachowski siblings (directors of The Matrix saga), Sense8 is about eight strangers, located all over the world, who discover they have a psychic connection as a result of being birthed by the same woman, named Angelica. The group eventually comes to realize that they are sensated, or a group of people that have a psychic connection. The eight must work together to avoid “whispers,” a man who threatened to capture Angelica and who will go to any lengths to hunt them down.
Why it’s a keeper: Any title that is a pun is a winner already, but Sense8 is an original thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. However, the story has its endearing moments, as it deals with narratives of love, loss, and having a unique connection to others. If you’re willing to ignore the rational side of your brain, you will thoroughly enjoy this trippy series.
On My Block (BEST)
Seasons: 4 seasons, 38 episodes. Starring: Sierra Capri, Diego Tinoco, Jason Genao, Brett Gray, Jessica Marie Garcia, and Ronni Hawk. Description: Set in the city of Los Angeles, the story follows four childhood friends who have their relationships tested when they start high school. Although the issues might be familiar, this isn’t your classic high-school drama. The characters learn about life and love against a backdrop of gang brutality that poses a real danger to their day-to-day lives. On my block received critical acclaim when it was released and has already won the Teen Choice Award for Breakout TV Show of 2018.
Why it’s a keeper: This show deals with all of the regular issues teens face, only this time it's not dealing with them from a place of privilege. These teenagers live in a world where every decision seriously impacts their future. It is extremely interesting to see this talented cast of actors navigate discrimination issues and poverty, all the while delivering a heartwarming performance.