My Favorite Shows of 2023
What I loved about the shows that I did watch, and what I think I am learning about myself, is that a show has to grab my attention from the beginning enough to prompt me to press play, regardless of the streaming platform, and then it must maintain that level of engagement to keep me dedicated and invested.
I respected the shows that I chose to include on this list for their dedication to the story and the characters, deep and interesting topics, the interesting questions they are exploring, their stylistic flair, and moments of cinematic brilliance - but I would be lying if I said these shows were for everybody.
This is a subjective evaluation. Each of these shows was vying for my attention amidst the distractions of daily life and personal circumstances, and each one I very much enjoyed.
[SPOILERS BEYOND THIS POINT]
Infographic added 2/8/2024
2/7/2024 - In 2023, I did fall off a bit when it comes to watching shows. I was admittedly more into movies last year. I guess I just had less time on my hands.
What I loved about the shows that I did watch, and what I think I am learning about myself, is that a show has to grab my attention from the beginning enough to prompt me to press play, regardless of the streaming platform, and then it must maintain that level of engagement to keep me dedicated and invested.
Once the show starts, it is in competition with my phone and social media. Not to mention laundry, dishes, and being a dad to a toddler. There is a lot to contend with. So, I say that if it keeps me dedicated to make it to the season finale, then it is a huge accomplishment for the show in my eyes.
This makes me inclined to focus on the positives of the show rather than breaking down the negatives. If I was that down on it, I would not have allowed it to keep playing when there is a never-ending list of things I could be otherwise watching or doing in my everyday life.
Anyway, I think things are better when I have personally invested time in them.
It’s hard for me to separate myself from the things I watch, and honestly, my personal circumstances have a huge effect on how much I enjoy a show, movie, album, or other forms of art.
Nevertheless, these are the shows that have made it into my bubble. I hope you enjoy my list.
Feel free to add anything you think I missed in the comments, and I'd love to hear about your favorite shows too.
5. Dead Ringers, Limited Series
Trigger Warning: Heavy Themes Ahead
In the following section, we discuss sensitive topics including miscarriage and abortion. Please be advised that this content may be triggering for some readers and may not be suitable for everyone. Reader discretion is advised.
This one was nuts.
I respected that it was extremely dedicated to the story and the characters, and it never wavered in its conviction. Rachel Weisz’s acting and the writing are examples of that dedication to the bit, as they could have suffered from straying too far from the most interesting questions it seems to be asking, or at least the ones that I found myself asking during my watch, which kept me interested.
What is the deal with these two twins? Should I be rooting for them or not? What is the deal with the science and development of birthing resources?
Interestingly, this limited series was a remake of an old horror movie that stars Jeremy Irons playing twins, but made into a series starring Rachel Weisz that flips the original on its head.
There are a lot of surgery scenes and giving birth scenes that are more clearly portrayed than we may have seen on screen. They may be considered violent or graphic, over-the-top scenes, but this was one point made by the show that hit home with me.
The show's intention: to emphasize the harsh reality and commonality of these scenarios for women, situations they must confront simply due to their biological makeup. While some viewers might perceive this as horror or graphic, women and medical professionals must engage with these realities, and prospective mothers must confront this 'violence.' Rachel Weisz discussed this topic on an episode with Marc Maron.
This aspect of violence and being over the top relates to something my wife and I agreed on which is, the show makes you feel dirty when you watch it. But not for the graphic scenes, mainly for the way some of the characters talk about pregnancy, and classism, and other things with zero empathy. There are just yucky characters.
The series also delves into heavy topics like miscarriage and abortion, making it potentially triggering for some viewers and not suitable for everyone.
Even the positive aspect viewers might root for in the show—prioritizing childbirth and creating an innovative birthing center—is overshadowed by its association with immoral elite investors. Their involvement taints the significance of this initiative, as it's deeply entrenched in the darkest aspects of humanity. It almost diminishes the significance of accomplishing it.
Everyone uses their wits for evil or for their own personal gain.
Weisz’s identical twins Beverly and Elliot Mantle, are used to explore themes of jealousy, control, elite arrogance, and, notably, childbirth. While Beverly pursues a holistic approach to empower women, Elliot harbors more controversial ambitions, including illegal embryo experiments.
Weisz is award-worthy and gives us distinct portrayals of the twins, even as their motivations and actions sometimes blur.
Overall, I thought it was a really engaging show, and a really brave show. It was not perfect, but it was an original piece and Rachel Weisz was fascinating in it and carried the whole thing.
7.9/10
Dead Ringers showmakers: Sean Durkin, Lauren Wolkstein, Karena Evans, Karyn Kusama, Miriam Battye, Alice Birch, Rachel Weisz, Britne Oldford, Poppy Liu, and Michael Chernus
4. The Bear, Season 2
The Bear was awesome. I wrote about it here: The Bear Season 2 Review: Time Well Spent.
click here to read:
The Bear Season 2 Review: Time Well Spent
I enjoyed that it focused on characters and their personal growth instead of just life-and-death situations. The show explores challenges people can relate to, balancing career goals and personal connections.
It's different from other intense shows, being easier to watch with shorter episodes.
The theme of sacrificing personal time for career success is well portrayed, especially in Carmy's story with his restaurant. The characters' struggles are emotionally charged but relatable, making the show stand out. Richie emerges as the heart of the show with his growth and complexity.
Carmy decides to send Richie to intern at a top-tier restaurant to get ready for The Bear's opening. Once there, Richie's given the seemingly ordinary job of drying forks. However, this episode marks a pivotal moment in Richie's character development. The groundwork laid by the show for Richie's growth truly pays off in this episode.
It's exceptionally well-executed and notable because it emphasizes the importance of committing to excellence by mastering the smallest details. Richie's connection to this concept is portrayed in a realistic and uplifting manner, making it a standout moment in the series.
There are somewhat traditional frameworks in The Bear’s storyline that we’ve seen in past shows that are considered formulaic by some, but they seemed missed as well. It was refreshing to see them here in what is considered “prestige viewing” but also the show kept an edge to keep it from being cookie cutter.
Unlike its counterparts, which often dwell in the realm of anti-heroes and toxicity, The Bear Season 2 offers a refreshing perspective. Its characters, though flawed, exude a majority of goodness, making their struggles and triumphs more relatable.
Overall, I think it was the seasons' willingness to delve into the sacrifices required to achieve excellence in one's career, paralleling the sacrifices made by elite athletes and artists that made me really enjoy this season, along with all the other excellent elements of this show.
9.1/10
The Bear showmakers: Christopher Storer, Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Liza ColĂłn-Zayas, Abby Elliott, Matty Matheson, Jon Bernthal, Oliver Platt
3. Beef, Season 1
So, Beef is my third favorite show of the year but there were some real down moments that I didn't like. The one main scene that I did not enjoy was the big shootout in the penultimate episode, titled The Great Fabricator. It centers on Isaac's revenge plan against Danny, resulting in chaotic situations.
Amy, desperate to save Junie, devises a risky robbery plan.
However, everything goes awry, culminating in a dramatic confrontation and tragic consequences. Its intense emotions and gripping moments do provide closure to key storylines and set the stage for a thrilling season finale, but ultimately this episode felt undercooked to me.
It appeared that Isaac's character was rushed, and there was a need to swiftly resolve his arc, leading to a flawed conclusion. His decisions in the episode lacked coherence and believability.
The good news, The Great Fabricator is followed by my favorite season finale of 2023, Figures of Light.
Danny and Amy find themselves stranded in the desert after a reckless car chase ends in a dramatic cliff plunge. As they grapple with injuries, hallucinations, and poisonous berries, they undergo a transformative journey of self-discovery.
Despite moments of conflict and violence, they begin to empathize with each other's pain and vulnerability, forging a newfound connection amidst the chaos.
Ultimately, the episode culminates in a poignant moment of reconciliation, as Danny and Amy embrace their shared humanity and choose to support each other in their journey towards healing.
While the future remains uncertain, their symbolic gesture of solidarity suggests a tentative step towards redemption and forgiveness. As they lie together in a hospital bed, their intertwined destinies offer a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness, leaving audiences to speculate on what lies ahead for these complex characters.
Ultimately, the overarching story was shaky, needing a little more fine-tuning. However, the central relationship between the two main characters was beautifully done, and I believe that's why, despite its flaws, their dynamic gave the show the intrigue it needed to surpass shows like The Bear, Dead Ringers, and Barry on my favorites of the year list.
The finale was exceptional for me; it overshadowed the flaws. Something about a profound reconciliation that delves into deep, psychedelic self-reflection really resonated with me.
Additionally, I truly appreciated the fresh premise; it was novel, something I've never seen before. It wasn't like a typical crime drama. Plus, it was funny and thought-provoking, exploring themes of desperation and how it manifests differently depending on one's economic class.
There was plenty to explore and dissect, and it provided a delightful viewing experience. While there were intense moments, some better than others, they all contributed to driving the primary relationship forward, which was the core essence of the show.
8.1/10
Beef showmakers: Lee Sung Jin, Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Joseph Lee, Young Mazino, David Choe, Maria Bello, Andrew Santino
2. Loki, Season 2
As I write this now I am playing Loki Green Theme on Spotify as background music.
Hypothetically, if you were to pull the premise of this show outside of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), just to test if it stands alone, or to analyze it removing any of the attached prequels and sequels and cinematic universe baggage, there's a story that is very interesting and cool to me.
Imagine an Indie film with this premise: A god yanked from his everyday life of limitless power and consequence-free actions, where he wields magic like it's second nature, and even in defeat to other gods around him, he's still void of any real repercussions. But when he's whisked away into a realm between realms by a being that controls time and every timeline in the infinite multiverse, everything changes. Suddenly, his godly abilities are curbed, and our protagonist must navigate his way out by uncovering the enigmatic figure known as He Who Remains.
I feel like I would watch this if A24 produced it in an alternate universe where the MCU didn’t exist.
The show offers a captivating shift in our understanding of gods, placing Loki in a world where their omnipotence is challenged. The TVA offices, where Loki is transported to confront the trials orchestrated by He Who Remains, are strikingly mundane, resembling ordinary office spaces. Yet, amidst this banality, the once all-powerful Loki finds himself constrained by mundane rules and regulations.
I just find the setting and circumstances to be a prime canvas for painting.
The idea of a vulnerable god and the idea of a continuously elevating higher power is an interesting way to look at this life we all live in. Rather than one power above that controls everything – is there a power above the power above?
The premise also makes you reckon with what the afterlife is like. What other dimensions are like. The story on its own, If it was separate from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and all these characters were original characters I think the story would still be extremely interesting and unique - at least to me.
So, on top of that, personally, I do enjoy the Marvel comic book characters and I enjoy the baggage. I enjoy Marvel lore and history. I wasn't a comic book reader and I mainly watched the X-Men shows before the Marvel Cinematic Universe began.
Another thing I love about the show is the theme song and introduction card. It's superb. It’s up there with the Succession theme song. To me, it is just as good. The vibe of it and the tone fits the almost Halloween vibes of the show just as the Succession theme fits the fast-witted lifestyle of ultra rich yet empty elites. Both songs get viewers excited leading into an episode and able to create hype.
Additionally, just to address the Jonathon Majors domestic violence incident. I find it super disappointing and it casts a shadow over his performance and the concept of Kang as a whole.
To some, it cast a shadow over this entire show.
I was one who really enjoyed the idea of different variants and different personas being played by one person. So, it sucks to hear that the MCU may be moving away from its original Kang-centric plans. Maybe it will be for the best.
I think I’m in the minority and believe the MCU will bounce back and give us some new MCU classics in the future and I'm sure Loki will be a part of it.
8.6/10
Loki showmakers: Michael Waldron, Tom Hiddleston, Owen Wilson, Sophia Di Martino, Wunmi Mosaku, Ke Huy Quan, Jonathan Majors, Gugu Mbatha-Raw
1. Succession, Season 4, Final Season
The dialogue of the privileged is so compelling. All three of the children are incapable of dealing with real problems due to their stunted moral development, influenced by their father's terrible examples and their own indulgent upbringing with a silver spoon.
They exhibit emotional and social immaturity, lacking discipline, but excel in delivering quick retorts and winning minor battles of ego and vanity. This season portrays them grappling with one of their first adult, genuine traumas: the death of their father.
We witness their spiraling reactions and their attempts to come to terms with reality.
The world imparts a harsh lesson, teaching them that none of us can evade confronting genuine worldly issues. It underscores the significance of characteristics that may be considered unimportant by many, such as kindness, empathy, and forgiveness.
The acting reaches extraordinary levels, particularly in episode three, “Connor’s Wedding”.
Shiv's portrayal when she first speaks with Logan during his final moments is unforgettable. She embodies overwhelming emotions, exhibiting a mix of mania, anger, and heartbreak, deeply connected to her lifelong relationship with Logan as his daughter. Her voice cracks as she utters, “Dad… Daddy?”
This scene stands out as the pinnacle of the series.
In the same moment you can compare how the other kids respond to the phone call with the news of their father in critical condition. Kendall transitions from displaying anger and arrogance—bossing his assistant around to contact the best doctors—to breaking down in overwhelming sorrow, humanizing this flawed character.
The whole scene is masterfully crafted for intense drama – a traumatic incident occurs, forcing individuals to confront panic and break free from societal norms, revealing their true personalities, decision-making processes, and emotional connections.
Numerous main characters are involved, including Tom, Kerry, Karolina, Frank, and Karl, who are all on the plane together with Logan’s body, along with the three children at the wedding, while Shiv remains in another room. The setting, a wedding on a boat, ensures the presence of everyone. Those on the plane are confined together, facing doctors, police, and more upon landing.
In Season 4, Episode 9, "Church and State," Rava decides not to attend the funeral, directly responding to Kendall's actions, which have made the country feel unsafe. This decision stems from earlier setups in the show, where the daughter feels unsafe. Kendall's behavior in this moment reflects his immaturity.
He abruptly ends the call with Rava, stating, “Fikret, I want to be at Rava’s in three minutes. Okay?! I’ll figure out fines and violations. Just get us there now.”
Then, in front of the children, he confronts Rava with escalating aggression, demanding, “What are you doing? What the fuck is going on?!” Rava has to calm him down, stating, “We are just getting out of town. Okay?” To which he responds, “Well, that’s hysterical bullshit.”
His attempt at dominance fails when the driver simply bypasses him, exposing Kendall's true weakness—a lack of control over his emotions and ineffective communication skills. He is accustomed to shouting demands and getting his way.
Anyways, I think this was the best show of the year last year. It is the only recent show I can classify as a top five show of all time, but I still have to dive deeper to write my favorite shows of all time article, but I plan to write that eventually.
I have reviewed some episodes of this final season; check them out:
click here to read:
MORE SUCCESSION ARTICLES
9.4/10
Succession showmakers: Jesse Armstrong, Nicholas Braun, Brian Cox, Kieran Culkin, Matthew Macfadyen, Sarah Snook
Let me know your favorite shows in the comments!
Honorable Mentions: Barry.
Yet to Watch: Reservation Dogs, Bodies, A Small Light, Dark Winds, I’m a Virgo, and Poker Face.
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