The world of television is a vast and ever-evolving landscape, with new shows emerging weekly, each vying for our attention and our precious free time. In this fast-paced environment, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content. But fear not, dear reader, for I, the astute editorial writer, am here to guide you through the labyrinth of television, and I have a few gems to share with you this week. Prepare to be captivated by the following seven shows, each offering a unique blend of intrigue, drama, and, in some cases, a dash of humor. Let's dive in and explore what these offerings have to offer.
My Life is Murder
If you're a fan of the classic detective drama Midsomer Murders, then My Life is Murder is a show you won't want to miss. In my opinion, it's the best series since Midsomer (though I won't be drawn into a debate about which is superior). The show follows the fearless former detective turned private investigator Alexa Crowe, played by the talented Lucy Lawless. Despite leaving her detective past behind, Alexa can't help but solve crimes, and her former colleague, Detective Inspector Kieran Hussey, is always on the lookout for her expertise. What makes this show particularly fascinating is the way it seamlessly blends the thrill of detective work with the everyday life of Alexa, who also happens to be a skilled baker. It's a delightful mix of suspense and domesticity, and I can't wait to see how her baking skills come into play in the upcoming fifth series, which arrives on U&Alibi on Monday, August 10th, at 8 p.m.
Women in Blue
For those who enjoyed the Spanish language drama Women in Blue, the second series is a must-watch. The show tells the story of four trailblazing female police officers who formed the first female police force in Mexico. Each of the four women, María, Ángeles, Gabina, and Valentina, has their own personal motivations for choosing this career, which goes against the ultraconservative norms of the time. In the second series, María, now promoted to lieutenant, finds herself torn between the rules she's sworn to uphold and a relentless pull toward the truth when the body of a student activist is discovered. The show is a powerful exploration of female empowerment and the challenges faced by those who dare to break the mold. It's a compelling watch, and I'm eager to see how the characters navigate the complexities of their new roles. Series 2 is arriving on Apple TV on Wednesday, August 12th.
Possession
Sky's latest five-part thriller, Possession, has already garnered quite the fan base thanks to its ambitious plot, which somehow works. The show takes us to Jamaica, where ambitious lawyer Claudia, played by the talented Gugu Mbatha-Raw, is challenging an inheritance claim made by a local man, Cudjoe East, against Oliver Connaught, a wealthy white aristocrat. Things take a rather unsettling turn when Claudia discovers the disputed estate is the exact place that's been haunting her nightmares: Hope Hill, the Connaught family's former plantation. The show is a gripping blend of legal intrigue and supernatural elements, and I'm intrigued to see how the characters navigate the complex web of relationships and secrets that surround them. Continues on Sky Atlantic and NOW on Thursday, August 13th.
Hit Point
Hit Point is a six-part series that combines romance and crime, and it's a brilliant addition to the world of television. The show follows Leo and Bella, two 30-something detectives who are tasked with a case that pulls them into the dangerous West London underworld. The result is a gripping blend of personal and professional betrayal, romantic entanglement, and heart-stopping action. I was immediately drawn into the world of Hit Point, and I can't wait to see how the characters navigate the challenges that lie ahead. Arriving on U&Dave on Thursday, August 13th, it promises to be a thrilling ride from start to finish.
My Brilliant Career
For fans of period dramas, My Brilliant Career is a glorious treat. Based on Miles Franklin's beloved novel, the show follows Sybylla, a shockingly modern young woman with one ambition: to be a writer, despite the fact her family is determined to marry her off. Determined to break every convention of 1900 Australia, she sets out to carve her own path, until, that is, love comes knocking. The show is a delightful exploration of gender roles and societal expectations, and I'm eager to see how Sybylla navigates the complexities of her world. Arriving on Netflix on Thursday, August 13th, it's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good period drama.
Ghosts US
As US remakes go, Ghosts is up there with the best of them, and the arrival of series 5 is just days away. Following the same premise as the original, the show stars Rose McIver and Utkarsh Ambudkar as Jay, the new owners of Woodstone Mansion, who share their home with an increasingly complex collection of spirits who love nothing more than to squabble. The pair plan to turn it into a boutique bed and breakfast, which is, well, easier said than done with a load of ghosts hanging around. I find the concept of Ghosts particularly fascinating, as it explores the idea of coexisting with the supernatural in a relatable and humorous way. The show is a delightful blend of comedy and suspense, and I can't wait to see how the characters navigate the challenges of their new lives. Series 5 is arriving on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer on Saturday, August 15th.
Sunny Nights
If you like your crime dramas with a side of humor, Sunny Nights is a must-watch. The darkly comic drama introduces us to brother and sister Martin and Vicki Marvin, who move from America to Australia with dreams of making their spray tan business a huge success. But as the business struggles and they find themselves strapped for cash, they soon find themselves on the wrong side of Sydney's criminal underworld. The show is a delightful blend of humor and suspense, and I'm eager to see how the characters navigate the challenges of their new lives. Funny and escapist, Sunny Nights is arriving on ITVX on Sunday, August 16th.
In conclusion, these seven shows offer a diverse range of viewing experiences, from the thrilling detective drama My Life is Murder to the darkly comic Sunny Nights. Each show has its own unique blend of intrigue, humor, and suspense, and I'm confident that at least one of them will capture your imagination and keep you entertained for hours on end. So, take a moment to pause, and let these shows transport you to new worlds, where the possibilities are endless.
