The Cream of the Crop: The Best Written TV Shows
Hello, binge-watchers! Today, we're diving into the world of best written TV shows. These aren't just shows with great plot twists or stunning visuals. No, no, no. These are the shows that truly shine with their exceptional writing. The ones that keep you on the edge of your seat, not just with what happens next, but with the sheer brilliance of their dialogue and storylines. So, grab your popcorn and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and best written tv shows.
What Makes a Show "Well-Written"?
Before we dive into our list of the best written TV shows, let's quickly define what makes a show "well-written". A well-written show has:
- Engaging and realistic dialogue - Complex, well-developed characters - A compelling and cohesive narrative - Themes that resonate with viewers - A balance of humor, drama, and suspense (where applicable)
Now that we've got our criteria, let's dive into the best written TV shows out there!
The Crown
Netflix, 2016 - Present
Kicking off our list is The Crown, a show that's as beautifully written as it is beautifully shot. This Netflix series tells the story of Queen Elizabeth II and the political rivalries and romance that shaped her reign. The dialogue is crisp and witty, the characters are complex and captivating, and the storytelling is nothing short of masterful. Each season, the show seamlessly introduces a new cast to portray the aging characters, a feat that's no easy task, but one that The Crown pulls off with ease.
Fleabag
BBC, 2016 - 2019
Next up, we have Fleabag, a British comedy-drama that's as hilarious as it is heart-wrenching. The show follows Fleabag, a dry-witted, sexually liberated woman navigating life and love in London. The writing is sharp and clever, with dialogue that's equal parts funny and insightful. The show's use of the fourth wall is also a masterclass in storytelling, with Fleabag often breaking the fourth wall to share her thoughts and feelings with the audience. It's a unique narrative choice that works incredibly well, thanks in large part to the show's exceptional writing.
The Wire
HBO, 2002 - 2008
No list of the best written TV shows would be complete without The Wire. This crime drama is often hailed as one of the greatest TV shows of all time, and for good reason. The show's writing is gritty and realistic, with dialogue that's as authentic as it is engaging. The Wire is also notable for its complex and interwoven storylines, which explore the impact of the drug trade on the city of Baltimore and its inhabitants. It's a show that demands your full attention, but one that rewards you handsomely for it.
Atlanta
FX, 2016 - Present
Atlanta is a show that's hard to categorize. Is it a comedy? A drama? A musical? The answer is yes, yes, and yes. This unique show follows two cousins trying to make it in the Atlanta rap scene while navigating the struggles of everyday life. The writing is inventive and original, with dialogue that's equal parts funny and profound. The show's use of surreal and dreamlike sequences also sets it apart, with each episode feeling like a unique and captivating piece of art.
The Good Place
NBC, 2016 - 2020
The Good Place is a show that's equal parts hilarious and philosophical. The show follows Eleanor Shellstrop, a woman who winds up in a heaven-like afterlife called "the Good Place" despite having lived a selfish life on Earth. The writing is clever and witty, with dialogue that's often laugh-out-loud funny. But what sets The Good Place apart is its exploration of ethical and philosophical questions. The show uses its unique premise to delve into complex ideas about morality, ethics, and what it means to be a good person.
Chernobyl
HBO, 2019
Chernobyl is a gripping and harrowing miniseries about the 1986 nuclear disaster in Ukraine. The writing is tense and atmospheric, with dialogue that's both powerful and poignant. The show doesn't just tell the story of the disaster, but also explores the political and social context that led to it. It's a show that's as informative as it is engrossing, and one that's well worth your time.
The Leftovers
HBO, 2014 - 2017
The Leftovers is a show that's equal parts heartbreaking and thought-provoking. The show follows a small town in the aftermath of a global event where 2% of the world's population suddenly vanished. The writing is evocative and emotional, with dialogue that's often deeply moving. The show's exploration of grief, loss, and the human condition is both profound and unforgettable.
Veep
HBO, 2012 - 2019
Veep is a political satire that's as smart as it is funny. The show follows Selina Meyer, a fictional vice president (and later president) of the United States, as she navigates the absurd and often ridiculous world of politics. The writing is sharp and biting, with dialogue that's often laugh-out-loud funny. But what sets Veep apart is its willingness to explore the darker side of politics, and the human cost of political ambition.
In Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! Our list of the best written TV shows. These shows are proof that great writing can elevate a TV show from good to truly exceptional. So, the next time you're looking for something new to watch, why not give one of these shows a try? We promise you won't be disappointed.
Happy binge-watching!