A Look at the Top Serialized Dramas of the Decade
Serialized dramas have become increasingly popular over the past decade, captivating audiences with complex storylines that continue to unfold over multiple episodes or seasons. From riveting crime dramas to gripping supernatural mysteries, these shows have kept viewers on the edge of their seats and coming back for more week after week. Here, we take a look at some of the top serialized dramas of the decade that have left a lasting impact on television.
Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad is often hailed as one of the greatest television shows of all time, and for good reason. The series follows the transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, as he descends into a world of crime and violence. Bryan Cranston’s Emmy-winning performance as Walter White, combined with the show’s intricate plot and moral ambiguity, solidified Breaking Bad as a must-watch serialized drama of the decade.
Game of Thrones
Based on the bestselling book series by George R.R. Martin, Game of Thrones became a cultural phenomenon during its eight-season run. The epic fantasy series followed the power struggles between noble families vying for control of the Iron Throne in the fictional land of Westeros. With its complex characters, shocking plot twists, and breathtaking production values, Game of Thrones captivated audiences around the world and cemented its status as one of the top serialized dramas of the decade.
Stranger Things
Stranger Things quickly became a fan favorite when it premiered on Netflix in 2016. The nostalgic sci-fi series pays homage to 80s pop culture while telling the story of a group of kids in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, who uncover dark secrets involving government experiments and a parallel dimension known as the Upside Down. With its intriguing mysteries, lovable characters, and supernatural thrills, Stranger Things has earned critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, making it a standout serialized drama of the decade.
Black Mirror
Black Mirror is known for its thought-provoking and often unsettling portrayal of a dystopian future where technology has taken over every aspect of society. Each standalone episode of the anthology series explores themes such as social media, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, leaving viewers questioning the impact of technology on our lives. With its dark and satirical take on modern society, Black Mirror has become a must-watch serialized drama that pushes the boundaries of storytelling.
The Handmaid’s Tale
Based on Margaret Atwood’s novel of the same name, The Handmaid’s Tale is a harrowing dystopian drama set in a totalitarian society where women are treated as property and forced into sexual servitude. The series follows Offred, a woman who becomes a Handmaid and must navigate the oppressive regime while trying to survive and find a way to escape. With its timely themes of oppression, resistance, and female empowerment, The Handmaid’s Tale has earned critical acclaim and sparked important conversations about gender, politics, and human rights.
True Detective
True Detective is an anthology crime drama that features a different cast and storyline each season, with each installment focusing on a different set of detectives investigating a grisly murder case. The first season, starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, drew critical praise for its complex characters, non-linear narrative, and atmospheric setting in rural Louisiana. While subsequent seasons received mixed reviews, True Detective remains a standout serialized drama that showcases stellar performances and compelling storytelling.
Westworld
Westworld is a science fiction series that takes place in a futuristic theme park where guests can interact with lifelike robots known as hosts. The show explores themes of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and free will as the hosts gain self-awareness and rebel against their human creators. With its philosophical questions, mind-bending twists, and stellar ensemble cast, Westworld has become a fan favorite and a top serialized drama of the decade.
Fleabag
Fleabag is a dark comedy series created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge as a young woman dealing with grief, guilt, and relationships in modern-day London. The show’s unique blend of humor, emotion, and fourth-wall-breaking narration earned critical acclaim and won multiple awards, including Emmys for Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actress. With its raw and honest portrayal of life’s ups and downs, Fleabag has resonated with audiences and established itself as a top serialized drama of the decade.
Mr. Robot
Mr. Robot is a psychological thriller that follows Elliot Alderson, a cybersecurity engineer and vigilante hacker who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy to take down the corrupt corporate elite. With its mind-bending plot twists, unreliable narrator, and striking visual style, Mr. Robot has been praised for its bold storytelling and complex characters. The series tackles themes of identity, power, and revolution, making it a standout serialized drama that has garnered a dedicated following.
Serialized dramas have become a staple of modern television, captivating audiences with their intricate storylines, complex characters, and immersive worlds. From crime thrillers to supernatural mysteries, these shows have pushed the boundaries of storytelling and sparked important conversations about society, technology, and the human experience. As we look back on the top serialized dramas of the decade, it’s clear that these shows have left a lasting impact on television and will continue to be remembered for years to come.
