Due to some website access issues, it’s been a minute. But, it’s 2023 and we’re back baby! So, here’s a retrospective lookback on the TV shows I enjoyed in 2022 and one honourable mention that I caught up on over the winter holidays.
Andor
While the first few episodes got off to a bit of a slow start, it was well worth it to reach Episode 6’s heist episode, which is possibly my favourite thing to happen in the Star Wars universe since the original trilogy. Once the show found its rhythm, it was engaging and unpredictable, and subverted my typical Star Wars expectations. Plus, we got the Mon Mothma backstory I didn’t know I needed. (Also can we talk about how Diego Luna has aged so well he can do a prequel of 2016’s Rogue One?)
Reservation Dogs
I adored this heartwarming show that only got better in Season 2. The show has an almost delicate, subtle power that deftly weaves in challenging circumstances, with light, levity, and hope as it follows a group of teenage friends on a reserve in Oklahoma. Plus, the Mabel episode co-written by Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs is a triumph and the most beautiful episode of TV I watched all year.
The Dropout
Elizabeth Holmes faking it ‘til she made it was wild to watch. The show follows, yes, Elizabeth Holmes from her rise as an ambitious hustler to her downfall as scammy, criminal fraudster who builds a multi-billion dollar valued company on a house of cards (the cards were lies, people.) A compelling storyline and Amanda Seyfried back in the spotlight. What more could you want?
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
I was so delighted by Strange New Worlds, which rejuvenated the fun and joyfulness of Star Trek of old by returning to a fun episodic formula with engaging characters and a whole lot of heart. You could likely hop into any episode and be delighted – I recommend that you do!
Julia
This prestige show made me envy Julia Child’s lavish lifestyle that seemed filled with delicious cocktails, good company, and of course, wonderful food. This show was a warm hug that I’m sure anyone would enjoy as you watch as you follow Julia’s rise to fame through The French Chef.
Warrior Nun
I was late to the party on this one, but caught up in December. The show follows a 19-year old who wakes up in a morgue to find herself imbued with powers from a supernatural artifact – a halo – that allows her to pass through walls, levitate, and heal (including resurrect from the dead, apparently.) Filmed in Spain, the show has stunning cinematography, impressive fight sequences (like, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon-level), and a talented female-lead cast who elevate the story with their humour and heart. Being that I just caught up on the action (quite literally), I was gutted to learn it had been dropped by Netflix despite critical acclaim and solid viewership. C’mon, Netflix, let’s put the halo back in this show and bring it back to life!
The White Lotus
Season 2 had me at “Aubrey Plaza.” Set on the beautiful backdrop of Sicily, you’re immediately strapped in for another wild ride with a fresh new cast (save for the splendid Jennifer Coolidge.) I found Season 2 to be a bit more of a slow-build, with more sinister undertones, but my god, does it pay off in the end. WATCH!
Yellowjackets
I never thought a show would cause me to ask “Are they going to eat a baby?” But, here we are. This show grips you immediately as you try to uncover what happened in the 19 months following a soccer team’s plane crashing in the wilderness. Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci, and Juliette Lewis at their finest, plus a host of burgeoning actors playing their younger selves.
Honourable Mention:
Bad Sisters
I just finished this show, but since it was a 2022 release, I’m going to fold it in here. This show is very good, but it can be frustrating to watch as it follows four sisters trying to take down (kill) their evil brother-in-law. And, he really is a deplorable character. Beautiful shots of Ireland, and a fantastic ensemble make this worth pressing play on.
