Hey guys, hope you had a wonderful 2022. It’s that time of the year again. I’m here to list down the best that we got this year in TV. Now, a couple of things before we begin. I have not seen every TV show that came out this year, no one can. So, this list would only feature the best films from what I’d seen all year. These are not the most technically supreme or perfect shows, these are simply my picks or my favorite series that have come out this year. So, if your favorite TV show doesn’t appear on this list don’t freak out. If after reading this list you go back to my reviews of these films and find inconsistency in the rankings like I’d rated “Show A” 4 out of 5 stars and “Show B” 3 out of 5 stars, yet on the list Show B is ranked higher than Show A, its because I know the series deserved a good rating but for me Show B is closer to my heart.
Hence, the inconsistency. Also, I’m not going to write a review of these shows, those are available on the website. I’ll briefly talk about them and move on. To wrap up, these are just my opinions, you don’t have to agree with them. I’m sure each one of you would have a different best shows list for this year and it is okay, this is mine so let’s not waste more time and begin right away.
Stranger Things 4 (Teen Horror)
So, here we are, one of the most talked about show of this year. I think this is the longest season for any TV show ever, clocking in around 13 hours but it was worth it. I stand by what I said, Season 4 (review) is not the best of Stranger Things that is still Season 1, however, it has to be the darkest season yet and I like that vibe. There were two standout performances this season: Noah Schnapp and David Harbour. Also, special mention to Jamie Campbell Bowie for his portrayal of Vecna. I like where season 4 took the story of the series and I can’t wait for the final season despite the slightly underwhelming finale.
Westworld Season 4 (Sci-Fi)
I know, I feel as sad as you. After delivery the best season since its first, Westworld (review) has been cancelled by HBO due to high production costs and low viewership scores. The writing of this season significantly improved, especially after the terrible second and third seasons. The performances by all the actors was good as all of them are veteran. Season 4 is quite similar to Season 1 and hence it works so well. I loved this season as it was a pleasant surprise. I only wish that Nolan and Joy get the opportunity to end their robot saga.
The Boys Season 3 (Superhero)
This is the worst season of The Boys (review), period. Before starting laser blasting me think about it for a second. You know, I’m right. Except for episode 6, there was no episode that actually gave me the rush that The Boys used to do. However, it is still very much the best we’ve gotten in the Superhero genre, thanks Marvel. I know I started out on a negative note but the third season isn’t a disaster simply not as good as the first two. Despite being the worst season it still features on the best shows list of 2022, good job Eric Kripke.
Ozark Season 4 (Crime)
What can I say about this one. I’ve fallen in love with the world of Ozark (explained) ever since I started watching it. The show is so good. I mean this could’ve been easily the best show of 2022 and a little part of me still believes it is. The writing of the show throughout has never dropped in quality. I was worried that they’d betray the theme of the story in the final season to have a more morally correct ending but how did I ever doubt these people? Ozark has one of the most satisfying finales ever, tragic but awesome. A perfect American Horror Story.
Panchayat Season 2 (Comedy)
Wow, where do I even begin about this one, huh? If haven’t checked this out then you’re missing out on gold. This is probably the best Indian show out right now, hence it features in this list. This not an outright comedy and that is its strength, the subtle humor is weaved so effortlessly that it you never know when you yourself become a part of this world and the off beat characters. The creators of the show don’t miss a chance to address real life issues as well, like the Season 2 finale which will absolutely break your heart. Too good to miss. Filled with great writing, phenomenal acting and earthy flavor that only this Indian dry humor can give you. I’m in love with Panchayat (review).
Better Call Saul (Drama)
Speaking about perfect finales, here it is. It was impossible for Better Call Saul (review) to not be on this list. I mean a prequel to Breaking Bad but at the end of its run, it makes Breaking Bad look like its prequel. This is the power of masterful writing, extraordinary and a guiding vision of a creator who know exactly where the story is heading and makes sure that it lands perfectly. For many this would be the best show of 2022 and you won’t be wrong about it. The final season even gave us a glimpse of Eisenberg and Jesse. Wow!
Heartstopper (Romance)
I’m not someone who likes watching Romance, its just not my genre however, this show is different. More than a romance it is a coming of age story and not a generic one at that. You know this year has surprising been about small films and TV shows. I mean Cha Cha Real Smooth was my favorite film of 2022. This is a wonderful show that everyone should watch. Netflix sometimes really gets it right. If you haven’t checked it out yet then definitely do that. I mean if you’re into romance, then it might be the best for you.
Under the Banner of Heaven (True Crime)
Under The Banner of Heaven (review) is I think Andrew Garfield’s best performance so far. I have not seen in him so deep in a character except for maybe Martin Scorsese’s Silence. The fact that it is True Crime, makes all the revelations more horrifying. The theme of this story is so strong and at its core, the way it tells about a man whose faith is challenged. This what art is all about, to challenge the norms of anything. A devout Mormon, when exposed to the horrors of religious fanaticism and the cruelty of humans, goes through a transformative journey.
Attack on Titan Season 4 Part 2 (Anime)
Attack on Titan has been going on for a long time, I think it has been more than 9 years now that this show is going on. I know there are only 4 seasons out but somehow each season surpasses the quality of the other. You ask any anime fan, their best Anime largely be Attack on Titan or Fullmetal Alchemist. Part 2 of Season 4 came out this year and how could it be any less than awesome. I can’t stress enough on how good the show has gotten over the years and if you haven’t seen it then this is the time. Best Anime of 2022!
Severance (Thriller)
Change my mind if you can but, Apple TV+ has come out with the best content amongst all the streaming platforms. Severance was a knockout from a get go. The concept itself was so interesting. The horrifying lingering feeling that you get while watching. You know something is wrong but what? You have no clue. What can make an organization to adopt this practise of Severance. What are they hiding? Apart from HBO, Apple TV+ is my favorite streaming platform. This first season was one of the best of the year and I can’t wait for Season 2.
House of the Dragon (Fantasy)
What can I say about this? After the abomination that was Game of Thrones’ season 8, House of the Dragon (review) was just what we needed to put our trust and our love back into the Game of Thrones universe. There couldn’t have been a better prequel to GOT. The hard-work of the creators really reflects in the quality of the show. The visuals, set design, background score, writing, direction and not to forget acting everything was so in sync. There are so many stand-outs, I can’t even start listing but huge respect for Paddy Considine and Emma D’Arcy for their respective roles. We will miss Miguel Sapochnik in season 2.
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