The second week of the year and already it feels like time for another break. Treat yourself to a sit down and some good TV.
Written by Tresca Mallon
BBC IPlayer
Four Lives
A heartbreaking and infuriating account of the murder of four gay men in London and the incompetent and homophobic police investigation which could have prevented three of the deaths. It’s a harrowing watch but sentiveky handled. Stephen Merchant’s performance will make your skin crawl. It’s only three episodes so perfectly bingeable.
Netflix
Unorthodox
A limited series based on Deborah Feldman’s memoir “Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots.” Unorthodox follows teenager Esty as she flees her arranged marriage and her ultra-orthodox Hasidic community to start a new life abroad. Offering a rare look into an insular and often ignored community in America. Shira Haas gives a complex portrayal of a young woman traversing cultural barriers and defying the extreme norms of her upbringing. A heart-rending, tense and yet beautifully hopeful show. It’s a four-part series so perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Amazon Prime
The Wilds
Nine teenage girls stranded on a desert island after a plane crash on the way to an exclusive, all women, wellness retreat. All is not as it seems, as the girls try to survive both the dangers of the island and living together. Think “Lost” crossed with “Pretty Little Liars”, The Wilds is a moreish teen drama, which despite its rocky first episode, will keep you hooked. Filming has just concluded on Season 2 with allusions it will be released early this year. Time to get binging.
Sky Go/NowTV
Six Feet Under
An old one but definitely a gold one. Six Feet Under is potentially one of the most innovative and entertaining shows that’s every been made. And it all takes place in a funeral home. Before Michael C. Hall was Dexter he played another iconic character David Fischer. It’s a bit of trip and with five seasons you are in it for the long haul but believe me every second is worth it. The entire series is available to watch on NowTV and SkyGo.