While there are plenty of amazing, multi-season shows available on streaming platforms — shows that are as much a part of pop culture as decent viewing — there are also a few lurking in the background that are worth bingeing on.
That’s because they run for one, glorious season – they give you a summary of the story before you move on to something new. And, because most of them don’t last more than eight episodes, you might be able to squeeze them all into a weekend.
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The Devs (Disney+)
Just trying to explain and explain Devs in short it would be a disservice to the show. Written and directed by the legendary Alex Garland (Civil War, Ex Machina), the sci-fi show is an exploration of loss and the drive to change by any means necessary, regardless of the cost.
You can tell you’re in for an interesting ride when you notice it also looks at pre-determinism, quantum mechanics, fate, simulation and different theories. And that’s just eight episodes in total.
It’s smart, raw, powerful and unforgiving. And although not everyone, Devs a loyal fan base has grown.
The characters are rich and well-developed, they work with genuine enthusiasm and drive, while the performances are universally entertaining – there’s a special mention of Nick Offerman’s well-reserved.
Take your time, focus and listen to this one. It really is worth it, and it can change the way you look at the whole world. Or you can just enjoy Offerman’s glorious beard.
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English (Main Video)
Revenge tales are nothing new, but if delivered well, they can resonate long after the final scenes.
English a simple story of a mother driven to avenge her son’s murder. He travels the world, from England to newly formed America, to kill those responsible, and nothing will stop him.
It is supported by a great script from Hugo Blick, Federico Jusid’s excellent sound, and the amazing cinematography of Arnau Valls Colomer. There’s also an incredibly sensitive and carefully paced cast, including the excellent Emily Blunt.
There is no sensitivity inside English. The brutality of the wild west permeates every frame and there is never a moment when you feel safe. There’s always, a looming panic and every character is flawed. There are no heroes here, just people trying to survive in a time of great chaos.
Sure, there’s no consistency and you won’t feel particularly happy as the six episodes draw to a close, but you’ll be glad you came along.
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Quarry (Manje/Sky – UK, Prime Video – US)
Almost a decade old, Quarry is a drama that may not have received the recognition it deserved in the mid-2010s, but it has stood the test of time. You can free it again today.
Directed by Greg Yaitanes of Banshee fame, is based on a series of novels written by Max Allan Collins and tells the story of a US Marine who returns from Vietnam in 1972 to hate and America’s lack of love for his service.
He finds himself thrown into the world when his marriage ends and society sees him as an outcast. Unable to find work and increasingly isolated, we follow his struggles over the course of a solid eight-episode season.
Quarry it’s relentless, powerful, and sometimes shocking. It’s a great example of great television, with an amazing central performance from Logan Marshall-Green.
This is a show worth watching, especially in just a few seats.
