Explore our short list of the best summer series, featuring Anthony Hopkins in a stunning historical drama, Natalie Portman's debut series, and a chilling thriller about the murder of a teenage girl in Canada. What are the best tv-shows of the summer? Our short-list.
Under the Bridge
For Whom? True-crime series enthusiasts.
Synopsis: On November 14, 1997, 14-year-old Reena Virk vanishes in the quiet town of Victoria, Canada. Living in a strict Indian family and being part of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, Reena was subjected to severe bullying by her peers. The primary suspects are girls from the Seven Oaks housing complex and their pseudo-gang, led by the rebellious Josephine Bell. This group of troubled teens catches the attention of Rebecca (Riley Keough), an author confronting her past in Victoria, and Cam (Lily Gladstone), a local cop looking to advance her career through this case.
Why You’ll Love It: "Under the Bridge" stands out with its delicate handling of real-life events, focusing on the victims and suspects, who are mostly minors. Featuring Hollywood’s new favorites, Lily Gladstone and Riley Keough, the series shines with a promising young cast, including Chloe Guidry as the ruthless Josephine and Aiyana Goodfellow, the lone moral compass among the teens. A must-watch for its compelling portrayal of bullying and youth struggles.
Available on Disney+.
© Hulu / Disney+
Those About to Die
For Whom? Fans of "Gladiator" waiting for the sequel.
Synopsis: Set in ancient Rome in 79 A.D., Emperor Vespasian (Anthony Hopkins) is in declining health, while his sons Titus and Domitian vie for power. To distract the restless populace, grand spectacles of chariot races and gladiator fights are organized. Behind the scenes, political schemes unfold, with Tenax (Iwan Rheon) trying to climb the social ladder through controlling the circus bets, and Cala, a fierce Numidian, striving to free her children from slavery.
Why You’ll Love It: Reminiscent of "Game of Thrones", "Those About to Die" offers brutal battles, political intrigue, and unforgettable characters set in a corrupt and decaying ancient Rome. Despite lackluster special effects, the series captivates with its dramatic storytelling and standout performances, particularly by Iwan Rheon and Sara Martins. Anthony Hopkins’ presence, although notable, doesn't overshadow the gripping narrative.
Available on Prime Video.
© 2024 Peacock TV LLC. All Rights Reserved / Reiner Bajo/Peacock
Lady in the Lake
For Whom? Fans of dark mysteries à la Agatha Christie.
Synopsis: "Lady in the Lake" begins with the death of Cleo (Moses Ingram) but quickly shifts focus to the disappearance of a young girl on Thanksgiving Day, 1966. Maddie Schwartz (Natalie Portman), a bored Jewish housewife, leaves her family to pursue her dream of becoming an investigative journalist. Maddie’s obsession with solving the two cases puts her at odds with the local authorities and endangers her own safety.
Why You’ll Love It: Based on Laura Lippman’s bestseller, "Lady in the Lake" marks Natalie Portman’s first foray into television. Portman excels, but it’s Moses Ingram who truly stands out, though her storyline unfolds too late in the series. Despite some narrative issues, the series captivates with its portrayal of women breaking free from 1960s societal constraints and delving into dark secrets hidden beneath seemingly ordinary lives.
Available on Apple TV+.
© Apple TV+
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