We’re bringing you the next entry in our recommendations series with a breakdown of the TV Content we’ve enjoyed over the last few months! TV shows and documentaries have been a mainstay for all of us during the various quarantine orders this year, we hope you’ll read on and discover something new through our list of suggestions!
Beginning on a light-hearted note, a few of our team members turned to fictional series for their entertainment fix. The two series are based in completely different settings, one the story of a female comedian in the 50s, and the other a political sci-fi saga, but both are very highly recommended in their genres!
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (TV Series)
“It’s a story of a Jewish woman trying to make a mark as a stand-up comedian in the 1950s. All the characters are eccentric, and the comic timing is spot on! If like me, you are bored of watching violent or intense web shows, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is funny, light-hearted and definitely a refreshing change!” – Mruganayani
The Expanse (TV Series)
“Based on the book series of the same name by James Corey, this sci-fi show is about humanity involuntarily making contact with an alien species. Humans, in this era, have almost completely colonised the solar system, and are primarily divided into 3 factions: Earth natives, Martians, and Asteroid dwellers. Each season focuses on a different aspect of the ‘contact’ process, against a backdrop of politics, racism, and the difficulties that arise from when a sizable section of humans don’t consider themselves natives of Earth anymore. If you enjoy near-future space operas, then I highly recommend this series!” – Dipack
On a more serious note, monumental events are taking place across the world as nations grapple with COVID-19 and other human rights issues. Even as history is being made around us, one of our team members got a brief respite by tuning into a history documentary that looks back at ancient Egypt.
King Tut, The Truth Uncovered (Documentary)
“I am a huge history-mystery buff, so naturally, ancient Egypt and its stories have always fascinated me. Tutankhamun was the youngest ruler of the Egyptians, and died mysteriously at the tender age of 19. This documentary talks about how renowned archeologists locate and uncover King Tut’s tomb, and using technology and logic, try to piece together King Tut’s story and cause of death, while trying to establish a relation between him and Nefertiti, the queen of Egypt. This is for those of you that like a detective story wrapped up in history, and is a quick watch!” – Ketaki
Speaking of documentaries, we have some more for you! One of our team members turned to the world of American culture and politics with her pick, and another team member checked out a recent offering in the long list of documentaries narrated by David Attenborough, and was left in awe of the spectacular visuals.
Our Planet (Documentary)
“This nature documentary series focuses on the varied habitats around our planet, from the Untouched lands of ice in the Arctic to the wild jungles of South America and the vast seas. The series highlights the impact of human activities on the environment and the importance of conservation. The visuals captured in the series are remarkable. It really makes you think that there are so many species we know nothing about and without realising our actions have an impact on their survival. This is a great series to watch on a big screen to really savor the extraordinary visuals!” – Arzoo
Becoming (Documentary)
“This Netflix documentary is based on Michelle Obama, a woman I truly look up to. It takes us through her book tour following the release of her memoir and shows us glimpses of various stages of her life such as her childhood, being First Lady and her last day in the White House. My favourite parts were the interactions Obama has at community events, often with young students, where she speaks about racism and the struggles she faced growing up an African-American. It was interesting to watch a couple of candid and unplugged moments from her life and get a closer look at the personality of a strong woman who the world has come to admire.” – Tanvi
Pivoting back to TV series, we have some more recommendations for those of you interested in religion, culture, and politics!
Unorthodox (TV Series)
“Unorthodox delves into the life of a young Jewish girl, Esther, living in Williamsburg. She has never been anywhere else and never known any other way. The series keeps you on the edge of your seat while you feel each struggle of hers as your own. Her escaping from her arranged marriage and an unrelentingly religious community, reuniting with her mother who escaped the same system before her and finding her voice through music in a renowned music school in Berlin, are all individually inspiring journeys. Based on the autobiography of Deborah Feldman, Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots, this series is made to make you question your own beliefs. If you are someone like me who craves new perspectives, this one’s for you.” – Shivani
Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj (TV Series)
“Hasan Minhaj’s comedy talk show explores various cultural and political issues around the world. His engaging, passionate and comedic portrayal makes this show not only entertaining but informative as well! I personally walked away from each episode having learnt something new and interesting. If you’re looking for a light, funny but informative show, this is the one for you!” – Pooja
Happy watching!
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