Four years into Apple TV Plus’s existence, the network continues to outperform expectations, despite not boasting the extensive content library of its competitors. The quality of its shows and occasional films is consistently impressive, though there are occasional exceptions.
Comparisons to HBO in the 2000s seem fitting, with a curated selection of outstanding TV shows and a range of movies. The programming caters to a broad audience, featuring core science fiction shows like For All Mankind and Foundation, as well as more unconventional offerings such as Schmigadoon! and The Morning Show.
Apple TV Plus has successfully captivated a diverse audience through a strategic combination of a limited yet high-budget and highly entertaining show lineup.
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters
Familiarity with Legendary’s expansive monster shared universe enhances the experience, but Monarch offers a captivating narrative that doesn’t necessitate prior fandom. Set in the same universe as the 2014 Godzilla and its sequels, this series diverges by instilling genuine concern for its characters. Serving as a prequel spanning the ’50s and 2015, it follows multiple generations of a family exploring the realm of colossal monsters, posing both threats and potential salvation for Earth. While the notable stunt casting of Kurt Russell and his son, Wyatt Russell, may grab attention, it’s the enthralling storyline involving monsters and the diverse cast that keeps viewers engaged.
Lessons in Chemistry
Produced by and featuring Brie Larson, this series is an adaptation of the eponymous book, delivering a heartfelt, uplifting, and at times, emotionally intense narrative. Brie Larson portrays Elizabeth Zott, a skilled chemist navigating the challenges of being a single working woman in the late ’50s. Despite enduring significant setbacks, Elizabeth rebounds, creating a science-based cooking show that propels her to stardom. Without giving away too much, this show represents the romantic drama that Hollywood needs more of—offering a compelling and inspiring storyline.
For All Mankind
Ron D. Moore’s enduring science fiction drama stands as one of the lengthiest series on Apple TV Plus, and rightfully so. From its inception as an alternate history exploration of the Soviets reaching the Moon first, it has evolved into one of the most compelling science fiction offerings on television. The fourth season, in particular, resonates with timely relevance, set in the early 2000s and delving into the realm of commercially driven space exploration. The narrative sparks significant discussions about billionaire rights, labor organizing, and the role of NASA in a world where premier rockets are crafted by private corporations.
Silo
Adapted from a book, this series diverges from the ’50s patriarchy theme to explore a gripping narrative set in a dystopian future. Centered around women navigating a harrowing future, it unfolds as a mystery and thriller deep below the earth’s surface. The show utilizes its unique and unsettling setting to intensify tension, delving into how a small community unites amidst the challenges at the end of the world.
Platonic
This series, revolving around friends reuniting in their 40s, serves as a contemporary counterpart to Thirtysomething tailored for millennials. Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen display remarkable chemistry as platonic best friends whose exceptionally close and chaotic relationship has a transformative impact on those in their orbit. Despite the unexpected but satisfying conclusion of its first season, the announcement of a second season was a surprise. However, if the upcoming season proves to be as cathartic as the first, there’s certainly no reason for objection.
Schmigadoon!
This quirky tribute to Broadway musicals has flown under the radar, likely due to its unconventional premise. The show follows a couple, portrayed by Keegan-Michael Key and Cecily Strong, who find themselves immersed in a world based on musicals. The first season drew inspiration from musicals of the ’40s to ’50s, while the second season shifted to those of the ’60s and ’70s. With more intricate themes from the source material and a personal affinity for the Fosse and Chicago era, this season resonated even more with audiences, including those typically averse to musicals. The series cleverly satirizes and praises its source material simultaneously, resulting in an immensely enjoyable experience that even anti-musical viewers can appreciate. If the general concept of musicals has deterred you in the past, give this season a try — it skillfully mocks and celebrates musicals, leaving audiences with a thoroughly entertaining time.
The Morning Show
Apple TV Plus’ flagship show, The Morning Show, has been both a hit and a bit of a mess, grappling with its identity as either a drama or melodrama. Fortunately, in its third season, the series seems to have found its niche as one of the most captivating soap operas currently on TV. The plotlines are deliberately outlandish, with emotions dialed up to an intense level; you might even find yourself amused at attempts to convince you that Reese Witherspoon just took off in a rocket. The show’s success lies in the talented and charming ensemble cast, reminiscent of classic soap operas, where the goofiness becomes secondary to the pleasure of spending time with familiar faces.
Notably, the season stands out with a genuinely powerful moment when Nicole Beharie’s character confronts Holland Taylor’s about institutional racism within the television network. Beharie, who faced industry challenges after conflicts on the set of Sleepy Hollow, experiences a cathartic and meta-referential moment on The Morning Show that mirrors her real-life struggles. This poignant intersection of fiction and reality adds depth to the show’s narrative.
Invasion
While the first season of Invasion suffered from a slow pace and delayed introduction of aliens, Season 2 rectifies these issues by maintaining a tight grip on its expansive narrative. The season seamlessly weaves multiple storylines, including a concerned soldier uncovering hidden truths about the invasion, a mother striving to protect her alien-affected child, a group of kids navigating a world devastated by aliens in search of their friend, and a woman grappling with guilt as she attempts to communicate with the aliens without losing herself in the process.
Season 2 concludes with a more substantial cliffhanger than its predecessor, yet the show’s renewal status remains uncertain. Nevertheless, if you’ve been seeking an alien invasion story that consistently emphasizes the importance of humanity’s survival, Invasion is well worth your time.
Foundation
Chances are, your initial attraction to Foundation stemmed from your enthusiasm for science fiction. The appeal of a high-budget series adapted from the works of Isaac Asimov, a pioneer in American science fiction literature, is hard to resist. However, what will likely keep you hooked is the outstanding performance of Lee Pace, who excels in his role as a god emperor clone. His portrayal adds a captivating dimension to the series, making it a compelling watch beyond its foundation in classic science fiction literature.