Happy Anniversary to Next Time On!

Exactly 1 year ago, on August 8th, 2019, I launched this blog. It was such a bright spot during a chaotic time of my life. I can’t believe it has already been a year. Thank you to all of you for reading. I love hearing your thoughts on shows I recommend, and ones I don’t. Keep it coming!

Since it has been a whole year, and I have recommended 31 shows, I thought I would take this opportunity to look back and pick my top 5 favorite recs—so far, anyway!

5. Unorthodox

I fell in love with this miniseries. I loved the story it told, and found Shira Haas’ performance simply breathtaking. I’m so happy she got an Emmy nomination! This series had me hooked from start to finish. The production value was also so impressive—the costumes were outstanding. 

4. Insecure

God, I love this show. It’s just so beautiful to watch. The cinematography is stunning. Issa and Molly’s style is really on point. It’s such a fun show, and I love the way it balances comedy and drama. Season 4, which aired after I wrote my post about it, was really good. I have loved seeing how the show and the characters evolve over time. I can’t wait for season 5!! Also, this year marks the first time Insecure has been nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series. Extremely overdue, if you ask me. Also check out Yvonne Orji’s HBO comedy special, Momma I Made It!

3. Fleabag

Fleabag was just so good. It’s use of fourth wall breaks was brilliant. I found it to be so innovative—how many TV shows can get away with most of their characters not having real names? And Andrew Scott. Need I say more? 

2. Normal People

I am obsessed with this show. I am in awe of how effectively it was able to use cinematography and pacing to emulate the novel’s melancholy, gray mood perfectly. Daisy Edgar Jones and Paul Mescal were amazing finds. The casting director definitely deserves that Emmy nomination!! In my eyes, the series was near perfect. 

1. GLOW

GLOW is the whole reason this blog even exists. There is “better” TV out there, maybe even on this list. But GLOW will always have a special place in my heart, because it essentially defined my taste—highly character-driven, female-centered TV shows with excellent writing. This show made me a better television viewer, and as I said, was the impetus for creating Next Time On in the first place. I still think it is so underrated, and it deserves many more seasons. Side note—if you’re looking for a slightly weird psychological movie, check out Alison Brie in Horse Girl on Netflix! She co-wrote and stars! 

What have been your favorite shows you discovered on Next Time On? Let me know in the comments below!

I know it has been a while since I have added new recommendations, but don’t worry! One will be up within a couple days, and I have many more in the coming days. Here’s to another year of excellent television!