How would you do with boundless control? This is the fundamental question posed by all greatest science fiction and fantastical narratives. What if you were granted superhuman abilities? Or discovered a miraculous drug? What about each and every single person became dedicated to your satisfaction? Could you wield such power for good, or would you succumb to your own baser instincts?
The shows listed herein each grapple with this dilemma in distinct manners (aside from one key exception). Presented below is our countdown of the ten best seasons of sci-fi and fantastical TV from the past year.
Even after more than 60 years of history, the web-slinger remains reinvented by fresh creative voices. This series presents a refreshing look at the character's formative days, cleverly merging classic comic story beats with influences from other adaptations to create something which is simultaneously fresh and profoundly engaging.
Rather than operating alone or Tony Stark as a guide, this iteration of Peter Parker forges a complex relationship with Norman Osborn, who in this story is still just the CEO of Oscorp. Through their dynamic, Peter grows into a true hero, internalizing the iconic mantra of great power and responsibility.
Creator Vivienne Medrano's boldly transgressive adult musical series, which originated as a crowdfunded pilot, truly hit its stride in its sophomore season. Building on the climactic events of the first season, the story expands considerably, centering on the ambitious TV demon Vox as he takes control of the narrative, sparking a chain of ever-more dramatic conflicts that inevitably culminate in show-stopping song.
Although it might not have a one breakout song on the level of the first season's "Loser, Baby," that's because each element in this season being more interwoven. The action, personal arcs, and above all the music are all elevated. The story advances the main plot dramatically while delivering no shortage of bizarre, wild, and ultimately entertaining dark fantasy.
As a successor to the acclaimed Netflix show, this series faced immense shoes to fill. Despite well-documented production challenges, the final show proves it was worthy of the effort. The plot centers on Matt Murdock after his secret identity as Daredevil is publicly revealed, leaving him vulnerable to enemies from his history and new threats in a slightly take of his well-known world.
The first episode is a thrilling return to form, capturing the intense tone audiences cherished from the prior series. Although the subsequent episodes venture into certain different territory, the season finishes powerfully, setting viewers keenly awaiting a second installment.
An unexpected this year's highlight, this show is essentially an animated Breaking Bad filtered through the sensibility of King of the Hill. Created by an Adult Swim veteran alongside comedy Steve Hely, the series follows the saga of a mild-mannered mycologist who discovers a miraculous mushroom and soon finds himself pursued by forces including unscrupulous pharmaceutical executives to government authorities.
Despite being a parody, the show unfolds with the grave atmosphere of a classic paranoia film. Enhanced by hallucinogenic visuals and an unnerving musical soundtrack, the plot explores deeper mysteries about the mushroom's full effects. It's a intelligent, visually striking, and completely compelling first season.
The hit adaptation of the popular gaming series returned with a new batch of episodes that deepened its epic mystery and broadened its nuclear wasteland setting. While it ventures in the direction of the fan-favorite location of New Vegas, the season is not a straight retelling of that title; instead, it continues to explore themes of authority and freedom.
The show expertly juggles multiple narrative threads and points of view, from Lucy's quest for answers to a knight's struggle with the dogma of the his faction. The outcome is a rich layered and utterly engaging chapter to the expanding Fallout saga.
The bloody and heartfelt adult animation show continues its winning streak in season 3. Mark Grayson confronts immense challenges on all fronts: preparing for a coming Viltrumite invasion, guiding his young sibling, and battling with the secretive GDA. The season once again features some of the most brutal action sequences the series has ever produced.
The protagonist's physical and emotional endurance are repeatedly pushed. He must contend with opponents more powerful than himself, the aftermath of his battles, and the ethical weight of his decisions. Excellent storylines for key cast members like Cecil Stedman and Rex Splode round out a fantastic installment.
James Gunn's offbeat anti-hero show came back with increased significance within the revamped DC canon, and season 2 delivers on that fronts. While it successfully establishes groundwork for future DCU projects, it primarily presents a powerful and focused {