From 'Bojack Horseman' to 'Aakhri Station': Five shows you should add to your binge list

Sit back, grab some popcorn, and let these TV shows blow your mind

KARACHI:

The search for engaging narratives can become quite cumbersome, especially if you’re bombarded by all types of content at any given point in time. The increased desirability of short-form videos might just be doing a number on the collective attention spans of the best of us, but even then, certain stories emerge amidst the noise to keep one hooked till the very last frame. The following are five series in which you can immerse yourself, being blown away by the sheer brilliance that each has to offer. 

BoJack Horseman 

At the surface, BoJack Horseman seems to be a tongue-in-cheek ode to washed-up has-beens. Following the life of the titular character, the audience watches BoJack’s life unfold after the star has already tasted the tempting fruit of fame in the 90s as a sitcom actor. Whether or not the showrunners want you to like the protagonist is up for debate. Many may see themselves in the main character - a fact that has doubled as a sobering reality for many - while others may frown upon him in disdain.

Inundated with necessary nuance, the thought-provoking Netflix series walks us through issues like addiction, depression, narcissism, and self-loathing, whilst seamlessly incorporating themes of humour and heartbreak. At no point is the audience directed to think one thing - each issue is left open to interpretation, but the showrunners ensure that the narrative does so in an impactful way. Embellished with a gorgeous animation style, this is a show that is, undoubtedly, an absolute must-watch.

Love Death + Robots 

This animated anthology series is a wild ride that has one anticipating what’s going to happen next, keeping viewers at the edges of their seats. The show consists of numerous standalone episodes, each with its own unique story and style, making it a watch that will satiate the minds of a diverse audience. From science fiction to fantasy to horror, this Netflix series has it all and does not hold back in any way, shape, or form. There are themes of violence and assault that one may need to be wary of, but overall, Love Death + Robots packs a punch.   

From being absurdly grotesque, to vividly confusing, to straight-up trippy, each episode showcases a different animation style and technique with a promising storyline to match, all of which combines to further the element of surprise. A welcome break from the mundane, this brilliantly crafted show is definitely worth your time and attention.

Mirzapur 

This Indian crime thriller is a rollercoaster of intense action, complex characters, and intricate storytelling. Set in the city of Mirzapur, where lawlessness and corruption reign supreme, the show follows the rise of a criminal empire and the power struggle between two families vying for control. The acting is top-notch, with each character bringing their own unique flavour to the show. 

Pankaj Tripathi is a stoic, yet compelling Kaleen Bhaiyya. Divyenndu, as Munna, surpasses the expectations of a riveting antagonist, with many of his antics hitting a little too close to home, making the narrative far more believable and terrifying. Ali Fazal is at the helm of the series as Guddu Pandit, a would-be goon who makes up for what he lacks in intellect through brute strength. Even the side characters play their roles with exceeding excellence, thereby elevating the watching experience. 

The storyline is dark and captivating, with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Even though Season 2 does not hold up as well as Season 1, crawling at a much slower pace, it serves as a sense of closure for fans who were completely invested in the first instalment. 

Made In Heaven

This Indian drama is a heartwarming and emotional journey that explores the lives of two wedding planners in Delhi. The show tackles important social issues such as classism, sexuality, and gender roles, all while challenging certain norms by telling a compelling and emotional story. Equipped with a brilliant cast, with each character bringing their own depth and nuance to the show, Made In Heaven is captivating, heartbreaking, uncomfortable, and wholesome. 

There are trademark signs of it being a Zoya Akhtar directorial, with one of the oft-repeated critiques of her work being that it showcases the plight of the privileged. While that may hold true for many, it does not take away from the fact that this particular series is heartwarming, with character arcs that keep you engaged. 

Aakhri Station 

A powerful and thought-provoking television mini-series that can be found on YouTube, this seven-part Sarmad Khoosat and Kashf Foundation creation explore complex issues that women in Pakistan face on a daily basis. It features an outstanding ensemble cast, with each actor delivering a compelling and nuanced performance in their own diversely unique manner.

The characters depict varying forms of domestic and mental distress. Through their experiences, the audience learns about pertinent issues such as women's rights, drug abuse, HIV, PTSD, acid attacks, forced prostitution, and domestic violence. Aakhri Station sheds light on these taboo, et vital topics with the necessary sensitivity, utilizing a compassionate and humanizing approach, without coming off as preachy. At the end of the day, if nothing else compels you, let the intricate storytelling win you over. 

To sum up, these 5 shows serve as an assortment of entertainment for anyone looking for something spellbinding to add to their viewing list.