Top 10 TV Series Of 2014: A Look Back

\nHey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best TV series that graced our screens back in 2014. It was a fantastic year for television, filled with gripping dramas, hilarious comedies, and mind-bending sci-fi shows. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s dive into the top 10 TV series of 2014 that you absolutely need to remember!

1. True Detective (Season 1)

Alright, let's kick things off with a show that redefined the crime drama genre: True Detective. The first season, which aired in 2014, was an absolute masterpiece. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, this anthology series presented a dark, atmospheric, and deeply philosophical narrative that had viewers hooked from the very first episode. The intricate plot, combined with stunning visuals of the Louisiana landscape, made it a standout show of the year.

The performances were phenomenal, with McConaughey's portrayal of Rust Cohle becoming iconic. His nihilistic monologues and intense dedication to solving the case added layers of complexity to the character. Harrelson, as Marty Hart, provided a grounded counterpoint to Cohle's philosophical musings, creating a dynamic partnership that kept audiences guessing. The chemistry between the two actors was undeniable, elevating the show to a whole new level. The show's success wasn't just about the acting; the writing, directing, and cinematography were all top-notch. Nic Pizzolatto's scripts were dense with symbolism and philosophical undertones, prompting viewers to analyze every scene. Cary Joji Fukunaga's direction created a haunting and mesmerizing atmosphere, perfectly complementing the dark themes of the show. The long takes, particularly the famous tracking shot in Episode 4, were a testament to the show's ambition and artistry. True Detective Season 1 set a high bar for crime dramas, and its influence can still be felt in television today. It explored themes of morality, corruption, and the human condition, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. If you haven't seen it, now is the perfect time to experience this television masterpiece.

2. Fargo (Season 1)

Next up, we have Fargo, another anthology series that premiered in 2014 and quickly became a critical darling. Inspired by the Coen Brothers' film of the same name, the show captured the quirky, dark humor and unpredictable violence that made the movie a classic. Season 1, starring Billy Bob Thornton, Martin Freeman, and Allison Tolman, delivered a compelling story set in snowy Minnesota, filled with eccentric characters and unexpected twists.

Billy Bob Thornton's performance as Lorne Malvo was chilling and captivating. His character, a mysterious drifter, brought chaos and destruction wherever he went, and Thornton played him with a perfect blend of charm and menace. Martin Freeman, known for his roles in The Office and Sherlock, delivered a standout performance as Lester Nygaard, a meek insurance salesman who gets embroiled in a series of crimes. His transformation from a downtrodden pushover to a cunning manipulator was one of the highlights of the season. Allison Tolman, as Deputy Molly Solverson, provided a moral compass to the story. Her determination and unwavering commitment to justice made her a likable and relatable character. The supporting cast, including Colin Hanks and Bob Odenkirk, added depth and humor to the show. Fargo's strength lies in its ability to balance dark humor with suspenseful storytelling. The show's writers, led by Noah Hawley, created a world that was both familiar and surreal. The dialogue was sharp and witty, and the plot twists kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The show also paid homage to the Coen Brothers' film with subtle references and visual cues. Season 1 of Fargo was a triumph, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards. It proved that a television adaptation could not only honor its source material but also stand on its own as a work of art. If you're a fan of dark comedies and crime dramas, Fargo is a must-watch.

3. Game of Thrones (Season 4)

Of course, we can't forget about Game of Thrones. Season 4 aired in 2014 and was one of the show's most epic and memorable seasons. From the Purple Wedding to the Battle of Castle Black, this season was packed with shocking moments, intense battles, and significant character development. The scale and scope of the production continued to impress, solidifying Game of Thrones as a cultural phenomenon.

Season 4 of Game of Thrones was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with betrayals, triumphs, and devastating losses. The Purple Wedding, where King Joffrey met his demise, was one of the most talked-about television events of the year. The scene was shocking, satisfying, and perfectly executed, showcasing the show's willingness to kill off major characters. The Battle of Castle Black, where the Night's Watch defended the Wall against the Wildlings, was a visual spectacle. The battle was intense, brutal, and full of memorable moments, highlighting the courage and sacrifice of the Night's Watch. Character development was also a major focus of Season 4. Arya Stark continued her journey to become a skilled assassin, learning from the Hound and honing her survival skills. Tyrion Lannister faced trial for the murder of Joffrey, delivering a powerful speech that showcased his intelligence and wit. Daenerys Targaryen continued her quest to conquer Westeros, facing challenges as she ruled over Meereen. The show's ability to balance multiple storylines and characters was one of its greatest strengths. Game of Thrones Season 4 raised the bar for fantasy television, setting a new standard for production value, storytelling, and character development. It was a season that fans will never forget, filled with iconic moments and unforgettable characters. If you're a fan of epic fantasy, Game of Thrones is a must-watch.

4. Orange Is the New Black (Season 2)

Orange Is the New Black continued to break ground with its second season in 2014. The show delved deeper into the backstories of the inmates at Litchfield Penitentiary, exploring themes of race, class, and sexuality with humor and heart. The ensemble cast shone, and the writing remained sharp and insightful, making it one of the most talked-about shows on Netflix.

Season 2 of Orange Is the New Black expanded the world of Litchfield Penitentiary, introducing new characters and exploring the backstories of familiar faces. The season delved into the complexities of the prison system, highlighting the challenges faced by inmates and the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality. The show's ability to balance humor with serious social commentary was one of its greatest strengths. The ensemble cast continued to shine, with standout performances from Taylor Schilling, Uzo Aduba, and Danielle Brooks. The writers explored themes of race, class, and sexuality with sensitivity and nuance, creating a diverse and authentic portrayal of the prison experience. The introduction of new characters, such as Vee, added new layers of conflict and drama to the show. Vee's manipulative and controlling nature created tension among the inmates, forcing them to confront their own prejudices and biases. Orange Is the New Black Season 2 was a critical success, earning praise for its writing, acting, and social commentary. The show's popularity helped to pave the way for other female-led dramas on Netflix. If you're interested in shows that tackle important social issues with humor and heart, Orange Is the New Black is a must-watch.

5. The Leftovers (Season 1)

The Leftovers premiered in 2014 and offered a haunting and thought-provoking look at grief, faith, and the human condition. Set three years after a global event called the "Sudden Departure," in which 2% of the world's population mysteriously disappeared, the show followed the lives of those left behind in a small New York town. With its complex characters and ambiguous storytelling, The Leftovers was a show that stayed with you long after the credits rolled.

The Leftovers Season 1 was a masterclass in character-driven storytelling. The show focused on the emotional fallout of the Sudden Departure, exploring the ways in which people coped with loss, grief, and uncertainty. The performances were outstanding, with Justin Theroux, Amy Brenneman, and Carrie Coon delivering powerful and nuanced portrayals of their characters. The show's ambiguous storytelling challenged viewers to question their own beliefs and assumptions. The writers didn't offer easy answers or explanations, instead focusing on the characters' emotional journeys and their struggles to find meaning in a world that had been irrevocably changed. The show's use of symbolism and allegory added layers of depth to the narrative, inviting viewers to interpret the events in their own way. The Leftovers Season 1 was a critical darling, praised for its writing, acting, and direction. The show's willingness to tackle difficult and uncomfortable themes made it a standout in a crowded television landscape. If you're looking for a show that will challenge your intellect and emotions, The Leftovers is a must-watch.

6. Silicon Valley (Season 1)

On the lighter side, Silicon Valley debuted in 2014 and quickly became a hit for its sharp satire of the tech industry. The show followed the misadventures of a group of programmers trying to make it big in Silicon Valley. With its hilarious writing and spot-on observations, Silicon Valley was a must-watch for anyone who's ever worked in tech or just enjoys a good comedy.

Silicon Valley Season 1 was a breath of fresh air in the comedy landscape. The show's satirical take on the tech industry was both hilarious and insightful, capturing the absurdity and egoism of Silicon Valley culture. The ensemble cast was fantastic, with Thomas Middleditch, Kumail Nanjiani, and Martin Starr delivering memorable performances. The writing was sharp and witty, with jokes that were both smart and accessible. The show's creators, Mike Judge and Alec Berg, drew on their own experiences in the tech industry to create a world that felt both authentic and absurd. The show's focus on the struggles of a small startup trying to compete with giant corporations resonated with viewers who had experienced similar challenges. Silicon Valley Season 1 was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its writing, acting, and satire. The show's popularity helped to solidify HBO's reputation as a home for quality comedy. If you're looking for a smart and funny show that skewers the tech industry, Silicon Valley is a must-watch.

7. The Flash (Season 1)

For superhero fans, The Flash premiered in 2014 and offered a fun and exciting take on the Scarlet Speedster. Grant Gustin starred as Barry Allen, a forensic scientist who gains super speed after being struck by lightning. With its engaging storylines, likable characters, and impressive special effects, The Flash quickly became a hit for The CW.

The Flash Season 1 injected a much-needed dose of optimism and fun into the superhero genre. The show's focus on Barry Allen's journey to become a hero resonated with viewers, and Grant Gustin's portrayal of the character was both charming and relatable. The show's supporting cast was also strong, with Candice Patton, Jesse L. Martin, and Tom Cavanagh delivering memorable performances. The special effects were impressive, bringing the Flash's powers to life in a visually stunning way. The show's writers balanced action with humor and heart, creating a show that appealed to both comic book fans and casual viewers. The show's crossovers with Arrow helped to expand the DC television universe and create a sense of interconnectedness. The Flash Season 1 was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its writing, acting, and special effects. The show's popularity helped to solidify The CW's reputation as a home for quality superhero television. If you're a fan of superheroes, The Flash is a must-watch.

8. How to Get Away with Murder (Season 1)

How to Get Away with Murder burst onto the scene in 2014, bringing a thrilling and suspenseful legal drama to ABC. Viola Davis starred as Annalise Keating, a brilliant law professor who becomes entangled in a murder plot with her students. With its twisty storylines and compelling characters, How to Get Away with Murder kept viewers guessing until the very end.

How to Get Away with Murder Season 1 was a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling. The show's twisty plot kept viewers guessing until the very end, and Viola Davis's portrayal of Annalise Keating was nothing short of iconic. The show's ensemble cast was also strong, with Alfred Enoch, Jack Falahee, and Aja Naomi King delivering memorable performances. The show's writers tackled complex moral issues, forcing viewers to question their own sense of right and wrong. The show's use of flashbacks and flashforwards added layers of intrigue to the narrative, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. How to Get Away with Murder Season 1 was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its writing, acting, and suspense. The show's popularity helped to solidify ABC's reputation as a home for quality drama. If you're a fan of legal dramas with a twist, How to Get Away with Murder is a must-watch.

9. Transparent (Season 1)

Transparent premiered in 2014 and offered a groundbreaking and heartfelt portrayal of a family dealing with their father's transition to a woman. Jeffrey Tambor starred as Maura Pfefferman, a transgender woman who comes out to her adult children. With its sensitive writing and nuanced performances, Transparent was a landmark series that helped to increase visibility and understanding of transgender issues.

Transparent Season 1 was a groundbreaking and important piece of television. The show's sensitive and nuanced portrayal of Maura Pfefferman's transition resonated with viewers, and Jeffrey Tambor's performance was nothing short of remarkable. The show's writers tackled complex family dynamics with honesty and compassion, creating a show that was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The show's focus on transgender issues helped to increase visibility and understanding of the transgender community. Transparent Season 1 was a critical success, earning praise for its writing, acting, and social impact. The show's popularity helped to pave the way for more transgender representation in television and film. If you're looking for a show that is both entertaining and socially conscious, Transparent is a must-watch.

10. Jane the Virgin (Season 1)

Last but not least, Jane the Virgin debuted in 2014 and offered a charming and witty take on the telenovela genre. Gina Rodriguez starred as Jane Villanueva, a young woman who is accidentally artificially inseminated. With its clever writing, likable characters, and heartwarming storylines, Jane the Virgin quickly became a fan favorite.

Jane the Virgin Season 1 was a delightful and refreshing addition to the television landscape. The show's clever and witty writing paid homage to the telenovela genre while also subverting its tropes. Gina Rodriguez's portrayal of Jane Villanueva was both charming and relatable, and the show's supporting cast was equally strong. The show's writers balanced humor with heart, creating a show that was both entertaining and emotionally resonant. Jane the Virgin Season 1 was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its writing, acting, and originality. The show's popularity helped to solidify The CW's reputation as a home for quality programming. If you're looking for a show that is both funny and heartwarming, Jane the Virgin is a must-watch.

So there you have it, folks! The top 10 TV series of 2014 that are definitely worth revisiting. From crime dramas to comedies to superhero shows, 2014 had something for everyone. What were your favorite shows from that year? Let us know in the comments below!