The Best Dramas of the Decade: A Must-Watch List
The 2010s was a decade that saw the rise of some of the most critically acclaimed and beloved dramas in television history. With the emergence of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, the way we consume television content has changed dramatically. This shift has led to a surge in high-quality, well-written, and engaging dramas that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
From psychological thrillers to family dramas, the 2010s had it all. In this list, we’ll be exploring the best dramas of the decade, highlighting their unique storytelling, exceptional performances, and lasting impact on popular culture.
The Oscars of the Small Screen: Great Dramas Deserving of Accolades
The Golden Era of Television: Great Dramas of the 2010s
The 2010s was a decade that redefined the television landscape. Gone were the days of formulaic, tried-and-true formulas, replaced by complex, nuanced, and thought-provoking storytelling. This shift was largely due to the rise of cable and streaming services, which gave creators the creative freedom to experiment and push the boundaries of what was possible on the small screen.
One of the standout dramas of the decade was HBO’s The Sopranos, which wrapped up in 2007, but its influence can still be felt today. The show’s innovative non-linear storytelling, complex characters, and exploration of themes like identity, family, and morality set the tone for the decade to come. Other shows like AMC’s Breaking Bad (2008-2013), FX’s Justified (2010-2015), and AMC’s Mad Men (2007-2015) all followed in the footsteps of The Sopranos, pushing the envelope and redefining the art of television drama.
Contemporary Tales: Psychological Thrillers and Drama that Gave You the Creeps
The 2010s saw a surge in the popularity of psychological thrillers and dramas that could be described as disturbing, unsettling, and downright terrifying. Shows like Netflix’s Stranger Things (2016-present), HBO’s The Jinx: The Life and Times of Robert Durst (2015), and Hulu’s The Act (2019) all explored themes of trauma, obsession, and the darker aspects of human nature. These shows often featured small-town mysteries, eerie atmospheres, and a sense of unease that lingered long after the credits rolled.
Another notable aspect of this decade was the rise of anthology series, which allowed creators to explore unique stories and worlds without the burden of ongoing narrative. Shows like FX’s American Horror Story (2011-present), HBO’s Room 104 (2017-2019), and Netflix’s Black Mirror (2011-2019) all featured standalone episodes or seasons, offering a refreshing change of pace from traditional serialized storytelling.
Anchors of the Small Screen: Beloved Dramas that Won Our Hearts
While the 2010s was a decade of darkness and uncertainty, it was also a time of hope and positivity. Many dramas emerged that celebrated the human spirit, our capacity for love and kindness, and the beauty of our differences. Shows like CBS’s The Good Wife (2009-2016), AMC’s The Walking Dead (2010-2022), and ABC’s This Is Us (2016-present) all explored these themes, offering a respite from the chaos and uncertainty that surrounded us.
These shows often featured complex, well-developed characters, strong relationships, and a focus on emotional storytelling. They tackled tough subjects like identity, family, and societal issues, but ultimately offered a message of hope and resilience. Whether it was the camaraderie of a post-apocalyptic group in The Walking Dead or the dysfunction of the Pearson family in This Is Us, these dramas reminded us of our shared humanity and the power of love to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Diving Deep: Expanding the Boundaries of Television Drama
The 2010s was a decade of experimentation and innovation, as creators pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the small screen. Shows like HBO’s True Detective (2014-2019), FX’s Fargo (2014-2017), and Netflix’s Black Mirror (2011-2019) all featured non-linear storytelling, unconventional narratives, and a willingness to take risks. These shows often blurred the lines between genres, incorporating elements of science fiction, mystery, and horror into their tales.
This decade also saw a surge in the popularity of anthology dramas, which allowed creators to tell self-contained stories without the burden of ongoing narrative. Shows like FX’s American Crime Story (2016-present), Netflix’s The Haunting of Hill House (2018-2019), and Hulu’s Castle Rock (2018-2019) all explored themes of trauma, family, and the human condition, often using horror and suspense to do so.
Conclusion: The Best Dramas of the Decade
As we look back on the 2010s, it’s clear that the decade was a transformative time for television drama. The rise of streaming services, the shift away from traditional network programming, and the willingness of creators to take risks all combined to produce a decade of innovative, groundbreaking, and unforgettable shows.
From the dark and unsettling to the hopeful and uplifting, the dramas of the 2010s had it all. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, family dramas, or science fiction, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to binge-watch some of the best dramas of the decade.