Best Shows of 2014
The year 2014 marked a pivotal turning point in television history, ushering in an extraordinary collection of shows that redefined what audiences could expect from the small screen. As streaming services began competing alongside traditional networks, this golden era delivered groundbreaking storytelling across every genre imaginable—from mind-bending science documentaries and philosophical dramas to pulse-pounding action series and genre-defying anthology programs. The best shows of 2014 captivated viewers with their innovative narratives, complex character development, and willingness to take creative risks that pushed television into bold new territory. Whether exploring existential themes, reimagining wrestling entertainment, celebrating the wonders of the cosmos, or diving deep into the dawn of the tech revolution, these critically acclaimed series offered something for every type of viewer. Award-winning performances and visionary creators came together to produce unforgettable television moments that sparked countless conversations and established new benchmarks for quality programming. From international hits to cult favorites, these must-watch shows represent the incredible diversity and ambition that made 2014 one of the most exciting years in television history, cementing its legacy as a landmark moment when TV truly became the dominant cultural force.
Somber, meticulous, and utterly gripping, this documentary series from creator Stephen Michaels stands as the definitive television examination of World War I. Across ten episodes, the show combines newly restored archival footage, letters read by accomplished voice actors, and insights from leading historians to create an immersive chronicle of the conflict. What distinguishes this from other historical documentaries is its commitment to showing the war from multiple perspectives—British, German, French, Ottoman, and others—refusing to simplify the complex web of causes and consequences. The restored footage is remarkable, colorized and speed-corrected to give these century-old images startling immediacy. Producer David Chen's team has crafted something that works both as comprehensive history and powerful human drama. This is essential viewing that illuminates how the Great War shaped the modern world, presented with the gravity and care the subject demands.
Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister leads an extraordinary ensemble through David Benioff and D.B. Weiss's magnificent adaptation of George R.R. Martin's fantasy epic. This isn't your typical medieval drama—it's a ruthlessly intelligent exploration of power, loyalty, and survival where noble houses clash for control of the Iron Throne in the richly detailed realm of Westeros. The production values are absolutely stunning, from the sweeping landscapes to the intricately choreographed battle sequences. Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, and Lena Headey deliver career-defining performances in a series that fearlessly subverts fantasy tropes. With political intrigue as sharp as a Valyrian steel blade and shocking twists that kept audiences breathless for eight seasons, this remains essential viewing for anyone seeking television that operates on an operatic scale.
Neil deGrasse Tyson assumes Carl Sagan's role as our guide through the universe in this breathtaking revival of the landmark science documentary series, proving that educational television can be both intellectually rigorous and emotionally stirring. Executive producers Seth MacFarlane, Ann Druyan, and Brannon Braga crafted a 13-episode journey through space and time that makes complex scientific concepts accessible without ever dumbing them down, using stunning visual effects that transform abstract ideas into comprehensible imagery. The series covers everything from cosmic evolution to climate change, with Tyson's enthusiastic narration striking the perfect balance between authoritative and approachable. The "Cosmic Calendar" framing device and animated historical sequences provide memorable ways to grasp incomprehensible timescales and celebrate scientific pioneers. This isn't just a documentary series—it's a passionate argument for curiosity, skepticism, and the scientific method itself, delivered with such infectious wonder that it might genuinely change how viewers see their place in the cosmos.
This groundbreaking documentary series follows host Ahmad Al-Shugairi as he travels across the world, exploring different cultures and examining how societies function through the lens of Islamic values and universal human principles. What makes Khawater extraordinary is its ability to inspire meaningful reflection about personal development, social responsibility, and civic engagement without ever feeling preachy or didactic. Al-Shugairi's genuine curiosity and respectful approach to every culture he encounters creates a viewing experience that's both enlightening and deeply moving. Each episode tackles substantial topics—from Japanese work ethics to Scandinavian environmental practices—presenting them in accessible ways that encourage viewers to think critically about their own communities. The series has influenced an entire generation across the Arab world, sparking conversations about progress, tradition, and what it means to build better societies together.
In the sun-scorched suburbs of Australia, a sasquatch named Lez navigates trippy adventures with his mates Sassy, Quinton, and Donny in this gloriously bizarre animated series. Created by Jarrad Wright, who voices multiple characters with manic energy, "The Big Lez Show" is a cult phenomenon that deserves every bit of its devoted fanbase. What starts as crude MS Paint animation evolves into something surprisingly profound, blending absurdist humor with genuine emotional moments and surprisingly epic storytelling. The show's willingness to embrace its lo-fi aesthetic while telling increasingly ambitious stories—including interdimensional travel and existential themes—is nothing short of brilliant. It's crude, weird, and absolutely addictive, with a finale that somehow delivers real catharsis. If you're willing to embrace its chaotic energy and rough-around-the-edges production, you'll discover one of the internet's hidden treasures.
The escalating feud between film "expert" Tim Heidecker and his increasingly unhinged co-host Gregg Turkington forms the chaotic center of this brilliantly deconstructed movie review show. What begins as a simple VHS-era throwback quickly spirals into an intricate long-form narrative involving Oscar specials gone wrong, legal troubles, mysterious deaths, and competing visions of what film criticism should even be. Created by Heidecker, Turkington, and director Eric Notarnicola, "On Cinema" commits completely to its bit across hundreds of episodes, building a dense mythology that rewards devoted viewers with callbacks and running gags that span years. The deadpan performances never crack even as situations become absurdly dramatic, and the show's willingness to let uncomfortable moments breathe creates comedy unlike anything else on television. It's a masterclass in sustained improvisation and character work that doubles as both loving tribute to and savage parody of film culture.
George "Joji" Miller brings his unhinged alter ego Filthy Frank to life in this absolutely wild comedy series that became a cult phenomenon on YouTube. The show throws conventional comedy out the window, embracing deliberately offensive humor, surreal sketches, and a bizarre cast of recurring characters including Pink Guy and Salamander Man. Miller's fearless commitment to the absurd created something genuinely unique in the online comedy space, spawning countless memes and catchphrases that dominated internet culture. While definitely not for everyone—the humor is crude, chaotic, and often crosses lines most shows wouldn't dare approach—it's impossible to deny the show's creative energy and cultural impact. If you appreciate boundary-pushing comedy that revels in its own weirdness, this series delivers an unforgettable experience that helped define a generation of internet humor.
Intimate, revelatory, and absolutely essential, this documentary series presents The Beatles' story as told by the band members themselves through extensive interviews and breathtaking archival footage. Spanning their formation through their breakup, the eight-part series offers unprecedented access to the creative process behind the most influential band in popular music history. Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, along with insights from John Lennon's interviews, provide candid reflections on their extraordinary journey, from Liverpool's Cavern Club to global phenomenon. What makes this anthology truly special is the rare footage and demo recordings that illustrate how their songs evolved from initial ideas to finished masterpieces. The series doesn't shy from the tensions and conflicts that ultimately split the group, but it's primarily a celebration of their unmatched musical innovation and cultural impact. For Beatles fans, it's indispensable; for music lovers generally, it's a master class in creativity and collaboration.
Yoo Jae-suk leads this absolutely explosive Korean variety show that has defined entertainment television for over a decade! As the nation's beloved MC, Yoo guides a rotating cast of celebrities through wildly inventive games, missions, and challenges that blend physical comedy with genuine suspense. From name-tag elimination races through elaborate sets to international adventures and detective-themed episodes, Running Man delivers non-stop laughter and surprisingly heartfelt moments. The chemistry between regular cast members like Kim Jong-kook, Song Ji-hyo, and HaHa creates an infectious energy that transcends language barriers. Whether they're racing through Seoul landmarks or competing in absurd costume challenges, the show's creativity never stops. It's comfort food television that rewards long-time viewers with running gags while remaining accessible to newcomers jumping in at any episode.
The clash between tradition and modernity drives this exceptional Georgian drama that examines a family torn between conflicting values and desires in post-Soviet Tbilisi. Created by Zaza Rusadze and Beso Kacharava, the series presents multiple generations of a Georgian family navigating a society in transition, where old ways persist even as new possibilities emerge. The ensemble cast delivers powerful performances that capture the complexity of characters caught between loyalty to family and personal ambition, duty and desire. The writing is sharp and nuanced, avoiding simplistic portrayals of either tradition or progress while honestly depicting the tensions inherent in both. Tbilisi itself becomes a vivid presence, a city where ancient churches stand alongside new developments, mirroring the characters' internal conflicts. This is sophisticated storytelling that rewards attention and offers genuine insight into contemporary Georgian life.
Wickedly smart and visually electric, Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss's modern update of Arthur Conan Doyle's detective crackles with manic energy and inventive style. Benedict Cumberbatch inhabits Sherlock Holmes as a "high-functioning sociopath" whose brilliance borders on insufferable, while Martin Freeman grounds the series as the utterly endearing Dr. John Watson. Set in contemporary London, the adaptation cleverly updates classic cases with smartphones and internet culture without losing the essence of what makes these characters timeless. Each ninety-minute episode feels like a feature film, packed with stunning cinematography that visualizes Sherlock's deductive process in thrilling ways. Andrew Scott's Moriarty is deliciously unhinged, and the chemistry between the leads drives everything. The writing is sharp enough to match its protagonist's intellect, making this absolutely essential viewing for mystery lovers.
An alcoholic genius scientist drags his anxious grandson across infinite dimensions for increasingly dangerous adventures, and somehow this premise has spawned one of the most brilliant animated series ever created. Dan Harmon and Justin Roilich's Rick and Morty masterfully blends absurdist humor with genuine emotional depth, never afraid to deliver devastating character moments between the interdimensional chaos and sci-fi shenanigans. The show's willingness to experiment with narrative structure—from anthology episodes to serialized storylines—keeps every season feeling fresh and unpredictable. Justin Roilich voices both title characters with manic energy, while the supporting cast, including Chris Parnell and Sarah Chalke, grounds the family dynamics. The writing is razor-sharp, packed with clever references and philosophical questions disguised as crude jokes. Whether Rick is battling alternate versions of himself or the family is dealing with relationship drama, the series consistently delivers some of the smartest and most hilarious television available.
Delightfully absurd and sharply satirical, this Chilean mockumentary-style puppet show operates on a wavelength entirely its own. Created by Álvaro Díaz González and Pedro Peirano, "31 Minutos" presents itself as a chaotic children's news program hosted by puppet journalists Tulio Triviño and Juan Carlos Bodoque, who stumble through reporting while dealing with their own incompetence and interpersonal drama. The genius lies in how the show layers sophisticated media satire and social commentary beneath its colorful puppet antics, making it equally beloved by children and adults. The musical segments are genuinely catchy, the characters are surprisingly well-developed, and the humor ranges from slapstick to wickedly clever observations about journalism and society. It's become a cultural phenomenon in Latin America, and for good reason—there's simply nothing else quite like its inspired lunacy.
When a young boy named Monkey D. Luffy gains the power to stretch like rubber after eating a magical Devil Fruit, he sets out to find the legendary One Piece treasure and become King of the Pirates. This epic anime adventure from creator Eiichiro Oda has been sailing strong since 1999, and for good reason—it's an absolute masterclass in long-form storytelling. The series brilliantly balances humor, heart, and high-stakes action while building one of the most richly detailed fictional worlds in anime history. Each arc introduces memorable characters with genuinely moving backstories, and the crew's bonds deepen in ways that earn every emotional payoff. Yes, the episode count is intimidating, but the journey is absolutely worth it. The pacing improves significantly after the early arcs, and once you're invested in Luffy and his Straw Hat crew, you'll understand why fans have stayed devoted for over two decades.
Deceptively whimsical at first, this shonen anime transforms into something progressively darker and more sophisticated as it explores the journey of young Gon Freecss searching for his absent father. Madhouse's 2011 adaptation of Yoshihiro Togashi's manga is a masterclass in long-form storytelling, with each arc building complexity in both plot and character development. What begins as a straightforward adventure anime evolves into a profound examination of human nature, morality, and the costs of ambition. The Chimera Ant arc alone stands as one of anime's greatest achievements—a harrowing, emotionally devastating exploration of what separates humans from monsters. The voice acting in both Japanese and English is exceptional, and the animation remains consistently strong across 148 episodes. This is essential viewing for anyone who thinks they've outgrown shonen anime, proving the genre can achieve genuine artistic depth.
Brilliant, visually stunning, and endlessly fascinating, this German YouTube channel transforms complex scientific concepts into gorgeously animated short films that educate without ever feeling like homework. Founded by Philipp Dettmer, Kurzgesagt (German for "in a nutshell") tackles everything from quantum mechanics and existential philosophy to biology and space exploration with infectious enthusiasm and remarkable clarity. Each video is a masterclass in science communication, breaking down intimidating subjects into digestible pieces while maintaining intellectual rigor and never condescending to viewers. The distinctive flat-design animation style is both beautiful and functional, using visual metaphors that make abstract concepts tangible. What truly sets the series apart is its ability to inspire genuine wonder—whether explaining the immune system or the scale of the universe, these videos remind you why science matters and how extraordinary reality actually is. It's educational content that genuinely entertains, perfect for curious minds of any age seeking to understand the world better.
Every NFL season ends with one team victorious, but the journey to that championship moment contains drama that scripted television could never match. "America's Game: The Super Bowl Champions" chronicles each year's title-winning team through a masterful combination of game footage, behind-the-scenes material, and candid interviews with players and coaches. Narrated by Alec Baldwin (and other accomplished voices throughout its run), each episode constructs a compelling narrative around that season's champions, identifying key moments, pivotal games, and the personalities that drove success. The access is remarkable—hearing players discuss their mindset during crucial plays adds emotional depth to moments sports fans have watched countless times. NFL Films' legendary production quality means every frame looks cinematic, with their signature style turning football into art. Whether you're revisiting your team's glory or discovering another franchise's championship story, this documentary series captures what makes sports endlessly captivating.
This extraordinary documentary series is about life's determination to persist, adapt, and flourish against all odds across our planet's most challenging environments. Narrated with trademark wonder by David Attenborough and produced by the BBC's Natural History Unit, Life Story follows individual animals through critical moments—birth, growing up, finding home, gaining power, winning a mate, and surviving into old age. The cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing behavior never before filmed through years of patient fieldwork and technological innovation. From arctic wolves teaching their pups to hunt to barnacle goslings making death-defying leaps from cliff faces, each sequence reveals nature's dramatic stakes. What distinguishes this from other nature programming is its narrative approach, structuring episodes around universal life stages that create genuine emotional investment. The series reminds us that survival requires constant adaptation, and every creature's story reflects the broader struggle and triumph of life itself. Essential viewing for anyone who marvels at the natural world.
Hilarious, innovative, and endlessly entertaining, this legendary Japanese variety show has been pushing the boundaries of comedy television for over three decades. Hosted by the comedy duo Downtown—Hitoshi Matsumoto and Masatoshi Hamada—"Gaki no Tsukai" pioneered the format of comedic punishment games and absurdist challenges that has influenced comedy programming across Asia and beyond. The show's most famous segment, the annual "No-Laughing" batsu game specials, has achieved cult status worldwide, with participants subjected to increasingly ridiculous situations designed to make them break their straight faces. What makes the series exceptional is its fearless commitment to the bit, its perfect comedic timing, and the genuine chemistry between its cast members. Whether you're discovering classic episodes or following recent installments, this is essential viewing for anyone interested in comedy that takes creative risks.
When a struggling Rust Belt city decides to reinvent itself as a technology hub, the results are both inspiring and unpredictable in this captivating documentary series. TechTown chronicles the real-life transformation of a community attempting to attract startups, retrain workers, and compete with Silicon Valley giants—all while preserving its distinctive character. The series brilliantly captures the human stories behind economic development statistics: longtime factory workers learning to code, young entrepreneurs returning to their hometown with big ideas, and city officials navigating the tension between progress and gentrification. Directors Sarah Chen and Michael Torres secured remarkable access, filming over three years to show both triumphs and setbacks with equal honesty. The storytelling never loses sight of individual stakes while illustrating larger questions about American reinvention. Each episode builds genuine suspense around whether this ambitious experiment will succeed, making economic policy feel as compelling as any scripted drama.
At its heart, this Portuguese reality competition explores human behavior under pressure, testing how people cooperate, compete, and ultimately betray each other for a cash prize. Created by Nuno Santos and hosted by Pedro Granger, the show places contestants in a house where they must vote each other out while forming alliances that shift with every elimination. What elevates "Último a Sair" beyond typical reality fare is its psychological depth—the format forces participants to reveal their true characters as resources dwindle and tensions escalate. The editing is sharp, highlighting the strategic gameplay alongside genuine emotional moments that emerge when people are pushed to their limits. Portuguese television audiences have embraced the show for its unfiltered look at human nature, and the strategic complexity rivals the best international reality competitions. It's compulsively watchable television that says as much about society as it does about the individuals competing.