Entertainment
'Broadchurch,' 'Luther' and More: 7 Summer Series That Will Whet Your Anglo Appetite
When it comes to arbitrary obsession, one might say I'm the bloody queen. And when you take into account some of my favorite things, it's no surprise I'm positively nutters for the goings-on across the pond in the UK. I'd even go as far as saying that the United States — at least partially — has Great Britain to thank for upping the ante on TV storytelling standards. So what better time than now, the barren small screen wasteland that is summer, to pick up a few new obsessions? We promise that they're jolly good. And just like a strong cuppa (that's tea for all you 'Muricans), these series were built to last, and will linger in your system long after the last 'oi!' has been uttered. So why not pop the kettle on, crank up the air conditioning, and tune into some quality tube times? We've got months until fall shows return, but that doesn't mean your viewing habits shouldn't keep buggering on.
Cheerio!
When it comes to arbitrary obsession, one might say I'm the bloody queen. And when you take into account some of my favorite things, it's no surprise I'm positively nutters for the goings-on across the pond in the UK. I'd even go as far as saying that the United States — at least partially — has Great Britain to thank for upping the ante on TV storytelling standards. So what better time than now, the barren small screen wasteland that is summer, to pick up a few new obsessions? We promise that they're jolly good. And just like a strong cuppa (that's tea for all you 'Muricans), these series were built to last, and will linger in your system long after the last 'oi!' has been uttered. So why not pop the kettle on, crank up the air conditioning, and tune into some quality tube times? We've got months until fall shows return, but that doesn't mean your viewing habits shouldn't keep buggering on.
'Broadchurch' on BBC America
Our most-anticipated new series is definitely 'Broadchurch,' which premieres August 7. David Tennant, Arthur Darvill, and Olivia Coleman make up just part of the truly impeccable cast of the series, which is already a huge success in its mother country. Not that you need anymore reasons to watch this, but you should know that originally intended to be a miniseries, the show did so well, they decided to do a second season already. I'm having 'Downton Abbey' Season 1 flashbacks of scale and greatness. Cuppa Scale: ONLY THE BEST for Ten and Rory ('Doctor Who' forever, you guys): Yorkshire Gold, all the way.
'The Fall' on Netflix
Premieres May 28. Gillian Anderson: fierce boss TV lady, or fiercest boss TV lady? 'The X-Files' star is having a serious renaissance at the moment, thanks to stints on 'Hannibal' and the upcoming new American series, 'Crisis' (which we've seen and can confirm: she is wonderful). For fans who wanted something good to come out of 'The Killing,' hop over to Netflix and check out the British series that focuses on a serial killer of professional young women in Belfast. It's currently faring quite well across the pond, probably because crime thriller + accents + Gillian Anderson = all of the yes. Cuppa Scale: A Darjeeling seems the natural fit. Really go nuts with a jammy dodger or two.
'Being Human' on BBC America
Premieres July 13. The long-running series originally aired on BBC Three in the UK, but has been brought over for us lucky 'merican types. If you dig human stories told through a supernatural bent? 'Being Human' and its final season might be for you. Talk about being outsiders. Worth a binge-watch in the AC on a hot summer day if nothing else! Cuppa Scale: Something enjoyable and longstanding. An English Breakfast, perhaps by Tetley?
'In The Flesh' on BBC America
Premieres June 6. Looking for a different take on the zombie craze? Look no further than 'In The Flesh,' a BBC Three series that focuses on a young boy attempting to re-adjust to life in his local community after being brought back to life following his 2009 death. Normalization attempts and follies ensue. They've already said yes to a second season, so might as well hop on board now! Cuppa Scale: Zombies are a genre all their own, but this series seems to mix up more than just that, so we'll say a hybrid like English Afternoon.
'The White Queen' on Starz
Premieres Aug. 10. Jonesin' for some monarchy in the wake of the 'Game of Thrones' finale? Look no further than the real-life war for the throne in 'The White Queen,' Starz's ambitious-looking new series about the infamous War of the Roses. For the costumes alone, we're on board. Cuppa Scale: a Lady Grey: dignified yet delicate. Just like a lady should be perceived (ha!).
'Luther' on BBC America
Premieres Sept. 3. The third season of this wonderful psychological drama is worth getting properly excited about as it hasn't been on air since 2011. Idris Elba is having a crazy-successful year and is a rumored favorite for another coveted British TV role: The 12th incarnation of alien time lord 'Doctor Who.' An unraveling detective and the eccentric and delightful Ruth Wilson? Bloody hell, we're into it. Cuppa Scale: A nice, strong Assam would do well.
BONUS: 'Skins' Series Finale Specials
Premieres July 2013. We're not suggesting illegal anything (since we're not one of the teens on 'Skins'), but if you somehow manage to be overseas in the jolly UK while the final-ever episodes of the groundbreaking series 'Skins' are on air, you should probably watch them. It's the end of a television era! The cries of Tumblr will be strong with this one. Cuppa Scale: Twinnings' Ceylon Orange.
