Five Of The Greatest Ever Box Sets
There’s no better form of escapism than being absorbed by your favourite TV series.
It’s great to be productive and even read a book, but there’s a time in the week where we can all appreciate good television drama. For those that like to steer clear of the soap operas or maybe even have an additional TV interest, then maybe a new box set could appeal to you. With so many being spoken about at the moment including Power, Game Of Thrones and Walking Dead, we have highlighted some of the all-time favourites.
The Waltons
Recognised as the timeless classic it is- it had to take a place in this article. Filmed in 1971 it is still watched over by The Waltons fanatics. You will also hear many references to this old drama as the family definitely made a lasting impression on viewers. The story is told from John Boy’s point of view and it displays the depression, World-War II and how they cope around this era. Based in the 1930’s and 1940’s the Waltons have financial struggles whilst John Boy looks to fulfil his own dreams as a budding novelist. There’s warmth to this series despite the adversities the family are presented with and this will be a box set worthy of being replayed for some time.
The Sopranos
For any Godfather or Goodfella fans, this is the series for you. It’s not quite a television version of those films but it is a 90’s account of the mafia. Although Tony Soprano (the main character) reiterates that his family/firm aren’t the mafia. Winning 18 Emmys this series is most definitely one to be reckoned with, many dramas unfold and although it has a slow start you can’t help but feel bad for liking some of the characters involved. Non-stop action keeps you engaged throughout and each series offers a very new problem or outlook.
Curb Your Enthusiasm
This is a light-hearted series by Larry David, the Seinfield co-writer. He plays an exaggerated version of himself and always has to apologise for his unnecessary comments or actions. Despite the cheesy style the episodes are carried out in, there’s comical genius involved in the writing of this box set. David highlights social awkwardness and brings to light some of the situations we have all been in and says the things we wish we could say. Ask anyone who’s watched it and they will tell you, “it’s pretty…pretty good”.
Game Of Thrones
Arguably the most-talked about in recent years and for good reason too. The effects, props and actors ensure that this story excels. It is an old tale from a book but it has been brought to life with a couple of changes. The fantasy series features dragons, white-walkers (zombie like creatures) and more but even for those who don’t usually like that kind of thing, this series will most-likely change your mind. There’s a civil war brewing as we get to watch a number of different families and the different cultures that surround each.
The Wire
Often overlooked in the UK, but this American series is where Idris Elba really made his name. He pulls off a fantastic US accent and plays a great role in probably the best ever box set to have been made. Set in the 90’s, the name for this drama derives from the wire placed on mobile phones, pagers and payphones to monitor and catch drug dealers. Based in Baltimore, David Simon portrays life in poverty as we watch drug dealers, politics and the police. He manages to place the whole sequence into one box set, meaning we see the entire process and much of this series resonates as it shows how the cycle is almost impossible to stop. Watch drug lords Stringer and Barksdale try to evade the efforts of Dectective McNulty, as we enjoy the whole perspective- seeing the story from every angle.
That’s an insight into some of the most-enjoyable box sets to have ever been made but it’s likely that you think some have been missed out and that’s because there are just so many. There are series such as Breaking Bad, Downtown Abbey, Power, Luther, Entourage and many others that are worth watching. Decide for yourself and save money when using our voucher codes for HMV, The Hut and Amazon.
By Daniel Treasure, 28th July 2016