Humanoids, traffic jams and triskaidekaphobia: five TV series not to be missed
As you browse through the full range of streaming, satellite and digital terrestrial services, here is a selection of programmes you won’t want to miss
*The Shards* (Disney+), the TV series created by Ryan Murphy and Bret Easton Ellis, is perhaps the best thing to have been broadcast in September. It takes you exactly where the writer intended. In contrast, *Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story* (Netflix) – with Ryan Murphy once again involved – uses real-life court cases as a pretext to modernise a Victorian-era story. These are two well-made and enjoyable series that demonstrate once again just how capable the algorithm is of tapping into the public’s tastes. They’ve won the day, there’s no doubt about it. Let’s now turn to October. My personal anticipation is all focused on *VisionQuest*, the TV miniseries based on the Vision character from Marvel Comics, which returns after an 11-year hiatus. Back in 2015, audiences welcomed it with enthusiasm, hoping it would mark the start of a surprising new wave of small-screen superhero series. There was a surprise, but it was a negative one. Enjoy the show.
The Valley of Eden – Series 1 – 1 October on Netflix
Yet another ‘modern retelling of a great classic’ – a real rollercoaster ride. I wonder why anyone would embark on such a venture. It takes just a moment to betray the spirit of a book, let alone a masterpiece like that of Nobel Prize-winner John Steinbeck. It’s no surprise, then, that Netflix has taken a full four years (that’s how long it’s been since the announcement) to produce this adaptation. Seven episodes packed with intense emotional tension.
Traffic Jam – Mini-series – 2 October on Prime Video
A series that is light-hearted only on the surface, with that ensemble-driven, surreal rhythm that gives a nod to *Superstore*, but elevated by a cast of top-class actors led by Corrado Guzzanti, alongside Lucia Ocone, Matilde Gioli, Alessandra Mastronardi and Valentina Romani. The premise is a classic one: a kilometre-long queue, with everyone stuck in the sun on the motorway.
American Horror Story – Season 13 – from 1 October on Disney+
Thirteen series: I’m a fan of this show, though it’s had its ups and downs. More downs than ups. To mark this milestone, Ryan Murphy – him again – is going all out and calling on the heavyweights from his pantheon: Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Emma Roberts and Kathy Bates. For die-hard fans only.
Carrie – Series 1 – from 7 October on Prime Video
Yes, it’s the Carrie by horror maestro Stephen King – the very same one that was brought to the big screen by Brian De Palma. It’s hard to do better than that. If you’re looking for a film tackling bullying, aimed at the younger generation, this nightmare is a must-see.
