It’s interesting but I watched very few returning dramas this year. There’s so much NEW content (which I’ll be covering in a separate post) that I quit a lot of shows that simply didn’t deserve time on my schedule anymore (I’m looking at you, Suits, The Flash, Legends of Tomorrow, and Arrow, Agents of Shield, The Last Ship, and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend).
Season 13
It’s funny how much I’ve accepted the fact that Grey’s Anatomy will always remain a part of my TV-viewing experience. It’s consistent, feel-good (well, mostly tearjerking) television that knows exactly what it is and doesn’t try to be anything more. As always, I enjoyed spending time with these characters a great deal this year – although it can be jarring to see so many new faces get so much screen-time. Nevertheless, I’m still tremendously invested in Meredith Grey and the gang, and I will be till the show’s very last episode.
Nad Rating
B+
Season 6
Unlike Grey’s Anatomy, Shonda Rhimes’ political thriller has become absolutely ridiculous. I am so pleased season seven will be the show’s last, because this mess has far overstayed its welcome. I always gave Scandal the benefit of the doubt, but even I can’t defend this season’s horrid storytelling with its over-baked plot points, senseless twists, and irritating character motivations. Worst of all, this season was painfully boring, which Scandal never was amidst all the craziness. Let’s hope some dignity can be restored, but I’m not optimistic.
Nad Rating
D
Season 5
I’m not sure how I feel about this season. On one hand, I definitely appreciated the show changing up its status quo by focusing on a short period of time during the prison’s riot crisis, but the show dropped the ball with regards to numerous subplots that never really paid off (Daya’s subplot randomly fizzling out, Piscatella’s extreme villainy, and Judy King’s sudden exit from the narrative). Nevertheless, Orange Is The New Black still boasts the finest and most talented cast on television. Moreover, that finale was stunning with a final sequence that was equal parts suspenseful, emotional and empowering.
Nad Rating
B+
Season 5
This was the year I lost interest in House of Cards. Season four was one heck of a perfect season, but something about this year rubbed me the wrong way. I think that was primarily due to an increased focus on the show’s politics; I much prefer it when Cards focuses on Frank and Claire’s evil machinations and dastardly deeds. Maybe it’s just time to call it quits?
Nad Rating
C-
Season 3
It breaks my heart that American Crime has been cancelled, but at least we got three stellar seasons of thought-provoking television with impeccable performances. Year three wasn’t as perfect as season two, but it still managed to engross me till the very end with its disturbing subject matter. Plus it managed to give Felicity Huffman yet another powerful character, so here’s hoping the actress gets another star vehicle soon. Show, you will be missed!
Nad Rating
A-
Season 3
In its second season, The Affair produced a perfect year (just like American Crime). However, unlike Crime, the show was unable to sustain its momentum this season. In fact, I almost feel like quitting the show after its catastrophic finale which decided to pay more attention to a useless secondary character (yes I’m talking about you Juliette) instead of even checking in with two of its stars (Helen and Cole). Talk about embarrassing!
Nad Rating
D
Season 2
Season two is the year Supergirl finally came into its own. The show’s debut season had promise and a few standout hours, but it was pretty cheesy most of the time. The show’s sophomore season thrived thanks to an exciting season-long narrative, a tremendously lovable cast, and some fantastic set pieces. Sure it all became a bit messy in the final stretch with too many arcs vying for attention, but it definitely feels like the show finally knows what it wants to be.
Nad Rating
A