Grotesquerie and the 12 worst shows of 2024 (so far)

As someone who’s been following the ever-evolving world of streaming television with a keen eye and a full DVR, I must say that this year has been quite the rollercoaster ride – or perhaps more accurately, a bumpy carousel. The shows mentioned here have definitely caught my attention, some for all the right reasons and others… well, not so much.

2024 is nearing its end, making now an ideal moment to revisit some less-than-stellar TV shows from the year. The television landscape has been bountiful for streamers and viewers alike, boasting a diverse array of fresh productions as well as the return of beloved classics. However, not every show has been a hit.

Let’s talk about some fantastic series we’ve loved before discussing which ones didn’t meet expectations. Topping my personal chart are Apple TV+’s “Presumed Innocent”, Prime Video’s “Fallout”, and Hulu’s “The Bear” (season 3). I’ve also heard great things about Netflix’s “Baby Reindeer” and the fourth season of the much-loved Prime Video show, “The Boys”. What are your favorite shows so far?

Grotesquerie and the 12 worst shows of 2024 (so far)

Now let’s discuss the least favorite shows from this year. I’ve listed programs that I found unappealing after just a few episodes and those I completed but felt underwhelmed by the final episode. First, some honorable (or rather, dishonorable) mentions. These were shows we highlighted in our “Worst of 2024” post from the summer.

Velma on HBO/Max
Griselda on Netflix
Echo on Disney+
Apples Never Fall on Peacock
A Man in Full on Netflix
Mary & George on Starz
The Girls on the Bus on HBO/Max

Grotesquerie on FX (and Hulu)
The Acolyte on Disney+
Orphan Black: Echoes
The Perfect Couple on Netflix
Dark Matter on Apple TV+

Grotesquerie and the 12 worst shows of 2024 (so far)

The Perfect Couple on Netflix

Listen, I know that the majority of critics loved The Perfect Couple on Netflix. But I really don’t think they were watching the same show I was. In my humble (and correct) opinion, nothing is interesting about The Perfect Couple, and that’s such a disappointment! Poor writing is to blame here because with Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber, and Dakota Fanning involved, it should’ve been great.

“The Ideal Duo” explores a young engaged pair in the days prior to their wedding. It’s common knowledge that the future bride isn’t particularly liked by the groom’s family, and the underlying tension is palpable. To add to their troubles, a corpse appears on the beach, and suddenly everyone becomes a potential suspect.

This production appears to offer an enthralling, enigma-laden journey, accompanied by a talented ensemble, doesn’t it? However, regrettably, that’s not quite accurate. The narrative is disjointed and fails to deliver the tense, thrilling mystery suggested in its summary. In truth, we’re left with very little as The Perfect Couple seems to be grappling with its intended tone. Does it aim for a serious approach? Is it meant to be humorous? It’s hard to say if The Perfect Couple is intentionally eccentric or not. We may never find out (and maybe we don’t really care). Even the star-studded cast couldn’t rescue the series from its confusion.

Grotesquerie and the 12 worst shows of 2024 (so far)

Dark Matter on Apple TV+

If you’re into sci-fi dramas with a hint of enigma, then you might want to skip Dark Matter on Apple TV+. To be frank, I found the first few episodes quite engaging. In fact, the show drew me in with its concept and cast, featuring actors like Jennifer Connelly, Joel Edgerton, Alice Braga, and Jimmi Simpson – all of whom I’m a fan of. However, after the third episode, I realized this wasn’t a journey I wanted to continue, but I persisted and ended up feeling disappointed by my go-to streaming service.

In this alternate tale, we follow the character of Jason Dessen, a physicist residing in Chicago. A series of events lead him to journey through different dimensions, discovering an alter ego leading a distinct life. With time ticking, Jason embarks on a frantic quest, striving to rejoin his original reality and reunite with his family, before the parallel version of himself solidifies control.

Isn’t that intriguing? I felt the same way! Regrettably, Dark Matter seems more like a pretentious science fiction adventure. Many storylines are inadequately fleshed out, hastily resolved, or simply illogical. The series struggles to simplify its convoluted twists for the audience, becoming overburdened by its own complexity. Moreover, the characters portrayed by the cast are often poorly crafted, making it difficult for viewers to connect emotionally with them.

In Apple TV+’s defense! It is the platform that, in my opinion, delivered some of the best shows this year, including Presumed Innocent, Disclaimer, Shrinking, Slow Horses, Constellation, and many others. If you want to watch an impactful sci-fi drama, stream Constellation.

Grotesquerie and the 12 worst shows of 2024 (so far)

Grotesquerie on FX and Hulu

I’ve saved the most difficult-to-enjoy series for the end this year, and that show is none other than FX’s Grotesquerie. Who granted Ryan Murphy such extensive control this year, and why? Initially, I was hooked on Grotesquerie within the first three episodes. Could Travis Kelce have been a major factor? Possibly! However, after episode 4, I found myself yearning to quit, but I persisted. Do I have any second thoughts now? Definitely plenty of them!

Instead of just being an unsatisfying blend of horror and drama, “Grotesquerie” is downright dreadful. As with many of Murphy’s works, style took precedence over substance, but the excess here is particularly pronounced. The narrative begins with a strong, clear direction, but soon spirals into a disjointed, chaotic mess. The plot twist? It’s garbage. I didn’t expect a family drama with characters I couldn’t care less about. And let me tell you, the season 1 finale was not only frustrating, but also failed to address the most pressing question that had been lingering since the beginning? Mr. Murphy, this lack of resolution is inexcusable.

If you appreciate programs that strive excessively to unsettle viewers with distressing content and overused, uninspired themes, then give Grotesquerie a try.

Which shows on this list do you agree with? Are there any you would take away?

2024-11-09 23:28