yord's Favorite TV Shows

Truly inventive and innovative in its social commentary and an outstanding cast of characters, this show has it all. Humanity is wiped out by their own creation, but for a few thousand survivors in a handful of spaceships. Fascinating to see how politics, power, and religion play a hand in the minutiae of survival.

Oh, how I'd love to see what Joss Whedon would have done with a full 24 episode long season...

In the mid-1800s, we see the origins--or continuations--of greed and cunning that run deep through the psyche of American culture. Strong and memorable characters make this a series of true staying power.

Still very relevant in today's scientifically-averse culture. Surprising how well all of the facts and theories still hold up today--a hallmark of the genius and poetry of Carl Sagan.

Very warm, often funny, sometimes strange but always calming. John Lurie, who is no expert fisherman, has crafted a wondrous and unique show that strangely endears.

I may end up making a separate list for Love Death + Robots, as each episode is it's own individual story, by an independent studio. They each have their own world, characters, feel, and artistic vision, and range from being hilarious to horrifying so there is definitely something for everyone!

My favorite episodes are:
#1 - The Very Pulse of the Machine (S3E3)
#2 - Jibaro (S3E9)
#3 - Beyond the Aquila Rift (S1E7)
#4 - Zima Blue (S1E14)
#5 - Night of the Mini Dead (S3E4)
#6 - When the Yogurt Took Over (S1E6)
#7 - In Vaulted Halls Entombed (S3E8)
#8 - Bad Traveling (S3E2)
#9 - Ice Age (S1E16)
#10- Fish Night (S1E12)

Once my favorite anime ever, this still holds a special spot in my heart (and my lists). I think a big reason why I loved Firefly so much is because I had seen all of Outlaw Star beforehand, and they share many of the same qualities--being an 'outlaw,' a humorous captain, loads of lovable characters and a mysterious plot. And it's only one season! You have no excuse to check it out now.

I dislike the series finale so passionately that I feel it necessary to point it out. Otherwise, this would be my favorite show, hands down.

Amazing to see how he can pull off these tricks using the power of language. The man is brilliant. Brilliant, I tell you! No one else like him.

(For those who have not seen or heard of Derren Brown, here is a video of him and Simon Pegg of Shaun of the Dead)

A thoughtful take on stories of everyday people that never failed to come out positive. High-brow and kind of artsy--which is probably why it's so high on this list.

An anime that can put some serious tension on the heart-strings of even the surliest of individuals. Deserves to be seen for its maturity, philosophical ideas, and, of course, for Alex Louis Armstrong!

Probably the smartest comedy full of dumbasses ever concieved. Every character is fully realized--each with their own quirks and behaviors--by an impressive ensemble of actors, and they never fail to amuse.

Clearly the inspiration for 30 Rock, this innovative TV show manages to stay fresh even 10+ years after its debut, thanks to the ensemble of oddball and egotistical characters. And Jeffrey Tambor.

Hands-down the greatest satirist alive today. I love how Republicans still don't understand that his stances--that they often agree with--are clearly making fun of them. And I am gleeful that he has inserted himself into the political arena by establishing a SuperPAC of his own and showing just how easy the power they grant is to abuse.

...not much to say about this one. Absurd humor, made right and made cheap. *cough* Brule's Rules. *cough*

Amazing sets, interesting characters, and the daily minutae of life in Rome during the rise and fall of Caesar makes for epic and immersive drama.

Epic first season, very well-written (almost tortuously so in its cliffhangers and exposition of new kingdoms and customs), and characters that you can really love. This is a Game of Thrones, however, and the game draws blood. I cling to hope, with nary a cause.

The concept of this stylish anime is what caught me: a student named Light Yagami has found a Shinigami's dropped notebook--a Death Note that grants the writer the power to kill simply by writing a name. Ryuk, the Shinigami who dropped the notebook, couldn't be happier with what Light's plans are...

David Wain, Michael Showalter, and Michael Ian Black bring dumb comedy of the highest of brow, dressed in suits. I love the literary wordplay and idiocy of it all, but the real gas is seeing the trio together.

A simple premise: choose a card; if it says Treat, you will be given an unforgettably great experience. If it says Trick, well... Derren Brown has a devilish ability to find the fears of people and an eye for presentation.

Pretty much the only place you can turn to and get an honest and sane take on the state of politics. On top of the catharsis of Jon's explanation of the absurdity in today's news, he also has very thoughtful interviews with every guest--even those with whom he often disagrees with. Sad that you must turn to a comedy program to witness any sort of a substanative conversation with a political figurehead.