I am an eighteen-year-old girl who lives in the Bay Area; what could I possibly be doing watching British TV shows with a target audience of old Englishmen reminiscent of the late King Philip?
It all started during winter break of 2023, when my dad asked me if I was interested in watching the TV rendition of Agatha Christie’s “Poirot.” I was immediately hooked. Following the Belgian detective Hercules Poirot, the series is both a refreshing and stimulating watch, one that I could not seem to get off my couch to stop. Poirot is an easily lovable character, and every episode was more comforting than the first. There is something very consoling about the detective’s skill in solving puzzles within the scope of 45 minutes; all suspects accounted for, evidence collected and understood.
I continued in my binging fashion for the rest of the year, devouring new dramas as soon as one was finished. Soon after “Poirot,” I discovered “Silent Witness,” a show about forensic pathologists and their ability to solve mysteries using clues from dead bodies or rather “silent witnesses.” This series was much grittier and often had me anxious for the solution. It is more emotionally complex than other shows, which makes it look and feel more real, allowing for a uniqueness that is not found in American television.
The beauty of British TV series is that they have elaborate plots with developed characters and dialogue. Every part of the show has a meaning and is engaging, leaving no room for wasted time. Additionally, British dramas allow American viewers to have a lens inside of a different part of the world. Granted, our lifestyles are similar to those of Britain, but I take pleasure in listening to the characters’ different accents and lingos.
For someone who feels tired of watching the same shows all the time, British television is definitely worth a try. I found myself pleasantly surprised at the plethora of quality viewing options available.
