John’s top 10 TV shows of 2020
2020 television: Like everything else, TV took a hit in this year of the pandemic, but networks felt the impact more so than streaming and premium.
Superhero TV
Lily Collins shines in predictable ‘Emily in Paris’
First episode impressions (TV reviews): Here are my early takes on “Emily in Paris,” the horror series “Monsterland” and the MCU’s “Helstrom.”
‘Swamp Thing’ much better than previous screen versions
First episode impressions (TV review): DC Universe’s “Swamp Thing” — now on The CW — massively improves on the ridiculous 1980s movies.
‘The Boys’ remains super as Season 2 begins
First episode impressions (TV review): As Season 2 begins, “The Boys” is still a super series that skewers politics and celebrity via The Seven.
Relatively thin schedule offers some highlights
Fall TV 2020 (Commentary): Here are my thoughts on 13 notable premieres as the Fall 2020 TV season begins amid the pandemic.
John’s 10 favorite TV characters at the moment
TV list: Here are my 10 favorite characters from the last year of television, from networks to cable to streaming, counting down from 10 to 1.
CW’s branch of DC universe blandly expands with ‘Stargirl’
First episode impressions (TV review): The CW’s DC universe expands yet again — but in unremarkable fashion with “Stargirl.”
‘The Boys’ Season 1 blends superheroes with military industry
TV review: “The Boys” Season 1 deftly uses superpowered people in its military industry critique.
‘Runaways’ Season 1 (2017-18) is kind of silly, kind of good
Superhero Saturday (TV review): This MCU series is kind of silly, but kind of good thanks to loaded cast.
‘Watchmen’ TV series digs into history of American racism
TV review: Damon Lindelof’s “Watchmen” sequel is an engrossing but incomplete study of American racism.