Television programming is getting so creative, with new shows that seem to utilize the same adventurous and action-packed content without the expenses of movies. It seems television shows have turned into miniature, one-hour movies that leave you in such suspense that you can’t wait for the next week to see what happens next. If you like fantasy, adventure, mystery, and drama shows, I have six shows that you will love.
“Magicians” on Syfy
This young adult fantasy drama on Syfy blew me away with its special effects and captivating story line. Picture the "Harry Potter" gang going to college and then discovering magic, and you have “Magicians.” This Syfy series is based on the novels by Lev Grossman. The protagonist, Quentin Coldwater, is accepted into the New York college Brakebills for graduate school and encounters the mysteries and dangers that occur at the school, along with trying to master magic. Sign me up for a graduate school that teaches real magic!
“The Shannara Chronicles” on MTV
This show is “Lord of the Rings” meets cable TV, so to speak. It’s a fantasy series based on Terry Brook’s original “Shannara” trilogy. The plot is about an elfin world that is suddenly endangered when their ancient and treasured tree, called the Ellcry, begins to die. Every time a single leaf drops from the tree, a dangerous demon is unleashed and the world is threatened. Then, of course, there is the handsome Austen Butler, who plays the inexperienced but courageous Wil Ohmsford, who is perfect eye candy for the ladies, if you need more convincing.
“The Have and the Have-Nots” on OWN
Tyler Perry’s scandalous, drama packed show will leave you breathless. Now in their third season, the Cryers and Harrington families are locked in jail thanks to their rotten son Wyatt and DA Jennifer Sallison. The treacherous and seductive Candice Young has finally killed her abusive ex and owes War the money she extorted from Jim Cryer. That’s just the least of these characters’ worries. Don’t forget the crazy Veronica Harrington, who had an affair, is trying to undo her son’s homosexuality, and has committed some major crimes. You have to tune in on Tuesday at 9 p.m. to see more of these sizzling characters.
“Wayward Pines” on FOX
Don’t forget FOX’s psychological thriller "Wayward Pines." It is coming back with a second season in Summer 2016. According to fox.com, the thriller is “ranked among Summer 2015’s Top 10 broadcast programs overall among adults 18-49.” This series is based on the "Wayward Pines" novels by Blake Crouch. Picture yourself waking up in a hospital of a mysterious little town that has specific rules such as “Never question the rules," “Do not discuss the past," and “Do not try to leave.” Then you realize that it is the year 4028, and there are humans turned into monsters called 'abbies' that want to eat you. I’m already excited just writing about it.
“Once Upon a Time” on ABC
Enter a land called Storybrooke that invites you into all the amazing fairy tales you read as a child, but with a major twist. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Peter Pan, Rumpelstiltskin, and you know the rest. The show left off in season 5. The savior, Emma Swan, is the new and improved “Dark One.” The characters are in Camelot from the legend “King Arthur and the Nights of the Round Table” in search of the Sorcerer Merlin, who will help restore Emma back to light. Of course they run into a few setbacks, but that is what makes the show great. Just know that Emma is saved and the darkness leaves her, but at a price. It is coming back in March 2016.
“The Strain” on FX
I could not leave out my vampire horror drama. Who doesn’t enjoy watching people fight vampires while running for their lives? Some of them get infected, but don’t worry, I’m sure Dr. Eph, Dr. Nora, and Professor Abraham will find a cure or vaccine. The Master, who is the original vampire monster, is constantly sending terrifying creatures after the Center of Disease Control and Prevention team. Professor Abraham is looking for this ancient and possibly non-existent book that holds the secret to destroying the Master. Zack’s vampire mother is after the team so she can reunite with her son and manipulate him. There’s a lot going on, see for yourself!
There are so many more shows, but I want to know what your favorite shows are. Let’s get hooked on amazing shows together by sharing your favorites!