The thought of a compelling TV series that grips us by the gut from the offset is just as appealing as going to the cinema.

An increasing number of people are channelling their downtime through the medium of the monthly (credit card only) subscription service Netflix or revelling in old-school physical box sets themselves for their nightly dose of escapism. It might all be fiction, but actually there’s a lot we can learn from the top TV series of 2014.

Let’s take a look at some of our favourites…

 

Sons of Anarchy

Few series have exploded onto the scene with such interest as Sons of Anarchy. With countless characters and intense storylines it’s forced us to pose moral questions about life. Sons of Anarchy teaches us the importance of family, and how this should come above all else. It’s challenged our views on the triumphs and struggles of life.

The TV series inadvertently taught us that honesty is the best policy; quite ironic considering the deceitful undertones of the whole thing. What we mean is, the show illustrated the consequences of lying and how they were far better when the characters were actually honest about things.

 

Orange is the New Black

OINB was very quick to receive many raving reviews. And no matter how unorthodox, we still were able to gain some twisted life lessons from it. Financial teachings and riches-to-rags kind of vibes were prevalent in OINB’s plot which dominate most of the story. We learnt that money definitely can’t buy you love but it can get you into serious trouble.

Main character Piper had a pretty lavish lifestyle before it all turned sour. Luxury holidays in Mexico were soon swapped for a three-year prison sentence. Piper soon learnt that unlike her freebie experiences in the outside world, nothing in prison is ever free. Whether you pay in money, postage stamps or chewing gum, there’s a price for everything of value.

 

Homeland          

A psychological thriller with an intense storyline, Homeland has a strong focus on character growth that teaches us a great lesson in feminism. It’s very rare to see a woman at the centre of a major American TV drama, but here we have Homeland, possibly one of the most successful dramas in history.

Carrie Matheson, a powerful CIA officer is the perfect role model and her partnership with co-worker, Saul Berenson, offers us insight into the importance of human interaction. Their story is beautiful and moving, and reminds us of the strength of creating relationships, and that just two people can work together and help change the world.

 

Fargo

Great film turned great TV series, Fargo was one of the most awaited shows of the year. Fargo gave us the realisation that we all have the same flaws, and presented us with an insightful reflection in how we naturally try to avoid punishment at all costs.

It’s a slightly more exaggerated version of life, but still allows us that perfect moment of self-reflection. Fargo taught us that, true to life, unexpected events happen and it’s how we cope with the situations that defines us.

 

True Detective

Very human and very flawed characters got us hooked on True Detective. But in amongst all the drama, this TV series brought along with it a lot of wisdom; and there are several lessons we can take away from Rust and Marty’s experiences.

Diplomatic and tactful life lessons ultimately signify True Detective’s clever and well thought-out plot. One of the series’ major moral victories was the ultimate in philosophical teaching: acknowledge other people’s strengths and admit your weaknesses – a lesson you can pretty much live by.

 

What was your favourite TV series of 2014? Let us know below…