The ultimate freshers’ TV guide

Needless to say, university life can be hard to initially adapt to. Leaving home comforts and coming to the realisation you will have to rely on your own judgement is certainly one of the biggest challenges for any fresh face at Warwick. It is in these times that folks such as I find comfort in the escapism offered by television shows. Unlike movies, which are concluded within hours, a show can keep you going for weeks or even for entire terms.  

In the age of streaming and access to a wide range of shows from the turn of the millennium and earlier, accessing television has arguably never been more rapid. From my first years of university, I have cultivated a list of shows which gave me comfort, laughs, and even provided conversation starters.  

Without further ado, here we go:  

Wednesday – Netflix 

Wednesday is certainly a show full of twists and turns while playing with the tried-and-tested genre of ‘trying-to-fit-in-at-a-new-school’. Based on the Addams family franchise and starring Jenna Ortega, director Tim Burton brings to the show all the elements of mystery and stylised horror which he perfected over his Batman duology and his 1988 Beetlejuice. Featuring an all-star cast, including members like Steve Buscemi and Fred Armisen, alongside incredible visuals, likable characters, and an amazing musical score, Wednesday is a show sure to give fans something new to tune in for.  

You will find some of the greatest coming-of-age material I have ever watched

Andor – Disney+ 

Based on the character Cassian Andor from the 2016 film Rogue One, and featuring several returning cast members, Andor provides the most grounded look at the world of Star Wars ever put to screen. With its commentary on authoritarianism, genocide, and the bureaucratic nature of evil alongside the unravelling of the Death Star conspiracy, Andor’s gritty portrayal of the world of Star Wars is enough to suck in even the most unfamiliar viewer to the galaxy far-far away. Just don’t expect any lightsabres or ‘the force’ and be prepared for some thought-provoking subject matter.  

Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel – Disney+ 

Throw the two Buffyverse shows together, and you will find some of the greatest coming-of-age material I have ever watched. Follow the pre-destined demon-slayer Buffy Summers as she attempts to balance high school, and later college, alongside her personal life and fighting monsters. What starts out as a Scooby-Doo-esque ‘monster of the week’ show becomes one with so much heart, unafraid to confront the issues facing many young adults as they enter the world. Exploring its subject matter of relationships, grief, sexuality, and friendship through complex story arcs, by the final series the viewer has grown so attached to these characters that they feel pure joy at their triumphs and gut-punching shock when they fail.  

The show never shirks from the subjects it presents

However, perhaps it is the spin-off, Angel, which has left the bigger impact on me. Aimed at a more mature audience then Buffy, it is more philosophical in its approach to questions of morality and redemption. Based on the eponymous vampire, this show is not afraid to push the boundaries and present a rogue gallery of villains you hate to love. With a cast composed of ruthless anti-heroes, Angel is not afraid to play around with allegiances, while also allowing for thoughtfully staged character conflicts. With masterful action sequences and tight chemistry between the characters which beautifully manifests on screen, this five-season show will never cease to give you something to talk about while leaving you eager to watch the next episode!  

Father Brown – BBC 

In what was supposed to be a typically corny daytime murder mystery, the makers of Father Brown far exceeded the brief. Starring Mark Williams, the show follows the eponymous Catholic Priest as he attempts to solve crimes while simultaneously attempting to fulfil his religious duty saving perpetrators’ souls in 1950s Gloucestershire. The show never shirks from the subjects it presents, as  well as the conflicts that come with attempting to balance lawful and moral justice. Father Brown is unlike other typical murder-mystery shows – it challenges all aspects of the law and society whilst also being educational for many outside the Catholic faith, yet never forceful in its portrayal. Sometimes goofy but always made with heart, Father Brown is a light show with a thoughtful edge that is perfect for a quick watch while having a brew or going to bed.  

Needless to say, there are a great many shows out there, but these are my top picks for any student looking for a quick watch – I guarantee you will not be disappointed!