From 'Outlander' to 'Friday Night Lights': 5 shows to binge-watch if you love Netflix's 'One Day'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The world is fast-paced owing to its ever-evolving technology, but one thing remains unchanged: human emotions.
All rom-com aficionados may relate when those unfiltered, powerful human emotions are portrayed on screen as an incomplete love narrative.
Based on the same-titled novel, Netflix's 'One Day,' which also offers a captivating story of incomplete love, wowed viewers with its unique timeline structure that spanned twenty years.
Following the protagonists' development as they grow and the realization that true love does not always come with a perfect ending. So, let's look at five more films like 'One Day' that include emotionally intense and genuine characters in complex relationships.
Outlander (2014- present)
The TV series 'Outlander', based on Diana Gabaldon's book of the same name, contains numerous similarities with 'One Day,' notably non-linear storytelling. Whereas the centers, i.e., the 18th and 20th, depict Claire's (Caitriona Balfe) and Sam Heughan's (James "Jamie" Fraser) lives.
'One Day' has a key date of July 15, when both Emma Morley's (Ambika Mod) and Dexter Mayhew's (Leo Woodall) relationship progresses over two decades, offering glimpses into their evolving lives, as well as both couples' love blooms amidst challenges, layered with slow-burn romance.
Normal People (2020)
Just like 'One Day,' Hulu's television series 'Normal People' is based on Sally Rooney's book of the same name.
The series has a comparable narrative to 'One Day,' which is likewise non-linear and gives a comprehensive analysis of character development and how certain events lead to huge changes in the characters' lives.
Like Emma and Dexter Daisy Edgar-Jones (Marianne Sheridan) and Connell Waldron (Paul Mescal), they go through a period of infatuation, frustration, misunderstanding, and finally development, which culminates in a slow-burn relationship.
Friday Night Lights (2006-2011)
With a successful run of five seasons, 'Friday Night Lights' may seem wildly different at first sight, yet there are enough commonalities.
Both programs have a coming-of-age theme and obstacles, with Emma and Dexter grappling with job prospects and personal ambitions. 'Friday Night Lights' portrays youngsters juggling academic goals, familial pressure, and the temptations of small-town life.
This is Us (2016-2022)
NBC's 'This is Us,' created by Dan Fogelman, also uses time-jumping storylines like 'One Day,' allowing for a more in-depth knowledge of characters and how previous events influenced their present and future.
Like Emma and Dexter, the Pearson family is explored in the series as they struggle with wasted possibilities.
The related topic illuminates their reflections on their own previous decisions and makes them wonder what might have been.
Generation (2021)
Created by Zelda and Daniel Barnz, the dramedy television series 'Generation' will transport you to a whimsical world where a distinct set of high school kids explore varied friendships, familial relationships, and, of course, blossoming romance.
The series is well-equipped with social commentary about sexuality, gender identity, and expectations in a conservative setting.
'One Day' is now streaming on Netflix.
