'The Hot Zone' leads the string of recent mini-series that has wowed audience and critics alike
By popular reckoning, the golden era of the TV miniseries can said to have lasted from the mid-1970s to the late 1980s - a period which gave us memorable classics such as 'Rich Man,Poor Man', 'Roots' and 'The Thorn Birds' among others.
These days, making a distinction between limited series and event series is not that easy considering how some shows that are supposed to be limited series (such as 'Big Little Lies') extend into seasons once they hit a popular chord. Nonetheless, miniseries make for classic entertainment that is perfectly placed between a full-length feature film and a full series - they are crisp, to the point and makes for a viewing experience that attract millions of people.
This limited format gave way to long running TV dramas in the 90s, and the fascination around limited series took a step back and audiences perched themselves on their couches for years at a stretch to watch the end of their dramas. Streaming services were the big disruptors in the world of broadcast entertainment, and played a big role in showcasing the advantages of a limited series in narrating a tale. A clutch of limited series are currently making waves across networks and streaming services - garnering audience approval and critical acclaim alike.
The Hot Zone
This National Geographic limited series is something that you cannot miss. Six episodes long and an out-and-out thriller, 'The Hot Zone' is based on the book of the same name by Richard Preston.
A few minutes into the limited series, it is clear that it is going to be a rollercoaster of a ride. The series deals with the origin of one of the deadliest diseases the world has ever seen: Ebola. While the book itself offers a graphic representation of how the virus affects humans, the visuals on the show manage to convey the sense of an impending catastrophe that has the power to take over humanity and the world any moment now.
Inspired by a true story, 'The Hot Zone' traces the journey of the fatal virus from its outbreak in the central African rainforest to its arrival on US soil in 1989. The series embraces Preston's thrilling narrative with ease and delivers a masterclass in storytelling.
Despite being set in the '80s, 'The Hot Zone' is still relevant for the modern world. From teaching viewers how to combat viral epidemics to establishing just how real science and its developments are, it is an enjoyable watch. For those doubting the stance of medical science developments, 'The Hot Zone' offers a stern middle-finger.
Chernobyl
The limited series is a co-production between HBO and Brit television network Sky and tells a disturbing tale about the world's worst man-made nuclear disaster. Gripping storytelling throughout, 'Chernobyl' has you glued to the screen, but squirming in your seat.
The five-episode miniseries focuses on the nuclear plant disaster that occurred in Soviet Ukraine in April 1986.
Veronica Mars
Coming to Hulu on July 26, 2019, the fourth season of 'Veronica Mars' consists of eight episodes that will serve as a continuation of the 2004-2007 television series and the 2014 film. Kristen Bell is set to reprise her role as the title character, and series creator Rob Thomas will be back.
The plot for the miniseries revolves around a serial killer in the fictional city of Neptune murdering spring breakers. Bell was reported saying that the limited series is "going to be darker and bigger and more cinematic, a little bit different" compared to the original series.
Good Omens
'Good Omens' is an adaptation of the magical 1990 novel 'Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch' by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. Featuring an unrefined friendship between its protagonists Aziraphale and Crowley (played by actors Michael Sheen and David Tennant) at its centre, 'Good Omens' makes for a wholesome and engaging viewing experience that will take away your Monday blues for good.
Armageddon is upon us, and the gods, angels and demons are preparing for the ultimate big war. But our two protagonists - Aziraphale, an angel, and Crowley, a demon --have lived on earth for centuries and love their life on the planet, do not want the war from happening.
So they get ready to do everything in their poweres to sabotage the great plan and prevent the end. The six episodes of the limited series is a charming story of two best friends ready to take on heaven and hell together.
All six episodes of 'Good Omens' will be released on Amazon Prime Video on May 31, 2019.
Four Weddings and a Funeral
Much like the '90s original film, the web series 'Four Weddings and Funeral' follows four American friends who reunite for a fabulous London wedding. But after a bombshell at the altar throws their lives into turmoil, they must weather a tumultuous year of romance and heartbreak. Relationships are forged and broken, political scandals exposed, London social life lampooned, love affairs ignited and doused, and of course, there are four weddings... and a funeral.
Premiering on Hulu on July 31, 2019, the ten-episodes limited series is based on the 1994 original film by Richard Curtis. It is written and executive produced by Mindy Kaling and Matt Warburton.
Years & Years
A thrilling watch from start to end, 'Years & Years' starring Emma Thompson is an epic saga that takes an ordinary family and charts their travails over the course of 15 years through changing socio-political situations.
"As society changes, faster than ever, the Lyons will experience everything we hope for in the future and everything we fear. They’ll fall in and out of love, and grow old, fall apart and come back together, while constantly looking forward."
The focus of the six-part series is the Manchester-based Lyons family from 2019 through 2034. Playing the role of a charismatic and controversial businesswoman turned politician is Vivienne Rook - Thompson delivers a power-packed performance.
The six episodic limited series follows her rise and how her brand of populism affects one average family.
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