Best Drama Serials Of 2016: A Look Back

Hey guys! Remember 2016? It was a seriously epic year for television, especially when it came to drama serials. We saw stories that made us think, made us cry, and kept us glued to our screens. If you're a fan of compelling narratives and characters that feel like old friends (or sometimes enemies!), then you're in for a treat as we dive back into some of the most impactful drama serials that defined 2016. This wasn't just a year for TV; it was a year that pushed the boundaries of storytelling, offering a diverse range of genres within the drama umbrella, from gritty crime thrillers to heartwarming coming-of-age tales, and even some mind-bending sci-fi dramas. The sheer quality and variety available meant there was something for absolutely everyone, solidifying 2016 as a landmark year for television aficionados worldwide. We're talking about shows that sparked conversations, dominated water cooler chats (remember those?), and earned critical acclaim, proving that television was truly an art form capable of profound impact. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's take a trip down memory lane to revisit these incredible drama serials from 2016 that continue to resonate today. We'll explore why these shows captured our imaginations and what made them stand out in a crowded television landscape, focusing on the storytelling techniques, character development, and thematic depth that made them so special. Get ready to feel all the feels and maybe even add a few to your rewatch list!

The Crown: Royal Drama Fit for a Queen

Let's kick things off with a show that everyone was talking about: The Crown. If you're into historical drama and intricate character studies, this one was an absolute must-watch in 2016. The first season introduced us to the early reign of Queen Elizabeth II, played brilliantly by Claire Foy. What made The Crown so compelling was its meticulous attention to detail, from the costumes and sets to the historical accuracy. It wasn't just about the big royal events; it was about the personal struggles, the sacrifices, and the immense pressure of wearing the crown. We saw a young queen grappling with her duty versus her personal life, navigating complex relationships with her husband, Prince Philip, and her sister, Princess Margaret. The show offered a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the British monarchy, portraying the human side of these larger-than-life figures. The political intrigue, the family dynamics, and the sheer weight of responsibility placed upon a young woman's shoulders were explored with such nuance and sensitivity. The Crown didn't shy away from the challenges and compromises inherent in royal life, making for a deeply engaging and often poignant viewing experience. Claire Foy's performance was nothing short of phenomenal, capturing the Queen's stoicism and inner turmoil with incredible grace. The supporting cast, including Matt Smith as Prince Philip and Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret, were equally superb, bringing to life the complex relationships within the royal family. The series beautifully balanced the public persona of the monarchy with the private lives of its members, revealing the personal costs of upholding tradition and duty. It explored themes of power, love, duty, and sacrifice, all set against the backdrop of significant historical events. This historical drama serial 2016 wasn't just a passive observation of history; it invited viewers to empathize with the characters and understand the immense pressures they faced. The cinematography was stunning, the writing sharp, and the direction impeccable, making each episode a work of art. It set a very high bar for historical dramas and remains a benchmark for quality television.

Stranger Things: Nostalgia and Supernatural Thrills

Next up, we have a show that pretty much took the world by storm and became a cultural phenomenon: Stranger Things. This Netflix original was a masterclass in blending 80s nostalgia with a gripping supernatural mystery. If you grew up in the 80s, or just love that retro vibe, this was pure gold. The story centers around a group of kids in small-town Indiana who stumble upon a terrifying supernatural force and a mysterious young girl with telekinetic powers, played by the incredible Millie Bobby Brown. The series paid homage to classic 80s movies from Spielberg to Stephen King, and you could feel that love in every frame. But it wasn't just a tribute; it was its own unique beast, with compelling characters, genuine scares, and a heartfelt story about friendship and family. The kids were the heart of the show, their bravery and loyalty shining through as they faced unimaginable dangers. Winona Ryder's comeback performance as the frantic mother searching for her missing son was also a standout. Stranger Things tapped into a collective sense of wonder and fear, creating a world that was both familiar and terrifyingly alien. The Duffer Brothers, the creators, managed to weave together elements of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age drama into a cohesive and utterly addictive narrative. The show's success was a testament to its strong writing, incredible acting, and atmospheric direction. It sparked countless fan theories, inspired Halloween costumes, and introduced a new generation to the magic of 80s pop culture. The blend of childhood innocence with dark, otherworldly threats made for a captivating viewing experience that resonated with audiences of all ages. It demonstrated how effective nostalgia could be when used as a foundation for an original and thrilling story. The mystery of the Upside Down, the characters' unwavering bonds, and the constant sense of suspense made it one of the most talked-about drama serials of 2016. It's a show that perfectly captured the zeitgeist, blending genres seamlessly to create something truly special and unforgettable.

The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story: A Trial for the Ages

Moving on, let's talk about a true-crime drama that had everyone riveted: The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story. This miniseries tackled the infamous O.J. Simpson trial, dissecting the legal strategies, the media frenzy, and the racial tensions that surrounded the case. It was a masterclass in courtroom drama and a powerful examination of race, celebrity, and the justice system in America. The casting was phenomenal, with Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark and Sterling K. Brown as Christopher Darden delivering powerhouse performances. Cuba Gooding Jr. as O.J. Simpson and David Schwimmer as Robert Kardashian also gave memorable turns. What made this show so captivating was its ability to present both sides of the story, allowing viewers to form their own conclusions about what happened. It wasn't just about rehashing the trial; it delved deep into the psychology of the key players, the pressures they faced, and the societal implications of the verdict. The show highlighted how race, class, and gender played significant roles in the proceedings, making it a complex and thought-provoking piece of television. The People v. O.J. Simpson was incredibly well-written and directed, recreating the atmosphere of the 90s trial with chilling accuracy. It sparked renewed debate about the case and offered fresh insights into the motivations and strategies of the legal teams. The series explored the power of public perception and the media's influence on the justice system, demonstrating how a trial could become a national spectacle. It was a stark reminder of the complexities and often deeply flawed nature of the legal process. This critically acclaimed drama serial 2016 wasn't just entertainment; it was a significant cultural document that analyzed a pivotal moment in American history. The performances were so authentic that they often blurred the lines between acting and reality, leaving viewers questioning and contemplating the events long after the credits rolled. It proved that true crime, when handled with such depth and intelligence, could be incredibly compelling and educational.

Westworld: Sci-Fi Meets Philosophy

For the sci-fi enthusiasts among us, 2016 delivered a knockout punch with Westworld. This HBO series, based on the 1973 film of the same name, explored a futuristic theme park populated by lifelike androids, known as