For me, Apple TV feels like that neighborhood indie movie theater—the one you can walk to, the one tucked into the corner of downtown, the one that only shows the best stuff 90% of the time and insists on real butter for the popcorn. It’s not about quantity; they don’t always have shows; it’s about quality.
On a recent episode of Basic AF, cohosted by my friend Jeff Battersby, I had the chance to talk about my love for Apple TV and how it stands apart from other streaming services. During the show, another guest and journaling expert Joe Moyer encouraged me to turn my reviews into a journal entry. So here it is!
Why Apple TV Works for Me
I’ve been evangelizing Apple TV pretty hard lately. With other streaming services continuously hiking their prices, Apple TV’s curated, high-quality content feels like a breath of fresh air. Althought it’s not as accessible as Netflix or Prime, for me that’s actually part of the appeal. It feels exclusive—almost like you’ve discovered a hidden gem.
Because Apple TV creates virtually all their own content, it doesn’t clutter its library with “filler” content. Unlike other services where scrolling too far down reveals some questionable movies, Apple TV curates with care. Similar to the Walled Garden model that their App Store offers, almost every show or film meets a high standard, and I appreciate that level of curation.
And most of what I love on the platform are TV shows, which is surprising for me.
I’m an ex-Lost fan. I had built entire friendships around that show; a group of about 20 of us would meet up in someone’s basement, sharing snacks and debating theories long into the night.
The way that series ended badly scarred me. I tried again with Game of Thrones, only to be let down again. So I stayed away from TV shows for a long time, and watched movies instead. I would only watch a series if the entire run had ended and the end had positive reviews.
Apple TV changed all that.
TV Shows Worth Your Time
For All Mankind ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A masterpiece. Stellar storytelling, NASA-level science accuracy, and visuals that could rival anything on the big screen. It’s an alternate history that feels so real you might start questioning your knowledge of the space race.
Foundation ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Issac Asimov’s work is notoriously tough to adapt, but they pulled it off. This series manages to balance the sprawling complexity of his novels with a visually stunning and coherent storyline. For bonus points, they brought Robyn Asimov on board to make sure that the show remains in her father’s vision. I can’t wait for more.
Silo ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Silo is a wild ride. The Season 2 finale completely resets everything you thought you knew, and that’s what makes it so brilliant. Apple TV nailed the world-building, special effects, and character development here.
Severance ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A haunting, thought-provoking show that deserves at least two watches. The way it explores work-life balance through a sci-fi lens is nothing short of genius.
Masters of the Air ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The visuals in this WWII drama are breathtaking, and you can feel Spielberg’s touch. Every detail, from the sets to the aerial combat, feels meticulously crafted. As a bonus, make sure you watch The Making Of documentary after you’re hooked on the show.
Solid Honorable Mentions
- Invasion ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Nail-biting suspense with interwoven stories that keep you invested.
- Hijack ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Idris Elba at his finest—gripping and full of twists.
- Lessons in Chemistry ⭐️⭐️⭐️: Sweet and surprising, blending science and romance.
- The Changeling ⭐️⭐️⭐️: Engaging but a bit too unsettling for my taste.
What’s Coming Soon
There’s more to get hyped about:
- Wycaro 399 – Vince Gilligan’s take on sci-fi.
- Neuromancer – A long-awaited cyberpunk adaptation.
- Speed Racer – A nostalgic cartoon adaptation.
- Star City – Alt-history that promises to amaze, spinning off from For All Mankind.
Movies That Stuck with Me
Killers of the Flower Moon ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I appreciated the attention to historical detail and the powerhouse performances from Lily Gladstone, Robert DeNiro, and Leonardo DiCaprio. It’s hard to watch because it is brutal and raw, but definitely worth it. This should be required viewing in history classes.
Swan Song ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A psychological romantic sci-fi movie, it’s almost like an expanded Black Mirror episode, but with even more emotional depth. It’s beautifully done and deserves more attention.
Spirited ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds compete to be the funniest person in the room? It’s a self-aware Christmas classic in the making.
Still ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I mentioned on the podcast how blown away I was by this documentary’s storytelling. Using old footage and body doubles, they recreated Michael J. Fox’s life in such a seamless way that it feels like stepping into his shoes.
Why Apple TV Stands Out
Apple TV isn’t just about producing “content” — they create art. There’s a level of care in their projects that you just don’t see in most other platforms. Whether it’s sci-fi, drama, or documentaries, their storytelling is top-notch.
If you haven’t checked out Apple TV yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. Now, I start there first when I’m looking for something new to watch because I know I’m going to find something worth my time.
What’s been your favorite Apple TV show or movie? Or is there something I absolutely need to add to my list? Let me know—I’m always up for a recommendation.
