This month Showmax has some decidedly tasty new additions to its ever-growing catalogue of shows. Whether you’re in the mood for drama, comedy, thrillers, or something in between, February’s new additions will fit the bill.
Killjoys
If you’re one of the many folk who have missed the sci-fi shenanigans from the ne’er-do-wells in Firefly, Killjoys may scratch a certain itch. Set in the far future, the show centres on a trio of bounty hunters operating out of a small quadrant in the galaxy.
Boasting as much snappy dialogue as it does high-octane action, Killjoys is a great watch thanks to the chemistry that practically fizzes between its cast members. Action packed and frequently funny, Killjoys is kind of like hanging out with a team of Han Solos for every hour it’s on. Watch now »
Sleeper Cell S1-S2
For a TV show that focuses on extremism and terrorism, Sleeper Cell treats its subjects and characters with a rather deep amount of respect. This isn’t exactly 24 Jack Bauer territory – although it touches on some of the same themes – where door-kicking and wince-inducing torture are the orders of the day.
Rather, Sleeper Cell fixes its gaze on the hypocrisy that exists on both sides of the war on terror. At the centre of the action is Darwyn Al-Sayeed, a US undercover FBI agent tasked with infiltrating a terrorist cell in the lead up to an attack on Los Angeles. It’s not long before he’s out of his depth, fearing for his life and not knowing whom he can and can’t trust.
Sleeper Cell relies more on tension than gunfights to put its points across; this is a show where you can be forgiven for gripping the arm of the sofa while you watch it. Watch now »
The L Word S1-S6
A drama that revolves around a group of lesbians living in Hollywood may sound salacious, but the L-Word isn’t aimed at titillation. This show follows the lives of a group of women who try to navigate their personal and professional lives with mixed successes, all the while battling against societal prejudice (yes, it exists even in sunny California), relationship blow-outs and the general chaos of the day-to-day.
Elevated by smart writing and some genuinely loveable characters, the L-Word comes on like a cross between Friends (without the daft characters) and Melrose Place (without the misanthropy). It’s a heart-warming show that depicts accurately how the other half live – and sometimes how they’re forced to live. Watch now »
Thirteen S1
This fantastic BBC drama focuses on a woman who was kidnapped as a teenager and held captive in a basement for 13 years until she managed to escape. Reunited with her family, she’s both broken and vulnerable, and even her tormentor’s absence can’t prevent the world from crashing in around her.
As police search for her captor, they start to uncover details that the victim has kept hidden, making them wonder whether she was a victim or a willing participant in her captivity. Shot through with fantastic performances and an eerie atmosphere thick enough to choke on, Thirteen is a show fans of thrillers shouldn’t miss. Watch now »
The Collection S1
The fashion world is so replete with drama, backstabbing and glamour it’s a wonder more TV shows aren’t set in it. The Collection tells the story of two brothers who preside over a Paris fashion house as the city of love emerges from the embers of World War II.
The more business minded and egotistical of the two seeks to establish Paris as the centre of the fashion empire, and is prepared to do anything to achieve this goal. His brother grapples with his homosexuality and need to be recognised as an artist through his creations. The needs and desires of the two trickle down, affecting everyone they interact with – employees, collaborators, patrons and the like – leaving no one spared. Witness the birth of fashion’s empire, warts and all. Watch now »
No Tomorrow S1
Imagine you met the dreamiest man (or woman) who’d ever crossed your path. Then imagine that they were convinced that the world was going to end in eight months. Still with us? Right, then imagine that they’d decided to live their lives as though the next eight months were going to be their last and do everything they’d ever wanted to do. Would you join them in their adventure?
No Tomorrow is about a woman who takes that leap. The show’s heroine, Evie, doesn’t share her love interest’s belief, but she can’t help but go with the flow, since it offers a more exciting prospect than her day-to-day grind. Most rom-com shows can be thrown in the bin. No Tomorrow is just that little bit more special. Watch now »
Go to showmax.com to watch these and more.
