Television at it's finest

During the past decade, there has seemed to be a real resurgence of QUALITY television programming.  With the premium cable networks like HBO, FX, and AMC being able to push the boundaries like never before; the shows that are airing have such a high production value, they rival what is being done on the silver screen.  With so many amazing choices out there, I find it difficult to choose what I should spend my time (and bandwidth) on.  With the mid-season premieres beginning, I wanted to write about my current top 3 shows that are either airing now or returning soon.

1. GIRLS on HBO
I recently began watching this show after Lena Dunham (the show's writer and lead actress) won the Golden Globe for best actress.  I watched the entire first season in 2 days (it's that good).  Often referred to as the "new" Sex in the City, both HBO shows follow 4 young women living in New York City. The similarities end there.  This show is so raw and honest about the issues that girls in the 20s face in their day to day lives.  It's laugh out loud funny without trying too hard.  I highly recommend anyone (yes, even guys) to watch this well-written, addictive drama.  It's only 30 minutes, you can definitely find time for this gem. It airs Sunday night at 9:00pm on HBO Canada.

Marnie, Jessa,Hannah, and Shoshanna

2. American Horror Story (Season 1 and Asylum) on FX
Not for the squeamish, this program is the perfect mix of creepy, gorey, and twisted.  Each season contains its own unique storyline, the first being set in a Haunted House, the current taking place in an Insane Asylum.  Although the stories vary, the show keeps the same cast each season, which makes for a very unique experience for the viewer.  The cast is extremely talented and the writing is incredible (in the most frightening way possible).  For those of you who have sworn off of horror movies because they keep you up at night (RIGHT HERE!), the show is so well written that it's worth checking under the bed (and every closet in the house) before you go to sleep. Trust me. The show airs at 10pm Wednesday nights on FX.

Creeptastic!

3.Game of Thrones on HBO
Any best of TV list needs to include the ever popular fantasy series chronicling several houses' quest for the Iron Throne.  Believe the hype! The complicated plot interweaves story lines following a vast array of characters (making names sometimes difficult to remember).  Based on the book series by George R. R. Martin, the show does a good job of simplifying the story enough to be very watchable.  In contrast to my first pick (GIRLS), GOT can appear to be geared towards the male gender. Ladies, please just watch ONE episode to realize that this is not the case.  The gorgeous scenery and effects, phenomenal acting, and Khaleesi (everyone's favourite character), make Game of Thrones the show for everyone. Season 3 premieres March 31st on HBO.

Khaleesi and her Dragon Child

Honourable mentions: Downton Abbey on PBS, Breaking Bad on AMC, and Revenge on CityTV.

Happy watching!

photos via Hellogiggles.com FX Canada CNN.com