SHELVED
(Season 1) (CTV)
In Shelved, interpersonal dynamics among the staff at the ‘Jameson’ library set the stage for what is really a show about the importance of libraries to communities. Set in Toronto’s Parkdale neighbourhood, Shelved speaks to the day-to-day realities of one of Toronto’s most beloved public services. Outdated computers, right-wing opposition to drag story time, and a lack of diversity in publishing are just some of the issues that the staff at Jameson contend with.
The creators of Shelved address these issues and more, all while maintaining a light and playful tone. Viewers with a keen eye will also be pleased to find many books either set in Toronto or written by Toronto-based authors in the background at the library. If you’re looking for a feel good show and perhaps, as a bonus, book recommendations for some of the latest and greatest Canadian literature, Shelved is a great option.
YELLOWJACKETS
(Season 2) (Crave)
A high-intensity thriller that may have you covering your eyes at times
In this morbid thriller, a high school soccer team is stranded in a remote northern location after their team plane crashes. What ensues is a slow-burn psychological thriller and often shocking mix of high school social dynamics and survivalism (think Lord of the Flies meets Mean Girls). If you enjoyed season 1, you’ll be pleased to know that season 2 has ratcheted up the tension and horror. Be forewarned: Yellowjackets is not for the faint of heart. If blood and guts make you queasy, you’ll probably want to pass on this one.
SORT OF
(CBC Gem)
An unapologetically Toronto sitcom with a wonderful mix of humour, insight, empathy
Of all the gems on CBC’s free streaming service, Sort Of is one of our top picks. This brilliant sitcom follows gender fluid millennial Sabi Mehboob (Bilal Baig) as they navigate dating, family, multiple jobs, and other ups and downs of life in downtown Toronto. The dialog is witty and compassionate without being heavy-handed and the acting is fresh and fun. Loyal devotees will note that CBC released Season 2 at the end of 2022. However, with the show being renewed for season 3, we’re including Sort Of here to give you plenty of time to watch or re-watch the first two seasons.
SUCCESSION
(Season 4) (Crave)
An uneasy and, at times, cringeworthy family drama set in high-stakes corporate America
While some may find the betrayal, scheming, and manipulativeness of the Succession’s Roy family unsettling, I’d like to propose another way of viewing the show. If you loathe capitalism but love drama, Succession is kind of a feel good story. In this story, a bunch of rich people consumed by greed lay bare the fact that money can’t buy happiness; in fact, each merger and acquisition seems to only bring more emptiness and turmoil.
Admittedly, after three full seasons, the characters are starting to feel a bit flat and predictable. However, as Succession enters its final season, we anticipate plenty of surprises as the series reaches its finale.
This article appeared in the 2023 May/June issue.
