The Slippery Slope of Originality: TIME’s 50 Most Underappreciated TV Shows

The TV landscape is constantly evolving, making it easy to get caught up in the hype surrounding prestige dramas or blockbuster streaming hits. However, a show like Slip serves as a reminder that true originality can emerge from unexpected places.

Creator Zoe Lister-Jones’ brainchild has been flying under the radar since its debut on Roku (now available on Peacock), but this romantic comedy-sci-fi hybrid is more than just a quirky anomaly. It’s a thoughtful exploration of adult relationships that tackles complexities and absurdities of love with nuance.

One standout aspect of Slip is its balance of high-concept storytelling with grounded, character-driven approach. Lister-Jones’ experience in creating indie films has clearly influenced her writing style, resulting in a show that feels like a small-screen adaptation of a critically acclaimed art house film.

The protagonist, Mae, is a relatable everywoman navigating multiple parallel universes after a series of ill-fated relationships. This premise could easily devolve into chaos or absurdity, but Lister-Jones expertly navigates the line between humor and poignancy, creating a narrative that’s both entertaining and insightful.

The cast delivers impressive performances, particularly Amar Chadha-Patel and Emily Hampshire, who add depth to the show’s engaging storylines. It’s clear that Slip has attracted a dedicated following among fans of character-driven drama and offbeat humor, but it’s worth asking: what took so long for this hidden gem to gain widespread recognition?

The answer lies in part with the ever-shifting media landscape, where attention spans are short and buzz-worthy titles can quickly overshadow quality content. Slip may not have the same level of mainstream appeal as some of its more flashy counterparts, but it’s a testament to the power of original storytelling that continues to resonate long after its initial release.

In an era where streaming platforms rely increasingly on formulaic hits and tried-and-true franchises, Slip’s success is a welcome breath of fresh air. It’s a reminder that true innovation often comes from outside the box, requiring a bit of risk-taking to create something remarkable.

With Peacock now hosting the show, there’s potential for increased exposure and a wider audience to discover Lister-Jones’ unique vision. However, as with any underappreciated gem, there’s always the risk that it may get lost in the shuffle. Nevertheless, Slip is a must-watch for anyone looking for something fresh and exciting in the world of TV.

Slip’s success serves as a shining example of what happens when originality and creativity are given the freedom to flourish. In an industry where trends and formulas often take center stage, it’s refreshing to see a show that dares to be different – and manages to succeed all the same.