While January has become something of a dumping ground for wayward films, the TV front offers something more consistent, and perhaps, more exciting. This first month of 2019, in particular, holds quite a few greats, even if two of them are groundbreaking comedies making their last outing. Along with mid-season returns, there’s recently saved network comedies, critically revered series being given new life after dissatisfying sophomoric slumps, and a revival of a show fans have been hoping for years. Cozy on up and get ready to binge because unless you’re playing catch up on 2018 titles or filling in your own personal cinematic blind-spots, there won’t be much to travel out to the theaters this month.
“Luther”
What You Need to Know: Idris Elba returns to television as BBC series “Luther” embarks on Season 5, which is slated to be its most intense and thrilling season yet. There has been some talk that Ruth Wilson, who played Alice will be returning to the show this season. Wilson, who is probably best known for her time on the Showtime series “The Affair” has frequently returned to the series over the years and there is little doubt that Wilson’s character will cause some serious waves on the show. The trailer for the four-part series hints at an even darker and grittier go-round this upcoming season.
Release Date: Season 5 premieres January 1 on BBC America
“Young Justice: Outsiders”
What You Need to Know: After ending with a rather devastating conclusion in its second season, the wildly popular “Young Justice” was axed by Cartoon Network. A DC animated series that called back to some of the studios best works in the genre, the show was a draw for fans of all ages, giving voices to lesser-known “sidekicks” with the most familiar face being that of Dick Grayson, aka Robin. Season 3 will pick up following the events of Season 2, five years after its initial cancellation. Despite the level of superhero fatigue and DC’s so-so track record of late, they’ve always shined when it’s come to their animated properties.
Release Date: Season 3 premieres January 4th on DC Universe
“You’re the Worst”
What You Need To Know: “You’re the Worst” began as a series about terrible people finding companionship, and while the main relationship between Gretchen (Aya Cash) and Jimmy (Chris Geere) has never been a particularly healthy one, the series has done well by convincing the audience to root for them to make it against all odds. The FXX comedy series quickly transformed from simply deriving humor from people doing and saying awful things to one about damaged individuals, glacially attempting to better themselves, and it’s all the better because of it. One of the most darkly funny shows on TV, “You’re the Worst” isn’t always easy to watch but the characters and antics make it all worth it.
Release Date: Season 5 premieres January 9th on FXX
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yunwnR0cK30
“Brooklyn Nine-Nine”
What You Need To Know: For a brief moment it looked like Season 5 of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” would be its last, ending on Jake (Andy Samberg) and Amy (Melissa Fumero) finally getting married. However, NBC swooped in quick and saved the series for at least one more season. As one of the most consistently funny comedies airing with arguably the best ensemble cast, “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” is the rare comedy that has improved upon itself each season demonstrated perfectly in the top-notch season five with standout bottle episode “The Box.”
Release Date: Season 6 premieres January 10th on NBC
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HblwLcAR4r4
