6.7 / 10 (based on 27 reviews)
Sol, Mo, Ray, Cedric and Leah are gamers – best friends in real life and online. Hang out with TEAM SMoRCLe as they face quests and conquer game worlds online as well as tackling the biggest game of all: the game of Real Life.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Seyi Andes-Pelumi, Armandas Martin Gilys, Yoni Bronks, Issac Khan
Creators: Dan Berlinka
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Shows Most Like Lagging (2021)
The Baby (2022)
6.3 / 10 (based on 3365 reviews)
38-year-old Natasha is furious that her closest friends are all having babies. When she suddenly finds herself with a baby of her own, her life dramatically implodes and twists itself into a bizarre horror show.
Genre: Comedy, Horror, Mystery
Main Cast: Michelle de Swarte, Amira Ghazalla, Amber Grappy, Bertie George Venn
Creators: Lucy Gaymer, Sian Robins-Grace
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes, 226.0-minute runtime
Silverpoint (2022)
6.9 / 10 (based on 723 reviews)
In 1997, four kids vanish in Silverpoint Woods. 23 years later, one boy tries to find out what happened.
Genre: Family, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Jordan Adene, Katy Byrne, Scarlett Rayner, Aoife Hughes
Creators: Lee Walters
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 14 episodes, 22.0-minute runtime
Heirs of the Night (2019)
6.9 / 10 (based on 891 reviews)
Set in 1889, the story about the five remaining vampire clans in Europe who are training to survive. In their midst is Alisa (14) who has the power to choose between eternal life as a vampire or for all vampires to live as humans.
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Main Cast: Anastasia Martin, Ulrik William Græsli, Charlie Banks, Jordan Adene
Creators: Diederik Van Rooijen, Maria von Heland
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 26 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
4 O’Clock Club (2012)
6.8 / 10 (based on 276 reviews)
Two brothers go to the same school. One is a teacher and the other is a pupil.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Simon Lowe, Chloe Davison, Grace McIntosh, Lewis Brindley
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
9 seasons, 120 episodes
This Is Going to Hurt (2022)
8.4 / 10 (based on 14174 reviews)
Set on Labor Ward with all its hilarity and heart-lifting highs but also its gut-wrenching lows, the show delivers a brutally honest depiction of life as a junior doctor on the wards, and the toll the job can take back home.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Ben Whishaw, Ambika Mod, Michele Austin, Alex Jennings
Creators: Adam Kay
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
Alma’s Not Normal (2020)
7.9 / 10 (based on 1335 reviews)
After a recent break-up, Alma tries to get her life back on track. But with no job, no qualifications and a rebellious streak a mile wide, it’s not going to be easy. Meanwhile her mum, who is battling a heroin addiction, has been sectioned for arson, and her vampish Grandma Joan wants nothing to do with it.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Sophie Willan, Jayde Adams, Lorraine Ashbourne, Siobhan Finneran
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes, 28.0-minute runtime
The Other One (2017)
7.5 / 10 (based on 1660 reviews)
After Colin Walcott drops dead at his birthday party, his wife Tess and daughter Cat discover he had a long-term mistress Marilyn by whom he has a daughter Cath.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Ellie White, Lauren Socha, Siobhan Finneran, Rebecca Front
Creators: Holly Walsh
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes, 29.0-minute runtime
Queens of Mystery (2019)
7.3 / 10 (based on 2655 reviews)
Three crime-writing sisters and their 28-year old niece use their extensive knowledge of crime to solve whodunit style murders in the picturesque English village of Wildemarsh.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Martin Trenaman, Julie Graham, Sarah Woodward, Siobhan Redmond
Creators: Julian Unthank
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 12 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
The A List (2018)
5.5 / 10 (based on 3150 reviews)
Mia arrives at an idyllic summer camp expecting to be Queen Bee, but the “holiday of a lifetime” turns into a twisted nightmare.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Lisa Ambalavanar, Ellie Duckles, Rosie Dwyer, Jack Kane
Creators: Dan Berlinka, Nina Metivier
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 21 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
Hollington Drive (2021)
5.7 / 10 (based on 1541 reviews)
The lives of two sisters, Theresa, and her older head teacher sibling, Helen, and a missing child.
Genre: Thriller
Main Cast: Anna Maxwell Martin, Rhashan Stone, Ken Nwosu, Tia May Watts
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 4 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Ragdoll (2021)
5.8 / 10 (based on 2052 reviews)
Detectives look to untangle the case of the Ragdoll Killer, who has killed six people and sewn their bodies into the shape of one grotesque body nicknamed the Ragdoll.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Thalissa Teixeira, Lucy Hale, Michael Smiley
Creators: Freddy Syborn
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes
In the realm of television, every so often, a show comes along that not only captures the essence of its time but also resonates with a specific audience on a profound level. “Lagging” (2021) is one such show, striking a chord with gamers and non-gamers alike. This exploration into “Lagging” isn’t just about what makes it tick but also why it’s worth your time.
The Premise
At its core, “Lagging” is a narrative centered around the world of gaming, specifically focusing on a group of friends navigating the complexities of adolescence through their shared love of video games. What sets it apart is not just its setting but how it uses the gaming world as a backdrop to explore universal themes of friendship, competition, and the journey of growing up.
Characters That Feel Real
One of the show’s strongest suits is its characters. They are not your typical, over-the-top caricatures often seen in shows revolving around specific hobbies or interests. Instead, they are grounded, multifaceted, and, most importantly, relatable. Whether it’s the protagonist, who struggles with balancing his passion for gaming with the pressures of school and family life, or his friends, each with their own unique challenges and aspirations, “Lagging” presents characters that viewers can see parts of themselves in.
- The Protagonist: A dedicated gamer who is also trying to navigate the complexities of teenage life.
- The Best Friend: Loyal and supportive, but with his own set of challenges and a storyline that explores themes of identity and self-acceptance.
- The Rival: Initially presented as a one-dimensional antagonist, this character’s development over the series adds depth to the show, highlighting themes of rivalry, respect, and redemption.
Gaming Culture Representation
In a landscape where gaming is often misrepresented or misunderstood, “Lagging” offers a refreshing and authentic depiction of gaming culture. It’s not just about the games themselves but the community and connections formed around them. The show does an excellent job of showcasing the positive aspects of gaming, such as teamwork, strategic thinking, and the joy of shared experiences, while also not shying away from addressing the challenges and pitfalls that come with it.
For instance, one episode delves into the issue of online toxicity, providing not only a realistic portrayal of the problem but also offering thoughtful commentary on how it affects individuals and the community. Another episode focuses on the excitement and pressure of competitive gaming, capturing the highs and lows of participating in tournaments.
Why It Matters
In a time where digital connections have become as significant as physical ones, “Lagging” provides a poignant look at the role of gaming in forming and maintaining relationships. It’s a show that understands the importance of online communities, especially for those who might feel out of place in their offline worlds. Through its storytelling, “Lagging” acknowledges the genuine connections that can be formed over shared interests, challenging the outdated notion that time spent gaming is time wasted.
Moreover, the show is a testament to the power of inclusive storytelling. By featuring a diverse cast of characters, each with their own stories and struggles, “Lagging” promotes empathy and understanding across different backgrounds and experiences.
Beyond the Screen
What’s particularly noteworthy about “Lagging” is its impact beyond just entertainment. It has sparked conversations about the importance of understanding and embracing gaming culture, not as a niche interest but as a significant part of modern life. The show has also been praised for its approach to addressing mental health issues, offering a platform for discussions around topics that are often considered taboo.
Educators and parents have found “Lagging” to be a valuable resource for bridging the gap with the younger, gaming-inclined generation. By presenting gaming in a positive light, the show has helped to dismantle some of the stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding the gaming community.
Final Thoughts
“Lagging” is more than just a TV show about gaming. It’s a heartfelt exploration of friendship, growth, and the power of community. With its authentic characters, thoughtful representation of gaming culture, and willingness to tackle important issues, it stands out as a meaningful and impactful series.
Whether you’re a gamer or not, there’s something in “Lagging” for everyone. It’s a reminder of the joys and challenges of growing up, the importance of understanding different perspectives, and the unifying power of shared passions. In a world that’s increasingly digital, “Lagging” offers a timely and relevant narrative that resonates with viewers of all ages.
So, if you’re looking for a show that combines the excitement of gaming with deep, relatable storytelling, give “Lagging” a chance. It might just surprise you with its depth, humor, and heart.