If you’re anything like the rest of us, you’re probably obsessed and crushed by the incredibly moving ‘One Day’ based on David Nicholls’ 2009 novel of the same name. Emma and Dexter’s intricately woven love story was hard to tear your eyes away from. That’s why I’m here to provide you with more series (certified and approved by myself) to indulge in after the show’s ending left much to be desired.
Realism
Normal People (BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Apple TV)
Truth be told, few love stories are as complex and authentic as Marianne and Connell’s. Like ‘One Day’, ‘Normal People’ spans the transition to adulthood between an unlikely pair. The two experience shifting between societal roles, drifting in and out of one another’s lives and forming their self-identities. The series delicately handles the intricacies of love and connection in a way that has resonated deeply with its audience and original book fans of Sally Rooney’s acclaimed novel.
Young Royals (Netflix)
Set in a Swedish boarding school, a prince falls for an openly gay scholarship student. Wilhelm and Simon’s love is apprehensive but passionate, obstructed by Wilhelm’s responsibility to the crown and reconciliation with who he is. This coming-of-age drama uniquely intertwines romance with drama – expect to be hooked by the turns of events and nuanced characters.
2521 (Netflix)
The best slow burns seem to pan out over multiple years and realisations of love. As its title suggests, this K-Drama involves a pair at different stages of life. A young fencer and aspiring journalist are inexplicably linked for years, depending on one another, and building a deep multifaceted relationship they struggle to define. The show takes you on an emotional rollercoaster through a number of the characters’ life-defining milestones and the two’s realisation that the only constant in their tumultuous lives is each other.
Wholesome
Heartstopper (Netflix)
If you’re a hopeless romantic like me, Heartstopper is the series for you. The series holds up a mirror to the LGBTQ+ experience against the backdrop of a British secondary school. ‘Heartstopper’ understands that sexuality manifests itself in different ways, culminating in colourful friendships and budding romances. The loveable Nick and Charlie encounter challenges but offer a hopeful outlook. Maintaining its graphic novel origins, the series is a stylistic masterpiece and ultimately, a joy to watch.
Hometown Cha-Cha (Netflix)
The slow burn in this charming K-Drama arises from a tried and tested formula – the enemies-to-lovers trope. The friction caused by a privileged dentist moving her practice into a small town creates sparks between her and a local man. The seaside setting is a hotbed for romance as the two, through proximity, grapple with the other’s reality. Subtle digs turn into lingering looks and they eventually trade fights for flirtation. This comforting watch rewards its audience with fundamental character development, a delightful community, and great dimples.
A Perfect Story (Netflix)
Spanish series’, like K-Dramas, have been on the rise in mainstream British media (think ‘Money Heist’). This particular show follows Margot and David as they embark on a fake relationship to make their respective exes jealous. It’s hard to ignore the pair’s palpable chemistry as they develop feelings on their holiday to the Greek Islands. A pact to confine their romance to the holiday and return to their original lovers proves difficult for a couple that you can’t help but root for.
Action
The Night Agent (Netflix)
Taking a turn into action, our leads find love in high-stakes environments. FBI agent Peter is assigned as Rose’s unofficial bodyguard after her life is endangered by men out to kill her for her family’s espionage past. The show is brilliant for its capable female lead and caring bodyguard, subverting expectations of the genre. This swift-paced action is a cocktail of government conspiracies, moles, high-speed chases, and an extremely good-looking cast.
If you haven’t already, watch ‘One Day’ on Netflix! The series has been receiving its well-deserved flowers for its raw portrayal of genuine friendship as the basis of meaningful love. It’s a show that has excellent rewatch value and makes you want to tell everyone you know about it.
Edited By: Bola Johnson
