The Art of Plot Twists
The most engaging TV shows continue to shock audiences with satisfying plot twists. Narrative twists and cliffhangers are the foundation for addicting television that can keep viewers binge-watching one episode after another until it's over. However, twists alone aren't always enough. Many shows attempt to subvert expectations and shock audiences with twists that don't feel appropriately earned. Nothing leaves a bad taste in the audience's mouth like an overtly confusing or unfulfilling twist. There are many TV series that have mastered the use of twists, providing captivating entertainment through tasteful subversion. Great plot twists aren't just to entertain viewers by throwing them off their guard. Series that have properly utilized twists have used them to explore the show's themes, develop characters, and powerfully display the effects of long-term planning. Many of the best TV shows of all time maintained their dramatic value through unpredictability. After all, life is full of unexpected turns, so it's no surprise that audiences love a gratifying surprise in their shows.
The art of plot twists is a delicate balance of surprise, intrigue, and emotional impact. When executed skillfully, plot twists can elevate a TV show from good to unforgettable. These twists not only keep the audience engaged but also provide an opportunity for deep exploration of characters and themes. The following TV shows have demonstrated exceptional mastery of the art of plot twists, captivating audiences with their unparalleled storytelling and unexpected narrative developments.
The Top 10 TV Shows With Incredible Plot Twists
From mind-blowing plotlines to mind-bending narratives, these TV shows have redefined the art of plot twists, leaving audiences in awe with their unexpected turns and shocking revelations. Let's delve into the world of these captivating shows and explore the impact of their plot twists on the viewers.
10. Severance (2022-) Severance is one of the most shocking, mysterious ongoing shows. Despite the vast amount of shows released on a multitude of streaming platforms, high-quality, intriguing mystery series filled with plot twists are strangely hard to find. Apple TV+'s Severance fits perfectly into the niche with shows like Lost and Westworld, with its first season centered around a mind-blowing plotline with crazy twists and turns in a mix of dystopian science fiction and psychological thriller. Boasting an all-star cast with Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, and Christopher Walken, Severance is one of the best shows on Apple TV+ right now.
Adam Scott as Mark in Severance whose head is opening to show himself at a desk
9. The Leftovers (2014-2017) HBO's The Leftovers was filled with ambiguous twists regarding how characters handled their grief. The Leftovers is a TV show that never got the attention it deserved despite being a perfect follow-up to shows like Lost and Twin Peaks. Starring Justin Theroux and created by Damon Lindelof, the HBO series takes place in a world where 2% of the population randomly disappeared in an event called the Sudden Departure. The Leftovers explored how different characters reacted to such a catastrophe and was filled with absurd and convoluted twists as the plot developed. The first few episodes are often considered a slow start, but getting over the hump is worth it.
Justin Theroux as Kevin Garvey in The Leftovers season 3
8. Mr. Robot (2015-2019) Mr. Robot used plot twists to explore the show's themes. Mr. Robot, the USA Network series that starred Academy Award winner Rami Malek, was a psychological thriller about a cybersecurity hacker suffering from mental health issues. The series was renowned for its mind-bending plot twists, continuously keeping viewers on the edge of their seats through its four seasons. Mr. Robot explored themes of identity and reality through shocking revelations about the characters and narrative perspective of the show.
Rami Malek in Mr. Robot Season 2 USA