AMC is a cable television channel that has been entertaining audiences with its selection of films and original programming for over three decades. The network has become especially well-known for its collection of narrative-driven shows, known collectively as “Stories by AMC.” In this article, we’re going to dive into what makes these shows so special, highlighting some of the most popular and critically acclaimed series the network has to offer.
Breaking Bad
Quite possibly the most famous of all AMC’s shows, Breaking Bad is a crime drama that aired from 2008 to 2013. Created by Vince Gilligan, the series follows Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking and selling crystal meth after being diagnosed with lung cancer. As the show progresses, Walter becomes increasingly ruthless and paranoid as he navigates the criminal underworld, with his former student Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) by his side. The show’s five seasons were all critically acclaimed, with many hailing the series as one of the greatest television dramas of all time.
Mad Men
Mad Men is a period drama that aired from 2007 to 2015, set in the advertising world of the 1960s. Created by Matthew Weiner, the series follows Don Draper (Jon Hamm), a charismatic and enigmatic advertising executive who struggles with alcoholism and a troubled past. The show also explores themes of gender and racial inequality, as well as the changing cultural landscape of the 1960s. Mad Men received widespread critical acclaim throughout its seven seasons, winning multiple awards for its writing, directing, and acting.
The Walking Dead
Based on the comic book series of the same name, The Walking Dead is a post-apocalyptic horror drama that has been airing on AMC since 2010. Created by Frank Darabont, the show follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world overrun by zombies. The series is known for its intense action sequences, as well as its exploration of the human condition in a world where survival is the only goal. The Walking Dead has been both a critical and commercial success, with multiple spin-off series and a large fanbase.
Better Call Saul
A spin-off of Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul tells the story of lawyer Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk), who eventually becomes the shady criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. The show explores McGill’s complex relationship with his brother Chuck (Michael McKean), as well as his interactions with Breaking Bad characters such as Gus Fring (Giancarlo Esposito) and Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks). Better Call Saul has been praised for its writing, acting, and direction, with many considering it to be just as good as its predecessor.
Halt and Catch Fire
Halt and Catch Fire is a period drama that aired from 2014 to 2017, set in the world of 1980s computer technology. Created by Christopher Cantwell and Christopher C. Rogers, the show follows a group of engineers as they attempt to build a revolutionary new computer. The series explores themes of innovation, ambition, and the price of success. Although it was not as popular as some of AMC’s other shows, Halt and Catch Fire was still praised for its writing, acting, and production design.
Preacher
Based on the comic book series of the same name, Preacher is a supernatural drama that aired from 2016 to 2019. Created by Sam Catlin, Evan Goldberg, and Seth Rogen, the show follows Jesse Custer (Dominic Cooper), a small-town preacher who gains the power to command people with his voice. Along with his ex-girlfriend Tulip (Ruth Negga) and a vampire named Cassidy (Joseph Gilgun), Jesse sets out on a mission to find God and hold him accountable for his actions. Preacher received mixed reviews throughout its four seasons, with some praising its unique tone and visuals while others criticized its pacing and storytelling.
Conclusion
From gritty crime dramas to period pieces and supernatural thrillers, the “Stories by AMC” collection has something for every kind of viewer. These shows are known for their high production values, strong writing, and memorable characters, making them some of the most critically acclaimed and popular television series of recent years. Whether you’re looking for intense action, complex characters, or thought-provoking themes, you’re sure to find something to love among AMC’s impressive lineup of shows.