If you're a fan of the 14th AACTA Awards (2025) and are looking for similar prestigious award shows or cinematic events that celebrate excellence in film and television, this article is for you. We've curated a list of 10 must-watch award ceremonies and shows that share the same grandeur, glamour, and recognition of talent, ensuring you never miss out on the best in entertainment.
The West Wing (1999)
Description: A political series that combines idealistic portrayals of governance with behind-the-scenes maneuvering, known for its rapid-fire dialogue and ensemble cast.
Fact: The show's creator, Aaron Sorkin, is famous for his distinctive writing style, often referred to as 'Sorkin-esque.'
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The Thick of It (2005)
Description: A biting political satire that exposes the chaos and incompetence of government, known for its profane humor and realistic portrayal of bureaucracy.
Fact: The show's creator, Armando Iannucci, later went on to create the HBO series 'Veep,' which shares a similar tone and style.
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Mad Men (2007)
Description: A period drama that explores themes of ambition, identity, and societal change, with a focus on complex character dynamics and sharp dialogue.
Fact: The show is renowned for its meticulous attention to historical detail, particularly in its depiction of 1960s America.
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The Good Wife (2009)
Description: A legal and political drama that explores themes of redemption, power, and personal integrity, with a strong emphasis on courtroom battles.
Fact: The show spawned a successful spin-off, 'The Good Fight,' which continued to explore similar themes in a new setting.
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Veep (2012)
Description: A satirical comedy that lampoons the absurdities of political life, with a focus on sharp wit and exaggerated character flaws.
Fact: The show's improvisational style often led to hilarious unscripted moments, many of which made it into the final cut.
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Scandal (2012)
Description: A high-stakes political thriller that blends personal drama with professional intrigue, featuring fast-paced storytelling and strong female leads.
Fact: The show was one of the first network dramas to feature a Black woman as the lead character, played by Kerry Washington.
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House of Cards (2013)
Description: A political drama that delves into the ruthless machinations of power, featuring intricate plotting and morally ambiguous characters.
Fact: The show was one of Netflix's first major original series, helping to establish the platform as a leader in streaming content.
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The Newsroom (2012)
Description: A drama that critiques modern journalism while celebrating its ideals, featuring passionate monologues and ethical dilemmas.
Fact: The show's pilot episode includes a famous rant about the decline of American news media, which went viral upon release.
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Designated Survivor (2016)
Description: A political thriller that follows an unlikely president thrust into power after a catastrophic attack, blending suspense with moral quandaries.
Fact: The show's premise is based on a real-life protocol in the U.S. government, where a designated survivor is kept safe during major events.
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Succession (2018)
Description: A darkly comedic drama about a dysfunctional family battling for control of a media empire, marked by sharp writing and intense power struggles.
Fact: The show's theme music, composed by Nicholas Britell, has become iconic and is often parodied in popular culture.
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