As we wrap up 2025, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the shows that made us laugh, cry, gasp and pause to think. From glossy legal dramas to chaotic dating experiments, these are the series and films that left a lasting impression on our Features Editor this year.
Disney’s All’s Fair
This series hit all the right notes, blending humour, perspective, sisterhood, and yes, legal advice. What initially appears glossy and glamorous quickly reveals far deeper themes of loss, friendship, trust, and betrayal. I found myself pausing more than once to reflect on the emotional lessons woven throughout the storyline.
Sarah Paulson delivers a gripping performance as Carrington Lane, whose quest for revenge raises an unsettling question: where do we draw the line? The ultimate betrayal at the heart of the show is anything but simple, and the chilling season one finale left me deeply unsettled, in the best way.
With an all-star cast including Teyana Taylor, Kim Kardashian, Naomi Watts, Glenn Close, Niecy Nash, Jennifer Morrison, and Matthew Noszka, All’s Fair certainly delivers. Kim Kardashian has hinted that the show has been picked up for season two, and we’re waiting, very impatiently on the edge of our seats.
Netflix’s Love & Wine
A feel-good surprise we didn’t see coming. Love & Wine is warm, heartfelt, and unexpectedly moving. Featuring a stellar cast including Ntobeko Sishi, Thandolwethu Zondi, Masali Baduza, Thando Thabethe, Bongile Mantsai, Desmond Dube, N’kone Mametja, Simone Neethling, Rorisang Mohapi, and Bohang Moeko, the film delivers both charm and emotional depth.
Ovee’s story, played beautifully by Ntobeko Sishi, tugs at the heartstrings as he tries to carve out his own identity. What begins as a harmless bet with his best friend and driver, Nathi (Thandolwethu Zondi), unfolds into a journey of self-discovery, love, and purpose. Set on a wine farm, the two compete under swapped identities for a coveted internship, ultimately finding love and clarity along the way.
Netflix’s Love Is Blind S9
Without question, the most controversial season in the show’s US history, and the first to end with zero “I do’s.” Edmond and KB quickly became the most talked-about couple, with viewers questioning whether Edmond should have made it into the pods at all.
His emotional outbursts raised serious concerns, with many believing they bordered on manipulation. The signs were there from the moment they met, KB’s raised eyebrow when Edmond ran unprovoked said it all. And then there was the closet moment… honestly, what was the reason?
Megan and Jordan’s story was equally frustrating, with Megan finally acknowledging their incompatible lifestyles just a day before the altar. As for Joe Ferrucci and Madison Maidenber...
I still have questions. The lingering takeaway? Is love really blind, or are we just ignoring the red flags?
Showmax’s Married at First Sight SA
In a world of just over eight billion people, incompatible strangers somehow keep finding each other. Case in point: Nkululeko and Makoto, Tshepo and Palesa, Portia and Bongani, and the couple that made it, Themba and Nelisa, whose relationship emerged from Sponono’s heartbreak.
Watching Themba disrespect the mother of his children on national television was nothing short of cringe. The reunion episode was chaotic, with Tshepo refusing to take accountability after painting Palesa as “unhinged,” despite clearly pushing her to that point.
This season was memorable for all the wrong reasons. Frankly, the experts need to do better when pairing hopeful singles. And as for the participants, why sign up for a social experiment if you’re fixated on looks? I’m looking at you, Portia.
BBC’s Listing Coastal South Africa
Pure inspiration served along South Africa’s breathtaking coastlines, this series takes viewers inside some of the country’s most beautiful coastal homes. A visual love letter to local design, architecture, and location, it reminded us just how special and diverse our shores truly are.
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