This year wasn’t quite as much of a lockdown year as the last one, but it was still pretty much a lockdown year, and as we head into 2022, we’re still under restrictions. Who else has a pile of craft supplies in the closet that they’ll probably never use again? While we were doing our part for healthcare and our fellow humans, we were also busy reading, listening to, and watching the very best things ever made (in our opinion). They’re not all from 2021, because let’s be honest, it wasn’t the best year for TV, but they’re all amazing!
TV series
1. Deutschland 83/86/89
Photo: themoviedb.org
Recommended by: Alex Landon, Acting Editor-in-Chief of Secret Media, UK/IE/APAC+
What they had to say 📺 : I finally found the time to watch Deutschland 86 & Deutschland 89, after rewatching ‘83 earlier this year, and they’re great for anyone who loves spies, the Cold War, or 1980s German pop. Thrilling from start to finish—and don’t let the subtitles put you off.
2. The Sopranos
Photo: themoviedb.org
Recommended by: Abi Meadow, Viral Scout
What they had to say 📺 : I’ve seen it all and still want to see more. The depth, the characters, the gabagool! *chef’s kiss*. The nod to mental health was way ahead of its time. AND the Real Housewives franchise(s)… sorry not sorry.
3. The Bold Type
Photo: Amazon
Recommended by: Laura Rogan, editor at Secret Manchester
What they had to say 📺 : As someone who studied fashion, getting lost in The Bold Type was like reliving a past life. Total NYC escapism, plenty of relationship drama, unfolding friendships, and gorgeous, gorgeous fashion. The Bold Type is perfect for anyone who loved shows like Gossip Girl, Ugly Betty, and Sex and the City.
4. Sweet Tooth
Photo: Netflix
Recommended by: Kat Notman, writer for Secret Amsterdam
What they had to say 📺 : A fawn is alone and on the run during a pandemic, until he finds a kind guy who takes him in—albeit reluctantly. I binge-watched the first few seasons, and now there are no more episodes to watch. I feel empty and deeply disappointed.
5. Sex Education Season 3
Photo: Netflix
Recommended by: Sam Hopkins, SEO writer
What they said about it 📺 : I just think this is a great and relevant series, and I thought Season 3 was the best so far—bring it on if you disagree!
6. Succession
Photo: HBO
Recommended by: Jack Saddler, writer for Secret London and Secret Dublin
What they had to say 📺 : Part of the charm of this series is that, for some reason, you’ll probably find yourself hating every single character in it. Succession is a twisted HBO comedy-drama set in a corporate hell (which may well reflect reality) that pits family members against each other in the battle for control of the media conglomerate Waystar Roy Co. Spoiler: it gets out of hand.
7. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Photo: Fox
Recommended by: Marco Ruiz, business content creator
What they had to say 📺 : It’s not often that I rewatch a TV series. There are only a handful of shows I’d watch over and over (The Sopranos and The Wire, for example), and Brooklyn Nine-Nine has made its way into that select group this year.
8. You
Photo: Netflix
Recommended by: Tamsin Salfrais, Content Creator
What they had to say 📺 : I know (almost) everyone has seen this, but I love series you can binge-watch in one sitting.
9. Midnight Mass
Photo: Netflix
Recommended by: Amanda Viller, Community Manager UK/APAC
What they had to say 📺 : This series touched me to the core. Although the monologues are a bit drawn-out, they are sooo worth it. It’s horror at its best, and the performances by Kate Siegel and Hamish Linklater are simply breathtaking.
10. Squid Game
Recommended by: Nicole de Souza, writer for Secret Melbourne
What they had to say 📺 : Okay, the whole world was obsessed with this series, and so was I. It had compelling characters, thrilling scenes, stunning visuals, and a really interesting concept. And it was also a K-drama, and I love K-dramas. So if you liked Squid Game and want to explore the genre further, here are a few recommendations to get you started.
If you enjoyed the violence or the action scenes, check out Kingdom, a gripping zombie TV series set in the Joseon period. If you liked the critique of capitalism, check out *Itaewon Class*, in which an ex-convict seeks revenge on a wealthy corporation. If you’re tired of the struggles of poor people and want to see the struggles of rich people, check out * * *Sky Castle*. This series delves into the lives of upper-class families and the pressure they put on their children to succeed. And if you’re tired of drama and just want some fun, check out my favorite series of the year, True Beauty. This teen romantic comedy is a low-stakes, high-reward series, full of love triangles, friendship, and hilarity.
11. It’s A Sin
Photo: HBO Max
Recommended by: Chloe Byrne, Content Creator
What they had to say 📺 : One thing that really took me on an emotional rollercoaster, though, was It’s A Sin. One moment I was in stitches, swept up in a wave of joy and colorful revelry; the next, my throat was completely tight and I was crying my eyes out without a care. I couldn’t stop thinking about it for months afterward. Not only did it feel like I knew every character personally and was torn apart by what they were going through (thanks to the brilliant acting of stars like Olly Alexander and Lydia West), but I was also completely immersed in the band’s beautiful journey. You’ll love every heart-wrenching second of this series.
Books
1. Ohio by Stephen Markley
Photo: Simon and Schuster
Recommended by: Alex Landon, Acting Editor-in-Chief of Secret Media, UK/IE/APAC+
What they said about it 📚 : Four lost high school graduates return to their hometown one evening, each carrying a different burden of adult life on their shoulders. It’s no surprise that they collide in spectacular fashion… A book I actually finished in a single afternoon!
2. Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins-Reid
Photo: Penguin
Recommended by: Abi Meadow, Viral Scout
What they said about it 📚 : It ’s a super easy read, but it really lets you escape for a while! It’s set in LA in the ’70s and is about a band that takes the world by storm! It’s written as if it were an interview with all the band members. 10/10
3. Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins-Reid
Photo: Penguin
Recommended by: Laura Rogan, editor at Secret Manchester
What they said about it 📚 :Malibu Rising offers an incredible escape to Malibu across two different eras and follows the children of a famous rock star in Jenkins-Reid’s fictional universe—as they grow up without their father. The lavish lifestyle, family drama, and romance are downright addictive, making for a great winter read if you’re missing the sun.
4. The World’s War by David Olusoga.
Photo: Abe Books
Recommended by: Kat Notman, writer for Secret Amsterdam
What they had to say 📚 : Historian David Olusoga thoroughly challenges Eurocentric misconceptions about World War II. I’ve read this book three times and recommend it to everyone—it’s incredible.
5. The Keyhole by Louis Theroux
Photo: Blackwells
Recommended by: Sam Hopkins, SEO writer
What they said about it 📚 : This was a very entertaining book that offers insight into family life during the various lockdowns. I’m already a fan of Louis Theroux anyway, but it was fun to see that he drank almost as much whiskey/gin as I did during that long lockdown at the start of the year.
6. If You Were There: Missing People and the Marks They Leave Behindby Francisco Garcia
Photo: Hive
Recommended by: Jack Saddler, writer for Secret London and Secret Dublin
What they had to say 📚 : This debut book offers a glimpse into the world of missing persons, where you may ultimately be left with more questions than answers. Garcia’s heartbreaking personal story about his missing father serves as the thread connecting the stories of others across the United Kingdom, before he sets out in search of answers in his hometown in Spain.
7. The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz
Photo: Readings
Recommended by: Marco Ruiz, Business Content Creator
What they had to say 📚 : I re-read this book by Junot Diaz this year, after first reading it ten years ago. It’s another brilliant book, and I found myself picking up new bits of information that I’d missed or forgotten. The writing style is top-notch and lively, and the story—which blends magical realism, sci-fi, and a bit of history—is powerful in so many ways, especially given its premise: an overweight young Dominican boy searching for love.
8. Why I Am No Longer Talking To White People About Raceby Reni Eddo-Lodge
Photo: Goodreads
Recommended by: Tamsin Salfrais, Content Creator
What they had to say 📚 : Now, I’m usually more of a chick-lit girl—chick-lit thriller if I have to—but I’m so glad this book was recommended to me. Although the title might put some people off, please don’t let that deter you; it’s packed with history that I—and we—didn’t learn in school, and it has opened my eyes to so many things. It’s a very important book in the current climate.
9. La mano de Fatima by Idelfonso Falcones
Photo: Goodreads
Recommended by: Amanda Viller, Community Manager UK/APAC
What they said about it 📚 : Beautifully written , it’s a story about the lives of the Muslims who once ruled Spain and the moment they were expelled. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s more than worth the loooong read.
10. The Split by Sharon Bolton
Photo: Waterstones
Recommended by: Chloe Byrne, Content Creator
What they said about it 📚 : What can I say, I love psychological thrillers full of plot twists, and I love that you’re immediately plunged into the freezing wilderness of Antarctica, which stands in stark contrast to the later chapters set in Cambridge. It follows a glaciologist named Felicity who is on the run from a dark past that is revealed over the course of the book. Thanks to the shifting perspectives, you’re kept in the dark until the very last moment.
Movies
01. Your Name
Photo: TMDB
Recommended by: Alex Landon, Acting Editor-in-Chief of Secret Media, UK/IE/APAC+
What they said about it 🎥 : A moving anime with fantasy elements and a fantastic soundtrack—it’s impossible not to be captivated by it.
2. Parasite
Photo: TMDB
Recommended by: Abi Meadow, Viral Scout
What they said about it 🎥 : The ending always leaves me speechless. No spoilers here… if you haven’t seen it yet, you really should!
3. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Photo: Netflix
Recommended by: Laura Rogan, Editor at Secret Manchester
What they had to say 🎥 : I’m a huge fan of Viola Davis, so when I heard she was stepping into Ma Rainey’s shoes, I was pretty excited. And as usual, she didn’t disappoint. We follow Ma Rainey and her band on a particular day in the studio, with plenty of tension and drama between the characters. Chadwick Boseman absolutely steals the show, and at the risk of giving too much away, I’ll leave it at this recommendation with the stellar cast.
4. Bad Trip
Photo: Netflix
Recommended by: Kat Notman, writer for Secret Amsterdam
What they had to say 🎥 : If you don’t know who Eric Andre is, you’re not living, sorry. This is a hidden camera film in which Eric Andre and co. do what they do best: act ridiculous and obscene in public. I don’t watch many movies these days, but I’m always up for a little comedy.
5. Promising Young Woman
Photo: TMDB
Recommended by: Sam Hopkins, SEO writer
What they had to say 🎥 : I’ve been pretty disappointed in most of the movies I’ve seen this year (especially Candyman —that one had so much potential)! But this one was actually pretty good. Promising Young Woman is sharp, darkly funny, and pretty powerful, with a standout performance by Carey Mulligan.
6.Nomadland
Photo: Reelgood
Recommended by: Jack Saddler, writer for Secret London and Secret Dublin
What they had to say 🎥 : Yes, “the Oscar winner for Best Picture is good” might not be the most exciting statement, but Nomadland demands your attention. Chloe Zhao tells the true stories of real “homeless” nomads who live in vans. Her beautifully filmed look at travelers left behind by the capitalist reality of modern America, featuring a typically impressive lead performance by Frances McDormand, is a moving, must-see film.
7. Cruella
Photo: Theposterdb
Recommended by: Amanda Viller, Community Manager UK/APAC
What they had to say 🎥 : I haven’t seen many movies this year, but this one definitely stuck with me. The fashion is top-notch, the story and characters are superb, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good villain backstory?
8. The Lighthouse
Photo: Themoviedb
Recommended by: Nicole de Souza, writer for Secret Melbourne
What they had to say 🎥 : I saw this movie for the first time this year during the lockdown in Melbourne. And I have to say, it really helped me feel better about the whole situation. Robert Pattinson and Will Dafoe try to keep their sanity while working at a lighthouse, and the isolation really takes its toll. This was a disturbing movie with fantastic dialogue. Seriously, look up the “haaaarrk!!” speech.
9. Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar
Photo: Movieinsider
Recommended by: Chloe Byrne, Content Creator
What they had to say 🎥 : It’s clear that in 2021 I was drawn to lightheartedness and carefree moments, but who can blame me for wanting to escape reality for at least an hour or two? This movie might have slipped under your radar (if so, you’d better tune your radar now), but thanks to my love for Kristen Wiig, I’d been looking forward to it for a while, and the wonderfully absurd result didn’t disappoint. It’s hard to explain, but to pique your interest: Jamie Dornan plays a lovesick, crazy sidekick, Kristen Wiig is both heroine and villain, Andy Garcia shows up as a bizarre mystic, and there’s a crab with the voice of (admittedly, fake) Morgan Freeman. It’s an eccentric ride, but I definitely went along for the ride.
Music
1. Fever Dream – Of Monsters And Men
Photo: pastemagazine
Recommended by: Alex Landon, Acting Editor-in-Chief of Secret Media, UK/IE/APAC+
What they had to say 🎵 : I hadn ’t paid much attention to the band since the release of My Head Is An Animal years ago, but this album is top-notch—‘Wild Roses’ and ‘Wars’ really stand out.
2. Chemtrails over the Country Club by Lana Del Rey
Photo: Norman Records
Recommended by: Laura Rogan, editor at Secret Manchester
What theyhad to say🎵: According to my Spotify Wrapped, this was basically the only thing I listened to this year. It must be good.
3. Blue Horseby The Be Good Tanyas
Photo: Discogs
Recommended by: Kat Notman, writer for Secret Amsterdam
What they had to say 🎵: A trio of talented women who sing beautiful folk music with a healthy dose of bluegrass and country. This year, I’ve fallen in love with folk and country music, from artists like Little Feat, Hank Williams, Elizabeth Cotten, and Townes Van Zandt to more modern artists like The Be Good Tanyas and Rhiannon Giddens, all of whom I’d highly recommend.
4. Isles by Bicep
Photo: Norman Records
Recommended by: Sam Hopkins, SEO writer
What they had to say🎵: I love Bicep anyway, but I think this was their best album yet. The tight electronic sounds and world music samples make this a great album to listen to at home and in the club. “Apricots,” “Lido,” and “Saku” featuring Clara La San are all standouts.
5. Blood Moon I by Converge and Chelsea Wolfe
Photo: Hiphopba
Recommended by: Jack Saddler, writer for Secret London and Secret Dublin
What they had to say🎵: When these two artists performed together in 2016, many already knew this would be the start of something special. Fast forward to 2021 and the album is finally here—a combination of Chelsea Wolfe’s oppressive, haunting silence with Converge’s harder approach, topped off with a hefty dose of guitar riffs and the piercing vocals of Stephen Brodsky from Cave In. Now, a few more live performances with these new songs certainly wouldn’t hurt…
6. Mood Valiant by Hiatus Kaiyote
Photo: Norman Records
Recommended by: Marco Ruiz, Business Content Creator
What theyhadto say🎵:I’mthe team’s anti-algorithm writer, so no Spotify Wrapped to tell me what I’ve been listening to. Instead, I listen every week to Lefto’s Think Outside The Kiosk Podcast, which airs live on Sunday evenings from a park in Brussels, because people are better than algorithms at selecting music. Lefto takes you on a journey through chill beats, jazz, and hip-hop, to far-flung corners of the world, featuring both old and new music, and plenty of dance and electronic music. Play one of his latest episodes and the intro will tell you everything you need to know about the music he’s playing.
Lately, though, Theo Parrish’s latest 6-hour mix on NTS Radio has been on repeat, because once again: people over algorithms. In addition, there are sets by DJ SWISHA, AceMo, Kush Jones & MoMa Ready B2B on The Lot Radio if you’re in the mood to dance. But if I had to pick a couple of albums that I really loved this year, they would be *Mood Valiant* by Hiatus Kaiyote and *Sound Ancestors* by Madlib.
7. Mercury Act I by Imagine Dragons
Photo: Amazon
What they had to say🎵: This was my number one artist on my Spotify overview, and this album is a real breath of fresh air for me. It’s angry, it’s in love, it’s sad, it’s lonely—it has every possible song for every possible mood. And as a bonus, my artist discovery of the year was Juanito Makandé. A Spanish artist with an amazing voice, accompanied by his guitar and “palmas.” It’s like bringing Spain right into your headphones.
8. Blue Weekend by Wolf Alice
Photo: Midlands Records
Recommended by: Chloe Byrne, Content Creator
What they had to say🎵: According to my Spotify Wrapped , Wolf Alice was the star of the show this year, and if you’ve heard their new album Blue Weekend, you’ll probably understand why. Lead singer Ellie Rowsell has a sensationally versatile voice that swings between grungy rawness and almost ethereal high notes, while the use of synths and guitar riffs feels almost like a throwback to the ’80s. I can’t name a single specific reason why I loved this album so much, but it’s been on repeat all year, and “How Can I Make It OK?” in particular spoke to me with its building tempo, pounding drums, and moving lyrics.
