SBS On Demand each year publishes a broad range of TV shows and movies from SBS, SBS VICELAND SBS Food Network, and NITV, along with a rich library of series and movies exclusive to the platform. Channel Manager David Gwynne has listed his personal highlights from throughout the year.
Trapped
Beards never looked so good and...murder never looked so cold. This was an instant classic Scandi thriller that quickly became SBS On Demands best performing program of the year.
....until...
Midnight Sun
I loved this for the setting and depiction of the Sami. Proving the great taste of viewers, the show is going gangbusters On Demand proving just how well-loved 'Nordic Noir' is as a genre.
Deep Water
Best Aussie drama this year in my mind. As a Sydneysider it struck a chord and I thought the whole production - acting, writing, and direction - was brilliant. The accompanying doco was just as well done and we can only pray that justice for these men comes one day.
MORE OF THE BEST OF 2016:
SBS Channel Manager Ben Nguyen selects The Best of SBS in 2016
OJ Simpson: Made in America
This was compelling not just for the picture painted with historical issues of race and the law in America/LA, but to see how far a bona fide sports star/hero fell, all at his own hand, was fascinating.
Samantha Bee
Just what the doctor ordered in a world gone a little mad, with the likes of Brexit, Trump and our very own 'please explain' Pauline. Bee helps restore your sanity every week.
First Contact
It feels like we have come so far, but this series is a sobering reminder that as a country we still have a long, long way to go. [You can watch the on SBS On Demand]
The full cast of First Contact 2 Source: SBS
The Family Law
What? Wait...there are actually funny, nuanced, sweet, endearing stories and non-white Australian characters that capture the hearts of all Australians?
Funny that. Loved it and looking forward to next season.
The Family Law - nominated for Best TV Comedy Source: AACTA
Get a Room
Okay, this isn't a show per se but a collection of movies On Demand that as the title suggests covers 'vintage' SBS themes and audience appetites. Some of the films in the collection include Room in Rome, Lady Chatterley, Turn Me On Goddammit, Kiss Me, and Dangerous Liaisons.
Needless to say, this is the best performing movie collection on the service.
SBS On Demand remains committed to delivering the best of SBS through 2017 with its extensive free-to-access library of content. Be sure to let us know what your favourites were to stream on the service this year.