Treme

Who? Writer David Simon's follow-up to The Wire.
What? The lives of a cross-section of the New Orleans community as they come to terms with life after Hurricane Katrina.
Where? The fourth and final season is coming soon to Sky Atlantic, with the first three series available on DVD (Warner Home Video).
Why? After the action of The Wire, perhaps Treme was too contemplative for some.

15 Storeys High

Who? Sean Lock wrote and starred as misanthropic swimming pool attendant Vince with Benedict Wong superb as his hapless flatmate Errol.
What? If you thought Lock was just a TV panel show staple, you've obviously overlooked this innovative, lo-fi sitcom set in a tower block.
Where? Currently showing late at night on Gold or on DVD (2entertain).
Why? It's pretty downbeat but incredibly funny.

Hannibal

Who? Mads Mikkelsen plays Dr Hannibal Lecter opposite Laurence Fishburne and Hugh Dancy.
What? A sort-of prequel to Silence of the Lambs.
Where? Season one and two on DVD (Studiocanal) with season three coming to Sky Living next spring.
Why? The graphic gore might have put off the squeamish but Hannibal is incredibly classy and beautifully shot.

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia

Who? Created by and starring Rob McElhenney, alongside Danny DeVito, Charlie Day and Kaitlin Olson.
What? Sitcom set in an Irish bar in (surprise, surprise) Philadelphia.
Where? Netflix and on DVD c/o 20th Century Fox.
Why? Some Netflix exclusives never get the recognition of broadcast TV.

Generation War

Who? No one you’ve really heard of.
What? German drama examining WWII from a very different perspective.
Where? On DVD from Arrow Films.
Why? Some might have baulked at the very idea, however this was an intriguing and absorbing series.