After years in development, Andy Serkis’s animated adaptation of George Orwell’s Animal Farm made its long-awaited debut at the 2025 Annecy International Animation Film Festival, unveiling a powerful first teaser that’s already sparking major buzz. The reimagining of Orwell’s political allegory brings together an eclectic and star-studded voice cast—including Seth Rogen, Kieran Culkin, Glenn Close, Woody Harrelson, and Gaten Matarazzo—for what Serkis calls a “contemporary fable for all ages.”
First Trailer Shows a Darker, More Emotional Take
The teaser opens with an ominous exchange between Rogen’s Napoleon and Matarazzo’s Lucky—a newly created pig character—delivering the line, “Things aren’t always what they seem.” This brief clip sets the tone for a gritty, emotionally resonant version of the story, leaning into Orwell’s core themes of power, propaganda, and betrayal.
Kieran Culkin’s portrayal of Squealer injects a sharp, manipulative charisma into the regime’s propaganda machine, while Glenn Close and Woody Harrelson lend their gravitas to key elder animals. The trailer’s painterly visuals, rich with light and shadow, hint at a highly stylized CG aesthetic reminiscent of prestige animation like *Loving Vincent* or *The House*.
A New Vision for a Political Allegory
Originally announced as a motion-capture film in the early 2010s—back when Serkis had just launched his production company The Imaginarium—*Animal Farm* has gone through several evolutions. After delays and studio shifts, the project settled into full CG animation, produced by Cinesite Studios, known for their work on *The Addams Family* and *Riverdance: The Animated Adventure*.
Serkis has described the project’s tone as “Wolf of Wall Street meets A Bronx Tale through the eyes of a pig,” combining visceral emotional arcs with biting political commentary. It’s designed to resonate with both younger audiences and adults familiar with Orwell’s 1945 novella. “It’s about leadership, truth, and what happens when we lose sight of our ideals,” Serkis said in an Annecy panel discussion.
All-Star Cast Brings Orwell’s Farm to Life
The voice cast reads like a who’s who of Hollywood. Seth Rogen leads as Napoleon, bringing a menacing comedic edge. Kieran Culkin voices Squealer with a sly twist. Glenn Close, Woody Harrelson, Steve Buscemi, Kathleen Turner, Laverne Cox, Jim Parsons, and *Ms. Marvel*’s Iman Vellani round out the ensemble. Gaten Matarazzo’s new character, Lucky, appears to serve as an emotional audience surrogate—an innocent caught in the chaos of the pigs’ revolution.
Premiere, Release Window & What’s Next
The film’s premiere at Annecy on June 9, 2025, marked its official public debut, though it has yet to secure a wide release date. Early industry chatter suggests a theatrical and streaming hybrid rollout in mid-to-late 2025, potentially distributed by Netflix, with whom Serkis previously collaborated on other animated ventures. The buzz around Annecy could fast-track distribution deals and awards positioning for the upcoming Oscar season.
Why This Adaptation Matters
*Animal Farm* has long been considered unfilmable in its full allegorical power—past adaptations often softened Orwell’s harshest critiques. But Serkis’s take seems determined to preserve the political bite while humanizing the animal characters through performance-driven animation. In an age of misinformation, authoritarianism, and ideological division, the timing feels particularly relevant.
As more footage, cast interviews, and reviews roll out in the coming weeks, Serkis’s *Animal Farm* may prove not just an artistic triumph but a bold statement on the state of the world—told through the eyes of a revolution gone wrong.
Best Apple Shows to Stream
Apple TV+ has become a major player in the streaming world, offering a variety of high-quality shows across different genres. While it started with a smaller catalog than competitors, the platform has grown to include award-winning series that rival those on other services. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the best shows on Apple TV+ right now, saving you time scrolling through options.
The streaming service continues to release new content regularly, with several standout hits like Severance and Dope Thief gaining critical acclaim. From sci-fi dramas to comedies and thrillers, there’s something for everyone in their growing library. Let’s explore the top shows worth your viewing time.
1) Severance
Severance is a standout thriller on Apple TV+ that has captured our attention with its unique premise and incredible execution. The show follows workers at a corporation who undergo a procedure that separates their work memories from their personal lives.
The series stars Adam Scott, Britt Lower, and Patricia Arquette, creating a compelling ensemble that brings depth to this unsettling world. Severance won two Emmy awards, confirming its quality and impact on viewers.
We find the visual elements particularly impressive. The show delivers a masterclass in production design and cinematography. From the sterile office environments to the contrast with the outside world, the visual aspects are extraordinary.
Many viewers consider it the best TV show in years. The careful plotting and mysterious storylines keep us guessing while the character development makes us care about both the “innies” and “outies” versions of each person.
The first season debuted in 2022, and fans have been eagerly awaiting its return. Production delays pushed the second season, but the wait has only increased anticipation.
We appreciate how Severance blends genres, combining workplace drama with psychological thriller elements and science fiction concepts. The show asks profound questions about identity, corporate ethics, and work-life balance.
Ben Stiller’s direction provides a consistent tone that balances the eerie atmosphere with moments of dark humor. This tonal control is part of what makes the series so engaging.
When we consider Apple TV+’s lineup, Severance stands among its strongest offerings, frequently mentioned alongside shows like For All Mankind and Foundation.
2) Dope Thief
Dope Thief is one of Apple TV+’s newest crime dramas that has quickly earned a spot on our must-watch list. The series started streaming in early 2025 and has been released with new episodes dropping weekly on Fridays.
The show stars Brian Tyree Henry who delivers a dynamite performance as a stick-up artist who finds himself in over his head. His character work anchors this high-stakes story with both intensity and surprising humor.
Executive produced by Ridley Scott and created by Peter Craig, Dope Thief brings a fresh take to the crime genre. We appreciate how the series balances tension with moments of unexpected comedy.
The premise is deceptively simple but executed brilliantly: “It was the perfect grift until they chose the wrong mark.” This setup creates a domino effect of consequences that keeps viewers on edge throughout the season.
Critics have been especially impressed, with some calling it “one of the top 10 shows of the year” so far. We find this praise well-deserved for its tight storytelling and excellent cast chemistry.
The show is part of Apple TV+’s subscription service, which offers a 7-day free trial before the regular $9.99 monthly fee. We think it’s worth trying the service just for this series alone.
Reddit discussions have praised Dope Thief as a “high-grade crime drama packed with humor” – an assessment we strongly agree with after watching the first few episodes.
What sets Dope Thief apart from other crime shows is its careful balance of intensity and levity, along with characters that feel authentic rather than like crime drama stereotypes.
3) Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso has become one of Apple TV+’s biggest success stories. This heartwarming comedy follows an American football coach who moves to England to manage a struggling soccer team, despite having no experience with the sport.
The show stars Jason Sudeikis in the title role, alongside Hannah Waddingham and Juno Temple. Their performances have helped the series earn an impressive 11 Emmy Awards across its run.
What makes Ted Lasso special is its unique blend of humor and heart. The characters deal with real issues while maintaining an underlying message of kindness and optimism. This balance has resonated with viewers looking for uplifting content.
We love how the show builds its ensemble cast. Each character gets meaningful development beyond just serving the main plot. The writing avoids typical sports story clichés while still delivering satisfying narrative arcs.
Ted Lasso has completed three seasons, all available for streaming. The series consistently ranks among Apple TV+’s most popular programs, often appearing in their top shows list alongside hits like Severance.
Many fans who’ve finished Ted Lasso find themselves searching for similar feel-good content on the platform. The show has set a high bar for comedy with heart.
While some viewers compare other Apple originals to Ted Lasso, certain critics argue shows like Trying might even be better than the football comedy. We think Ted Lasso remains a must-watch for anyone with an Apple TV+ subscription.
4) For All Mankind
For All Mankind is a standout Apple TV+ series that reimagines history with a fascinating “what if” premise around the space race. We consider it one of the finest TV shows available on any streaming platform today.
The series features an impressive cast led by Joel Kinnaman, Toby Kebbell, and Krys Marshall, all delivering exceptional performances that bring this alternate history to life. The production quality is absolutely top-tier, with attention to detail that makes the show’s world feel authentic and lived-in.
We’re particularly impressed by the makeup work, which helps portray characters aging across decades as the storyline progresses. This commitment to realism enhances the viewing experience and makes the show’s ambitious timespan credible.
Many reviewers agree with our assessment, with USA Today calling it “the most thoughtful and thought-out show on TV”. The nuanced storytelling completely draws viewers in, making you forget about current reality while you’re watching.
Season 4 continues the show’s tradition of excellence, maintaining the high standards set by previous seasons. We find the writing consistently smart and the character development compelling throughout the series’ run.
What makes For All Mankind special is how it balances alternate history, technical accuracy, and human drama. The show reminds us what it’s like to believe in the future, offering a hopeful yet complex vision of human space exploration.
We highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys thought-provoking drama, science fiction, or historical reimaginings. It stands as one of Apple TV+’s strongest original productions and deserves its place among the best television available today.
5) Silo
Silo is a standout sci-fi series on Apple TV+ that has quickly become one of the platform’s most compelling shows. Set in a dystopian future, it follows the last people on Earth living in a massive underground silo.
The show stars Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Robbins, and Common in a gripping tale that keeps viewers guessing. It’s based on Hugh Howey’s popular book trilogy, which gives it a strong narrative foundation.
What makes Silo special is how it balances mystery with science fiction elements. The secrets of why people live in the silo and what happened to the outside world unfold slowly, pulling us deeper into the story with each episode.
Many fans and critics consider Silo to be one of the best Apple TV series alongside Severance and Ted Lasso. Its quality sets it apart from many other shows in the streaming landscape.
The good news for fans is that Apple has already renewed Silo for seasons 3 and 4, showing their confidence in this riveting series. Season 1 was praised for its excellent pacing and world-building.
We think Silo stands as the best dystopian series since Fallout, another popular post-apocalyptic show. The production values are top-notch, with impressive sets that make the underground world feel real and lived-in.
For those who enjoy thought-provoking sci-fi with strong character development, Silo delivers on all fronts. The element of mystery is what truly drives the show’s success beyond just its sci-fi trappings.
6) Shrinking
Shrinking is one of Apple TV+’s standout comedies that blends humor with emotional depth. The show follows Jimmy, a therapist who is grieving the loss of his wife while trying to be a dad, friend, and maintain his professional practice.
What sets Shrinking apart is its approach to character development. The show builds rich characters that help create a believable world, something Apple TV+ shows often excel at.
We love how Jimmy decides to try a new approach with his therapy patients, breaking traditional boundaries. This creates both comedic and touching moments throughout the series.
The show has gained significant popularity, currently ranking as the #2 show on Apple TV+ behind only Silo. Critics have responded enthusiastically, with the show earning a remarkable 97% critic score.
Many viewers consider Shrinking to be among Apple’s best original content, second only to Ted Lasso. The show’s exploration of vulnerability and found family resonates strongly with audiences.
We appreciate how Shrinking offers a fictional yet insightful look into what happens when a licensed therapist takes unconventional routes to heal patients. This premise opens up fascinating storylines.
The series features strong performances from its cast, including Jason Segel and Harrison Ford. Their chemistry adds another layer of enjoyment to this already compelling show.
For viewers who enjoy shows that balance humor with emotional depth, Shrinking delivers consistently. It manages to tackle serious topics while maintaining a warm, often funny approach.
7) The Morning Show
The Morning Show is one of Apple TV+’s flagship series that debuted with the platform’s launch. This candid drama stars Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Billy Crudup and offers a behind-the-scenes look at a morning news program.
The series tackles relevant workplace issues including sexual misconduct, power dynamics, and the fast-paced world of broadcast journalism. We found the performances particularly compelling, with the cast delivering nuanced portrayals of complex characters navigating professional and personal challenges.
What makes The Morning Show stand out is its willingness to address timely topics that mirror real-world events. The writing doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations about workplace culture and media ethics.
The show has received critical acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations, with Billy Crudup winning for his performance as network executive Cory Ellison. Each season builds on the previous one while introducing new dynamics and conflicts.
We appreciate how the series pulls back the curtain on early morning TV, revealing the often chaotic and competitive environment behind the polished on-air personalities. The production quality is excellent, from the set design of the fictional network to the costume choices.
For viewers who enjoy workplace dramas with strong character development, The Morning Show delivers compelling storytelling. The series continues to evolve with each season, keeping the narrative fresh while maintaining its core focus on media, power, and relationships.
While it’s a drama at heart, the show incorporates moments of dark humor that provide necessary relief from the more intense storylines. We’ve found it to be one of Apple’s most consistent and engaging original productions.
8) Mythic Quest
Mythic Quest is one of the best workplace comedies available right now on Apple TV+. The show follows the team behind a massively popular multiplayer video game, giving us an inside look at the gaming industry’s ups and downs.
What we love about Mythic Quest is how it perfectly balances humor with genuine character development. The ensemble cast creates a wonderful “island of misfit employees” dynamic that keeps viewers invested in their stories.
Despite its quality, Mythic Quest doesn’t get the attention it deserves. While Ted Lasso and The Morning Show often dominate discussions about Apple TV+, Mythic Quest receives surprisingly little coverage despite its excellent writing.
Critics adore the show. It has achieved a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of Apple’s highest-rated series. We find it interesting that it’s positioned as an anti-Severance of sorts – bringing humor to workplace dynamics rather than darkness.
The show centers on the team building worlds, creating heroes, and crafting legends in their digital universe. This creative premise allows for both comedy and surprising depth.
We consider Mythic Quest essential viewing for gaming enthusiasts, but its appeal extends far beyond that niche audience. The workplace dynamics and character relationships are universal enough for anyone to enjoy.
The show demonstrates Apple TV+’s commitment to quality over quantity. While it may not be their most-watched series, it consistently delivers smart, funny episodes that showcase the platform’s strengths.
9) Surface
Surface is a psychological thriller on Apple TV+ that follows the journey of a woman named Sophie who has lost her memory after a supposed suicide attempt. We find this show particularly intriguing because it constantly keeps viewers guessing about what’s real and what isn’t.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw delivers a compelling performance as Sophie, a character trying to piece together her former life. The show creates a moody atmosphere that perfectly matches its mysterious storyline.
The series is set in San Francisco, providing a beautiful yet eerie backdrop for the unfolding drama. We appreciate how the city itself becomes almost a character in the show, with its fog-shrouded hills and scenic bay views.
Surface appears among Apple TV+’s most popular shows, demonstrating its appeal to audiences who enjoy psychological mysteries. Some viewers have even ranked it among their top 10 Apple TV+ shows.
The supporting cast, including Oliver Jackson-Cohen and Stephan James, adds depth to the narrative. Their characters hold pieces of Sophie’s past, making their interactions tense and meaningful.
We found the show’s pacing deliberate, allowing the mystery to unfold gradually. This approach gives viewers time to form their own theories about Sophie’s true identity and past.
The visual style of Surface deserves special mention. The cinematography uses reflections and distorted images to reinforce the show’s themes of fractured memory and deceptive appearances.
For fans of mind-bending thrillers with strong female leads, Surface offers an engaging viewing experience. Its exploration of identity and trust makes it more than just another amnesia story.
10) Acapulco
Acapulco stands out as one of the best comedies in years on Apple TV+. This charming series follows a young Mexican man whose dream comes true when he lands a job at a luxurious resort in Acapulco.
The show cleverly uses a dual timeline format. In the present day, we see an older Maximo played by Eugenio Derbez, while in the 1980s we follow his younger self navigating the colorful world of Las Colinas resort.
We love how Acapulco balances humor with heart. The series doesn’t just aim for laughs – it explores family relationships, ambition, and cultural identity with genuine warmth.
The visual style is another highlight. The show is a delightful ’80s fever dream with vibrant colors and period-perfect costumes that transport viewers back in time.
Critics have praised the show too. Rotten Tomatoes notes it’s “sweetly nostalgic and utterly charming” with its smart, genial humor and talented ensemble cast.
Season 3 continues the story as older Maximo reconciles past mistakes while exciting new beginnings unfold. The character development across seasons keeps viewers invested in everyone’s journey.
What makes Acapulco special is its positive energy. Unlike many modern comedies that rely on cynicism, this show embraces optimism while still feeling authentic and never saccharine.
With 30 episodes already available to binge, we recommend Acapulco for anyone seeking a comedy that delivers consistent laughs while offering something refreshingly different from Apple’s more serious dramas.
Understanding Apple’s Entertainment Ecosystem
Apple TV+ has transformed the streaming landscape with its unique blend of quality and innovative storytelling. The platform stands out through its commitment to production excellence and strategic position within Apple’s broader tech universe.
Apple TV+ and Its Role
Apple TV+ launched in November 2019 as Apple’s entry into the competitive streaming market. Unlike Netflix or Hulu, Apple took a different approach by focusing on original content only.
The service costs $9.99 monthly but comes free for a year with new Apple device purchases. This strategy helps keep people in the Apple ecosystem.
We’ve seen Apple use the platform to extend their brand beyond hardware. Rather than building a massive content library, they’ve prioritized quality over quantity.
The service is available across multiple devices including:
- Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac)
- Smart TVs
- Streaming devices
- Gaming consoles
Production Quality: A Step Above
Apple’s shows display consistently high production values that rival premium cable networks. The company spends an estimated $15 million per episode on flagship series like “The Morning Show” and “See.”
This investment shows in the visual quality. Apple TV+ productions feature cinema-grade cinematography, impressive set designs, and top-tier visual effects when needed.
We’ve noticed they attract major talent both in front of and behind the camera. Directors like Steven Spielberg and actors like Jennifer Aniston have created content for the platform. This star power helps Apple build prestige.
Their content strategy focuses on thoughtful storytelling rather than algorithms. Shows like “Severance,” “Ted Lasso,” and “Pachinko” demonstrate their commitment to creative excellence over formulaic content.
Impact of Apple Shows on Popular Culture
Apple TV+ shows have quietly transformed how viewers engage with content since the platform’s launch. Their unique storytelling approaches and high production values have set new standards in the streaming world.
Influence on Streaming Trends
Apple TV+ has changed how streaming services approach content creation. While many of their best shows fly under the radar, they’ve created a blueprint for quality over quantity.
Unlike competitors who flood platforms with content, Apple focuses on fewer, higher-quality productions. This approach has influenced other services to invest more in prestige programming.
Their willingness to support off-beat shows and give them time to find audiences has shifted industry patience with slow-burning hits. Shows like “Severance” and “Slow Horses” demonstrate how streaming platforms can nurture critically acclaimed series that might not be immediate blockbusters.
Engaging Storylines and Characters
We’ve noticed Apple shows excel at character development and unique premises. Their programming tends to cluster around certain themes – from mystery-solving women to big-brained sci-fi.
Shows like “Ted Lasso” broke through cultural barriers by presenting optimism and kindness as compelling narrative forces. This countered the trend of dark, cynical prestige TV that dominated for years.
Apple’s star-studded productions like “Masters of the Air” and “The Morning Show” bring Hollywood-caliber talent to streaming, elevating audience expectations. Their character-driven approach often prioritizes emotional depth over spectacle.
The storytelling often includes:
- Complex moral questions
- Visually distinctive worlds
- Characters with unusual occupations or circumstances
- Thoughtful pacing that respects viewer intelligence
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple TV+ offers a diverse catalog of acclaimed shows across multiple genres. Many viewers want to know which series stand out and deserve their attention in today’s crowded streaming landscape.
Which series on Apple TV+ are critically acclaimed?
Severance ranks among the most critically acclaimed shows on Apple TV+. This mind-bending workplace thriller directed by Ben Stiller has earned praise for its unique premise and outstanding performances.
Ted Lasso has also received widespread critical acclaim. The heartwarming comedy about an American football coach managing a British soccer team has won multiple Emmy Awards.
Slow Horses is another critical darling featuring Gary Oldman in a spy thriller that critics love for its writing and performances.
What are the latest hit shows available on Apple TV+?
Dope Thief is one of the newest hits on the platform. This crime drama has quickly gained attention for its compelling storytelling.
Pachinko continues to draw viewers with its multi-generational story spanning Korea, Japan, and America.
We’ve also seen recent success with “Lessons in Chemistry,” starring Brie Larson, which has become a viewer favorite in recent months.
Can you recommend some top-rated Apple TV+ originals?
Silo is a top-rated sci-fi series that shouldn’t be missed. It features an intriguing dystopian setting with excellent world-building.
For All Mankind presents an alternative history where the space race never ended. Its ambitious storytelling and production values make it one of Apple’s best.
Mythic Quest offers a hilarious look inside a video game development studio. It’s perfect for viewers who enjoy workplace comedies with heart.
What are the award-winning series featured on Apple TV+?
Ted Lasso leads the pack with numerous Emmy wins including Outstanding Comedy Series. Jason Sudeikis, Brett Goldstein, and Hannah Waddingham have all received acting awards for their performances.
Severance earned multiple Emmy nominations and won several industry awards for its direction, writing, and production design.
The Morning Show has picked up Emmy and Golden Globe awards, with standout performances from Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Billy Crudup earning special recognition.
Which Apple TV+ shows have the highest viewership statistics?
While Apple doesn’t regularly release specific viewership numbers, Ted Lasso is widely reported as the platform’s most-watched series. Its popularity spans worldwide audiences.
Severance and Silo have both generated significant viewership, creating substantial buzz on social media.
The Morning Show also consistently ranks among Apple’s most viewed content, particularly during new season releases.
How do the top Apple TV+ series compare with popular shows on other streaming platforms?
Apple TV+ shows like Severance and Ted Lasso have achieved critical acclaim comparable to top Netflix and HBO productions. They regularly appear on “best of” lists alongside shows from other platforms.
The production values of series like For All Mankind and Foundation match or exceed those of other premium streaming services. Apple invests heavily in high-quality visuals and special effects.
Where Apple TV+ differs is in its approach to content. We’ve noticed the platform focuses on quality over quantity, with fewer shows but higher production standards than some competitors.
