TIME magazine has recognized two distinct television series, Errol Morris's documentary program "First Person" and the dramedy "Men of a Certain Age," as among the 50 most underappreciated shows of the 21st century. The publication highlighted "First Person" for its unique approach to profiling ordinary individuals and "Men of a Certain Age" for its sensitive portrayal of male friendships during midlife.
"First Person," which premiered around the turn of the millennium, featured in-depth interviews with unrecognized subjects whose lives offered compelling narratives. Directed by Errol Morris, known for his work with intriguing personalities, the show presented half-hour episodes centered on single, wide-ranging conversations. Subjects included a confidant of the Unabomber, a former CIA operative specializing in disguises, and individuals with exceptional claims to fame or intellect. The series' first subject was Temple Grandin, whose advocacy for humane livestock slaughter provided an early exploration of mortality. Morris's method often found profundity in unexpected places, as exemplified by a quote from mob lawyer Murray Richman reflecting on his shift from certainty to moral relativism.
Morris uploaded "First Person" to his YouTube channel during the pandemic, making the previously hard-to-find series accessible. The visual elements and extended interview format were noted as valuable, emphasizing the significance of unfamous individuals and their complexities.
Focus on Midlife Men
"Men of a Certain Age," co-created by Ray Romano and Mike Royce, is lauded for its depiction of friendships and the internal lives of men approaching 50. The series, which aired on TNT, focused on three flawed but likable protagonists navigating midlife crises. Romano played Joe, a separated father managing a party-supply store and a sports-betting habit. Scott Bakula portrayed Terry, a lifelong bachelor grappling with aging out of his acting career and romantic pursuits. The role of Owen, a diabetic car salesman working for his competitive father and supporting his family, was played by Andre Braugher. His performance was singled out for its tenderness and vulnerability, setting a tone that treated male emotions seriously without resorting to sentimentality or melodrama.
The series was noted for its candid and good-natured scenes of the characters sharing meals and discussing their lives openly. TIME suggested that the show's smaller audience might be attributed to its placement on the network rather than its subject matter. Both "First Person" and "Men of a Certain Age" are now recognized by TIME for their significant contributions to television, despite not achieving mainstream recognition.