Lilyhammer

• It is not a series destined for history books, but it is well-crafted (within dark comedy) and, above all, designed to have a thoroughly good time. The first season is undeniably the best. Furthermore, it does not require turning your brain off, as beneath the comedy and tropes lies an intriguing undercurrent about Norwegian customs and culture and the stark contrast it creates for newcomers.

• The premise is original. Don Vito Corleone would have acted similarly had he ended his days in Lillehammer. Except that here Don Vito is "Frank Tagliano, the Fixer," played by the multifaceted Steve Van Zandt (who also co-wrote and was extraordinarily involved in the show), already famous as Silvio Dante in The Sopranos. A brilliant role even in its subtlest nuances, gestures, and movements.

• This series is very funny, witty, realistic, and has very few flaws. Cliché? Yes, perhaps a bit, but I insist that it is very inventive and the plot never stops entertaining and surprising. It pays great tribute to classic American cinema and aesthetically to shows like The Sopranos and Breaking Bad, including Quentin Tarantino, who is heavily referenced in this genre.

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