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The best of British television has reached South Africa after registering huge success in the United States, UK, Canada and Australia. BritBox, the new streaming service by the BBC and ITV plc, serves up some of most well known and much-loved shows from over the years in the UK. From new releases to iconic shows of old, the offering is comprehensive.
Hoping to emulate the success of other television and movie streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime, this new service costs R99.99 per month and works on tablets, FireTV, AppleTV, Samsung Smart TV and LG Smart TV sets. It also works on smartphone devices, offering fans the option of sampling some well known British shows alongside the usual options of playing progressive jackpot slot games like Micrograming’s Absolootly Mad slot game or updating Instagram profiles with the latest photos. The service therefore offers both convenience and entertainment, which is a perfect combination in today’s world where we all generally want instant access to services. In terms of value for money, it’s relatively appealing also.
Whether or not BritBox will register the same type of success as other popular streaming platforms remains to be seen, but judging by the big numbers that it has pulled in around the world already, the early signs suggest that there is most definitely an appetite for it. Knowing exactly what to watch on the service isn’t clear, though. Below is a lowdown on some of the best options.
Extras
The work of The Office’s creator and funny man, Ricky Gervais, Extras serves up a high-quality batch of cringeworthy content accompanied by some truly memorable comedy moments. Following the story of an extra who has aspirations to make it as an actor, the show provides a truly brilliant insight into what it might be like in the industry. Guest appearances from the likes of David Bowie, Ben Stiller, and Samuel L Jackson are a particular highlight too.
Top Gear
If you’re into cars and enjoy a lighthearted discussion around some of the best and most interesting motors around the world right now, then you’ll most definitely take to Top Gear. Truth is, if you’re a petrol-head you’ve probably seen the show already. On the streaming service you can sample both old and new series of the show.
Downton Abbey
One of the most popular period dramas ever made, Downton Abbey is one of the most famous television series to stream on BritBox. Set in 1912, the series eases you in with an introduction to Yorkshire-based family the Crawley’s and their life living on the country estate, Downton Abbey. From there, famous historical events take place and rock the family’s world. If you’re a fan of period dramas then you simply have to watch Downton Abbey.
Only Fools and Horses
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As far as British comedy classics go, they don’t come much bigger than Only Fools and Horses. A truly iconic sitcom starring David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst as a pair of wheeler-dealer brothers who are chasing the dream of becoming millionaires one day, it offers viewers a mixture of both hilarity and sadness in what is a perfect blend of comedy.
Line of Duty
If you’re partial to the odd police drama series, then you’ll surely take to Line of Duty, one of the most revered series of its type in recent times. With a selection of cliffhangers, plot twists, brutal murders, bent police officers, and everything else in-between, Line of Duty is well worth checking out.
Other options include Keeping Up Appearances, Wedding of the Century, Blackadder, and Inspector Morse.
