20 TV Show Finales That Are Totally Flawless

The Americans' devastating finale Start is all about choices. KGB agents Elizabeth (Keri Russell) and Philip (Matthew Rhys) are forced to confront the futures of their kids, their country, and themselves, whilst their FBI agent neighbour Stan (Noah Emmerich) barrels toward uncovering his friends' long-hidden secrets.

It's a meticulously plotted slow-burn of an episode, anchored by its striking performances and endless sense of unpredictability. It features several major developments that appear as if from nowhere, and despite being so twisting is enrapturing to the point you won't even want to blink in case you miss something.

For all its disguises, political tension, espionage and deceit, The Americans at its core was all about the family guiding the story, and how Elizabeth and Philip struggle to balance their duty with both their relationship and their children's safety.

Start not only puts the spotlight on this theme, but makes it the driving force of the episode, and the results - as dark, uncertain and heartbreaking as they are - are simply impossible to forget.