Oz has the distinction of being the first original one-hour drama programme produced by HBO. The show, which ran from 1993 to 2003, is also very good and sadly underrated. The show followed the inhabitants of Emerald City, the experimental maximum security wing of Oswald State Correctional Facility, as they served time for various crimes. The unit emphasised rehabilitation and learning accountability, rather than just serving time and rotting behind bars. The show dealt with a number of complex themes and issues and was narrated by wheelchair-bound inmate Augustus Hill. Oz was an incredibly violent place and the show did not shy aware from showing that violence, frequently pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable to show on television. Although the show experienced a sharp decline in quality and ratings in its final season, it stands as one of the most thought-provoking and daring TV shows ever made. It deserves to be mentioned alongside The Sopranos, The Wire and other HBO shows. Without Oz, we wouldn't have them. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjUS4SscvAg
