What to watch: Murder, money and neighbours behaving badly

Television has come a long way since the 1980s and early 1990s, when options were limited to the SABC or rented movies on VHS or Betamax. In the 1990s, TV 1, 2, and 3 aired, with the latter two broadcasting in Zulu and Sotho until about 9pm, when TV 4 resumed English shows. TV 1 alternated between English and Afrikaans content after the 8pm news, while simulcasts on FM radio allowed listeners to tune in to dubbed shows in their original language.

Mnet transformed television, followed by DStv, which expanded our viewing choices. Streaming has since provided an overwhelming abundance of entertainment options, often making it difficult to choose what to watch.

Conversations With A Killer: The Charles Manson Tapes on Netflix is a gripping and intense true crime series. The show reenacts the brutal murders of director Roman Polanski's wife, Sharon Tate, and her friends, as well as the LeBianca family. Narrated by cult leader Charles Manson, the series delves into the mind of the notorious criminal, exploring his ideology and the reasons behind his violent actions.

Featuring interviews with former Manson Family members, the series offers a chilling glimpse into the minds of those who committed heinous crimes. It is a must-watch despite the well-known story.

The second season of Your Friends and Neighbours tops its Apple TV Plus debut, with a third season currently in production. Jon Hamm reprises his role as Andrew "Coop" Cooper, a disgraced hedge fund manager who discovered that robbing his wealthy neighbors was both a lucrative way to pay the bills and more thrilling than behaving properly.

Alongside Elena, played by Aimee Carrero, Coop has turned burglary into a thriving business. However, billionaire Owen Ashe, portrayed by James Marsden, nearly steals the show with his charm and unpredictability. As Coop's best friend Barney learns about their activities, he joins the thieves instead of stopping them. The ten-part series becomes a fascinating exploration of lies, crumbling relationships, and seduction, with Coop's relentless decision-making ultimately leading him to exact revenge on his former boss. This addictive and well-crafted series offers a delightful mix of dark humor and suspense.