The Best TV Dramas of 2014

Christmas is but 6 days away and I can smell the panic in the air. Need some last minute gift ideas? Well roll up roll up for I, a recognised television connoisseur have drawn up a list of 2014's best British dramas. Head on down to your local Woolworths Megastores and pick up a boxset or five.

Out of The Blue - Christmas Single

Fancy an early Christmas present? Feast your eyes and ears on this - It's the annual festive cover version from The Optimist's favourite Oxford based acapella group Out of the Blue. The boys received some high praise earlier this year when their mash-up of Shakira songs went viral and got the seal of approval from the woman herself. Now they've tackled Mariah Carey's festive classic ' All I want for Christmas is you' and accompanied it with a suitably charming video filmed on location at their University.

It's for Charidee so if you want to download it you can, here

Check out OOTB's 2013 effort in the Optimist's advent calendar

The Killers - Joel, the lump of coal

It's the most wonderful time of the year folks, and once again The Killers are endeavouring to make it that little bit more wonderfulerer with the release of their annual Christmas song in aid of Product Red. This year they've teamed up with fellow Las Vegan Jimmy Kimmel to create this completely surreal and oddly poignant triumph of a Christmas song. Say hello to Joel, the lump of coal.

Download from iTunes to support the campaign.

The Imitation Game

It's been a tough few months waiting for this one but we made it through. The Imitation Game is one of the most highly anticipated films of the year - turns out it might also be one of the most important. Now The Optimist offers you less of a recommendation and more of a shove towards the cinema. Mark my words, you'll be glad you've seen this when award season comes around.

Shakespeare in Love

The Optimist has been living the high life in London again. This time I paid a visit to the Noel Coward Theatre, to see the newly opened Shakespeare in Love.

Lo Fang - You're The One That I Want

If it's good enough for Baz Luhrmann, it's good enough for The Optimist. Enjoy Lo Fang's gorgeous take on this Grease classic.

Pride

I don't want to come across as bossy, but you have to go and see this film, it's the best one you'll see all year! I'm about to use all of my powers of persuasion to convince you - get ready for a gush-fest.