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HBO has already built itself up a pretty-much unrivaled global reputation for the quality of some of its television dramas. But Deadwood, surely, stands at the top of the pile (along with HBO stablemate The Wire) as a staggering example of just how good modern day television can be.

Set in 1876, the town of Deadwood finds itself host to a mixture of rounded, three-dimensional characters. Given that it’s in gold-rush territory, it’s little surprise that it attracts a large number of undesirables, with an ongoing battle between the lawmakers and breakers. But arguably none come more undesirable than saloon owner Al Swearengen, the morally corrupt man who effectively owns the town. Memorably portrayed, in a flat-out career-best performance, by Ian McShane, Swearengen is the troubled heart of Deadwood, and is one of the very best characters that HBO has ever brought to the screen. It's little wonder that the fabulous supporting cast have to be on top of their game to even attempt to match McShane's towering portrayal.

If there's a slight grumble about this three-season box set, bringing together every episode of Deadwood, it's that the show doesn’t really come to an end particularly well. There's an argument that it suits the nature of the programme, however, although it doesn't stop you wanting a slightly tidier conclusion. Yet all considered, television drama simply doesn’t come much better than Deadwood, and you’ll struggle to find anything on your shelf to match it. Outstanding television. --Jon Foster