Not long ago, films and the “film experience” were considered superior to watching television. Not anymore. In the last few years the best TV shows often outshined the best movies.

While film studios have responded to the Internet age by taking shelter beneath big-tent franchises and seemed to be content to go with the big star and bankable brands, the TV industry became more adventurous and creative, welcoming original ideas. Movies have become formulaic while TV has become original.

I am hooked on a number of amazing television series that provide a more satisfying experience than going to the movies does. Some of my favorite shows include "Heroes," "Lost," "Veronica Mars," and "MI-5" (known as "Spooks" in Britain). They have complex plots, character development, and movie-level production values.

These shows tell their stories carefully, with plenty of detail, putting viewers inside the experience of the character. It demands intense commitments from the viewers, but it also offers intellectual rewards.

In the film world, either the director or the star is in charge or a committee makes the movie. Television remains a writer’s medium, which leads to better storytelling.

A movie usually presents only the bare essentials to tell a story. Often it leaves you wanting more. Can you imagine shows like "Lost" or "Heroes' confined to two hours? Even massive movie franchises such as "Harry Potter" could make fantastic TV shows , because there is time for characters, settings, subplots, and mysteries to develop.

With good TV serials the enjoyment lasts longer and you watch when it suits you, not when it shows at the local cinema.

One of the reasons movies used to be thought of as superior is immersion. Now surround sound and high-definition big-screen TV sets rival the cinema experience.

What's the big deal with "cinema experience"? You have to contend with people talking, cellphones ringing, text-message lights popping up, latecomers climbing over you to get to their seats, people walking up and down to the bathroom and the popcorn stand. Delayed starts is just one more of many irritations one can experience at the theater.

And no, television is not the medium for the antisocial couch potato. TV actually serves as a better social experience than movies. With a movie there's no social interaction except for the few minutes while you leave the theater and talk about it.

There is nothing social about the seating arrangement in a theater. It’s pitch dark and viewers face away from each other. Watching TV at home ensures a friendlier seating arrangement. Not to mention, no stupid head constantly blocking your view. Talking is allowed — during the show you can pause, discuss, and continue. You have your friends with you. How is that antisocial?

If you are in the mood to get out and are looking for a self-contained couple of hours of amusement, a good movie is fine. If you are looking for a more meaningful and stimulating viewing experience TV is the way to go.