The Wire is an entirely different experience from most television and may not be what you're looking for. You describe some common tropes in TV. The Wire is more like a cross between a novel and a somewhat sad, but moving, human interest piece. It has cliffhangers in a sense, but not the sort of hooks that get thrown out by most series. But really, it is the best show ever made. I found it to be more educational than most other works of art and a lot of my schoolwork. You have to put in some patience at times, but the payoff is incredible.
Interesting, sounds really unique indeed. Just what I heard all the time so far. And that makes it interesting, even though it might not fit 100% my criteria. I guess it's a no-brainer must watch anyway, which such critiques. Thanks for the clarification :)
There are so many different stories going on within the Wire. When it aired, it was definitely one of the few shows that, regardless of what what was going on, I knew I would be tuning in. It really puts you through the ringer, emotionally. Like Breaking Bad, I was sad when it ended, but satisfied none the less. I would agree that it's not a show you can just casually watch and that it is about the payoff. I've been considering rewatching, but it is such an investment.