It’s winter, and if you are like most people, you are probably spending a lot of your time inside feeling bored. Instead of stalking your ex on Facebook or scrolling through Buzzfeed for the millionth time, consider finding a new movie or show on Netflix to get excited about. Chances are, you’ve gone through all your favorites and now consider Netflix a vast wasteland of weird, indie garbage. But if you look hard enough, you might find something really cool! At the very least, you are better off wasting time on Netflix than on Facebook because according to a recent study, the more time you spend on Facebook, the less happy you feel. And we thought it was all in our heads …
Good Will Hunting
For fans of: The Theory of Everything, Dead Poet’s Society, Robin Williams, Boston (the city not the song)
This movie follows a young man named Will who works as a janitor but also happens to be brilliant. All of your favorite actors, including Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Robin Williams, and Minnie Driver, are at their best in this film. And if you need a little inspiration to not fail all of your classes and drop out of college, this movie might be of assistance.
Friday Night Lights
For fans of: Nashville, The O.C., One Tree Hill, Taylor Kitsch’s abs
If you haven’t already binge-watched this show, you are seriously missing out. With its unparalleled mix of romance, football, family, friendship, and teen angst, it is one of the best dramas to ever hit TV. Also, Lyla Garrity, played by Minka Kelly, ends up going to Vanderbilt after her time at Dillon High. Go 'Dores!
Chef
For fans of: The Food Network, No Reservations, Julie & Julia, Cuban food/music
This is one of the best movies of 2014, and it just got released on Netflix for everyone’s viewing pleasure. Even non-foodies will enjoy this film as it chronicles a chef’s experience starting his own food truck with his son. Sofia Vergara plays Chef Carl Casper’s ex-wife and gives us even more reasons to love her.
Chuck
For fans of:The Mentalist, Criminal Minds, The Big Bang Theory, hot geeks
Chuck is an oldie but a goodie, and it is one of the easiest shows to get addicted to on Netflix. It follows a guy named Chuck, played by the surprisingly sexy Zachary Levi, as he gets unwittingly thrusted into the world of spies and secret agents. You will love the romantic chemistry between him and Sarah, but you will also love the hilarity that is Morgan.
House of Cards
For fans of:Scandal, Game of Thrones, Kevin Spacey, corrupt politicians
This Netflix original series has a huge fan base, and it is easy to see why. If you are not addicted after the first episode, you are either severely uninterested in politics or not watching closely enough. The way Frank Underwood, a.k.a. Kevin Spacey, breaks the third wall is inspired, and even though the plot can get a bit twisted at times, it is worth sticking it out and watching every episode.
Bo Burnham: what.
For fans of: New Math, non-PC humor, Louis CK, geeky white people
Bo Burnham is hilarious — if you’re into his kind of humor. Before you watch, check out some of his YouTube videos (New Math and My Whole Family are particularly great) to make sure you’re not offended. If not, watch "what." ASAP because Burnham is easily one of the most talented comedians in the US.Â