The time has finally come for college students to kick back, relax, catch up on sleep, and soak up the 70-degree sun... or stay inside and binge-watch Netflix. If you prefer the latter option, the popular streaming service responsible for keeping you from studying for midterms features a plethora of great films and TV shows waiting to be watched. Below, I have compiled a list of titles available on Netflix based on personal preference and popularity, plus an additional list of honorable mentions and personal favorites that I can't say enough about.
"American Beauty"
Before Kevin Spacey became notorious for pulling strings and deceiving US government officials in "House of Cards," he won a Best Actor Oscar for his role as a middle-aged father lusting after his teenage daughter's best friend. That may sound like a complete turn-off for some viewers, but truth be told, "American Beauty" is an incredibly insightful look at suburban life, family relationships and identity. This 90s classic also won Oscars for Best Cinematography, Best Original Screenplay, Best Director and Best Picture.
"Better Call Saul" (Season 1)
Assuming that almost everyone has finished "Breaking Bad," I won't bother putting that on the list. Instead (if you haven't already), take a look at the first season of the equally entertaining spinoff, which centers on crooked lawyer Jimmy McGill before he became Saul Goodman and met the legendary Heisenberg.
"Bob's Burgers" (Seasons 1-4)
This quirky animated comedy sitcom has gained a faithful fanbase during its five-season run. It may not seem very accessible when you first start watching it, but after about five or six episodes, it's almost irresistible.
"Fatal Attraction"
One of the greatest thrillers ever made, this Oscar nominee has been terrifying men since its release in 1987. What begins as a gripping domestic drama evolves into a gut-wrenching psychological thriller that will make couples think twice about cheating. Featuring top-notch performances and moments that will make your blood run cold, "Fatal Attraction" is one of the few films that will never fade away.
"The Guest"
Part family drama, part thriller, part horror film and part action film, "The Guest" is an indie flick that packs quite a punch. There's nothing particularly flashy about the film, but its strength lies in its well-rounded cast and its unique atmosphere.
"Hot Fuzz"
No other director working today knows how to do visual comedy better than Edgar Wright. His take on what would otherwise be a Michael Bay buddy-cop flick is filled to the brim with hilarious performances and stellar action. It is also the second installment in Wright's Three Flavors Cornetto Trilogy, which also contains "Shaun of the Dead" and "The World's End."
"House of Cards" (Seasons 1-4)
Netflix's very first original series is the show that essentially birthed the concept of binge-watching. Four seasons in, and it is still worth binging for hours on end. Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright deliver powerhouse performances as Francis and Claire Underwood, respectively, who will stop at nothing until they complete their quest for absolute power in Washington DC.
"Making a Murderer"
Arguably the most popular show on Netflix right now, "Making a Murderer" has been frustrating viewers all over the country, forcing them to question their faith in the criminal justice system. If you didn't have the chance to catch this during the winter, now would be the perfect time.
Five Films by Quentin Tarantino
Movie fans, rejoice! Maestro filmmaker Quentin Tarantino is one of the most recognizable names in the film industry, and although he is notorious for including copious amounts of bloody violence and highly controversial themes, each new entry in his flawless filmography never fails to amaze his audience. These five masterpieces brought to you by the (in)famous director are ready for your viewing pleasure:
"Reservoir Dogs"
"Pulp Fiction"
"Kill Bill" (Vol. 1 & Vol. 2)
"Inglourious Basterds"
"Django Unchained"
"Sherlock" (Seasons 1-3)
A modern take on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved detective stories, BBC's "Sherlock" is far and away one of the greatest TV shows ever made. Its writing is excellent, the performances by Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman are pitch perfect, and each new mystery never fails to live up to their predecessors.
"Super"
Flowing in the same vein as films like "Kick-Ass" and "Deadpool," this mildly bizarre superhero comedy directed by James Gunn ("Guardians of the Galaxy") is a fun little treat for those looking for a more human touch to their superhero stories.
"Turbo Kid"
This is the ultimate 80s movie that never happened. A wildly entertaining mashup of classic genres, "Turbo Kid" is a surprisingly sweet film packed with nostalgia, charm, and plenty of over-the-top violence.
"What's Eating Gilbert Grape"
Way before Leonardo DiCaprio finally won his highly deserved Academy Award for "The Revenant," he was first nominated for his performance as the mentally disabled brother of Johnny Depp's titular character in this heart-wrenching family drama. DiCaprio's performance was so heavily praised that, at the time, audiences thought that he was actually impaired.
OTHER NETFLIX RECOMMENDATIONS
"Amadeus"
"Batman"
"Black Mirror" (Seasons 1-2)
"The Exorcist"
"Eyes Wide Shut"
"Ferris Bueller's Day Off"
"Finding Neverland"
"Forrest Gump"
"It's Such a Beautiful Day"
"Moonrise Kingdom"
"Mr. Nobody"
"The Shining"
"Sin City"
"Snowpiercer"
"The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie"
"World of Tomorrow"
