These days Netflix binge-watching is one of the most common forms of entertainment around. You pick a show, find out that you love it, and watch it for days, weeks, even months until the dreaded day arrives when you realize there is simply nothing left. This means it's time to pick a new show, something that is somehow much more stressful than one would think! So, I've created a guide to lead you to your next on-screen addiction.
Looking for something to make you laugh?
Sometimes life gets, well, suckish, and we need a show to come home to every day that we can count on for a genuine, out loud laugh. Here are my suggestions:
Yes this is an oldy, but there is no doubt that of all binge-worthy shows The Office takes the comedic crown. From Michael's lunacy to Dwight's meltdowns, I can honestly say that there wasn't a single episode that failed to make me laugh at least once. Also, watching Jim and Pam fall in love leaves one with roughly the same feeling that is evoked by cuddling with multiple puppies. Trust me when I say there is a good reason why this show has so many seasons!
Blue Mountain State:
BMS is an entirely different sort of funny than The Office. It's... well... it's completely idiotic but that's what makes it so funny. Revolving around the antics of an elite college football team, this show makes you simultaneously laugh at the insanity college sports and wish you were good enough to participate in them. So, if you are someone who enjoys a little "boy humor" from time to time or maybe just wants to relive their college frat. days, Blue Mountain State is the show for you.
Want a show that makes your heart race?
Comedy is great but sometimes we need a little something more. If you're a fan of shows packed with action and drama that get your adrenaline levels pumping, these are for you:
Breaking Bad
A few years ago this show took the world by storm, and for good reason. Breaking Bad is one of those shows that you will literally love sleep over, if not from watching episode after episode than from wondering what is going to happen the next time you can watch. Following the journey of a high school chemistry teacher turned meth dealer, Breaking Bad will suck you in as soon as you watch the pilot episode.
Weeds
I cannot praise this show enough. It has exactly the right combination of action, drama, and comedy. Similarly to Breaking Bad, Weeds follows the story of a young, badass stay at home mom of teenagers who turns to selling marijuana to preserve her family's lifestyle after the death of her husband and eventually becomes much more entangled in criminal activity than she intended.
Want a show that piles on the drama?
Want a show that makes you literally hang on to every last word? If you're looking to live vicariously through the emotional lives of characters, these are for you:
Friday Night Lights
Let's be honest- if you haven't watched FNL, you are playing yourself. Guys and gals alike sing the praises of this classic show. Following the lives of various Dillon panthers (including THE Tim Riggins), Friday Night Lights delves into the world of high school romance, friendship, and, of course, football. I could go on and on about why you need to watch it... seriously, just watch it
.
The Carrie Diaries
Okay, this show didn't last nearly as long as we wish it did, but that doesn't mean it isn't worth watching. A predecessor to Sex In the City (on of my favorite shows OF ALL TIME), the Carrie Diaries follows the journey of ambitious and stylish teenaged Carrie Bradshaw, pre Sam, Charlotte, and Miranda, from suburban Connecticut to the excitement of 1980s New York City.
Oh, and if you need further convincing, check out Austin Butler is the male lead, Sebastian.
Want a show that gives you your nostalgia fix?
I of all people understand feeling like you were born in the wrong generation, so here are two of my favorite shows just for you:
Freaks and Geeks
Freaks and Geeks follows the lives of teenager Lindsey Weir in the early 80s. When the show begins, Lindsey has transitioned from "geek", the star students, to "freak", the denim-wearing, greasy-haired kids who enjoy doing nothing but smoking a little weed and listening to some Zeppelin. From the music to the cast (young James Franco as Daniel is incredible), this show is literally perfect and well deserving of it's praise.
My So-Called Life
This show brings teenage angst to a whole other level, but I loved every minute of it. Set at a fictional high school in mid-90s Pittsburgh, this show revolves around the emotional trials and tribulations of Angela Chase as she struggles to strike a balance between growing up and acting her age.
Want a show that just makes you... happy?
We all need that one show that can put a smile on our face no matter what, and make us feel at home no matter where we are. If you're looking for some warm-and-fuzzies, here are a couple shows for you:
Friends
Of course I couldn't write an article about Netflix binge-watching without mentioning Friends. A comedy classic that ran literally forever I truly believe that this show will never lose popularity. Following the lives of 6 adult friends living together in New York City, this show is the life goal of every friend group everywhere.
Or, re-binge on Gilmore Girls
This last show is very near and dear to my heart. This insanely popular series follows the lives of Rory Gilmore and her mother, Lorelai. Based in a small town in Connecticut, we truly get to watch Rory grow up on screen from her freshman year of high school to her college graduation. So much can be learned from this girl-power-packed show, and it never fails to put me in a good mood.