Summertime is a time where one finds more time on their hands than they're used to. If you're like me, when you're not working, you binge-watch shows. It's incredibly hard for shows to keep my attention, but I do have a list of have-tos. These are three shows for your every need this summer that won't disappoint.
1. "Brooklyn Nine-Nine"
The comedy of this list, "Brooklyn Nine Nine" is a comedy set in a New York police precinct, that focuses on the detectives' personal lives more than any actual crimes. The show is hilarious with a star-studded cast including Terry Crews and Andy Samberg. Characters Rosa Diaz (Stephanie Beatriz) and Charles Boyle (Joe Lo Truglio) are semi-new to the television screen but are also some fan favorites.
The show is also incredibly representative and discusses controversial issues without being overbearing. Police treatment of black people is the focus of one episode where Terry is discriminated against in his own neighborhood. LGBTQ+ characters and the challenges they face are also present throughout the series. Captain Ray Holt, the captain of the precinct, an openly-gay and black cop, details his struggles because of his identity in numerous episodes. Detective Diaz has two episodes dedicated to her coming out and the reactions to it.
Written and produced by the same people as "The Office," the show is laugh-out-loud funny. With 21-minute episodes, the show is incredibly easy to binge-watch. You'll probably find yourself disappointed that it it's over. All five seasons are currently available on Hulu. NINE NINE!
2. "Queen Sugar"
"Queen Sugar" is a drama from OWN that tells the story of a family involved in the sugar-cane industry. Their business is only one of their many problems.
Drawn back home by a family death, siblings Nova, Charley (Charlotte), and Ralph Angel are forced to confront all of their familial issues, and their own in turn. Nova, a journalist/activist, stands on her own two feet and prioritizes her New Orleans community only second to family. The oldest of the siblings, Nova is the lovable big sister that you wish you had. Charley, a sports-management agent, and the former wife of an all-star NBA player has had her entire life flipped inside and out. With good intentions, but willing to do the hard stuff, Charley becomes one of those characters that you both love and hate. Ralph Angel, a former convict and father finds his identity in both things. The series details his attempts to be both a good dad and a good person.
Set in New Orleans, the show details the racism of the South, the oppression, and the way the little man is taken advantage of. It also tackles sexual assault, and the abuse that victims experience as a result of coming forward.
Created by the brilliant Ava Duvernay, and also a hidden gem, this show is a must-watch. Making it easy for viewers to catch up, the show is still fairly early on in its seasons, with season three currently airing this summer. Season 1 and 2 are available on Hulu.
3. "Jane the Virgin"
"Jane the Virgin" is a show in the famous telenovela style, chronicling the life of Jane Villanueva, a young woman who is artificially inseminated during what was supposed to be a regular checkup. Hence, the title. As you would expect, this turns her life inside out. All her plans must change, as she deals with her supportive boyfriend Michael, her rich new "baby daddy," Rafael, and his cunning wife, Petra.
In the series, while humorous and absurd at times, Jane also struggles between making the correct decisions. She also struggles with choosing herself first. Also telling the stories of the other characters, rest assured that you will never be bored. Everything is not as it seems in this show.
At 42 minutes an episode, and 4 seasons, start this series for those times when you have an off-day (finally!), or some extra time. It's well worth it. Starring the brilliant Gina Rodriguez, "Jane the Virgin's" four seasons are currently available on Netflix.
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