Reality can be a challenging concept for some of us, and we often love to find simple ways of escaping our daily responsibilities. My favorite, perhaps unhealthy, way of escaping a hectic reality is jumping headfirst into a new show on Netflix. Now, I don't just mean any show on my queue. There are plenty of shows that I could recommend to you that I think you would enjoy, or in my opinion, should enjoy. Rather, there are certain shows that have a highly addictive power that will make it hard for you to function. Sounds fun, right? If you're reading this, you've probably already breezed through shows like Gossip Girl, Grey's Anatomy, Breaking Bad, and Netflix's other "greatest hits."
Let me introduce you to a few other highly addictive programs.
1. Shameless (U.S.)
Network: Showtime
Seasons: 6 (7 premieres this fall)
Where to watch: 4 seasons on Netflix, all 6 on Hulu
Shameless, based on the UK comedy of the same name, focuses on the Gallagher family who lives on the South Side of Chicago. This family of six kids is barely held together by their oldest sister, Fiona, who also balances keeping tabs on their alcoholic nomad of a father. They deal with poverty, relationships, school, drugs, sexuality, and just about everything that can fit into an hour-long episode. You'll be in disbelief of how uncensored and raw it is that you'll have to watch episode after episode. This show has plot twists, unique love stories, a great sense of humor, and amazing performances by all members of its cast.
Netflix also has all 10 series of the UK version, if you want to be well-rounded.
2. Dexter
Network: Showtime
Seasons: 8
Where to watch: Netflix
Most people are familiar with this quirky Showtime crime drama, but some people shy away from it because of the horrible reviews of the last season. However, the story of a forensic blood spatter analyst who works with the Miami Police Department is highly addictive for the bulk of its seasons. Because each season focuses on a different killer, there's a fresh plot line each year. Plus, the suspense of Dexter becoming more and more exposed to the people around him will put you on the edge of your seat. Michael C. Hall's narration is brilliant, and you'll become addicted to his Robin Hood style of a serial killer.
Season 8 is a rough landing, but you will be happily distracted until you get there.
3. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
Network: The CW
Seasons: 1 (going into its second this fall)
Where to watch: Netflix
Some sitcoms definitely have the addictive gene, and this is one of them. If you love a good musical comedy, this is the one for you. Even if that's not usually your thing, this heartwarming, super quirky, and original little show will steal your attention. Basically, Rebecca Bunch moves to West Covina, California, to chase after her old teenage boyfriend - Josh Chan. Along the way, she meets a lot of special friends including a geeky bartender by the name of Greg. Each episode is complete with two original songs, set up like music videos. The songs are super relatable, such as, "The Sexy Getting Ready Song" and "I Could If I Wanted To." I can guarantee that you'll binge through these half hour-long episodes just to see who Rebecca ends up with.
4. The X-Files
Network: FOX
Seasons: 10 (with a possible 11th), 2 movies
Where to watch: 9 seasons on Netflix, movies on Amazon Prime
Okay, this is really old school of me. But, Stranger Things has been such a hit, it wouldn't surprise me if all of you would love this classic science fiction crime drama as well. It follows Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they solve strange cases with hints of extraterrestrial qualities. They recently revived it again for a tenth season, but the majority of the show is great 90s' material. You'll get hooked on David Duchovny's charming and witty character, and you'll stay to find out if the government is really hiding something. Did I mention that it centers around years of sexual tension and a will they/won't they get together aesthetic?
5. Broadchurch
Networks: ITV, BBC America
Series: 2 (3 in the works)
Where to watch: Netflix
This mystery-crime drama stars the beloved David Tennant in a role very different from the Tenth Doctor. When a young boy is murdered in a small town, two detectives (Tennant and Olivia Colman), set out on the hunt for his murderer. The 11 year-old boy's family has to deal with the onset of grief, the obsessed media, and even the townspeople's suspicions and accusations. It's an emotional rollercoaster with solid performances and gorgeous scenery. The murder plot is so intricately constructed that the cast and crew were sworn to secrecy during the filming of each series - so you know it's legit.
Hopefully, I've shed some light on a few addicting worthy shows that you haven't already binged through in the blink of an eye. Hey, even if I didn't succeed with these recommendations, perhaps I've rekindled your love for one of the titles listed. There has yet to be a cure for show addictions, and the second binge can often be worst than the first.
Consult a doctor for a professional medical opinion before you binge. Otherwise, Netflix might start asking you if you're still watching.
