I know I shouldn’t be encouraging you to procrastinate by watching mass amounts of television, but the truth be told… I’m not! You’re probably going to do it anyway; I’m just making sure you’re doing it in good taste.
1. Gilmore Girls
I’ll put this one at the top of the list because it’s important to see before the new episodes air! And also, coffee.
What it’s about: A single mother, Lorelai Gilmore, and her daughter, Rory, living in a small town. Both are smart, independent women who work hard to achieve their goals. Although Rory and Lorelai are the main characters, there are seriously so many great personalities on the show. Each of one them contributes something special. Since the focus is primarily on this mother-daughter relationship, it often gets written off as just a chick show. But the “why” part is why you need to watch it, anyway.
Why watch it: Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino. The writing in this show is impeccable. It is smart, funny, in tune with pop-culture (granted, at the time...) and sentimental. The characters are so quick-witted that after binge-watching a few episodes, you’ll be disappointed with real life conversation. It’s a small side effect. Worth it.
2. Parks and Recreation
One of my favorite sitcoms ever. I mean, it’s got Amy Poehler, Chris Pratt, Aziz Ansari, Rob Lowe, Aubrey Plaza, Adam Scott… OK… Wait, I’m just naming the entire cast now. They’re that good.
What it’s about: The show follows the central character, Leslie Knope, and her passionate, waffle-filled journey working in the government. She’s a go-getter who won't take no for an answer, and wants to do her best for the people of the fictional Pawnee, Indiana. Of course, being in a small town yields many complications, so it’s not always smooth sailing. Like “Gilmore Girls,” each character is integral to the show, and you’ll fall in love with the entire Pawnee Parks Department.
Why watch it: Because it’s hilarious! I’ll admit, I watched the first couple of episodes several times before the humor really began to mesh with me. So do not watch it once and decide it’s not for you! Not all comedies get me to actually laugh out loud, but Parks never fails. Between really clever writing and an all-star cast… they nail it every time.
3. Scandal
OK, I’m realizing this is the third choice in a row to be female-centric. It’s what I relate to, sue me. Regardless of what you relate to, this show definitely makes you want to be working for (or be) Olivia Pope.
What it’s about: Aforementioned Olivia Pope used to be a media consultant for the president, but now she owns and runs a “crisis-management” firm. It’s not a law firm, it’s literally the managing and perhaps manipulating (for good) of crises. I don’t know if I can say much more without giving away spoilers, but just trust me… go watch it. And maybe pre-cook some meals, because you’re not going to want to get up for a while.
Why watch it: Also similar to “Gilmore Girls”… Shonda Rhimes. Once again, the writing on this show is so good. It’s so smart and fast-paced. Since watching this show, I’ve been really trying to get in tune with my gut feelings.
4. Suits
Ok finally a show that follows a male protagonist. It’s in its fifth season, but I somehow just discovered this gem. Like a week ago. And I’m on season four.
What it’s about: Mike Ross is your average guy who has a photographic memory and is impersonating a lawyer… we all know someone like that, am I right? Probably not, and if we do, we probably don’t know it. Because one of his biggest struggles on the show is trying to keep his pesky little secret... a secret. His overly-confident employer and well known NYC lawyer, Harvery Specter, agrees to hire Mike even though he knows he never went to law school. The dynamic between the pair makes for damn good television.
Why watch it: OK, I know, why did I even make the section “why watch it” if all I’m going to do is keep saying, “the writing!” But…. The writing. Smart… funny… you’ve heard me say it all before. Just watch it.
5. Pretty Little Liars
Ok. I’m just going to come right out and say it. I watch "Pretty Little Liars." I do. I have for years, and I can’t freaking stop it.
What it’s about: Five high school girls who are being stalked and tortured by an anonymous online bully. The stakes get higher and higher as the seasons progress and the story gets more convoluted, which leads me to the “why.”
Why watch it: For the mystery! This is finally one that isn’t a must-watch for the writing. I mean absolutely no offense. The writers obviously do a good enough job to have me tuning in since 2010, but it’s definitely a little cheesier and unrealistic than other shows. But you’re able to look past the cheese-factor because the mysterious story line keeps you coming back for more.
Well, there you have it. Now get to watching! Or, you know, do some homework. The choice is yours.
