Summer is the best and worst of times. You're out of school and don't have to worry about any pressing responsibilities. But on the other hand, it's three long months of mostly nothing. But thankfully, we were blessed with Netflix so we could watch eight hours straight of our new favorite TV shows with no remorse.
1. "The Office"
"The Office" is one of those shows that everyone needs to see at least once. This show is absolutely hilarious, not to mention the ridiculous story lines and multiple story arcs and subplots with keep you coming back for more. By the end of the show, the employees of Dunder-Mifflin paper company will be your favorite dysfunctional part of your own family. With about 20 episodes a season and nine seasons, this show will keep you busy for a decent amount of time.
2. "That '70s Show"
"That '70s Show" is centered around a group of teenagers growing up in the '70s, pretty simple. Anyone who has ever stayed up past 11 p.m. has probably seen an episode or two of "That '70s Show," but watching the entire show in order is different. Over the seasons, you can the characters change and grow as people, which is usually poorly executed for sitcoms of its time. With about 25 episodes per season and eight seasons, this nostalgic show is perfect for sleepless summer nights.
3. Anything from Food Network or The Cooking Channel
If you've never seen either of these channels, you're doing life wrong. Whether it's Guy Fierri, Bobby Flay or Anthony Bourdain, any show is going to be a good one. For food competition shows like "Cutthroat Kitchen," you'll be predicting who's going home and getting it right every time. With shows like "Good Eats" or "Drive-In's, Diners, and Dives" you'll be craving a lobster roll from a very specific crab shack on the coast of Maine at 3 a.m. These shows have plenty of variety and you will never get sick of them, I promise.
4. "Grey's Anatomy"
This may be a little biased since I have an unnatural obsession with medical drama's but let me tell you, this show is THE medical drama. There are so many crazy twists and dramatic turns that you'll be saying "one more episode" for seven episodes straight. Shonda Rhimes makes amazing television and the intensity of "Grey's Anatomy" shows that. The earlier seasons are better that later ones, sadly, but that doesn't mean the show isn't worth watching until the very end. With about 20 episodes per season over a time-consuming 11 seasons and counting, this is a great show to keep you occupied all summer.
5. "Documentary Now!"
There are not many adjectives to describe "Documentary Now!" besides strange. This show parodies high profile and classic documentaries that you have probably never heard of. SNL Alumni, Fred Armisen and Bill Hader, are the stars of this mockumentary series and just like anything they touch, it's absolutely ridiculous. There are only nine episodes in one season due to the fact it's still currently in production on IFC. Despite the low binge watching ability rating, you can easily watch this show three or four times over.
6. "Orange Is the New Black"
If there was a Netflix 101 class, there would be plenty of questions about this show on your final. Premiering in July of 2013, "OITNB" is Netflix's pride and joy when it comes to originals. Because new episodes always come out in the summer (season four trailer is out right now by the way) it's almost a no-brainer to visit the ladies of Litchfield. No matter how many episodes are in a season, you're going to watch all the new episodes in a few days and be sad until next year.
7. "Bob's Burgers"
This animated sitcom centers around the dysfunctional Belcher family and their restaurant. With a large cast of equally dysfunctional characters, running gags, and a non-linear format all comes together to make a truly funny feel good comedy that you can watch for hours. With about 20 episodes over five seasons, and more to come, throw this show on if you have time to pass or are putting off the minimal responsibilities you have over summer.
8. "Jane The Virgin"
"Jane The Virgin" is inspired by Spanish telenovelas so you know this show is filled with drama (aka the only thing keeping me alive at this point). This, along with the very attractive main cast, unconventional love story, and shockers that pop up along the way will thrust you head first into the world of Jane Villanueva. Although there are only 22 episodes on one season, the episodes are 45 minutes long and the show is currently airing. So if it's not on Netflix, use this as an excuse to use your parents 60 inch flat screen and lay in their comfy bed.
Happy watching!