If you're a fan of TV shows, you've at least heard of binge-watching. When you pop in a disk or turn on Netflix, it's usually to watch an episode or two, and then continue on with everyday life. But sometimes, we get sucked in. We have to watch another episode of "Lost" to find out if Sawyer is alive, or we absolutely have no choice but to watch another episode of "The Office" because, hey, they're only 20 minutes. Once the binge starts, it's hard to stop. Here are 5 stages of binge watching, as told by "The Big Bang Theory."
1. "Just one episode... maybe two."
Every binge starts here... the innocent, gentle thought of a single episode. You click 'begin,' watch peacefully—and then, suddenly, it's over. You're faced with the choice: end now, or start playing the next episode. I think I know what your choice is.
2. "What could another episode hurt? It's only 7 o'clock."
You know the drill. You look at the clock, see that it's a reasonable hour, and go for it. What could it hurt? You still have all the time in the world to finish your homework. As soon as this episode is over, you'll shut the computer and go do something.
3. "Okay, I'm done." *Leaves* "NO, I'M NOT."
You've succeeded. You've walked away from the video, and you're off to live your life. Except you're not. As soon as you think about the ending of that last episode, you are dashing back to the computer or TV, wondering how on Earth they could have ever ended an episode like that. You'll just watch the last three episodes in the season and then call it quits. Time to carry on! Huzzah!
4. "I... it's 6 a.m."
Somehow, you've managed to finish the season... and most of the next one. Is that sunlight you see coming through the window? When did that happen? So much for that homework. If it's this late, might as well call it an all-nighter and just stay awake now. While you're up this early in the morning, why not use that time for something useful—like figuring out how the next few episodes end.
5. "I need help."
You've done it. You've finished two seasons in just as many days. But deep down, you know you aren't done. There are too many questions left unanswered, too many open endings. You're moving onto the next episode and no one can stop you. Except, you should really shower. Maybe find some food. Walk a little, stretch your stiff muscles. Who knew watching TV was this much work?
...and repeat. Here's to fantastic TV shows that let us escape life for a while, hilarious script writers, and the incredibly talented actors and production units who take us into other worlds when we need a break from our own. This one is for you.
