In the last decade, television watching has evolved greatly. This evolution has much to do with companies such as Netflix, or others that are similar. No longer do we have to wait every week for our favorite show to air; with the aid of Netflix, one simply must turn on their computer or TV, pick something to watch, and the viewing experience begins.
Along with Netflix comes something that I would venture to bet most everyone is guilty of: binge watching. Ahh the wonderful act of watching one series for countless hours, only taking breaks for the occasional snack run. Now, I am not so much endorsing binge watching here. It’s important to get outside and use those things called legs, people. Having a favorite show posses no harm, though. In the past year I have run across some real TV gems, and am here to share some of my favorite “binge-watching-worthy” series with you in hopes you find them as amusing as I have.
1. "Once Upon A Time"
"Once Upon a Time" is the most recent of the television shows on Netflix I find myself going to. Based out of Storybrooke, Maine, the characters of "Once Upon A Time" are no strangers to many of us. In fact, they are the same characters from the fairytales that so many grew up reading. Snow White, Prince Charming, Rumplestiltskin, Captain Hook, you name it and they are probably there. "Once Upon a Time" is family friendly, filled with lots of humor and only moderate violence. If you find yourself itching to see how these fairytale characters wound up in Maine, then "Once Upon A Time is for you."
2. "Peaky Blinders"
If you’re the adventurous, action-seeking viewer, "Peaky Blinders" is right up your alley. Based in Birmingham, England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, "Peaky Blinders" follows the story of Thomas Shelby and his family, who run a horse race betting business with some gangster happenings on the side. Viewers get the pleasure of watching Thomas Shelby raise his family higher and higher in the betting business, while becoming behind the scene rulers of Birmingham. While incredible cinematography and gripping action are easily found in "Peaky Blinders," so are violence and sexual content. This show is not one to watch if you are looking for something family friendly, but will keep the mature viewer at the edge of their seats.
3. "Fixer Upper"
"Fixer Upper" follows the owners of Magnolia Homes, Joanna and Chip Gaines, as they “fix up” old, run down places for their customers. Chip and Joanna are the perfect example of a Godly couple, and part of what makes the show so enjoyable is watching them and their family grow and love on each other. Aside from being great hosts and examples of what a marriage should look like, Chip and Joanna are miracle workers when it comes to renovations. They turn the most rundown of properties into a beautiful home for a lucky client. I never get bored with watching Chip and Joanna work their magic. "Fixer Upper" is most definitely something the whole family will enjoy, and leaves the viewer with a happy heart.
4. "Gossip Girl"
Primarily focused on a teenage and young adult audience, "Gossip Girl" was my first real binge-watching-worthy show. Based out of the Upper East Side on Manhattan Island in New York, "Gossip Girl" follows the lives of a group of privileged teenagers. The twist in this plot surrounds an early social media website entitled (you guessed it) "Gossip Girl." It is through this website that dirty secrets are spilled, blackmail is used and the mysterious creator becomes a ruler among the Upper East Side youth. "Gossip Girl" is packed full with humor and adventure, drama and love, but ultimately the friendship formed between the five main characters.
5. "How I Met Your Mother"
Also taking place in New York, "How I Met Your Mother" is based on a man named Ted Mosby as he is relaying to his two children exactly how he met their mother. Although the show is based around how Ted and his wife met, it has more to do with Ted, his four best friends and the adventures they had that led to the infamous meeting. Ted, Lily, Marshall, Robyn and Barney are the epitome of true friends. Viewers will find themselves laughing at their crazy adventures, crying when times get tough and growing to love the stories of these five characters. "How I Met Your Mother" is more appropriate for a mature audience due to the sexual content, but is surely one that will make you laugh until your stomach hurts.
Well, there you have it. These five shows have kept me entertained when I needed it in the last year, and I know they'll do the same for you.
