(This article was originally written for a print version of The American Word)
Binge-watching: also known as every college student’s favorite past time. We love to disappear in our dorm rooms for days, only to emerge with new knowledge about Vincent Chase’s movie career or Olivia Pope’s latest client. While it is true that too much binge-watching for long periods of time can affect our personal lives and our health, it is a fun way to procrastinate every now and then.
Here are some of the best shows on Netflix Instant to procrastinate with!
The One That Started It All: House of Cards
Seasons: 2
House of Cards was Netflix’s first step into creating their own original programming. And after two seasons, with the third season being released on February 27th, I’d say their risk was worth every cent. House of Cards is a political thriller starring Kevin Spacey as U.S. Representative Frank Underwood. I don’t fall into the category of the typical AU student who loves politics, so it took me a while to get on the bandwagon of people who are obsessed with this show. But once I started watching, I was hooked. It felt like Frank spoke directly to me and I couldn’t stop secretly rooting for him, despite the fact that he stops at absolutely nothing to get what he believes he deserves.
The One Everyone Has Been Waiting For: F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
Seasons: 10
Friends is the greatest sitcom in television history. There, I said it. So, I was really excited when Netflix finally released all 10 seasons on January 1st, like really excited. Despite the fact that I’ve seen every single episode multiple times, I always go back to Joey, Chandler, Phoebe, Monica, Ross, and Rachel because they remain the most re-watchable and entertaining of all the television characters that I know and love. When I find myself in need of a good laugh, I turn to Phoebe and her countless renditions of “Smelly Cat” or I watch Ross swear up and down for multiple seasons that he and Rachel were on a break. Just watch one episode and prepare to smile.
The One You Must Watch Since You Go to American University: The West Wing
Seasons: 7
The show known as television’s quintessential political drama is a must-see for any student at American University. Aaron Sorkin’s seven-season show chronicles the successes and failures of the White House senior staff under the administration of President Bartlet. The show, like other Sorkin pieces, is all fast pace conversations, sharp wit, and snark catchphrases. While some might consider it a little too idealistic and outdated for today’s world, I always step away feeling a little bit more uplifted and hopeful about myself and the world I live in after watching it.
The One Everyone Thinks Is Perfect: Breaking Bad
Seasons: 5
Many argue that Breaking Bad is not just the best series on Netflix, but the best television series of all time. Bryan Cranston stars as Walter White, a high school science teacher who learns he’s dying of cancer. He decides to start cooking meth in order to make some extra cash for his family before he’s gone. At first, I thought the plot was a little too over the top, which is why I put it on hold for so long. But, it truly gets better each season. And while it is sadly over now, it really is the best television series ever.
The One That I Want To Be A Part Of: Gilmore Girls
Seasons: 7
Last but not least is Gilmore Girls, my personal favorite show on the list. It’s a witty, pop-culture rich drama that focuses on the relationship between single mother Lorelai and her daughter, Rory. I adore this mother-daughter duo with their quick banter and kooky moments. However, I might love the town of Stars Hollow as a whole even more. Some days I wish I could just have a meal at Luke’s Diner and attend one of the town meetings run by the infamous Taylor Doose. I guess watching it on Netflix for hours and playing pretend will have to do for now.
brynakramer.com 