The streaming services like “Netflix” becoming so popular in the past couple of years, the idea of binge-watching has also gained popularity. Put your time to good use this summer by checking out these shows and movies.
10. “Fuller House” (TV-PG)
For fans of the original series, “Full House,” this is a great dose of nostalgia. At times, it is a little corny and goofy, but that also plays into the charm that the series carries, as well as reflects the light-hearted family show from which it evolved.
This is an especially fitting series to binge this summer due to the newest season airing on June 1, giving you even more to binge. Overall, this is a great pick to watch with the whole family.
9. “Nailed It!” (TV-PG)
Definitely one of the most unique baking competitions on TV, with its focus on the abilities of the average person. It may even spark some inspiration to attempt some of the fun and wacky desserts featured.
Additionally, “Nailed It!” has two of the funniest, likable hosts on television, with the loud, spunky attitude of comedian Nicole Byers balancing well with the more mellowed pastry chef Jacques Torres. Definitely a must-watch for those baking-inclined and those who are, perhaps, not as lucky.
8. “Jane the Virgin” (TV-14)
Featuring a unique cast with great chemistry, “Jane the Virgin” is essentially an American telenovela, with the main characters being three strong Latina women, something that Hollywood was certainly lacking before the airing of this show.
With the long, complex storyline and large array of characters, this show dives into virtually any family dynamic possible, making it easy for anyone to relate to some aspect of the series. This show will keep you interested and on the edge of your seat, from start to beginning.
7. “Parks and Recreation” (TV-14)
If you’re looking for a witty, creative series to dive into, this is the one for you to binge. This show has no shortage of fantastic one-liners, as well as running gags.
It’s star-studded cast, featuring comedians Amy Poehler, Chris Pratt, Nick Offerman, Adam Scott and many more never fail to deliver great lines and interesting plots and with seven seasons, there is plenty to binge this summer.
6. “The Willoughbys” (PG)
The first movie on this list, “The Willoughbys” is a heart-warming tale about building strong character and the idea of family transcending DNA. Don’t even get me started on the colorful and unique art style of the animation.
Stars like actors Terry Crews, Maya Rudolph, Will Forte and singer Alessia Cara give an endearing performance with lovable characters and original music. This movie is a true must-watch for families.
5. “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (PG)
Another movie on this list, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is one of the latest installments in the “Spider-Man” movie series. The striking comic book-like art style truly sets it apart from any of its “Spider-Man” predecessors.
This movie is a really playful take on the superhero, showcasing fictional tennager Miles Morales as the lead, instead of the typical fictional teenager Peter Parker. The different imagings of what the Spider-Man of different universes would be is very fun to watch and think about.
Overall, a great coming-of-age superhero origin story for anyone interested in the genre. Definitely worth a watch.
4. All of John Mulaney’s Netflix Comedy Specials (TV-MA)
This one’s a unique entry on the list, but trust me. To date, comedian John Mulaney has three comedy specials on Netflix: “New in Town,” “Kid Gorgeous,” and “The Comeback Kid.”
All three of his specials showcase Mulaney’s incredible wit and relatability. He carries himself as life’s lovable underdog that everyone should root for. While his comedy is in no way explicitly vulgar, the rating would suggest that this may not be the best to binge with children or the whole family.
However, his fourth special on Netflix, “John Mulaney and the Sack Lunch Bunch” (rated TV-PG), would be a great addition to this list of binging material that would also be a bit more family friendly.
3. “A Series of Unfortunate Events” (TV-PG)
Coming in at number three is “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” a three season series based off of the book series, written by Lemony Snicket. This series is by far one of the best original series offered on the site.
With an impressive performance of actors Malina Weissman, Louis Hynes and Presley Smith, portraying the Baudelaire children, and the stylized production of the series, the show truly brings to life the eccentric setting and melancholy story that many read growing up.
With its ability charmingly to fit 13 books worth of a complex story into three seasons, “A Series of Unfortunate Events” is absolutely worth the binge; a great selection for the whole family.
2. The Good Place (TV-14)
Ever sat and pondered what the afterlife may be life or what it means to be a good person? If so, “The Good Place” is a great pick for you. Actors Kristen Bell and Ted Danson really bring their characters to life and add a lot of depth to the show, not to mention the great chemistry that they have together on screen.
This show isn’t afraid to take ideas that the watcher has become familiar and comfortable with and flip them on their head, making for great plot twists. Match that with a group of characters that show genuine growth and change throughout the series and you got a great story.
With the first three seasons on Netflix and the fourth and final one set to stream in late August, “The Good Place” is a definitely a good (pun intended) choice for a Summer binge.
1. “The Umbrella Academy” (TV-14)
Last but not least, at number one, is “The Umbrella Academy,” one of the most creative and interesting original series that Netflix has created. This series focuses on a set of siblings that grew up in the public eye as superheroes. Now, in their thirties, they reconnect after the passing of their father.
Each character has a unique set of abilities that, in turn, play into their character traits, which makes for a really diverse group of people. Additionally, the unique ways that the seven of them have chosen to continue their lives after disbanding the group proves to create conflict.
To date, there is only one season out on Netflix, comprising 10 episodes. However, another season is confirmed to be approaching, with no release date announced yet. I’d recommend using this summer to binge season one in preparation for the upcoming second season.