According to Netflix’s website, customers can purchase a basic package for $8.99. Although it only includes standard viewing (not high definition options), users can watch on a “laptop, TV, phone and tablet.” This pricing appeals towards budgeting college students who aim to escape reality through entertainment. The platform offers movies and television shows from its production company and broadcasting channels. With more time on their hands than in high school, college students find themselves in the dilemma of quickly watching videos and running out of ideas on what to dive into next. Here are some personal recommendations of flicks to add to your list.
- “Jane the Virgin”
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I’m quickly approaching the end of this show, and it’s at the top of my preferences. As I watch the number of episodes remaining dwindle, I wish the producers had added at least another 10 episodes to allow the audience to cling onto the remains of the story. The show originally aired on The CW and lasted for five seasons with about 20 episodes in each one. The storyline follows a woman, Jane Gloriana Villanueva, who gets accidentally artificially inseminated by her doctor. The owner of the sample? The doctor’s brother and Jane’s former crush. Narrated by a mysterious man who gives the show a telenovela ambiance, the show contains all elements of a quality production such as crime, drama, romance and a great deal of comedy. “Jane the Virgin” makes nights in my dorm room more enjoyable and is definitely a must see for college students.
- “The Good Place”
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In the beginning, I was a little skeptical about starting this show. I wasn’t familiar with any members of the cast except Kristen Bell, who is notorious for her lead role in Disney’s “Frozen.” I heard positive reviews from those around me, so I filled a part of my summer before starting college with this Netflix addition. Students who don’t have accounts with Netflix can also get in on this show because the fourth season is currently being aired on television through NBC. The storyline follows the main character, Eleanor Shellstrop, who finds herself in a utopian afterlife. The only problem is her character on Earth reeked of selfishness and clearly had no qualifications to make it there. For example, she died chasing after margarita mix in a grocery store parking lot. The show will leave you with countless laughs and it has shorter episodes if you’re only able to take a short amount of time out of your day to watch it. Although it may take you a few episodes to get hooked, you’ll be glad you stayed along for the wild ride.
- “The Umbrella Academy”
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Some may view Netflix Originals as less valuable or interesting than shows made by cable companies, but “The Umbrella Academy” proves this stereotype wrong. Currently, the series only has of one season, but according to Netflix, another season will be released in the near future. The show may interest a different type of viewer because it contains hints of science fiction and action. The series follows a group of supernatural humans who grew up together in a training center where they controlled — yet pushed — their powers.
- “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina”
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Based on the Archie comic book series, this series lacks the cuteness factor of the drawings and dialogue. The Netflix website emphasizes that the show falls under the genres of “TV Shows Based on Comics, Teen TV Shows, TV Thrillers and TV Horror.” Despite falling into these categories, I believe it’s the happy medium between a family-friendly show and works such as “American Horror Story.” Although spooky at times, the show is captivating and the perfect binge for the fall season. I don’t like scary movies, but this Netflix Original grew to my liking. The show tells the story of a young witch who is finding a balance between her dark side and maintaining her normal, mortal life. The show comprises of twists, turns and scares that secure itself viewers and a passionate following.
- “Glee”
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On a more uplifting note, Glee exists for those musical lovers. I’m speaking from personal experience because my first year of high school I crammed all six seasons in as fast as I could. The inclusive show features the real-life problems of teens who seek refuge in the glee club classroom. Led by faculty advisor Will Schuester, the club sings popular songs from all decades while seamlessly incorporating them into the plot of each episode. According to IMDb, the show racked up a dedicated fanbase and awards like Emmys and Golden Globes all while portraying a realistic high school experience with an artsy and innovative take. “Glee” follows the characters through their time at McKinley High and beyond as they pursue their dreams. The producers of the show not only accomplished creating a successful piece of work but inspired viewers through every episode.
True Netflix fanatics know there’s a time that comes when you feel like you’ve watched everything good that the platform offers. These five suggestions will make great additions to your screen time as you continue those late-night binging sessions.