One of the perks of going home for the summer is being able to utilize your parents’ TiVo, but now that you’re back at school, who has time to watch shows when they’re actually on? For those of you who don’t want to have to plow the internet, searching for the show that was on two days ago illegally, we want to help you out by highlighting some of the actually decent shows that are available to watch on Netflix.
30 Rock: Need a quick burst of humor during your day? 30 Rock is definitely the way to go, since it’s only about 20 minutes per episode. Tiny Fey (Wahoowa!) and Alec Baldwin star in this sitcom about writers for a variety show (much like SNL) in New York City. It’s fast and witty, and rather goofy. The seasons get better as they go along, so if you start watching, stick with it.
The Tudors: Looking for something more historical? This show follows the life of King Henry VIII (who in actuality was not as hot as Jonathan Rhys Meyers, but that bit of artistic liberty I’m okay with!). Being a Showtime series, it is filled with steamy scenes, political and religious drama, as well as beautifully done costumes and cinematography. Even if you’re not a history buff, this one will catch your attention.
Mad Men: My favorite show of all time, hands down, this period piece drama is absolutely fantastic. Starring Jon Hamm, January Jones, Christina Hendricks and more, it begins in the 1950s, chronicling the life of advertising men in New York. The drinking, the smoking, the scandals, the secrets… Beautiful set pieces, fantastic dialogue and great acting make this show absolutely my number one.
Friday Night Lights: This drama follows the life of coach Eric Taylor and the Dillon Panthers. A peep into the world of football in Texas, it’s as much about the emotional strains as it is about the physical demands of the game. Don’t worry if football isn’t your thing (it isn’t really mine), because the show holds much more than just the playing of the game.
Drop Dead Diva: Despite being a little silly, I have a fondness for this show. About a sweet albeit ditzy model who finds herself in the body of a plus-sized lawyer, it’s a good show to watch if you’re also doing other things. It’s very sweet, and some of the plot lines are really cute, but it’s not exactly a mental workout. Something to check out for those who like to multitask.
How I Met Your Mother: If you aren’t aware of Barney Stinson and his legen- wait for it –dariness, then you’re missing out. If nothing else, this show has become a cultural reference, and knowing about it is kind of useful. It has its ups and downs, but for the most part I’m a big fan. Another good one for those who are running on limited time because each episode is only about 20 minutes long.
So, which TV series will you pick to aid in your procrastination, my fellow students?