Bingeable shows to watch before finals season
Procrastinate with these must-see television shows and movies
Anna Valaik / Asst. A&C Editor / The USD Vista
Finals season means lots of studying, numerous coffee breaks, and never-ending late nights; however, it also means little time to turn on some entertainment and turn off the outside world. Nothing is better than crossing off everything on a to-do list and having that much-needed time to tune into a comedy special, action-packed movie, or romance saga. The end of the semester creeps up quickly, and at that point many students’ to-do lists simply don’t allow for anything but work. Since USD is about a month out from final’s week, the following is your guide to bingeable shows to watch before the dreaded season arrives.
If you are in the mood for a classic HBO drama with an all-star cast…
The Undoing
Hugh Grant and Nicole Kidman do not disappoint in this one-season mystery thriller based in New York City. Multiple family and relationship dynamics playout, and they seem to change with every episode. By the end of the six-episode miniseries, after all the twists and turns, the viewer is left shocked and amazed at how the story comes together so perfectly.
If you are in the mood to laugh out loud at some chaotic family life…
Schitt’s Creek
Talk about one wild family. “Schitt’s Creek” explores a wealthy family’s fall into bankruptcy and the aftermath of this life-changing event. Truly, every member of the Rose family is unique in their own way, and their personalities are all equally hilarious. Prepare for non-stop laughter and smiles while watching this sitcom on Netflix.
If you want to follow a murder mystery surrounding a 14-year-old…
Defending Jacob
This crime show, based on a novel of the same name, follows a family’s reaction to their 14 year-old son being accused of murder and the accusations’s legal aftermath. Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery star as Jacob’s parents, and their acting is both raw and gripping. With every episode, the question “Did Jacob do it?” hits the viewer’s mind. Watch to find out.
If you want insight into a true event that shook the world…
The Morning Show
Apple TV+ pulled together an all-star cast for this revealing TV series; Jennifer Aniston, Steve Carrell, and Reese Witherspoon give an inside look into what really goes on behind the scenes of popular morning talk shows. It reveals the ugly truth of work dynamics and relationships, especially with individuals accused of sexual misconduct.
If you want to watch someone grow up right before your eyes…
Boyhood
“Boyhood,” a coming-of-age movie, is truly unlike any film out there. It was shot from 2001 to 2013 with the same cast, so it accurately depicts this family’s story in ways other films simply can’t. It tracks the growth of Mason, the little boy of the family, from early childhood to his eventual arrival at college. The movie takes its reader on a journey through domestic family life, which includes meals, road trips, relationships, and more. It’s a feel-good watch, one that leaves anyone with a smile and an appreciation for this interesting movie production tactic.
If you want to experience the rise and fall of a prominent rap group…
Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A., the rap group depicted in this movie, changed the course of rap and hip-hop forever with their music. Their music, which pulls from their lives in southern Los Angeles, struck a chord with many, leading to their eventual rise into stardom. This movie tells the story of how the group members handle the music industry and fame. With the help of the actors’ heartfelt performances, the film truly encapsulates the rawness and realness of N.W.A.’s music.
If you want a well-written comedy show with an all-star, all-Black cast…
Insecure
Issa Rae, the lead actor and producer, truly does it all in her HBO comedy series. As she endures the ups and downs of life, Rae explores what it means to be a friend, sister, romantic partner, coworker, and more. Because this show discusses a wide variety of experiences, it truly captures what it means to be a Black woman in modern-day America, something that is not shown enough on popular television and movies. Discussing real-life issues and concerns with a light-hearted yet serious tone,it’s the perfect mix of comedy and drama.
If you are a Robin Williams fan…
Good Will Hunting
Robin Williams and Matt Damon star in this 1997 drama film. Will Hunting, played by Damon, has incredible smarts but finds himself lost and confused with what to do with them. As he gets into more and more trouble, he eventually encounters his saving grace: a psychologist. With the help of the psychologist, played masterfully by Williams, Will begins to find himself once again. All the while, their budding friendship and connection grows. It’s raw, emotional, and might leave people in tears.