Must Watches: A (TV) Guide to Binge-Worthy Shows

We’re fast approaching the middle of fall, a time us teenagers dedicate to planning out Halloween costumes, visiting the state fair, and prepping for college and scholarship applications. Although these things are exciting, it’s important to remind ourselves that we deserve a break. What better way to spend downtime than binge watching our favorite shows? If you’re like me, you stick to watching one show at a time to focus on every pressing event in a drama series. That being said, there are loads of shows that are made to watch during this cozy season, while resting on the couch with your favorite snacks.

The Bear

     This psychological comedy-drama navigates the hardships our main character—a young chef named Carmy—faces as he has to run his family’s sandwich shop following the devastating death of his brother. The show details how Carmy grapples with changing the destiny of the shop, as well as coming to terms with his newfound family—the rugged kitchen staff. Its gripping storyline, combined with extremely relatable character dynamics and pressing dialogues, makes it the perfect comfort show for many. 

Grey’s Anatomy

     I know, I know, Grey’s is so ‘basic,’ and ‘unrealistic,’ but it’s also intriguing! This long-running medical drama follows the lives of several surgical interns—turned residents, and later attendings—in their endeavors to become the best in a rigorous and competitive field. I’m sure that by now, we all know the premise of the show; Meredith Grey is the daughter of world-famous surgeon Ellis Grey, who stopped at nothing to be extraordinary. Despite being the child of such an accomplished surgeon, she faces many distressing moments in her career throughout the series. If that’s not convincing enough, it touches on familiar young adult themes of teamwork, relationships, competition, and psychological development. Along with that, the show also presents a number of thought-provoking taboos, such as medical malpractice or infidelity. All in all, despite its reputation as a ‘basic favorite,’ the show is guaranteed to be a binge classic.

Atlanta

     This black comedy series is a genre-bending narrative that has unique story-telling encompassed with sharp social commentary. Defying typical categories, the drama seamlessly flows from relatable, comedic situations to surreal and intense moments for the characters. The show emphasizes Atlanta as an impactful place for up-and-coming rappers looking to make a name for themselves. Alfred Miles stands among these young artists, trying to differentiate between his real life and street life. The compelling plot makes for an engaging watch, which is exactly what you need in a show you plan to binge.

Is It Cake?

     Straying away from our fictional dramas, it’s so incredibly tempting to binge-watch baking shows. From The Great British Baking Show, to Baking Impossible, shows like these involve contestants combining their skills to create a delectable cake for the judges to taste. ‘Is It Cake?’ certainly puts a twist on the conventional baking industry by challenging competitors to produce pastries that realistically resemble different household items. The impressive displays of skill despite the urgent time limits reel in lots of loyal viewers. It’s definitely a dramatic watch, but it’s perfect for binge-watching at bedtime, since you won’t miss an important storyline even if you fall asleep. 

Young Sheldon

     The comical coming-of-age prequel to CBS’s ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ follows our main character—ten-year-old Sheldon Cooper—while he faces the realities of being an extremely gifted child in a very average—and almost dysfunctional—Texan family. The show takes place in the East Texas home where Sheldon grew up. There, he’s accompanied by his parents, older brother, twin sister, and his grandmother—who conveniently lives right across the street. The silly sitcom takes us into the world of Sheldon’s ‘science-and-math’ mind, while he lives in a ‘church-and-football’ town. It has short enough episodes to keep your attention until the end while being long enough to binge. What more could you need in a show you plan to watch in less than a month?

Curious George

     I don’t know about you, but I personally love rewatching my childhood favorites. That’s because the nostalgia and pure joy we’re able to gain from shows like this is unbeatable. It’s always nice to revisit your childhood, especially as you get closer to graduation and start to assume more responsibilities in your life. In case you’re unfamiliar with the cartoon, ‘Curious George’ is a heart-warming series following a very inquisitive african monkey, hence the name, Curious George. George constantly finds himself in mischievous trouble, and his friend, “The Man in the Yellow Hat,” continuously saves the day! It’s a lovely classic that we can all find comfort in, relating to its simple and child-like themes such as sharing and forgiveness.