Shows to watch during the pandemic
As readers know, this column is typically about family-friendly programming that’s rewatchable and won’t drive you crazy. For the past four months, I haven’t had the mental or emotional range to sit down and watch something specifically to review for this section of the paper. Instead, I’ve mostly reverted to “comfort” movies and shows, typically from the ’90s, and mostly things I’ve seen a hundred times. You know, comfort stuff. But we have actively tried to work our way through our “lists” of movies and shows we keep meaning to watch, but then another show or movie comes along that pushes it further down the line.
Here are a handful of the shows that we’ve enjoyed during our time in lockdown (movies will be reviewed in a future column). Also note many/most of these are not family friendly (marked with *), but parents need something to watch after the kids go to bed too.
Outlander* (Starz and Netflix) — This series quickly became a favorite of ours after only a few episodes. Time travel in Scotland? Sexy lead actors with incredible chemistry and dreamy accents? SIGN ME UP. First three seasons are on Netflix, but the latter two are only available on Starz currently. Based on a book series and very enjoyable!
Never Have I Ever* (series, Netflix) — Co-created by Mindy Kaling, this gut-busting rom-com follows Devi, an Indian-American teenager trying desperately to be cool in school by losing her virginity to the hottest guy in Southern California. It’s sweet, it’s moving, it has a strong focus on the importance of mental health and inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ community, its cast is incredibly diverse and representative, and I laughed so hard!
Tiger King* (limited series, Netflix) — I’m sure you’ve heard of or have watched this already, but it’s banana pants crazy. Big cat owners, murder, corruption, brainwashing, a failed presidential campaign, and more make this a VERY easy-to-binge show that will leave you scratching your head and wanting to rescue every big cat in private captivity.
Waco* (limited series, Netflix) — Based on two books about what happened in 1993 at Mount Carmel outside Waco, Texas, between federal authorities and the Branch Davidians. Certainly eye-opening, though not without its flaws.
Normal People* (Hulu) — A beautiful story of two teens who start a secret affair in high school that carries on off and on throughout their college years. No matter what they do, life seems to bring them back together. It’s super sexy and set in Ireland, so what’s not to love? I have a huge crush on Daisy Edgar-Jones now.
Queer Eye (season five, Netflix) — This season is in Philadelphia and they continue to bring joy and light to everyone they meet. This season features a dog groomer, an aspiring restaurateur, a loving father, an out Lutheran pastor and many more wonderful stories. Bobby continues to be my favorite, but each of the Fab Five have beautiful moments through the season. One of their best!
Somebody Feed Phil (season three, Netflix) — I don’t know what it was about the first season that didn’t hook us, but season three is everything we needed. Travel, food, great people, beautiful stories and food. Guys, the food. If you’re anything like me and are dying for a great meal at a restaurant, this is the next best thing.
Unorthodox* (limited series, Netflix) — Based on another book, this series follows an Orothox Jewish woman’s journey through her community and beyond and offers a rare glimpse into a very isolated community of faithful followers in Williamsburg, NYC. The lead actress is phenomenal, and it is a truly inspiring and heartwarming story of finding yourself on your own terms.
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