What to Stream This Week: Something for Everyone
Article By | Lizzie West & Images from Youtube.com
I have something streaming on my TV, phone, or laptop almost constantly, and I enjoy many off-the-wall shows as well as the popular ones. I have decided to put this under-rated character trait to good use. Through careful research, I’ve found some trending shows, as well as some throwbacks that are now available and a few fun favorites you didn’t know you needed in your life.
What’s trending?
Outer Banks (Netflix – TV-MA) – I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard about this show. It’s trending with the young adult population and is described as a coming of age action mystery series. Though the main characters are relatively young, there are some mature themes, so I’d steer this away from a younger audience. Don’t be surprised if your high school-aged kids lovee and start referencing this for a bit.
Star Wars: Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker (Disney+ – PG-13) – Just released early this month, this is an amazing movie to watch as a family. There are some creepy parts, but overall the film is exciting, suspenseful, and well-balanced. It also has plenty of references to keep the true, long-time fans sucked in! Order a pizza and make some popcorn, because this is the perfect way to get together and chill out as a family this weekend.
Space Force (Netflix – TV-MA) – This show is set to release this Friday (5.29.20) and it’s much anticipated! This series starring Steve Carrell is touted as a workplace themed comedy. It is aimed to hilariously catalog the creation of an additional branch of Armed Forces, The Space Force. Carrell commands this force, and the show boasts several well-knowns among the comical cast. So, it’s safe to say you’ll be able to talk about this on your next Zoom meeting to inspire a few laughs from your own colleagues.
Upload (Amazon Prime – TV-MA) – Though we have seen similar concepts before, this one is incredibly well-done and Upload references are being made by popular social media channels already. We follow the main character as he is uploaded (an alternative to traditional death) to the swanky Lake View virtual afterlife and the antics that follow. The best part about this series is the balance between humor, drama, and suspense. There are a few times when you feel second-hand embarrassment for the characters, but I can’t wait for the next season!
Dead to Me (Netflix – TV-MA) – Season 2 was only released May 8, but a lot of folks have already binged it through. It was highly anticipated after the shocking end to season 1, and it is strangely relatable and makes the dialogue about grief and loss a little less taboo. The vast majority of people experiencing loss will not encounter these circumstances, but may be juggling some of the same feelings and daily responsibilities as the main character.
Sweet Magnolias (Netflix – TV-14) – The release date for this was just over a week ago, but this is a great show for anyone that wants a little drama and humor, without a bunch of graphic content. The concepts and relationships are complex, but the content is more about the development of the storyline and characters, and less about the shock factor many shows gravitate toward. It’s interesting, fun, and frustrating at times, but overall, it keeps you engaged. I would say, if you like something like Gilmore Girls, you’ll like this.
Throwbacks
Friends (HBO Max – TV-14) – All seasons of this sitcom are available from the get-go as HBO Max busts onto the streaming scene. Kick back and enjoy your favorite episodes or play them in the background while you are plugging away at household chores or working from home.
Back To The Future (Netflix – PG) – Things were a little different in the 80s, but this is a classic you can introduce to the kiddos for a fun night. Afterward, I’m sure they’ll have some hilarious questions about what life was like “way back then”.
Alias (Amazon Prime – TV-14) – This is a bit of a niche series, but the fans will be excited. If this show was your jam when it first aired and your partner hasn’t seen it, you can cozy up and enjoy a few anxiety-inducing episodes together over the coming weeks.
What you didn’t realize you needed
I Am Not Okay With This (Netflix – TV-MA) – (drama/action) A non-traditional “super-hero” series with some “Carrie”-esque nods hits the scene this month. It is mysterious, suspenseful, and keeps you on the edge of your seat without being overly scary. Some say this is similar to Stranger Things, so if you like that, you’ll probably enjoy this show. I personally think this is actually FAR better than Stranger Things.
The Velocipastor (Vudu, Youtube, & Amazon Prime – 16+) – (lowest budget D movie for laughs) This movie is a mess. It made the list as something to simply watch as it unfolds into mind-boggling awfulness. This D movie is SO bad, it HAS to be intentional. But everyone is about to start referencing it, especially the particularly bad effects and unconvincing maniacal laughter. Grab your favorite snack, and honestly your favorite adult beverages, because you’ll likely need them to get through it.
Holey Moley (Hulu – TV-PG) – (light-hearted game show) For the game show freaks out there, this has been described as the American Ninja Warrior for mini golf. The courses are challenging and the concept kind of reminds me of a more exciting Jelle’s Marble Runs from Youtube. If you want something mindless while we have less sports available to watch, this one’s for you.
Letterkenny (Hulu – TV-MA) – (dry Canadian comedy) If you like Community or The I.T. Crowd, you’re bound to gravitate to this comedy. With its dead-pan delivery and colorful characters, this is a show to make you think and laugh in response to its eccentric and hilariously absurd content.
Peaky Blinders (Netflix – TV-MA+) – (action/suspense –adult content) This isn’t a new one but it is complex, intense, and entertaining, to say the least. It’s a great show, but be warned – the content can be quite graphic and is definitely NOT intended for young audiences. This would likely be enjoyed by those that appreciate the complex plotlines and characters in shows like Game of Thrones.