Netflix Shows to Binge-Watch During Self-Isolation

Raise your hand if you waste way too much time endlessly binge-watching shows on Netflix? I am one hundred percent guilty of this. Truthfully, Netflix shows help me procrastinate doing my university work. But especially now that there is a pandemic occurring, people are in need of some quality distractions. I myself am self-quarantining after returning home from Scotland and have spent all of my time watching movies, YouTube videos, reading, and playing the new Animal Crossing. So here are some awesome shows to watch during this odd time of life.

the haunting of hill house

This show is a dream for horror-lovers. It came out nearly two years ago and I still haven't stopped thinking about it. The story follows two different timelines, one set in the past and one in the present. The Crain family has been left traumatized and torn apart after the horrors they experienced in Hill House. But what exactly happened all those years ago and what has been haunting the family members ever since? Is it just bad memories or is it actual ghosts? Be prepared to scream, cry, and fall in love with this show. The characters will touch your heart and the masterful execution will leave you impressed. Even if you have already seen this show, now is the perfect time for a rewatch to prepare for the second season coming out this autumn. However, the second season follows an entirely different story.  


peaky blinders

I didn't watch Peaky Blinders for the longest time. It always sounded interesting, but not intriguing enough for me to finally sit down and enjoy it. But oh boy, will you enjoy it. Peaky Blinders centers around a gang by the same name, of which the main members are the Shelby family. Thomas Shelby, the protagonist and leader, has recently returned to Birmingham from fighting in WWI and he has a clever, dangerous scheme up his sleeve. I cannot find a single fault in this show. The acting? Amazing. The characters? Endearing and realistic. The story? Engrossing. The cinematography? Divine. Plus, the soundtrack is fantastic and I also recommend listening to the playlist on Spotify. My favorite characters are Thomas himself, aunt Polly, and the gorgeous but secretive Grace. It is gritty, absorbing, and will absolutely take over your life. Cillian Murphy, who plays Thomas, is just superb.


lucifer

Lucifer is based on Neil Gaiman's graphic novel series The Sandman. Now, you're probably wondering what the devil this show is about. Well, that's it. It follows the devil, Lucifer, who has decided to abandon Hell and his evil ways. He decides to take up residence in LA running a nightclub and eventually helping the LAPD with crime investigations. He's sassy, he can sing, and he has intense daddy issues. But don't worry, he has a therapist for that. The funniest gag is that he is entirely honest about his identity--he isn't attempting to hide the fact that he is satan himself. It isn't his fault that no one believes him. However, trouble is always brewing when the devil is around and things aren't so easy in Heaven, either. Lucifer refuses to return home to Hell despite his angel siblings coming after him. It's hilarious, devilish, and combines two of my favorite things: crime TV and magic. 

the witcher

The Witcher just came out on Netflix at the end of 2019 and I spent the entire week of Christmas binge-watching this show. It is based off of the fantasy series by Andrzej Sapkowski, which also inspired a series of video games of the same name. Even if you haven't read the books or played the games (like me), you will still love this show. The Witcher follows Geralt, a witcher by career. His job is to hunt demons and monsters for coin. He also says, "Hmm, fuck," a lot. While he is the main focus of the plot, the story also follows a powerful sorceress named Yennefer that Geralt often runs into and Ciri, a young princess on the run. All of their stories are destined to converge as a powerful nation rises up and attempts to conquer the continent, including Ciri's kingdom. The Witcher is funny, dark, and a perfect high fantasy show for any magic lovers. 


the great british bake off

If you need something more light-hearted to take your mind off of life's current events, The Great British Bake Off/Baking Show is perfect. Watch a group of charming British home bakers compete to win the title of Star Baker every episode, eventually culminating in the ultimate winner. The judges are fair but stern and the hosts are there to cause laughter or to comfort disappointed competitors. It's sweet (literally), lovable, and anything but cutthroat. If you want to relax or get some baking inspiration, give this one a watch. There are multiple seasons available to binge-watch to your hearts content. I find this show to be so heartwarming and it is fun to pop on the TV while you're busy baking in the kitchen. Trust me, before you know it you will become obsessed and be attempting a Battenburg cake yourself.

What is your favorite show on Netflix?