5 TV Shows That You NEED to Watch on Netflix

Aug. 4, 2014, 12:01 a.m.

Do you ever find yourself searching for a new show to binge watch on Netflix? Have you already gone through “BreakingBad” and “Orange is the New Black” and need something new? Then this article is perfect for you.

5. “Freaks and Geeks”

This ‘80s TV show is a coming-of-age story of regular freaks and geeks at Michigan High School. Revolving around the lives of siblings Lindsay and Sam Weir (Linda Cardellini and John Daley), the show includes rebellion, torment and even some triumphs from many famous actors, such as James Franco and Seth Rogen, from their teens and early 20s. Jolted from her grandmother’s death, Lindsay’s status as a Mathlete champion is losing its appeal, and she slowly starts to become more attracted to the friendly yet dangerous Daniel (James Franco) and his group of burnouts. This quirky comedy-drama definitely stands out as a real pleasure among the rest of the shows on Netflix. If you like “The Breakfast Club,” you should definitely check out this show. The characters are realistic, but they’re still lovable without being boring. The show is just simply extremely funny, and it’s much better than the popular teen dramas on TV right now.

Tami (Connie Britton) and Eric Taylor (Kyle Chandler) from "Friday Night Lights," courtesy of Pivot TV.
Tami (Connie Britton) and Eric Taylor (Kyle Chandler) from “Friday Night Lights,” courtesy of Pivot TV.

4. “Friday Night Lights”

For some people, a drama about the trials and tribulations of a high school football team in small town Texas might not sound the like most captivating affair. However, “Friday Night Lights” separates itself from shows like “Breaking Bad” and “Mad Men” by offering something quite different: optimism. The story follows coach Eric Taylor, his pragmatic wife and their daughter, as well as the various jocks and students of Dillon High School. The show is filled with family drama, the American dream and the thrill of American football. Although the show features some of the worst clichés (the last-minute victory, the geek finally getting the girl, etc.), its optimistic view is truly refreshing. It is definitely a show that you can curl up and watch after a rough day with its feel-good attitude and humor, but it also contains those life lessons and coming-of-age moments.

AMERICAN HORROR STORY: ASYLUM -- (Pictured: Chloe Sevigny as Shelley -- CR: Frank Ockenfels/FX
AMERICAN HORROR STORY: ASYLUM — (Pictured: Chloe Sevigny as Shelley — CR: Frank Ockenfels/FX

3. “American Horror Story”

“American Horror Story” is a dark and twisted anthology series that never fails to make my heart race. The series has gone through three extremely popular seasons (“Murder House,” “Asylum” and “Coven”) and is set to release its fourth (“Freak Show”) this October. This critically acclaimed and award-winning show is definitely not for the type of person who squirms at the sight of blood. I know that I found my hand hovering over the pause and mute button at times. Although the show is too intense for some people, “American Horror Story“ will make you keep watching. Every season gets better and better, and Jessica Lange is amazing at capturing every character she plays. I recommend “American Horror Story”: It’s the perfect choice for horror fans, but also for anyone who enjoys good writing and a bit of mystery mixed with some shocking moments.

2. “The Office” (U.S.)

This hit series remade from the original U.K. series has attracted the eyes of millions of people around the country. “The Office,” as seen through the eyes of a documentary crew, chronicles delusional boss Michael Scott (Steve Carell) and his attempts to steer his distinctive employees to success. The show’s comedy lies in the characters, which all have actors that suite the roles perfectly, whether it’s Dwight Schrute and Jim Halpert’s constant bickering or Michael Scott’s attempts at leading the company. The show also has something about it that will appeal to everyone, and the show isn’t predictable. The geeky paranoid kiss-up Dwight, the ridiculousness of Michael and the romance between Pam and Jim all have special places in my heart. Overall, you should definitely check out this feel-good show because this show is a comedy legend, and it continues to make me laugh every time I watch it.

1. “Skins” (U.K.)

“Skins”  (U.K.) is probably one of my favorite shows of all time. This penetrating series focuses on the intense lives of a group of British teens that tackle many obstacles in their last two years of college (the U.K.’s equivalent to high school). The colorful characters, the interesting storylines, the great music and the development of each of these characters make this series extremely impressive. The character development of each of the characters makes you attached to them, and your heart races when they take on controversial topics, like drug use and mental illness. Although the show is at times overly dramatic, it portrays some of the best and worst points in life for anyone. We see life get increasingly worse and we see these characters get in some major crap, but they pull through. The show is pretty racy (one reason being that television rating systems are different in the U.K. than in the U.S.), but it is definitely a show worth watching. It leaves you constantly wanting more after each episode and will take you on an emotional roller coaster.

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