By Samantha Borja

With Netflix breaking its ground in Manila and Spring Break upon us, the Bearcats finally have some time to binge watch countless TV shows and movies. Whether you’re at the start of something new, catching up with an old show or already in the midst of a show, this photo blog will surely provide for some great things to watch.

1. Parks and Recreation (2009-2015)

Partly written by the notoriously funny Amy Poehler, this long-running show has truly proved itself a classic. The series is set in a town hall and revolves around the Parks and Recreation department of Pawnee, Indiana, where nobody could care less for their job. Nobody, that is, except for Leslie Knope, who is played by Amy Poehler herself. A perfect comedy for anyone who loves light shows with a hint of romance to spice things up. The show also features well-known comedy actors like Chris Pratt and Aziz Ansari, to name a few.

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%

2. House of Cards (2013- )

If you’re into corrupt politics, scathing dramas, and saving the United States, then this show was made for you. Starring Kevin Spacey, this drama has been raking in award after award, including several Primetime Emmys and Golden Globes. This also happens to be perfectly timed with the US elections, allowing anyone to live vicariously through these characters.

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You and I both, Frank.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 84%

3. Sherlock (2010- )

As if the name needs any more explanation, this TV show pays homage to the book series Sherlock Holmes. It is about the genius detective named Sherlock Holmes, who is known for being rather eccentric in his methods to solve his mysteries and unregulated investigations. With the help of John Watson, he solves mysteries and occasionally encounters his arch nemesis – Professor Moriarty. This is perfect for anyone interested in crime investigations and the power of pure intelligence, or is simply curious to see the visual adaptation of these books.

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%

4. Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013- )

Similar to Parks and Recreation, this TV series is partly produced and starred by SNL veteran Andy Samberg. The show focuses on a police station in Brooklyn (the Nine-Nine) and follows the characters on their patrols, office fun and games, as well as friendly wagers every now and then. It has even gathered quite a lot of awards as well, including a few Golden Globes and Creative Arts Emmy awards.

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 92%

5. Fresh off the Boat (2015- )

A contemporary show – this series uses the term “Fresh off the Boat” (a.k.a. “FOB”), which refers to foreigners who have not clearly not assimilated to the country’s culture, and uses it to introduce the struggles of an Asian family moving all the way to suburban Orlando. This show breaks and utilizes stereotypes to create a light, comedic, and for some, relatable TV experience. On a completely related note, it also features a deep appreciation for 90s hip hop music.

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 91%

 

6. Scandal (2012- )

The epitome of any great drama series – Scandal focuses on Olivia Pope, who is currently attempting to open up her own crisis-management firm and renew a life for herself after a shaky past — including being a former communications director and mistress of US President Fitzgerald. This TV show also has several awards under its wing – including (but not limited to) NAACP awards and a Primetime Emmy.

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 94%

7. Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015-)

If the fact that it’s written by the legendary Tina Fey is not enough already, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt focuses on a young woman trying to re-assimilate herself and handle life in New York after being rescued from a cult in Indiana where she was held for 15 years. With a sunny disposition, the quirky Kimmy Schmidt ultimately makes a great comedy for everyone to watch. It’s fairly new as well, so catching up is no problem!

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 95%

8. Arrow (2012- )

For anyone that has invested themselves into superheroes, villains, or the DC comics – this series is one to start. This show focuses on former billionaire Oliver Queen, who, after a tragic boat accident leaving him on an island in Asia for 5 years, returns back to Starling City and takes on a new identity: the Arrow. The show has constant plot twists, cliffhangers and flashbacks that all work in unison to create an edge-of-your-seat drama series. There are also allusions to several other DC characters, if you can catch them!

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Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%

Have a great spring break, and happy watching!