If you need a distraction from studying, check out these 5 shows. Not only are they extremely compelling, but they can teach you a thing or two about the adult world we live in.
1. How To Get Away With Murder (ABC)
This show is perfect for college students for a couple of reasons, 1) it’s ABOUT college students (Middleton University students to be specific), 2) it teaches you about the law (sure, this show won’t help you pass the bar exam but hey, I now know loopholes that can be used in court) and 3) it’s intense. The show, created by Pete Nowalk and produced by Queen Shonda Rhimes, is a hit amongst young adults because of its alluring drama, the seductive romance and nail-biting suspense. Plus, the cast is phenomenal. Are you a Harry Potter fan? Dean Thomas is one of the main characters.
2. Madam Secretary (CBS)
I get it…politics can be boring. The truth is though, as young adults we should be making an effort to understand how our government works. This show depicts the life of Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord as she juggles foreign policy, being a mother and marriage. Like How To Get Away With Murder, this show should only be used a guide to understand certain concepts. Hate to break it to you, but this show will not teach you how to be get a job in Washington. On the bright side though, not only do you learn what a Secretary of State actually does but the show often emulates real life issues so it provides a better understanding of them. On top of that, the cast’s chemistry is amazing. You’ll feel like you’re part of the Secretary’s staff.
3. Black-ish (ABC)
There’s no denying there’s a representation issue in film and television. The lack of diversity is appalling and when there is minority representation, it’s often paired with disappointing stereotypes. Black-ish is changing the game. Not only does it feature an all Black cast, it also tackles issues such as police brutality and the effects of racism. It’s one of the few television shows on air right now that “normalize” television and don’t illustrate cringeworthy caricatures of people of different backgrounds.
4. Transparent (Amazon)
Like Black-ish, Transparent is shedding light on topics that are often presented in a disappointing way in media. This show tells the story of a transgender father and how his family responds to her “secret”. The show has been met with a lot of praise both from critics and audiences, winning big at the Golden Globes. It’s important to be in tune with issues that are not necessarily present in our own lives. It helps us understand and respect others. Transparent is thought-provoking, funny and a must-watch.
5. Mr. Robot (USA)
If you’re into psychological thrillers and the cyber world, this is the show you should be watching. Rami Malek is Elliot, the anti-social computer engineer who aims to hack and take down corporate America. Mr. Robot explores powerful, implicit concepts and leaves you on the edge of your seat every episode. Who wouldn’t want to escape the college life and be part of a super-secret, undercover group of hackers for a while?
