Not having Netflix has been a sore point for me for a while, as I am forever stuck with Hulu. Surprisingly, it’s not just cringeworthy reality TV series and anime (though if that’s your thing, there’s no judgment here). I have spent much of my time scrolling through all the TV shows and movie genres thinking about how there’s nothing good there, similar to how you may open the fridge every 5 minutes to proclaim there’s “nothing to eat” while you have about 20 options.
I know that many of us may not have the time to binge-watch an entire series with all the tests, projects, and SAT preparation (help) going on right now. However, every now and then it’s good to sit down and relax for a while. If you’re one of the 48 million people with Hulu, here are finally some suggestions that aren’t just on Netflix (yes, I am still bitter).
For fans of fast-paced, suspenseful episodes: Criminal Minds
A series I’m sure you’ve all heard of before and one I only recently started watching. Honestly, I don’t know what kept me from it. The suspense, fast-paced plots, and complex characters make for a show that’s impossible to stop watching. The show follows an elite group of FBI profilers who analyze and take down the most twisted criminals. The details are often inaccurate when compared to the real-life FBI, but that makes it all the more entertaining. There is also (obviously) a lot of violence and potentially very triggering topics, so proceed with caution.
For the true crime junkies: Under the Banner of Heaven
Under the Banner of Heaven follows two detectives (played by Andrew Garfield and Gil Birmingham) as they investigate the brutal murder of a woman and her baby daughter in a suburb in the Salt Lake Valley. As they unravel the mystery behind the killings, the detectives find a connection to the substantial Mormon community in the area. The series is based on a book of the same name and is surprisingly true to the real story, which you can read up on after finishing the quick seven episodes.
The best early-2000s throwback: The OC
I came across this show while in a 90s and early-2000s phase. While the cheesy plot points and dramatic dialogue can widely differ from the gritty themes of today’s teen shows, it's perfect for anyone who wants a momentary escape from reality. The show starts off by following a teen named Ryan (Ben McKenzie), who grows up in an abusive, low-income household and is taken in by a wealthy family in Newport Beach. If you’re looking for quality TV, this probably isn’t for you. However, with the stress of long weeks and endless tests, sometimes it’s refreshing to watch something that isn’t ten layers deep.
Your favorite classic turned TV show: Pride and Prejudice
I know it’s a little strange to put on here, but trust me, this show is amazing. I first watched it when I was around 10, and it’s been one of my favorites ever since. There’s a good chance you’ve heard of the 2005 movie, and I am here to tell you that the show is infinitely better in every way possible. You might need a little more patience since it’s slower-paced than many others, but with the hilarious Mrs. Bennet and haughty-but-caring Mr. Darcy to keep you entertained, you’ll find yourself wrapped up in the world of 19th-century England. Besides, it has Colin Firth, so what’s not to like?
For anyone who wants to sit in silence after it’s over wondering what they just watched: Nine Perfect Strangers
This show honestly felt like a fever dream. It takes place in a boutique health-and-wellness resort, where nine strangers are promised a much-needed transformation. Like Pride and Prejudice, it isn’t as fast-paced as other shows on this list. Instead, it's emotionally driven, and we get an intimate dive into the backgrounds and troubles of each character. From the very first episode, it’s clear that something is very off about the resort. The audience is left wondering if it was really made to help people or just to drive them over the edge.
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