As the world continues to limit social interaction, cancel events and close schools, suddenly we all have a little more free time (more than we even wanted, maybe).
If you have a growing list of movies and TV shows on your list to watch, now is the time.
So, grab a blanket and snuggle up (but six feet apart) for this list of the best TV shows and movies, provided to you by The Chronicle staff’s recommendations, to binge while you’re in home isolation.
Hint: “Contagion” is most definitely not on this list.
“You”
It is just the right amount of creepy. It is a heavily talked about show on social media, so if you’re really lonely, maybe someone on social media will stalk you — I mean, talk to you. If Joe’s victims can sit in a box alone, maybe we all can handle spending some evenings alone.
“Love is Blind”
As we all walk through clouds of Febreze and Lysol, maybe some love in the air will do us good. With the suggestions to stay six feet apart and limit kissing is a bummer, some happy reality television is a way to just turn off your mind for a bit. Also, these couples never see each other face-to-face, which feels a little too real.
“This Is Us”
If you’re sad, watch this. It seems like a good excuse to cry. I don’t have anything else to say.
“Atypical”
This show has two seasons on Netflix and is about Sam, a teenager on the autistic spectrum, as he begins to explore what it means to be independent. He starts to explore things like dating, while his mom, dad and sister all explore what it means to be “normal.” I think we can all stand to test what is “normal.”
“Fleabag”
This comedy follows a strong, witty woman named Fleabag as she navigates grief, tragedy and love. If you love dark humor and hilarious heartbreak, this is perfect for you.
“Broadchurch”
After a dead boy’s body shows up in a small town, a community is faced with police investigations and media madness. The show is filled with grief and secrets and is depressing, which is honestly perfect when you’re sitting alone in isolation. It’s highly binge-worthy.
“Midsommar”
This thriller about a couple who leaves the U.S. for a midsummer festival in Sweden is an exciting adventure of cults, cliff-jumping, competition and a man inside of a bear. It is worth all your free time and more.
“Into the Wild”
Christopher McCandless escapes his wealthy family and new college degree and looks to the wildland of Alaska for a home. While he travels the U.S. and realizes the beauty of the outdoors he also realizes that “happiness is only real when shared.” It’s a beautiful escape from society.
“New Girl”
A witty and hilarious comedy about friends who stay in more than they should is the perfect choice for your isolation. It is underrated in the light of shows like “The Office.”
“Supernatural”
This show follows brothers Sam and Dean as they fight demonic creatures. It also has 14 seasons so if you have an absurd amount of time on your hands, this show is perfect for you.
“On My Block”
This show follows a group of inner-city Los Angeles friends as they begin their high school careers. It’s the perfect balance of drama, romance and comedy. The best part is there are already three seasons available on Netflix.
“Succession”
Well, since a bunch of journalists helped make this list, this seems like an obvious choice. This HBO show explores how the people in charge of a popular and powerful media conglomerate are making plans of its eventual succession.
“Boy Meets World”
A happy throwback for the ’90s kids. Watching Corey and Topanga through the years is an easy way to pass the time and can be a good “background noise” kind of show as you do online classes.
“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”
For anyone who was a fan of “Gilmore Girls” (which is now unofficially on this list,) “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” is made by the same creators. It follows the story of Midge as her life falls apart and she turns to stand-up comedy for a release. If you’re missing going to comedy clubs because of the crowds, maybe this is a good alternative.
“Wild”
In “Wild,” Reese Witherspoon hikes alone along a 1,100-mile trail along the Pacific Crest Trail. Along the way, she confronts nearly every element of the harsh outdoors. She proves that isolation or alone time can seem daunting, but can also be healing.
