Uplifting TV Shows to Watch
By Julia Valenti
I think it's safe to say that this semester is unlike one Villanova has ever experienced before; classes are online, campus is calm, and it seems like things are always changing. Surprisingly, the time that I feel these differences the most is when I am sitting in my apartment on my fifth hour of a true crime binge. Since social lives cannot continue as they normally would, I’ve found myself having a lot more movie nights in, which can sometimes feel more like a loss than its usual indulgence. However, this does not have to be the case. There are shows that can help us to cope with this time and act as an escape, such as ones that promote positivity, inspire us, fulfill our wanderlust, or simply make us laugh. Here are some Netflix suggestions to try next time you stay in.
Down to Earth with Zac Efron
In this docuseries, Zac Efron travels around the world to scope out more sustainable ways to produce food, water, and energy. From the breathtaking scenery of locations like Iceland and Costa Rica, to the endless amazing meals, daring tourist excursions, and inside-look given to each vibrant local culture along the way, this show will make you forget that you’ve been house-bound since March. Zac’s bro-energy also adds a fun and hopeful twist to otherwise serious topics, while still remaining informative.
Derry Girls
Sometimes when times are tough, the best solution can be a little dark humor. This is abundant in Derry Girls, a show about four girls and one boy coming of age during The Troubles, a period of ethno-religious conflict in Northern Ireland from the 1960s to 1990s. Even with the constant backdrop of chaos, the group of friends never forget to live in the moment and behave in the same dramatic, sometimes nonsensical fashion that all teenagers do. This results in them getting themselves into constant dilemmas, which will leave you both cringing and laughing. Derry Girls teaches us that we should not let uncertain times keep us from making the most of things and enjoying ourselves.
Queer Eye
When quarantine began, there was so much talk of using the newfound time to promote positive changes in our lives, whether through diet, focusing on mental health, working on self-expression, or more. If this is something that you never got around to, much like myself, Queer Eye can be the inspiration that gets the ball rolling. The show chronicles a team of five men who help deserving people transform their lives, improve their confidence, and give back to their communities. The monumental results speak for themselves. Queer Eye reminds us to think about ourselves from time to time, and that it is never too late to take the first step towards self-love and self-improvement. Also, the latest season takes place right here in Philly and one episode featured a Villanova alum!
Parks and Recreation
An oldie but a goodie, Parks and Recreation is a great example of a show that balances humor and heart. The show follows Leslie Knope and her team of eclectic government workers who fight against all odds to create improvement in their equally outlandish community. While still being wickedly funny, the loving relationship between friends is always present, and their dedication to each other will restore your faith in humanity. Unfortunately this show is leaving Netflix soon, but will still be available on Hulu!
