BY SARAH CARPENTER (‘20) 

Winter break is approaching, and many who do not like winter activities struggle with keeping themselves entertained for two straight weeks. However, this break is the perfect time to start binge-watching new shows that you may have overlooked in the past. Here are four Netflix originals to keep you busy during the break.

“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”

Netflix original “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” is the perfect feel-good story to binge. The show follows the story of the overly optimistic Kimmy Schmidt (Ellie Kemper) as she readjusts to the outside world in New York City after being kept in a bunker for 15 years by The Reverend, a cult leader.

The show incorporates a range of well developed diverse characters, each of whom has their own quirky personalities. These characters include Titus Andromedon (Tituss Burgess), a flamboyant and passionate actor, Lillian Kaushtupper (Carol Kane), Kimmy’s intense landlady, and Jacqueline White (Jane Krakowski), a former extremely wealthy housewife who is trying to adjust to a life without her money.

This light-hearted comedy is sure to have anyone laughing. As well as being humorous, it also gives viewers a feel-good story of success and demonstrates the importance of friendship and perseverance. Viewers who enjoyed Ellie Kemper’s character in the office will enjoy this show, as they have similar personalities.

Seasons: 4, Episodes: 45

“Stranger Things”

“Stranger Things” truly does live up to its standards. The show follows three boys, Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin), and Mike (Finn Wolfhard), as they try and solve the mystery of how their friend, Will (Noah Schnapp), went missing. Along the way, they uncover the secrets of their town, Hawkins, Indiana. The plot includes several twists and turns, and always leaves the audience craving more.

While it does include an element of horror and the supernatural, the show also includes comedic relief moments and demonstrates the true innocence of the child characters. Though the eight episodes per season may seem small, it allows the show to focus on quality rather than quantity, which is becoming rare in entertainment.

The show is perfect for a diverse audience and can be watched by both middle school-aged children and adults. While the children are sure to relate to some of the everyday struggles that are portrayed in the show, adults are also bound to feel a sense of nostalgia, as the show takes place in the 80s, the period that many of today’s adults grew up themselves.

Seasons: 2, Episodes: 17

“The Crown”

Fans of period dramas are sure to love “The Crown.” This Netflix original tells the story of Queen Elizabeth II’s (Claire Foy) reign and begins at the death of her father, King VI (Jared Harris). This show gives viewers an intricate look at the relationships between members of the royal family, such as Prince Philip (Matt Smith) and Princess Margaret (Vanessa Kirby).

Though I normally am not a fan of period dramas, this show had me intrigued, as it tells the story of a figure who is still prominent today. This series perfectly incorporates drama within the history and keeps the viewer entertained while also giving an inside look at the royal family. The actors are truly fit for their roles, as they all look and speak like their royal counterparts. The dramatic instrumental soundtrack brilliantly conveys the feelings being portrayed on screen and brings a level of intensity to the viewers.

Seasons: 2, Episodes: 20

“Santa Clarita Diet”

This show puts a humorous spin on what looks like the beginning of a zombie apocalypse. After eating out for dinner, Sheila (Drew Barrymore), contracts a mystery disease. The series follows Sheila, her husband, Joel (Timothy Olyphant), her daughter, Abby (Liv Hewson), and a neighborhood “zombie expert”, Eric (Skyler Gisondo), as they try and figure out the mystery of Sheila’s disease.

This show is amusing for anyone who is into a little bit of dark humor and provides a lighter take on serious topics. I found watching this show was a good way to pass time, and the storyline was overall enjoyable. Aside from the humor, this series also demonstrates to viewers the importance of family and sticking together when times are tough.

One of my favorite aspects of the show is the relationship between Joel and Sheila. Their relationship is the center of many of the jokes in the show, as Joel will go to the extremes for his wife.

Seasons: 2, Episodes: 20