● We(Can)d Binge

Amie Sosa Section Editor - Campus Life, Arts and Entertainment & Metropolis

Imagine having a warm drink in hand and cozy pyjamas on, searching for the perfect shows and movies to binge-watch over the weekend as we begin procrastinating our homework. It seems like the ideal situation, especially with the cold weather beginning to kick in. Here is a list of the three best television shows and movies found on Netflix that you must watch during the weekend this autumn.

1. Bubble This animated sci-fi movie, created by Wit Studio, was first presented at the 72nd Berlin International Film Festival and released on Netflix this year. “Bubble” focuses on a strange “Bubble Fall” incident that has taken over Tokyo. Just five years ago, the “Bubble Fall” took over the city, turning the once capital of Japan into a gravity-defying area entrapped by bubbles. This area was deemed unsafe by the government, and thus became abandoned and prohibited to the citizens. However, some children orphaned by the “Bubble Fall” are illegally living in the area and have adapted to the gravity defying situation by practising and even competing at intense levels of parkour. Hibiki, the protagonist and typical winner of these competitions, attempts to uncover the mystery behind the majestic sounds he claims to hear from the Tokyo Tower, albeit unsuccessfully. He is then saved by a peculiar girl, later named Uta. Although originally bothered by her presence, Uta proves to be more important in Hibiki’s life than he first realizes. Clocking in at approximately one hour and forty minutes, this movie is the perfect Japanese animation to start off your weekend. The soundtrack is divine, allowing us to connect with each scene, and sympathize with each character and their emotions. The visuals are breathtaking, making the simplicity of bubbles seem mesmerizing and otherworldly. This movie is great for those interested in anime and sci-fi films, and a great choice to watch with friends and family.

2. Indian Matchmaking This is a reality television show based on the work of marriage consultant and matchmaker Sima Taparia, from Mumbai. Demonstrating the realities of arranged marriage and how it is being customized to fit with the needs of modern society, the show shares the stories of various people on the search for love. Taparia, often referred to as “Sima Auntie” by her clients, seeks advice from all types of consultants, such as face readers, astrologers, life coaches, and many more. Even the most stubborn people manage to find love regardless of social status, age, or career. Sima finds success in every challenge despite the problems she encounters, as she attempts to not only find love for her clients, but also make sure their entire families connect as well. This series shows the ups and downs of family, love and culture, and demonstrates how traditions can be kept up even in modern times. “Indian Matchmaking” creates a new way of looking at arranged marriages, and demonstrates the differences between cultures, as well as how family dynamics can affect finding a potential partner. This television show is definitely aimed toward those who believe they are unlucky in love, because it promotes the idea that anybody can find love, no matter who they are. Also, fans of gossip-heavy dramas will enjoy the focus around family and friend drama, with disagreements and conflicts impacting the many crazy situations that arise.

3. Gilmore Girls An all-time favourite of mine which perfectly encapsulates the autumn season is none other than “Gilmore Girls.” This slice-of-life show focuses on the daily lives of a single mother and her sixteen-year-old daughter living in the small town of Stars Hollow. Coffee-addicted Lorelei Gilmore (the mother) and Rory Gilmore (the daughter) reconnect with Lorelei’s parents, Emily and Richard Gilmore, as they begin to help pay for Rory’s education at Chilton, a nearby private school. Within its 153 episodes, Rory navigates high school through the lens of witty banter, family drama, and coming-of-age situations. As we continue to watch the show, we learn and grow with each character as they fulfill their goals, and we celebrate their achievements with them.

Commonly known for its fall aesthetic, both in fashion and visuals, this show also has a little bit of everything in terms of content; episodes are a mixed bag of comedy, love, and heart-felt, family-oriented moments. “Gilmore Girls” is great for the whole family, and gives any viewer the motivation to reach for their dreams, providing support to those going through struggles similar to those depicted in the show. The show should be seen by everyone at least once; you might be surprised by the character you most resonate with!

With the cold weather on its way, warm drinks, cozy pyjamas, and a good movie or television show are a must-need for this season. I hope you have a great time binge-watching these suggestions, perhaps even this upcoming weekend. Don’t forget the popcorn!