Your Quarantine Entertainment Guide

Welcome to the Covid-19 apocalypse. What a bizarre time we’re living in—everyone is understandably feeling uneasy about their health and financial situations. Unfortunately, there’s not much we can do about these things until we have a better grip on just what the heck is happening out there. So, in the meantime, we can all use a way to pass the time as we sit in our homes, waiting. Being as productive as possible isn’t a terrible idea, but we also need some entertainment to fill out the endless hours.

If you’re like me, nothing keeps out the bad thoughts better than streaming TV shows and movies. So, I thought I’d pass along my list of stuff you should definitely check out right now. Go HERE for a list of my favorite horror movies from last year, all of which are available for rent or free on several streaming services.

Movies

One of my favorite movies of 2019. Directed by Taika Waititi, Jojo Rabbit is a black comedy about a boy in the Hitler Youth who falls in love with a Jewish girl. Though the subject is dark, Waititi infuses it with his own unique humor to make it one of the most uplifting films of the last several years. I loved this movie. For rent on Amazon, AppleTV, etc.

What’s better for a night stuck inside than a good old-fashioned whodunnit? With a stellar cast and some snappy writing, Knives Out is a fun mystery that will keep you guessing right up to the end. For rent on Amazon, AppleTV, etc.

Another favorite from last year. Adam Sandler is fantastic in this anxiety-inducing crime thriller about a jewelry store owner stuck in a vicious cycle of robbing Peter to pay Paul, fueled by his own gambling addiction. Terrific performances throughout—it’s always a thrill to see Eric Bogosian in a good role. An impressive script. For rent on Amazon, AppleTV, etc.

Others to watch: Honey Boy, 1917 (currently, only for purchase, but soon for rent), Marriage Story, Parasite. 

Streaming TV Shows

With all episodes now available on AppleTV+, you can binge through this one in no time—and believe me, you will! With an incredible cast and top-notch writing, The Morning Show tackles the hot button topic of the #metoo movement, doing so with nuance and without getting preachy. You’ll be hitting the “next episode” button after each episode well into the night. Only on AppleTV+.

Another AppleTV+ show that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I can’t say too much about its plot without giving something away, but believe me, you’ll be enthralled with every episode of this thriller produced by M. Night Shyamalan. Highly binge-able. Only on AppleTV+.

I admit I’m late to the game on this show, but Michelle and I have been binge-ing through it lately and we love it. Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara have always been two of my favorite comedic actors, all the way back to SCTV in the 80s. Surrounded by a hilarious cast, these two shine like they haven’t had the chance to in years. A great light-hearted way to escape the anxiety of our times. On Netflix and Pop.

This odd little comedy is like a combination of peak John Hughes and Freaks and Geeks, set in an idyllic British small town. Hilarious and charming—best of all, there are two seasons available to stream. On Netflix.

HBO seems to do no wrong. Their latest entry into this continuing golden age of television is an adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, The Outsider. This isn’t clowns and kids riding bikes, it’s adult crime drama with hints of something supernatural lurking in the shadows. Expertly crafted and adapted, The Outsider casts a spell that’s hard to shake. All episodes are now available too! On HBO, HBOGO, HBONOW.

Also, the Kindle versions of Devils Glen and Crow Creek are now FREE through Saturday, 3/21! Read Read Read!

Stay Home and Stay Kind!

Finally, stay home and take care of yourselves. This corona virus situation is unlike anything we’ve encountered in our lifetimes, and it’s easy to get depressed or stressed out about the ramifications. It’s also easy to get negative on social media. Try not to get sucked into arguments and political malarky. Online arguments won’t accomplish anything meaningful, and they’ll only increase your stress. Ask yourself, have you ever been persuaded by a snarky political meme? That stuff will only create a wedge between yourselves and your friends when we all need to stick together.

If you must post political things, please keep it positive. We’ve become a nation of trolls, and that’s not a pleasant look under normal circumstances, but it’s especially bad form right now. People are going on Facebook to connect with each other when we can’t meet in person. Let’s keep it a pleasant place to do that for at least the next several weeks.

You can’t change everyone’s minds. The people promoting some massive conspiracy have their own crosses to bear, and nothing you say to them will make a difference, so don’t engage. Believe me, I know it’s hard to scroll past a hot-button political post without getting involved—I have a hard time with that myself—but it’s best to let it go. If you have friends who just can’t help themselves, the “ignore” option on Facebook is a beautiful thing. When this is all over, we’ll have plenty of time to argue over our half-baked political ideas.

Also, sharing news is great, but please make sure you only share verifiable information from reputable sources. Your favorite political blog might be great reading under different circumstances, but it probably isn’t the proper place to get medical advice during this epidemic. Go to www.CDC.gov for reliable information.

Stay safe, stay home, wash your hands, and take care of each other!

Featured Image by Michelle Speak.