Shows to binge watch this spring break

Home for spring break? Don’t fret about missing out on that hot Florida sun — there are plenty of TV shows and films available for streaming online that will be sure to keep you busy.

Better Call Saul

This television drama series directed by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould was first released in February. It acts as a prequel to the popular show Breaking Bad. The show follows the story of character James McGill (Bob Odenkirk) six years before the events of Breaking Bad, before he becomes Walter White’s lawyer.

The series aims to follow James McGill’s transition from being a “stand-up” citizen to a criminal known as Saul Goodman. If you enjoyed Breaking Bad, you can be sure that Better Call Saul takes on a similar tone. There are several full episodes available for streaming online at AMCtv.com.

The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt 

The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, created by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock, follows the story of a woman who leaves a cult after spending 15 years trapped in a bunker. She moves to New York and meets Titus, a gay man who hopes to become a Broadway star. Titus helps Kimmy adjust to everyday, modern life, and the two of them develop a close friendship. The Netlfix original is funny and entertaining, and it does not require much mental power. If you’re hoping to just relax, check it out!

House of Cards

This Netflix show has received raving reviews and is currently in its third season. House of Cards is a political drama that follows Congressman Francis Underwood and his wife as they take revenge on President Walker and grow in power.

Walker betrayed Underwood by retracting his promise that Underwood would be given the position of Secretary of State if he supported Walker’s presidency. Not only is the plot engrossing, but Kevin Spacey stars in this show. What more can you ask for?

Bloodline

Bloodline will be streaming on Netflix on March 20. This thriller was created by Todd A. Kessler, Daniel Zelman and Glenn Kessler. It follows adult siblings whose outcast brother returns home. His return leads to the uncovering of family secrets and sore moments.

Ida

Ida is a powerful and poignant Polish film shot in black and white. It is set in the early ‘60s and follows Anna, a young woman who is preparing to take her vows as a nun. Right before this, however, she learns from her only living relative that she is actually Jewish. Directed by Pawel Pawlikowsi, the film contrasts different lifestyles and poses the question of what constitutes a life lived well.

Anna must decide for herself what kind of life she would like to lead. Ida is not only a coming-of-age film, but also one that addresses aspects of life people of all ages question. Ida is a slow film that requires full attention, but it is well worth watching.

American Beauty

American Beauty is a must-see for all Kevin Spacey fans. The film is quirky, thought-provoking and sensual. Lester Burnham (Spacey) is a is a middle-aged husband and father with a typical office job until he has an epiphany that leads him to change his boring lifestyle. Burnham begins to engage in teenage-like behaviors that frustrate his family but relieve him of his frustrations. The film is not only comic but also emotionally tense.

Blue is the Warmest Color

French film Blue is the Warmest Color, directed by Abdellatif Kechiche, tells the story of Adele and Lea, two women who fall in love. Lea is exotic and bold while Adele is younger and more timid with her sexuality. The two women share a beautiful yet tumultuous relationship and the camera captures their most private and vulnerable moments. This film is rated NC-17 for a reason, but its story goes beyond simply being sexual.

Frida

Frida chronicles the life of artist Frida Kahlo, a Mexican painter who is most well-known for her surrealistic style and self portraits. Directed by Julie Taymor, the movie explores both Frida’s personal and professional lives. The cinematography of the film mirrors Kahlo’s artwork and depicts her personality authentically. Frida was a strong woman with a particularly unique view of the world, and the film captures this well. The film was nominated for six Academy Awards in 2002 and won Best Music, Best Original Score and Best Makeup.

Blood Ties

Directed by Guillaume Canet, Blood Ties is a remake of the 2008 French thriller Les Liens du Sang directed by Jacques Maillot. The film explores organized crime in 1970s Brooklyn. Two brothers, one a cop and one a criminal, are through a series of events, forced into direct conflict. Blood Ties starrs Mila Kunis, Clive Owen and Marion Cotillard. Those who enjoyed Inside Man or I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead will enjoy Blood Ties.

Chef

Chef is a comedy about a chef who quits his job at a well-known Los Angeles restaurant and decides to start his own food cart with the help of his best friend, son and ex-wife. This decision allows him to recreate his life and re-evaluate what he himself values. For those who love to cook and love to laugh, this is a must see! This comedy is directed by and stars Jon Favreau.

Young Ones

Young Ones is a science fiction film set in a future where water is scarce. A farmer (Michael Shannon) is forced to protect his land in the hopes of replenishing the soil. His daughter’s boyfriend, however, secretly has plans to take the land. The film premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival and stars Elle Fanning.