Review: What to Watch During the Second Lockdown

By Lucy Jones ’21
(Image Credit: ​iconscout.com)
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As we head into winter, a second lockdown seems to be imminent. COVID-19 daily cases are rising, and although a vaccine is on the way, it will be a while before the general public can access it. Since all of us experienced some of the worst of quarantine back in the spring, it is hard to stay positive when thinking about another similar situation. And, given the fact that online classes are ending, there will be limited activities to keep busy or entertained. Luckily, I have come up with a list of shows and movies I recommend watching while cooped up at home staying safe.

Shows
“The Queen’s Gambit” If you haven’t already watched this series, I absolutely recommend it. The Netflix Original starring Anya Taylor-Joy will have you addicted by the first episode. The show depicts a young orphan girl who comes to find a deep love for the game of chess, yet also the ‘green pills’ the orphans are given every day. In this seven-episode series, you will find Beth Harmon, our main character, experience the effects of heartbreak, defeat, success, love, addiction and so much more. If you are looking for a new show, this is the one to watch.
 
“The Undoing” Starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, this murder mystery is a must watch. Set in New York City’s famous Upper East Side, a therapist’s life unravels after she learns that her husband may be responsible for a murder. If you’re interested in mystery, romance and a star-studded cast, this is the show for you.
 
“The Crown” As a fan of anything historical, this is one of my favorite historical nonfiction shows. Although “The Crown” first made its debut in 2016, season four was released in November and is compelling viewing. This show features so much drama it’s almost too much to bear. Almost. This season begins in the late-70s and finishes in the mid-80s and finally introduces Princess Diana. Although it is historical drama, it is incredibly entertaining and will leave you staying up late at night trying to finish the series (confession, I finished it in a day).
 
Movies
“Rebecca” “Rebecca” is an amazing thriller you can find on Netflix starring Lily James and Armie Hammer. This movie is about a young newlywed who arrives at her husband’s imposing family estate on a wind-swept English coast, and finds herself battling the shadow of his first wife —  Rebecca — whose legacy lives on in the house long after her death. Set in the 1930s, this masterpiece of cinematography will have you on the edge of your seat.
 
“The Witches” This reimagined Roald Dahl classic is a great movie to watch with the family. “The Witches,” starring Octavia Spencer, Anne Hathaway, Jahzir Bruno, and so many other incredible actors, is about an orphaned boy who, in late 1967, goes to live with his loving grandmother in the rural Alabama town of Demopolis. As the boy and his grandmother encounter witches, however, she whisks him away to a seaside resort. Regrettably, they arrive at the same time that the world’s ‘Grand High Witch’ has gathered her fellow witches from around the globe (undercover), to carry out her nefarious plans. This movie is enjoyable for all ages!
 
“An American Pickle” This heartwarming comedy is everything you need during these long, boring quarantine months. Starring Seth Rogen, this movie is about a Jewish immigrant from 1919, who falls into a pickle brine and is miraculously preserved until 2020. He then meets his great-grandson, who teaches him the ways of modern life. This movie is perfect for a good laugh if you’re in the need of one, and can be found on HBO Max.