Although self-isolation can seem a daunting prospect, many are starting to see this period as an opportunity to get those things done that we otherwise never get round to. Gone were the days of dedicating an evening to watching a new series, or spending the weekend on the sofa with nothing planned but a movie marathon - but now we have more time than ever to indulge in some home cinema. With so many excellent series and films available to stream, it can be difficult to know what to watch first so get started with our handpicked list of 15 of the best of their kind.
Serviced apartments feature spacious living areas perfect for a family movie night1. Uncut Gems
What: Film | Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime | Length: 2h 14m
If you think you know Adam Sandler genres, think again: this fast-paced, high energy American thriller in which he stars is a masterpiece in suspense and shock factor. Following a wheeler-dealer gambling addict constantly on the cusp of disaster, Uncut Gems comically plays on high stake situations and will make your heart race right up until the final scene.
2. When They See Us
What: Series | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 4 episodes, 1hr 15m each
If you’re a true crime fan, Netflix features a plethora of fantastic things to watch. Based on true events, When They See Us is up there with the best offering an unflinching look into the American justice system when five teen boys are subject to a gruelling court case after being falsely accused of a brutal attack in Central Park. This compelling mini-series is no easy watch, but it is a vital one.
3. Sex Education
What: Series | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 2 8 episode series, 50m each
Far less hard-hitting, but with an equally important message, Sex Education is a comedic coming of age series about teenagers and all the trials and tribulations of growing up; perhaps not one to watch with your teenage son. Although on the surface Sex Education is a fun show about embarrassing escapades in the bedroom, it deals with many tough and extremely relevant social issues told through intricately written characters far from the predictable teens you might expect from this kind of story.
Now that our schedules are far less busy, we can indulge in some quality time with loved ones4. The Green Book
What: Film | Where to watch: Amazon Prime | Length: 2h 9m
If you’re wondering what to watch and fancy an emotional, but feel-good film, this heartfelt true story tells of an unlikely friendship that blossoms in sixties southern America. There are many films based on the horrors of blatant racism during this time, but none quite like Green Book: its raw and straightforward approach tentatively showcases the thawing of one’s socially engrained opinions in an honest account of the times.
5. Tiger King
What: Series | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 7 episodes, 45m each
An unusual and dramatic look into the big cat culture of America, Tiger King tells the story of infamous Joe Exotic and other high profile members of this bizarre trend. Full of secrets, twists and turns, this documentary is told through personal accounts and home-movie style video clips.
6. This Country
What: Series | Where to watch: BBC iPlayer | Length: 3 6 episode series, 30m each
When you’re contemplating what to watch and are in need of a good laugh, try This Country; a superb parody based upon the lives of cousins Kerry and Kurtan who live in a rural village in the Cotswolds. These bitesize episodes are hilarious, perfectly portraying the mundane goings-on of a small village, but with a sprinkling of home truths about the disparity of opportunities afforded to those in rural areas compared to urban cities.
Relax within the stylish interior of your serviced apartment and get stuck into a new series7. Spirited Away
What: Film | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 2h 5m
This Oscar award-winning Studio Ghibli animation is a treat for the senses: a tranquil tale of mystery and exploration told through the entrancing characters Studio Ghibli is known and loved for. If you want things to watch that allow you to indulge in escapism and be transported to another reality, Spirited Away is a captivating escape.
8. Self Made
What: Series | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 4 episodes, 45m each
This four-parter tells the story of the first female self-made millionaire who happened to be a black woman in America during the early 1900s. Madam CJ Walker, played by Octavia Spencer in Self Made, has ferocious business prowess and stops at nothing to ensure the success of her brand; not even racism or sexism can extinguish the fire in her belly to make it big.
9. Louis Theroux
What: Documentary Films | Where to watch: BBC iPlayer | Length: varies
Louis Theroux is a well-loved filmmaker documenting controversial topics like American religious cults. Not only are his documentaries fascinating in content, Theroux’s manner is calming and very easy to watch; be warned, you may find yourself in a Louis Theroux marathon as it’s impossible to just watch one.
Family time is more important than ever, as they might be your main source of human contact10. The Boys
What: Series | Where to watch: Amazon Prime | Length: 8 episodes, 1h each
Set in a world where superheroes are championed by society, but outside of their heroic powers are corrupt and arrogant, The Boys follows a group of vigilantes who aim to reinforce control. Not just for superhero comic book lovers, The Boys is a violent yet comical creation that puts a spin on archetypal superhero storylines.
11. The Ballad of Buster Scruggs
What: Film | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 2h 13m
This Coen brothers comedy presents six short stories, all with their own plot and cast entirely unrelated to the rest, set in the American Wild West; slightly absurd and definitely gruesome in places, each story tells of a different outlaw and their various adventures. Named by the National Board of Review as one of the top ten best films of 2018, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs should certainly make it onto your what to watch list.
12. Fleabag
What: Series | Where to watch: BBC iPlayer | Length: 2 6 episode series, 30m each
Fleabag is one of those rare finds that effortlessly takes extremely sad topics and expertly explores them in a genuine, relatable but laugh-out-loud fashion. Phoebe Waller-Bridge has created something truly marvellous: Fleabag is clever, lovable and vitally important and should be top of your list of things to watch for a laugh and a cry.
Cook yourself some dinner and relax with a movie in your serviced apartment13. The Wire
What: Series | Where to watch: Now TV | Length: 5 seasons of 60 episodes
Widely regarded now as one of the greatest TV shows of all time, The Wire was ahead of its time in the political and social commentary it provided. The show highlights institutional dysfunction within organisations such as the school system and media and their entanglements with the police force. This early 2000s crime drama is a classic.
14. Messiah
What: Series | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 10 episodes, 40-50m each
The CIA are alerted to a young man claiming to be the Messiah who is building an army of devoted followers by travelling around the world performing miracles and providing hope to groups in despair. This is an interesting analysis of cult culture and the ways in which the masses can be manipulated.
15. Marriage Story
What: Film | Where to watch: Netflix | Length: 2h 16m
A stark and unapologetically raw look into a crumbling relationship, Marriage Story is not one to watch if you’re looking to restore your faith in love. There are a few minutes where everything in this marriage seems too good to be true then the next two hours in an emotionally gruelling court case proves that it was.
With our tried and tested guide of the best things to watch while self-isolating, you needn't endure the classic evening ritual of staring at the TV guide trying to decide what to watch. Take time to workout, cook a nutritious meal, put the kids to bed and relax in front of the TV with one of these personal recommendations.
