What I’m Watching Lately

Lately, I find myself watching reality tv more than anything else.  Admittedly, I just can’t help myself.  Bravo offers a plethora of choices from all the Housewives (my favorite is NYC of course) and Southern Charm (I mean, who doesn’t love Shep and T-Rav?).  I know a lot you watch it too even if you don’t want to admit it.  Don’t worry though….there’s no judgment here.  We all need an escape at the end of the day.  Plus, watching all these crazy women makes me feel better about myself!

But, for those times I’m searching for more substance and a good story I can get into, I like to commit to a series.  I’ve been watching the most recent seasons of my old stand by’s such as The Americans, Bosch and Velvet (and I can’t wait for the return of Bloodline and House of Cards) but I’ve also branched out and given some new shows a try.  Two are with subtitles but don’t let that deter you.  In fact, by the end of watching a foreign series, you may actually pick up bits and pieces of a different language.  Okay, here’s my current list of must see tv:

1. No Second Chance: This French mini-series is set in Paris.  All I will say is it’s a thriller that begins with a kidnapping and it keeps unraveling with each episode.  There are so many twists and turns, you will immediately get sucked in.   Plus, I love the setting and the beautiful language.  It’s only six episodes so it’s easy to get through….perfect as a binge watch for a rainy weekend.  Available on Netflix.
2. Ingobernable:  This Spanish original series for Netflix (the first one as a matter of fact) is set in Mexico City and is a thriller as well.  It starts out with the president falling from a balcony to his death and the prime suspect is the first lady.  I’ve only watched a few episodes but I’m already hooked.  Ingobernable translates to uncontrollable which is a fitting title because of the fast paced storyline, the action, the treachery and all the maneuvering.  It will certainly keep you in suspense!
3. Big Little Lies: Oh my goodness, this HBO series is a must watch.  Everyone’s been buzzing about it so I finally got around to watching it.  It takes place in Monterrey, CA which is one of my favorite places and the scenery plus the gorgeous homes pulled me in right away.  The cast is amazing (love Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman who are both so convincing in their roles) and I was intrigued by the plot line which, as a mom with kids in school, I can somewhat relate to.  It’s true…. some PTA moms are pretty intense!
4. The Arrangement: This original series for E! seems as if it’s based on Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes.  It’s about an A-list actor who offers a struggling actress a contract to be his girlfriend as he’s getting over a very public break-up with his ex-fiance.  He also belongs to the Institute for Higher Learning (aka Scientology) and is heavily influenced by its’ founder and his wife who happens to be his agent.  I highly doubt it’s winning any awards but it’s a fun watch and an interesting look at what is beyond the facade of many of these celebrities.  Things aren’t ever as they appear and it makes you wonder how many celebrity couples are together simply for the publicity.

Check out my previous list of favorite shows here and here.  I hope you have a great weekend!