Publications
Partners
During the coronavirus lockdown television and movies have become a welcome escape from our reality. And we know we're not the only ones.
READ MORE: How film and TV is getting us through the coronavirus lockdown
With so many shows out there, it can be difficult to choose what to watch. But don't worry we have you covered. Here are some recommendations from our critics.
If you need some more inspiration here's what the Channel24 team is watching.
Available on Netflix
I know what you're thinking. You can't possibly absorb another single piece of information about the coronavirus. I felt the same way, but I couldn't resist having a look at the 26-minute short documentary Coronavirus, Explained on Netflix. I'm so glad I did. The well-researched doccie that forms part Vox's 'Explained' series is a calm, intelligent, and very sober look at the current pandemic gripping the world. It looks back at the history of coronavirus, explores the origins of Covid-19, and looks at what awaits us in the future. I highly recommend this informative show. – Herman Eloff (Editor)
Available on Netflix
With South Africa's national lockdown, spending every single day at home has been a lot! When I close my laptop and move from one end of the house to the other, I still feel as though I need to unwind – and with a show that doesn't require my brain to go into overdrive. Community allows me to do just that. It's just as good now as it was back when it first aired in 2009, with 20-minute episodes complete with witty retorts, unique storylines and a band of misfits and their friendship at the heart of it all. It's short, sweet and smart – and stars Donald Glover rapping in Spanish. It's my go-to when the going gets tough. – Bashiera Parker (International and Royal News Editor)
Available on Netflix
I've been watching film classics like You've Got Mail and Sleepless in Seattle because they're like a portion of comfort food in times of stress. They make me feel good, and sharing them with someone I love is a source of happiness. In between those, I have watched two seasons of the Netflix hit, House of Flowers. It manages to straddle the line between being very relatable in terms of family drama and outlandish telenovela traditions. If you loved Jane the Virgin, you'll love House of Flowers too. – Alex Isaacs (Music Editor)
Available on Netflix
When I'm all caught up with my TV obsession 90 Day Fiancé, and I've binge-watched the latest series on Netflix, I find myself re-watching episodes of my favourite 22-minute comedies. When Schitt's Creek popped up on my Netflix screen, my body instinctively produced a high-pitched: "Oh My God!"
If you haven't discovered this Netflix gem yet, you better believe the hype.
Created by Dan Levy and his father, Eugene (American Pie, Bringing Down the House), the series follows the wealthy Rose family, who lose all their money, and are forced to move to a town they once bought as a joke: Schitt's Creek.
The family's riches to rag story is heartwarming to watch, and the script is comedy gold. The main cast brings the quirky spirit of the show to life with their catchphrases (ew, David!) and mispronunciation of words. The show radiates warmth, and even though you are guaranteed to laugh out loud, you'll also shed a tear as the Rose family undergo inner growth and strengthen their family bond. And isn't that the type of energy we all need right now? – Graye Morkel (Editor, The Juice)
TREASURE QUEST: SNAKE ISLAND
Available on DStv
Being at home during lockdown has not changed my viewing habits too much. I still find myself watching reruns of my favourite sitcoms whenever I get the chance. It's a great way to decompress, I have found. Top of the list right now is Modern Family. I cannot get enough of this series, and with the final season on screens right now, I figured it's a good time to go back and catch up on older episodes on Showmax before I get stuck into the final season. And in case you're wondering - no, I'm not ready to say goodbye to Phil Dunphy.
I am also completely obsessed with channels like Discovery, Travel and National Geographic. If you're looking for a show to keep you on the edge of your seat, I would suggest Treasure Quest: Snake Island on the Travel Channel (DStv 179). The show follows treasure hunters (yes, that's a thing), as they go in search of a real hidden treasure in South America. It's filled with danger and suspense as these adventure-seekers scale mountains, sail predator-infested rivers and hike through treacherous terrain, all in hope of unearthing treasures they've only ever heard about in ancient tales. – Nikita Coetzee (Content Producer, The Juice)
Available on Netflix
One thing that I have been enjoying about lockdown is that I can explore different shows and genres from what I usually do. The Indian web television series Little Things is a charming short series with episodes ranging from 17 to 30 minutes. It centres on Kavya and Dhruv a young unmarried couple navigating the complicated world of relationships, careers, and aspirations in Mumbai. It's such an honest and authentic look at how millennials deal with the ups and downs of modern relationships and growing individually and as a couple. It's not a fairytale romantic drama which made it very refreshing to watch. It also gives a window into the Indian culture and its cities. I quickly fell in love with Kavya and Dhruv; they became like friends to me. I am patiently waiting for season 4, Netflix. – Leandra Engelbrecht (Movie and TV Editor)
