Binge Watch This – January 2021

We have officially said good bye to 2020, here are some binge worthy television and movies to watch this January.

Mykel Hilliard, Editor-in-Chief

“The Prom”

Year released: 2020

Streaming service: Netflix

Netflix and Ryan Murphy team up for the musical comedy “The Prom.” The film, which is based on the 2018 Broadway play of the same name, is an exhilarating ride full of elaborate dance sequences and catchy musical numbers. In the film, we meet Emma Nolan, a gay teen whose sexuality causes controversy in her small Indiana town when she asks to take a girl to prom. Meanwhile, in New York, a group of washed up broadway and television stars is looking for a social cause for good publicity. When the group finds out about Emma’s story they travel to the small town and battle it out with the locals who aren’t too fond of their arrival. 

The film features an all-star cast such as Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, James Corden and more.

“Upload”

Year released: 2020

Streaming service: Amazon Prime Video

Robbie Amell shines as the cocky yet lovable computer programmer Nathan Brown in Prime Video’s action-comedy series “Upload.” The series takes place in the year 2033.Dying humans are given a choice to die naturally or be uploaded to a growing online world where they can continue living virtually. When Nathan is involved in a tragic accident he is uploaded to the world where he learns to adjust to his new life. While exploring his new world, Nathan bonds with Nora (Andy Allo), his living customer service rep. As Nora and Nathan bond they begin to investigate the circumstances of his death and uncover shocking information. The show has a lot of heart and Amell and Allo’s on-screen chemistry is fantastic.

“Soul”

Year released: 2020

Streaming service: Disney Plus

Disney Pixar’s computer-animated film “Soul” was originally slated to have its theatrical debut in June but forfeited its release date and was eventually released on Disney+ on Christmas Day. The film follows Joe Gardner (Jamie Foxx), a music teacher with a passion for jazz music, as Joe attempts to follow his passion he lands an audition for a famous jazz singer’s band. After a successful audition, Joe is invited to perform with the band later that night. Trouble strikes when he falls into a manhole and is transported to “Great Beyond,” a world for souls. “Soul” is Disney Pixar’s first film to feature an African-American protagonist.

“Wonder Woman: 1984”

Year released: 2020

Streaming service: HBO MAX

Director Patty Jenkins and Gal Gadot bring Wonder Woman back to life in the highly anticipated sequel “Wonder Woman: 1984.” The film is set in the 1980s during the Cold War. It follows Diana (Wonder Woman) as she lives a quiet life working as a museum curator/ archaeologist for the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. After a stone that grants wishes falls into the hands of Max Lord, a fledgling businessman, Diana must save the world from his destruction. The film isn’t as spectacular as its predecessor but it is still an entertaining watch. The film is currently streaming on HBO MAX until Feb. 5.

“Insecure”

Year released: 2016

Streaming service: HBO MAX

HBO’s comedy series “Insecure” has been delighting fans since its premiere in 2016. The series is partially based on the show’s lead actress Issa Rae’s web series Awkward Black Girl. In “Insecure” Rae plays Issa Dee, a quirky Black girl who is figuring out her life in Los Angeles. She’s joined by a colorful cast of characters including her boyfriend Lawrence (Jay Ellis) and her close-knit friend group friends Molly (Yvonne Orji), Kelli (Natasha Rothwell), and Tiffany (Amanda Seales). The portrayal of their characters has earned the cast praise from critics. In 2017 Rae was nominated for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes. In 2020, Yvonne Orji received a Primetime Emmy nomination for her Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. If you like laugh out loud comedy, “Insecure” is for you.