Streaming is now the in-thing. Various services offer unlimited content for you to view, as and when you please. Not sure what to watch first? The TL team picked both local and international shows and movies on SHOWMAX, Netflix and DStv Catch Up that you can try out. Warning: it is addictive. In no specific order, here we go:
READ MORE: TL’s playlist to get you through #selfisolation
Sisonke Labase, Journalist
1. Still Breathing —Catch Up
This local show will tug at your heartstrings. Shot beautifully, the story is real and relatable. It makes a change from the usual fare you see on TV.
2. A Million Little Things —Showmax
Another emotive series about friendship, loss, connections and just how life is not what you think it will be. It offers drama, and the cast does not play into typical stereotypes.
3. I Am a Killer — Netflix
I love docuseries, and Netflix does them so well. This series consists of interviews with people convicted of first-degree murders, and who are on death row. This can be quite dark, but how the human mind works will fascinate and intrigue you.
4. Lost Girls —Netflix
This movie pulled me in because a lot of women in our country disappear daily. Based on a true story, this film is about a mother who refuses to rest without finding out what happened to her daughter. As a result, the bodies of many girls are discovered.
READ MORE: One-on-one with Siya Sepotokele
Palesa Vilakazi, Beauty Editor
5. Ozark —Netflix
Season one and two were thrilling, and it is hard to remain unmoved by the unique storyline and stellar cast. It will have everyone bingeing on episodes to know what happens next.
6. Mixed-ish — Catch Up
Looking for some light-hearted, humorous content? Then, this show is for you. It is hard not to fall in love with the characters in this series, set in the 80s.
7. Gomora — Catch Up
The cast alone is enough to keep me glued to this new local telenovela. Set against the backdrop of life in Alexandra versus Sandton — it is an enthralling story with characters you can relate to.
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Lineo Leteba, Journalist Intern
8. Money Heist — Netflix
I started watching it on the recommendation of a friend last year. It hooked me from the first few minutes. I suggest watching the original Spanish version with English subtitles to get the authentic feel of it.
9. Dare Me —Netflix
This show will appeal to dancers. It is not your typical cheerleading story with pretty pom-poms, cute smiles, and fairy-tale storylines. The crime and thriller perspective is refreshing.
10. Elite —Netflix
It is a novel and deeper take on the “from public to private school” story of three teens. It is a very relatable story, because we all face situations that require us to step up. The characters move from different environments, and have to adjust and become part of a completely different society.
Kemong Mopedi, Deputy Editor
11. The Way Kungakhona —Moja Love
Have a look at this enlightening show that focuses on the daily struggles of the LGBTQ+ community.
READ MORE: Three lessons we can learn from The Way Ngingakhona
12. Uncorked —Netflix
This refreshing movie is about black lives and father-son struggles. It is such a pleasure to watch a black narrative that doesn’t dwell on racism, but rather something as bourgeois as wine, just for a change.
13. She Did That — Netflix
The entrepreneurial tales of the African-American women featured in this show are inspiring and reassuring, to say the least.
READ MORE: One-on-one with Modiehi Thulo
Tsakane Ndlovu, Junior Fashion Editor
14. The Hustle —Catch Up
Cool and hilarious, this movie stars Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson. You may end up watching it repeatedly. This is a great way to just kick back and relax.
15. The Bachelor South Africa —Catch Up
You know how this one goes, as one man searches for love among a bevy of beauties. It is a great show to watch and has some funny moments.
16. Grown-ish —Showmax
This show is currently on season four, but you can binge-watch from the start to catch up. The current season is to die for because of all the fabulous fashion, but each episode is a good laugh. – TN
READ MORE: When things go sour in love - here are 3 ways to deal with conflict in a relationship
Buhle Mbete - Digital Editor
17. How to Get Away With Murder —Netflix
I have never been much into series, so don’t judge me for only locking on to this gripping one in 2020. I’m currently on season three and let’s just say, I’m not getting much sleep. It is really worth the hype.
18. Lockdown —Mzansi Magic
Originally screened on Mzansi Magic, Lockdown S5 moved to Showmax. Notorious for its cliff-hangers, plot twists and emotional rollercoasters, S5 provides plenty of entertainment.
READ MORE: Sophie Lichaba on leading the cast of Lockdown and life in the public eye
19. Noughts + Crosses — M-Net and Showmax
The talented cast and location (filmed largely in Cape Town) will draw you into this love story. It is controversial, and addresses prejudices and racism. If you are looking for something thought-provoking and real, this one is for you.
20. Prison Break — Netflix
This story follows a brother who is an engineer, and who has a complex plan to get his innocent brother out of jail. You’ll enjoy the suspense, emotion, drama, action and how brilliant the production is. Give it a try – you won’t regret it.
