We Recommend

One of the things that my mom has been experiencing lately is chronic boredom. I’m not sure that’s the right word, but I don’t know what else to call it. She can’t do a lot of the things that she used to do, and sometimes the days are long. Evenings are especially hard. While TV and movies were never really a part of her life, they seem to be a welcome distraction now, and they help give a focal point to conversation. Talking about something silly that Opie did is easier for Mom than a lot of things. My sister has been watching a lot of Andy Griffith with her.

Andy Griffith will run out eventually. While Mom might not remember the beginning episodes, my sister will, and she’s looking for other options. Preferably something that can be streamed online. Nothing too complicated. Nothing upsetting or dark.

It can be a little hard to tell what will work. The Odd Couple was a no-go. Classic movies are usually pretty safe, though. Tonight, she looked to see if To Kill a Mockingbird was on Netflix, because you just can’t go wrong with Gregory Peck.

It’s not. Which is a shame. But Netflix recommended the following alternatives instead:

Breaking Bad
The Walking Dead
The Hunger Games

Um, dudes? You’re usually pretty good, but you might want to take a look at the recommendation algorithm on that one. Wow.

Seriously though, if you have any suggestions for appropriate shows, please leave them in the comments. We’d be most grateful.