Let’s face it. There are too many choices on Netflix. There’s no way you can possibly watch everything they have to offer, even if you’re a curious person like me and wish you could. Having been a Netflix subscriber since the O.G. DVD days, I’ve come up with some solid strategies for picking what to watch on Netflix. AND I’m nice and I’m going to share them with you.
This post is sponsored by Netflix #StreamTeam
Side note: Did you know they still have the DVD option?! Someone told me this recently and I was shook. If you add DVDs to your subscription you’ll have a larger variety of choices, including newer releases.
Anyway, here are my top 5 tips for deciding what to watch on Netflix, and a bonus section on getting your fam to watch what you want to watch. Muahaha.
1. Search and browse with InstantWatcher
InstantWatcher is my personal favorite resource. It’s a website that lets you sort Netflix’s offerings in pretty much any way you please, like by highest rating, what’s leaving Netflix soon, or by a comprehensive list of genres and subgenres.
2. Get suggestions from A Good Movie to Watch
If you don’t really have anything in mind, A Good Movie to Watch will be your best friend. You can get a random suggestion or browse by mood, critic ratings, or just by what’s newest. Bonus points: The site has a really nice-looking layout.
3. Go with a safe bet: Netflix Originals
Almost all of my latest favorites have been Netflix Originals. They just keep knocking it out of the park! Head over to the Originals section in Netflix and look around or try one of our favorites:
- Grace & Frankie: comedy with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin
- Ozark: money laundering with cutie Jason Bateman
- Santa Clarita Diet: zombies with Drew Barrymore
- Chef’s Table: amazing foodie docuseries and no I will never stop talking about it
- The Keepers: true crime docuseries
4. Improve your suggestions
After you watch something, always make sure to rate it! Rating your faves and hates will improve the selection of shows and movies that Netflix puts in the Recommended for You section. And of course the more you watch, the better Netflix will understand you, so when you get that “Are you still watching?” message, don’t be offended. Own it.
5. Ask your friends & fam
You’re not always right. I know it hurts, but sometimes other people just know you better than you know yourself. If there’s a show or movie on Netflix that someone in your life keeps talking about, give it a shot. You might like it!
Giving other people’s opinions a chance is how I found out about Grace & Frankie, Friends from College, and Chef’s Table.
Evil genius tip: Convincing everyone to watch what you want
Guard the remote AT ALL COSTS
When it comes to entertainment choices, you’re probably facing a house divided most of the time. Doesn’t it seem like a miracle when everyone can agree on one thing to watch? If you find yourself endlessly scrolling and just want to get the show on the road, here’s what to do:
- Try to point out something about your show that tickles their fancy. Want to watch a thriller but they love dramas? Point out the love story subplot.
- Let them pick this time; you can pick next time.
- Call it a wash and let one of the websites above decide for you: use the Random option!
Happy streaming!
