Welcome to my personal TV paradise! With just a swipe, I can access almost anything my heart desires. It’s a fantastic time to be a viewer, and I’m constantly exploring new ways to enjoy this treasure trove of entertainment. Here are three distinct viewing styles I’ve discovered along the way.
1. Binge-Watching
Binge-watching is the art of devouring several hours of a single show in one sitting, whether it’s a brand-new series or a beloved classic. This method allows you to dive deep into a story, relive your favorites, or catch up before a new season premieres. I’ve indulged in shows like Gilmore Girls, Parenthood, and Downton Abbey through this method. Some series, like Twin Peaks and 24, I’ve revisited multiple times. Though I wish I’d tackled Lost this way, I don’t think I have the stamina to rewatch that mind-bending journey.
2. Purge-Watching
This term was a revelation for me! It’s similar to being “pot-committed” in poker: once you’ve invested enough time, it feels impossible to quit. My first experience with purge-watching came while trudging through Star Trek: Enterprise, which was a painful chapter in the franchise. I was relieved when it was canceled, finally freeing me from its grasp. Recently, I tried purge-watching The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. Initially excited due to my admiration for Tina Fey, I found myself disappointed as the show devolved into a series of erratic sketches. By the end, I was just watching to say I had tried my best—what a letdown!
3. Hate-Watching
I didn’t even realize “hate-watching” was a thing until I found myself doing it! I followed The Newsroom for a while, but eventually, the clever dialogue and blatant sexism became too much. Still, I can’t resist America’s Next Top Model. I started watching for the laughs—like models posing while birds pooped on them—and soon became hooked on Tyra Banks’ hilarious antics. I cringe at the contestants’ delusions of grandeur, yet I can’t help but watch every episode, even as they phase out my favorite judges. I admit it, I loathe it, but I also can’t stop watching.
In my viewing life, there’s space for all these experiences. I can binge, purge, and hate-watch with equal enthusiasm.
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Summary
In the ever-evolving world of streaming, viewers have adopted diverse approaches to enjoying their favorite shows. Binge-watching allows for immersive experiences, while purge-watching can feel like a necessary chore. Hate-watching offers a guilty pleasure that keeps us coming back for more, even when we know we should stop. Each method has its own appeal, making our viewing journeys uniquely entertaining.