Shows to Sizzle Up Your Summer

Parks and Rec

BagoGames/ Flickr

If you ever need any sort of reassurance that it’s all going to be okay regardless of how colossally you muck it up, then this mockumentary is perfect for you. The protagonist, Leslie Knope, is a goofy, loveable government official who always seems to get herself into awkward situations that incur the wrath of conservative Indiana.

Whether it’s officiating marriages between two gay penguins, giving sex education to the elderly, or accidentally getting drunk before a nationally televised interview when campaigning for city councilwoman, Leslie always finds a way to deal with the situation with inspiration and hilarity. The wide array of bizarre and amusing characters and plots make the show a must see for summer.

The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

This show is wacky and ridiculous in all the right ways. A 29-year-old woman escapes from a doomsday cult after being held hostage for 15 years. It’s not as dark as it sounds; in fact, it’s a comedy, brought to us by the genius behind Mean Girls, queen Tina Fey.

Kimmy’s best friend, Titus, is a role model for those of us whose lives and futures are a little messy and unguided (I’m looking at you, fellow humanities students); he is proof that you don’t have to have your life together to be fabulous. Also, the theme tune is absolute fire – literally, YouTube it right now. You’re welcome.

Modern Family

Image: Yahoo/ Flickr

Two words: Sofia Vergara. This mockumentary follows grumpy, traditional Jay Pritchett, his two adult children, and their respective families. Sofia Vergara plays Jay’s younger, beautiful, Latina wife, and she’s absolute comedy gold. Her fiery temper and melodramatic personality make her a hilarious character.

I’d be lying if I said her portrayal of the stereotypical spicy Latina isn’t somewhat problematic, but she’s so hilarious and iconic that I’m willing to overlook the slight cliché. Besides, she often shows herself to be so much more than a two dimensional, Hispanic stock character – for example, when she proves herself to be an expert chess player or a shrewd businesswoman later in the series. The show in itself is a perfect mix of comedy and heartfelt emotion, making it a fantastic choice for some light-hearted summer viewing.