Expand Your EQ and IQ with 6 Streaming Options

What if you could install a chip in your head that recorded every interaction and allowed you to save and file memories much like a computer?  What problems may arise? How do you define cruel and unusual punishment and how far is too far? Black Mirror is a modern-day Twilight Zone that, rather than using apocalyptic worlds and gremlins, uses technology and the world that we almost live in to get you thinking.  Each episode is free standing so browse the list and pick one that captures your attention to get started.  You’ll be chatting up the implications of each episode for days and learning more and more about one another through discussion. Watch a preview for the latest season at Our Future?.

With a series premiere that has you wondering until the last five minutes we won’t expand too much on the details in fear of releasing any spoilers, but you’ve got to see this show.  Real life told in a non-linear way that reminds you of how your life, your childhood, and your experiences has helped shape who you are (like Pulp Fiction without the drugs, violence, and language…very loosely like Pulp Fiction).  This new drama tugs at heart strings in every episode with circumstances that are closer to reality than fantastical instances we often see on network shows.  You’ll be processing with each other about the emotional impacts of each situation and how you would individually handle it. Watch a preview at This Is Us/Courage/Happiness/Support/etc.

Hosted by the unmatched Neil deGrasse Tyson this limited series takes you on an intergalactic trip through time and space exploring just how small in this universe you are.  Don’t fret, though, he also explains how you, yes you, are made of “star stuff.”  We dare you to pretend that doesn’t get you excited!  Spur Experiences advice: don’t lose faith in the first three minutes as the video quality is uncharacteristically poor for the intro; the visual effects are much better after that. Watch a preview at We Are Really, Really Small.

Christopher Nolan is a brilliant filmmaker who has brought us some of the most thought provoking movies in the modern film era.  From the oddly pieced together Momento, to the immersive world of Inception, not to mention the best incarnation of the Joker we’ve ever seen Nolan has a unique mind for movie-making.  Pair that with renowned physicist and co-writer Kip Thorne and you have a theoretically accurate (if unlikely) telling of quantum physics, the mystery of black holes, and the impact of gravity.  While the movie’s plot may not grasp your heart in ways others might, the fact that the science in this movie is validated and as accurate as physicists currently understand makes this a thoroughly mind boggling flick. Watch a preview at: More Gravity = Slower Time.

Leon is from Los Angeles with a suspiciously English accent and a dream to travel around the world on his vintage motorbike relying on the kindness of strangers.  He has no money and refuses to accept any from anyone.  Instead, it’s all about the goodwill from others through a tank of gas, free wakeboarding lessons, food, and even a bed.  The narrative nudges along at times with splotchy advancement on his quest that makes you ask “wait, how did he get there?”  This is due to the limited budget on the show’s trial run so we let it slide.  The real benefit to watching is seeing the humanity in those he encounters and gets you discussing whether you’d give to Leon, house him, or shoo him off on his scooter.  The “bed” he’s offered in Pittsburgh will make you appreciate what you have. Watch a preview at: Be Kind.

You might have to add The Shining to watch before and after this documentary.  Stanley Kubrick, one of the most prolific movie directors of all time, appears to be intentional with every shot in The Shining to the point that these experts believe he was trying to tell a much deeper story.  Well-argued theories include Kubrick’s assistance in faking the Moon Landing, a political statement acknowledging how indigenous Americans were pushed off of their lands, and inappropriate father/son relations.  This is not a documentary for the faint of heart as it delves into somewhat sickening themes but is for those who can find appreciation in the art of film-making and the joy of trying to discover meaning in between the lines. Watch a preview at: Here's Johnny! Any other ideas for streaming shows and movies that help expand your EQ and IQ?  Let us know!