Sometimes creating lists is a helpful way to structure memories and account for time spent. For 2020, I spent a great amount of time watching the news. I also enjoyed some quality content across Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Showtime and more recently Disney. Here is what I remember and liked for 2020.

The Queens Gambit: if you love chess (and drinking), you will love this badasss female genius Beth who conquers the world of chess in the 1960s. I was reinvigorated to start playing more chess again after watching this series. Although I do not think 10+ steps ahead, and I don't have ceiling visions yet.

Halt and Catch Fire: (all 4 seasons) One of the best tech life stories - exploring the evolution of the PC and World Wide Web. It takes a few episodes to get into the story, but then the characters like Joe, Cameron, Gordan and Donna became part of my alternate reality TV family. I had a renewed zest for the tech space and being an entrepreneur from this series.

I May Destroy You: This British drama, partial comedy, was really intense in a good profound way. The lead character Arabella had so much depth and variety; it was fascinating to watch her story unfold and resolve.

Euphoria: Another intense series starring two phenomenal actresses Zendaya as Rue and Hunter Schafer as Jules. Identity, sexuality, and addiction are explored by the teenage characters in a way that feels gritty, real and often somber.

Unorthodox: My parents had recommended this show to me because it's about a young Jewish woman named Esty. The show starts off in familiar Williamsburg - Brooklyn and then moves to Berlin. I really enjoyed this and I think most people would irrespective if you are Jewish or not.

Ramy: (2 seasons): A semi autobiographical story about Ramy, a muslim American living in New Jersey. I really enjoyed this humorous and insightful series exploring both the culture of Islam as well as many universal truths about spirituality and love.

Lovecraft Country: A unique mix of black history + culture meets Indiana Jones. The rebirthing / swapping body scenes are spectacular.

My Brilliant Friend (2 seasons) Italian story about two young girls, Lenù and Lila, who grow up in Naples and develop a tumultuous and often tender friendship over time. The story is based upon the novel from Elena Ferrante, and the original season premiered in 2018 and the long awaited second season was in 2020. The characters are rich, well developed and the story is beautifully shared.

Devs: a philosophical and engaging series about technology, innovation, success and mortality. I was intrigued throughout and Lily is a great leading character. For a lighter version of this tech and humanity theme - Upload is also fun to watch.

Normal People: Based on Sally Rooney's novel, this Irish story is about love, friendship and social class.