How to Netflix and chill when you don’t have Netflix
Planning a date night with a friend and one of Netflix's competitors? We've rounded up the 10 TV shows and movies perfect for wooing any prospective partner.
Romance doesn't have to mean flashy clothes, fancy dinners and overpriced taxi rides. Thanks to the rise of online streaming services, "Netflix and chill" has become a popular alternative to the traditional date night, especially for those seeking a more casual relationship through services like Tinder.
But what happens if you've spurned Netflix for the embrace of another streaming service? Will "Stan and chill" or "Foxtel Now and chill" work instead? Good news: they totally will. And to make things easier, we've picked out their most date-worthy titles for whatever mood the night puts you in.
For when you're on a mystery date
One online-dating tactic is to post minimal information about yourself on your profile, eliciting a shroud of mystery. This doesn’t make your date’s job any easier as they flounder helplessly for ideas. Fear not, Friends is the universally adored staple of the entertainment world. This is an easy choice for first-time dates.
For when you're on a double date
Some online dates aren’t as random as others. Finding a few mutual friends is not only a good in but also an easy way to preclude disaster by sussing out your potential suitor beforehand. Plus, you already have one thing in common: the single life. Meanwhile, all your mutual buddies are tying the knot and having kids. There couldn’t be a more appropriate movie for this situation than Four Weddings and a Funeral.
For when they just don't know
You and a long-time friend come across each other on Tinder and playfully swipe right. Little do they know, you’ve been pining for them for years, you’ve just never had the guts to say it or they’ve taken your advances as friendly banter. Watching The Princess Diaries should clarify things for your Tinder date. Note: There’s also a high chance your long-time friend knows how you feel but has politely declined your advances. Don’t be a chump.
For when you're feeling romantic
Boil some spaghetti, drown it in Campbell’s tomato soup and chuck on Lady and the Tramp. This is one of the easiest ways to get a sloppy, delicious kiss on the first date.
For when you're a nervous wreck
This one’s a no-brainer. If you’re feeling out of your league and a little bit nervous on your Tinder date, throw on The Inbetweeners. The series or movies are both fine. Not only will it break the tension with a few laughs but after experiencing the gang’s pathetic attempts at wooing the opposite sex, you’ll look like Prince or Princess Charming by comparison.
For when you need to know their sense of humour
Bad movies are a great way of sussing out your date's sense of humour, and Batman & Robin is one of the best bad movies ever made. Does your date crack up at the cheesy one-liners, or are they scoffing under their breath? Do they appreciate the lunacy of Arnie's "Ice to see you" quip as much as you do? If not, you might want to think about swiping left...
For when you're feeling warm and fuzzy
This heat-warming comedy starring Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston explores the excitement of newlywed life and the challenges of raising a family. With the titular dog Marley taking centre stage, Marley & Me is ideal for snuggling up with that date you're thinking about settling down with.
For when they're not who they said they were
Did your date advertise themselves as the perfect partner but instead is a guy named Jeff who just needs a lounge to crash on? Not cool, Jeff. Watching Catfish should remind him that identity fraud on a first date is totally unacceptable behaviour.
For when they're getting on your nerves
This hit series starring Mads Mikkelsen as the titular cannibal is not for the squeamish. Hannibal is bound to put a dampener on any date. If things are off to a rough start, this one will have your date running for the door in no time. *For added effect, repeatedly lick your lips during particularly gory scenes.
For when they've gone AWOL
Eating by yourself at a table booked for two? Pssh, it's their loss. Head on home and commiserate with the rom-com Bridesmaids. Not only will it provide some much-needed laughs, it's a great reminder that even the sorriest situations have a silver lining.
Latest streaming headlines
Fetch TV adds Hayu to its streaming mix
Get your reality TV fix on the Fetch Mighty set-top box. Read more…
What’s new to Foxtel Now in August?
Top of the Lake returns, Thrones continues and Maggie Beer has been exiled to Japan. Read more…
Creator of The Simpsons bringing new comedy series to Netflix
The show will star elves, demons and drunken princesses. Read more…
What’s new on Netflix, Stan and Amazon Prime Video in August 2017?
Netflix defends, Stan laughs and Amazon Prime Video has a helping of The Tick in August's round-up of fresh streaming video content. Read more…
Game of Thrones Season 7, Episode 2: Dragonglass, direwolves and hot pies
Our spoiler-filled review of Game of Thrones Season 7, Episode 2 "Stormborn". Read more…
Picture: Shutterstock
