Gef Box: What lies beyond the silo?

Let’s learn some stuff… or we could watch a sci-fi that has no impact on our understanding of reality whatsoever. But it looks like a good watch!

Silo

A science-fiction series which is set in what remains of the world following an apocalyptic situation. Only 10,000 people are left on Earth, all residing in a silo underground.

Silo is based on Hugh Howey’s novels of the same name and stars Rebecca Ferguson, rapper Common, David Oyelowo, Iain Glen, Rashida Jones and Tim Robbins.

Ferguson’s character seeks truths about the mysterious silo she inhabits, as she lives by a set of strict regulations that are supposedly there for everyone’s protection. No one knows when or why the silo was created. As she continues to investigate, she uncovers a web of lies.

Find it on Apple TV+. It starts streaming on Friday.

Naked Education

Professionals discuss the pros and cons of cosmetic surgery with teens. Yinka Bokinni, Love Island‘s Dr Alex George and presenter Anna Richardson go on a mission to normalise all body types, champion our differences and break down stereotypes.

Watch its latest episode on Tuesday at 8pm or catch the full series on All4.

This clip discusses if this should be shown in schools. Writer and mum of two girls Tinuke Bernard makes the case that this should be taught in schools. However, relationship coach and mum of two boys Fahima Mahomed disagrees.

Binge-worthy box sets

I Am Not Okay With This

This intensely dark comedy was first released in 2020, and it’s a series I often think back to.

Sydney Novak is a teenager attempting to negotiate the hell on earth that high school can represent. She must do this while dealing with the complexities of her family life and navigating her budding sexuality… oh, and understanding her superpowers that have just started to make themselves known. 

Sophia Lillis is fantastic as she completely disappears into the character of Sydney. She is accompanied on-screen by Sofia Bryant and Sophia Tatum… I’m sure it was just a coincidence. But everyone is brilliant in their own right, making this one of the best series I’ve seen Netflix produce.

There’s something about this that makes it feel unique, whether you attribute that to Sydney’s exploration of her sexuality or even the show’s analysis of rage in adolescents.

Find I Am Not Okay With This on Netflix. 

Jump in anywhere

Down to Earth with Zac Efron

I never really got over my Zac Efron phase, so I obviously had to jump on this when it first came out in 2020.

This documentary series follows the actor as he travels the world with wellness expert Darin Olien to find healthy and sustainable ways to live. They visit France, Puerto Rico, London, Iceland, Costa Rica, Peru and Sardinia. The most eye-opening for me was during the pair’s visit to Iceland when they discussed how its 100% renewable energy portfolio consisted of geothermal and hydroelectric power. They visited one of its plants.

It does a good job of covering hard science and making it clear when pseudoscience or other beliefs may be involved.

It’s very refreshing to see Efron ready to try anything, whether it be a strange food or odd experience, and he helps keep the tone as light as it is. It was certainly a great way to get younger people interested in sustainable living (at least, it worked for me). Go for the Efron, stay for the brilliant overview of green methods.

It’s currently available on Netflix.