'Orange is the New Black' is the fifth (or fourth depending on how you count season 4 of Arrest Development) original series developed and distributed by Netflix. The show was created by Jenji Kohan who created the Showtime show 'Weeds'. The show has been received well by both critics and viewers. After watching the series myself, I couldn't agree more. 

The show is based on a memoir by Piper Kerman entitled Orange Is The New Black. The story follows lead character Piper Chapman as she is incarcerated for smuggling drug money for her then girlfriend Alex Vause, played by 'That '70s Show' veteran Laura Prepon. Piper comes from quite a bit different world than the majority of the other women in the prison and learning to adjust to her new surroundings encompasses the bulk of the story.

Photo Courtesy of @oitnb, Instagram
Photo Courtesy of @oitnb, Instagram
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As we watch Piper learn to adjust to prison life; we are also treated to the back stories of the other prison inmates and how they ended up in prison. And it's these supporting characters where the show really shines in my opinion. The ensemble cast that has been put together for the show is what sets this the quality of this show so high. and possibly why I watched the entire series in one weekend!

Photo Courtesy of Facebook
Photo Courtesy of Facebook
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As we've come to expect from Ms. Kohan, the writing is superb. She is very capable of capturing real human interaction, minus the excessive immaturity of Diablo Cody. Over the thirteen episode season I found myself becoming deeply sympathetic to all the plight of every character.

I'm hooked on this show, and will likely return to watch it again (albeit at a much slower pace). Apparently Netflix enjoyed the show so much that they renewed it for a second season before the show was even released to the public. No official date as to when we will receive season 2, but I can assure you I will welcome it with open arms.

Let me know what you think of my recommendation in the comments and be sure to leave any suggestions for me to check out!

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