I've gotten mixed responses from the co-worker folk so I'll bring the discussion here:
Which series should I next spend my time binge watching?
The Wire - Prison Break - House of Cards
Currently the plan was to start with the British Office, then move on to the drama world. And I've gotten good persuading arguments on each of the above shows. I've been wanting to watch House of Cards for a while, but am leaning toward The Wire, but have some co-workers in the middle of Prison Break and lovin' it.... Hit me with your best argument.
I have seen all of these and as such I feel qualified to give you advice on this matter.
First Off - We need to rank them in three categories; Content, Watchability, and Bingeability.
Content
1) The Wire
2) House of Cards
3) Prison Break
The Wire is one of the greatest, most realistic dramas of all time. There are epic quotes, epic characters, and some really cool plot lines. House of Cards is a blend of realistic/unrealistic, predictable/unpredictable, but if you are into government/law dramas it will keep you glued to your seat. Kevin Spacey does a great job and Kate Mara is solid, solid girl next door material. Prison Break - similar to House of Cards - is a mixed bag with reality and predictability, but will entertain. There are some small slight details and inferences, but for the most part you can just zone out and watch.
Watchability
1) Prison Break
2) The Wire
3) House of Cards
As previously stated - PB is easy to watch. The Wire is enthralling, but can bog down at times. House of Cards is more about the dialogue than the cinematogrpahy - I found myself looking away from the screen and just listening to the dialogue alot.
Bingeability
1) Prison Break
2) House of Cards
3) The Wire
Prison Break can be crushed. Many episodes within a season, but a rainy weekend and PB is a dangerous combination if you were hoping to leave your couch. House of Cards does a good job at leaving unanswered questions and pulling you through the season. Again - I stress - you have to be into this sort of drama to feel the pull. I could see how some could find it boring. The Wire can be binged within one season, but it is a heavy, heavy drama and I often found myself reluctant to start the next season after finishing a finale. Not that I didn't enjoy it, but it takes a lot out of you.
All in all...
I'd say HoC first (only two seasons and it is an interesting, quick watch with awesome characters).
Wire second because it is awesome.
And Prison Break in between Wire seasons/episodes when you feel like you need a pick me up.
Good luck, PJ! And enjoy!