Binge Watch on Netflix: If you’re on the lookout for TV shows that break the mould, push boundaries, and offer something refreshingly different, this article is for you. From surrealist comedies to insightful mockumentaries, these series bring a unique flavour to the small screen. Whether you’re into the heartfelt struggles of a stand-up comic, the absurd humour of sketch comedy, or the relatable antics of Irish teenagers, there’s something here to captivate your interest. Dive into these five standout shows that offer a blend of humour, heart, and originality, making them must-watch additions to your streaming list.
1. Lady Dynamite
Created By- Pam Brady and Mitch Hurwitz
Starring- Maria Bamford, Fred Melamed, Mary Kay Place, and Olafur Dam Olafsson
Lady Dynamite is a Netflix original surrealist comedy show from the mind of the guy who also created Arrested Development (which is the best show on the planet, at least the first 3 seasons). In Lady Dynamite, actress/stand-up comic Maria Bamford plays a version of herself who wants to build back her career after seeking treatment for bipolar disorder. Her well-meaning but incompetent agent, Bruce Ben-Bacharach tries to help her. Lady Dynamite is a very interesting TV show, which can sometimes be tough to watch as the main character falls to the depth of her depression. Maria Bamford is absolutely amazing in the show.
2. American Vandal
Created By- Dan Peerault and Tony Yacenda
Starring- Tyler Alvarez, Griffin Gluck, and Jimmy Tatro
American Vandal is a mockumentary television series that is a parody of popular Netflix true crime documentaries, Making a Murder and Serial. There have been only 2 seasons of the show and each season follows a different subject. The first season follows Dylan Maxwell, a high school senior who is expelled from school under the suspicion of vandalizing 27 faculty cars with phallic images. To uncover the actual truth, two sophomores Peter Maldonado and Sam Ecklund start an investigation where they interview different people. American Vandal is a fantastic series that satirizes true crime documentaries while simultaneously being very insightful.
3. I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson
Created By- Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin
Starring- Tim Robinson, Patti Harrison, Sam Richardson, and Zach Kanin
I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson is a Netflix original sketch comedy television show. The sketch comedy leans heavily towards cringe comedy and surrealist humour. Episodes usually last 16 to 18 minutes and feature not only Robinson but several other acclaimed sketch comedians. I Think You Should Leave is definitely a weird show but worth a watch if you enjoy sketch comedy and absurdist humor. If you enjoy Monty Python, then I Think You Should Leave is up your alley.
4. The Disastrous Life Of Saiki K.
Created By- Shuichi Aso
Written By- Michiko Yokote
The Disastrous Life Of Saiki K. is an anime that follows Kusuo Saiki, a high school student who possesses psychic abilities, like psychokinesis and teleportation. Saiki K tries to hide his powers but encounters a host of unique individuals who need his powers to resolve their problems. I am not a big Anime girlie but this show is hilarious.
5. Derry Girls
Created By- Lisa McGee
Starring- Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Louisa Harland, Nicola Coughlan, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, and Dylan Llewellyn
Derry Girls is an Irish television series that was inspired by McGee’s experiences growing up in Derry, Northern Ireland. The show follows 5 teenagers living in Derry. Although the show is mostly fictional, it does frequently refer to actual events like Bill Clinton visiting Northern Ireland, IRA ceasefire, and the Troubles.
