The great thing about these comedies is that they are not mind-numbing: they hit the sweet spot between uplifting and entertaining. Each of them carries meaning as well as true comedy gold. Perhaps what makes comedy really amazing is its ability to release tension, how it can empower us through relatable stories many of which are drawn from the author’s own. Characters unveil their vulnerability and it feels like a privilege to witness their journey.
5. Master of None
This show is slightly more ‘intellectually’ funny than the others, you will love following conversations and interactions that not-so-subtlety hint at broader current issues. It is a remarkable performance to toe the line between slice of life comedy and social commentary and Master of None does it in style and finesse. Aziz Anzari’s comedy style shines through and it is a pleasure to follow him across the hilarity, awkwardness and puzzles of this journey.
IMDB rating and synopsis: The personal and professional life of Dev, a 30-year-old actor in New York. 8,3.
Created by: Aziz Ansari, Alan Yang
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3x9t51hthZA&w=560&h=315]
4. Broad city
This show might seem lighthearted at first yet the writers show great talent in handling serious issues with humour without loosing their essence. It has great cathartic power and hilarious situations infused with girl power energy, complex attaching characters that evolve throughout the show. A unique -sometimes conceptual- perspective of life in New York through struggles that many will relate to.
IMDB rating and synopsis: Broad City follows two women throughout their daily lives in New York City, making the smallest and mundane events hysterical and disturbing to watch all at the same time. 8,3
Created by: Ilana Glazer, Abbi Jacobson
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC_xGWSkRKc&w=560&h=315]
3. Grace and Frankie
Perhaps you would not think you could get into this show at first, because it centres around the life of two grandmothers. It will show you time after time why you are wrong, and how these amazing women are way more than what society at large (and their children) would like to define them. Grace and Frankie is groundbreaking and liberating for its honestly and panache. Just watch it.
IMDB rating and synopsis: Finding out that their husbands are not just work partners, but have also been romantically involved for the last twenty years, two women with an already strained relationship try to cope with the circumstances together. 8,3.
Created by: Marta Kauffman, Howard J. Morris
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDv6PRi1SgQ&w=560&h=315]
2. Please Like Me
The universe of Please Like Me transports you throughout the ups and downs of Josh and his social circle, in a nonchalant way that accomplishes wonders without even looking to try. For its humility and grace, it is a truly unique and wonderful show that puts in perspective life’s hardships. This show did make me cry, therefore if you are feeling a bit fragile perhaps start with another one on the list. Features Hannah Gatsby as Hannah.
IMDB rating and synopsis: Please like me explores the life of twenty something Josh after his best friend and girlfriend helps him realise his sexual orientation which leads to a breakup and a lot of new territory to explore while he helps with his mother’s depression and with the help of his friends. 8,3.
Created by: Josh Thomas
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_UnMGk_qwI&w=560&h=315]
1. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
If you need an effective pick-me-up, go for this show and you will be served with hilarity of the most exquisite taste. You will be taken aback and pulled in, surprised when you where preparing for the expected, overwhelmed by a warm fuzzy feeling when you thought you might cringe. What’s even better, the characters evolve quickly out of their sharply defined traits: beware, you will get attached. You might recognised some scenes from memes you’ve seen around: yes it is that good, even if you haven’t watched it all. Do yourself a favour and get on it.
IMDB rating and synopsis: Jake Peralta, an immature, but talented N.Y.P.D. detective in Brooklyn’s 99th Precinct, comes into immediate conflict with his new commanding officer, the serious and stern Captain Ray Holt. 8,4.
Created by: Dan Goor, Michael Schur
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6G_RMGk3vs&w=560&h=315]
I hope this list gave you some good binge-watching material, please let me know if you have any suggestions to share and enjoy! Check out another TV show selection 5 Empowering TV series with female leads
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