Comedies on Netflix that need your attention
Comedy is one of the most joyous genres of entertainment. Thank heavens, then, for the wide library of Netflix, which is here to service all of our laughter needs. So, here are some of the funniest shows on Netflix streaming right now.
The Good Place
The Good Place
This show is an afterlife comedy, which focuses on Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell), who finds herself in “the good place” after her life comes to an end. Though told this is because she's led a good, altruistic life, Eleanor knows she's pretty much a terrible person and is only in this utopia because of its architect's (Ted Danson) mistake. With this limitless, fictional world, the makers are able to take chances and create a truly goofy show that still deals with morality and other philosophical issues. While the first season is great, a spoiler-filled twist really opens up the show's potential in its second season.
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
The title may initially turn you off – as may its status as a romantic comedy and musical hybrid - but as protagonist Rebecca Bunch will tell you, the situation with Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is a lot more nuanced than that. The show spends just as much time churning out catchy and clever tunes as it does exploring the depths of mental illness, sometimes simultaneously, but stops just short of becoming an outright dark drama thanks to the immaculate comedic timing of its stellar cast, led by Rachel Bloom as Rebecca and Donna Lynne Champlin as her coworker and best friend, Paula.
The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
This joyful series has no business being so sunny, especially considering its dark premise: Kimmy, kidnapped as a teenager and forced to live among a doomsday cult in an underground bunker, is finally rescued, and trying to rebuild her life. But she is strong and determined to make the most of her freedom. A cast of supporting characters helps her through her transition, whether it's figuring out what slang is outdated, or how best to kill the sentient robot you suspect is sleeping with your husband. The show also delves deep into the psychological toll the kidnapping had on Kimmy, but despite the serious material, the show maintains its fascinating charm.
Gilmore Girls
Gilmore Girls
This comedic slice of life follows Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham), a strong and sassy single mother, and her academic daughter Rory (Alexis Bledel). Living in the small New England town of Stars Hollow, the two women seek fulfillment and love. Lorelai, having dropped out of school after getting pregnant, wants to get her career on track, while Rory struggles with the pressure to succeed in school, navigating teenage rivalries and young love. Lighthearted and episodic, Gilmore Girls is as comforting as a warm cup of coffee with a slice of cake. Netflix has also recently released four 90-minute episodes that pick up the story right where the original series left off.