As a connoisseur of heartwarming stories and a lover of laughter, I must say that this year has been a veritable feast for my eyes and soul! The array of shows you’ve highlighted showcases the incredible talent we have in our industry today, each one unique in its own right.
2024 marked the comeback of cherished comedy series such as “Hacks,” “Abbott Elementary,” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” along with the ongoing, albeit somewhat confusing, episodes of shows like “The Bear.” The year also introduced fresh series with varying amounts of raw emotion, complexity, and innovative twists in their storylines.
In a similar fashion, these fresh series captivate viewers with their spot-on comedic delivery, insights into everyday life, and illumination of absurdities that reflect our own reality. Top-notch comedy encompasses relevance to modern conversations as well as touching on shared feelings and apprehensions, whether it’s romance or drama.
Without further ado, these are some of the funniest comedies that debuted in 2024.
10 ‘Palm Royale’
In a nutshell, “Palm Royale” is a blend of nostalgic drama and side-splitting humor. It takes place in 1969 and follows Maxine Dellacorte-Simmons (Kristen Wiig), a determined woman eager to fit into Palm Beach’s elite circle. The grand resort, Palm Royale, serves as her gateway to glamour and high society. But let me tell you, her time at the resort is nothing if not enlightening!
A Wicked, Humorous Delight
In addition to Wiig, notable figures such as Laura Dern, Carol Burnett, and Ricky Martin offer remarkable contributions, going beyond the perceived limits and typical behaviors that some people might expect. This groundbreaking show, Palm Royale, offers a captivating narrative for viewers while providing a glamorous, humorous, and ironic perspective on exclusivity and the pursuit of perfection.
Stream on Apple TV+
9 ‘High Potential’
High Potential is an American remake of the French-Belgian series HPI, featuring Kaitlin Olson as Morgan, a hardworking mom with an extraordinarily high intelligence quotient. Following her initial aid in a homicide investigation, Morgan takes on the role of consultant for the LAPD. As she assists the Major Crimes division in resolving apparent cold cases, Morgan also employs these resources to search for clues regarding the whereabouts of her first boyfriend and Ava’s (Amirah J) father.
Unconventional Crime Busting Done Better
Although High Potential may seem like a typical police procedural at first glance, its true charm stems from Olson’s exceptional acting performance. As Morgan, she injects a unique spirit into the commonly formulaic genre, offering viewers a fresh take on the hero character. Similar to other shows that know how to make the absurd entertaining, High Potential has left audiences in fits of laughter and pleasantly surprised.
8 ‘Fantasmas’
The show titled “Fantasmas” continues in the vein of SNL alum Julio Torres’ unique, surrealistic series called “Problemista.” Starring himself, the show depicts Torres wandering around New York City on a quest for a golden oyster earring. Along his adventure, he encounters an array of eccentric characters who poke fun at aspects of everyday life that deserve scrutiny.
A Quirky Analysis of Contemporary Life
The show “Fantasmas” stands out due to its clever use of irony, incisive observations on life under late-stage capitalism, and the unbridled ingenuity displayed by artists such as Torres and his collaborators. Employing the absurd as a tool for analysis or critique is certainly not novel, but this series manages to weave sincere and thoughtful sketches that result in a compelling, essential tale about the human condition.
Stream on Max
7 ‘Boarders’
Among numerous successful partnerships between the BBC and Tubi, “Boarders” stands out as a dramedy that chronicles the journey of five black British teenagers who gain admission into an exclusive boarding school. With an opportunity to cultivate their minds and skills, and the school aiming to improve its image following a scandal caused by a leaked controversial video, a complex, advantageous deal unfolds. The outcome is one of the most hilarious and genuine coming-of-age stories that 2024 has to present.
A Quintessential Gen Z Dramedy
A good comedy usually features a diverse group of characters who are both relatable and unconventional, often challenging stereotypes. The cast of Boarders not only meets but surpasses these expectations, providing viewers with unique comedic perspectives on topics like race, class, gender, and the weight of generational aspirations and pain. For those seeking an engaging teen series on streaming platforms, Boarders is undoubtedly the top choice.
Stream on Tubi
6 ‘Kaos’
In simple terms, “Kaos” stands as one of the most impressive recent additions to the extensive realm of Greek mythology adaptations. The series is narrated by Titan Prometheus (Stephen Dillane), who primarily focuses on a prophecy involving three humans. Punished for helping humanity, Prometheus devises a strategy to dethrone Zeus (Jeff Goldblum), whose troubles only intensify with time. As anxiety and suspicion escalate, “Kaos” offers up some darkly amusing scenes that could linger in fans’ minds long after its untimely cancellation.
A Comically Chaotic Chase for the Crown
In the political game depicted throughout the show “Kaos,” it stands as one of the superior, contemporary adaptations of ancient Greek myths. It emphasizes significant flaws such as arrogance, cruelty, and greed, skillfully utilizing strong performances and the high-stakes conflict at its core. As the story unfolds, initially disparate storylines gradually come together, leading to a humble yet intelligent series, making it one of Netflix’s top choices in 2024.
Stream on Netflix
5 ‘The Franchise’
This television show, titled “The Franchise“, offers viewers an exclusive look at the chaotic backstage happenings within a renowned film studio, focusing on the making of a blockbuster superhero movie. The quirky director Eric (Daniel Brühl) and his eclectic crew are at the heart of the series, which captures both the amusing and grueling aspects of film production. Sharing living space with an ex-partner might be awkward under normal circumstances, but add the stress of a rapidly evolving work environment, and it becomes downright disconcerting. The Franchise masterfully portrays this chaos with a blend of emotion and humor.
A Witty Battle of the Egos
It goes without saying that the satirical approach to uncovering what exactly goes behind a Marvel movie, or in this case, a Maximum Studios set, provides the series with a lot to play off of. While it may appear to be a harsh critique of superhero films itself, The Franchise comically and concretely critiques major studio involvement in these stories, giving a megaphone to the criticisms that fans of said stories have voiced for years. With hilarious delivery from the likes of Aya Cash and Himesh Patel, The Franchise is a zany and self-conscious look at film production.
4 ‘How to Die Alone’
Natasha Rothwell, known for her role in The White Lotus, moved viewers with her new project titled How to Die Alone. This story focuses on Mel (played by Rothwell), a black woman who works at JFK Airport and battles self-doubt, loneliness, and fear. A close brush with death sparks a determination in Mel to break out of her shell and embrace life fully. In her final moments, she yearns to witness the realization of her dreams scrolling before her eyes, as one last, poignant memory before she “dies alone.
Highlights Absurdity Despite Dark Subject Matter
Despite, or perhaps even because of its grim theme, “How to Die Alone” brilliantly delves into the profound sense of isolation experienced by numerous individuals. Additionally, it sheds light on the marginalization endured by black women, those who are overweight, and introverts, masterfully portraying the subtle dehumanization that many encounter in their daily lives.
Despite the series being filled with numerous comedic scenes, it brilliantly portrays the absurdity of life, making characters such as Mel (myself), her brother Brian (Jocko Sims), her ex Alex (KeiLyn Durrel Jones), and her best friend Rory (Conrad Ricamora) cherish the radiant moments found in casual conversations with friends, trips down memory lane, and shared glances towards an uncertain future.
3 ‘Bad Monkey’
In the narrative of “Bad Monkey,” Vince Vaughn portrays Andrew Yancy, a detective who has just been freed from his duties. Now tasked with inspecting restaurants, he finds himself drawn into a transcontinental conspiracy when a dismembered arm is found off the shore of southern Florida. At the same time, Neville, played by Ronald Peet, is a Bahamian fisherman whose home is under threat due to American developers planning to turn it into another resort. As these two realms intersect, “Bad Monkey” offers an insightful and genuinely captivating exploration of greed and corruption.
A Whimsical, Wild Goose Chase
It’s hard to overlook the impressive choice of actors in this production. Each player delivers a solid performance that not only advances the plot but also sets the tone for the humorous, lively atmosphere that makes “Bad Monkey” an entertaining viewing experience. From the quirky nature of the mystery, the charming chemistry between characters such as Yancy and Rosa (Natalie Martinez), to the side-splitting acts by Meredith Hagner, “Bad Monkey” is a compelling blend of mystery, drama, and humor that’s worth watching.
2 ‘Dead Hot’
In a fresh team-up between BBC and Tubi, I’m excitedly looking forward to the release of “Dead Hot.” Starring Layla’s Bilal Hasna and Rye Lane’s Vivian Oparah, this campy, humorous murder mystery promises to keep us on the edge of our seats. Following the untimely demise of his partner and her brother, best friends Elliott (Hasna) and Jess (Oparah) join forces to unravel the truth. However, little do they know that their first encounter with a new love interest is just one piece of a much larger puzzle, implicating everyone around them in a tangled web of suspicion.
A Deliciously Disorienting Mystery With Razor Sharp Comedy
Without reservation or apology, the campy vibe of “Dead Hot” feels utterly genuine. Scenes involving physical humor or sharp dialogue, which might appear forced in other narratives, come across as genuinely authentic, making them all the more entertaining. The relationship between Elliott and Jess is both beautiful and complex, and the series effectively explores their bond, mutual struggles, and instances of frustration. Additionally, the acting by Penelope Wilton, Peter Serafinowicz, and a particularly humorous performance by Alan Turkington enhance the mysteriously intriguing enigma that forms the core of “Dead Hot“.
1 ‘Nobody Wants This’
There is no desire for This depicts two individuals from distinct backgrounds finding an inexplicable connection, navigating through the memorable instances and the repercussions of their contrasting lifestyles intertwining. When Joanne (Kristen Bell) and Noah (Adam Brody) cross paths through a mutual acquaintance, the chemistry between them is palpable. Nevertheless, Joanne being the leader of a sex and dating podcast and Noah being a rabbi, their social circles and preferences seemed disparate at first glance, but that was about to change.
By separating and combining these elements, viewers are treated to an intricately woven tale of love that mirrors the diverse responses and survival strategies we employ in response to life’s unforeseen twists and turns.
A Splendidly Relatable Rom-Com
This show, titled “Nobody Wants This,” masterfully balances the undeniable chemistry between Joanne and Noah, along with the amusing dynamics within their friend circles, while tackling the complexities of interfaith relationships in a tasteful and non-offensive manner. Contrary to its title, the exceptional comedic delivery combined with mesmerizing performances from stars like Justine Lupe (from “Succession”), Timothy Simons, Stephanie Faracy, and others, has made it an endearing romantic comedy that audiences have warmly embraced.
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2024-12-08 01:32