The Best Shows Like Beef!
So, you’ve just binged the darkly hilarious ‘Beef’ on Netflix, and now you’re craving more shows to fill that quirky comedy void? I’ve got some top-notch recommendations for you!
Black Mirror
This British anthology series isn’t exactly a comedy, but it’s filled with dark humor and social commentary that’ll get you thinking. Each episode is its own standalone story, exploring themes of technology, society, and the future in ways that are often unsettling, but always compelling.
What makes ‘Black Mirror’ a must-watch is its ability to take a concept and push it to its extremes, just like ‘Beef’ does with its road rage incident. It might not have the same comedic undertone, but if you’re a fan of ‘Beef’s’ unpredictability and its way of making you question the world, you’re going to get a kick out of ‘Black Mirror.’
Master of None
This gem is created by Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang. It’s a series that follows a 30-year-old actor in New York who, like our pals in ‘Beef’, is trying to navigate life’s ups and downs. It’s funny, it’s poignant, and it’s got a similar kind of offbeat humor that you loved in ‘Beef.’
MORE: “Beef” Takes the Crown: The Netflix Hit Overtakes “The Night Agent” in Streaming Rankings
Parasite
This is a Korean masterpiece from the acclaimed director Bong Joon-ho. While it’s not a TV series, I couldn’t resist recommending it because it shares some similar elements with ‘Beef’. This dark comedy thriller is all about class conflict and social inequality, with an engaging narrative that’s full of unexpected twists.
‘Parasite’ is about two families from very different socio-economic backgrounds who become entwined in an unpredictable and tense storyline. What starts as a comedic and light-hearted film gradually evolves into a darker and more tragic narrative, similar to how ‘Beef’ unfolds. The performances in ‘Parasite’ are top-notch, much like the cast of ‘Beef’, with brilliant writing and directing that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat.
Fargo
Inspired by the Coen brothers’ film of the same name, ‘Fargo’ is a critically acclaimed TV series that thrives on dark humor and intricate storytelling. It’s an anthology series, meaning each season is a standalone narrative with a new set of characters and a unique storyline, though they’re all interconnected in the grander scheme.
‘Fargo’, like ‘Beef’, blends humor and drama seamlessly, with a healthy dose of absurdity. It features complex characters caught up in bizarrely violent situations, often caused by a series of unfortunate misunderstandings or coincidences. This show also excels at showcasing excellent performances from its ensemble cast, similar to the acting chops demonstrated by Steven Yeun and Ali Wong in ‘Beef’.
BoJack Horseman
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a cartoon show about a washed-up horse actor? Trust me on this one. The humor in ‘BoJack’ is blacker than black, and it’s got some real emotional depth to it. If you liked the unexpected layers in ‘Beef’, you’ll enjoy peeling back the layers of ‘BoJack.’
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
If you’re into the whole ‘life in the big city’ vibe that ‘Beef’ gave off, then you should definitely give ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ a go. It’s a cop show, sure, but it’s also an insanely funny sitcom that’ll keep you laughing from start to finish. The humor can be a bit absurd, but that’s part of its charm.
Finally, if it was the unique, culturally diverse storytelling in ‘Beef’ that hooked you, then you should watch ‘Kim’s Convenience.’ It’s a Canadian sitcom about a Korean-Canadian family running a convenience store in Toronto. The humor is heartwarming, the characters are well-rounded, and it’s got that same wonderful balance of humor and humanity that ‘Beef’ does so well.
Maniac
If you loved the blend of comedy, drama, and unexpected heart in ‘Beef’, I’ve got another suggestion: ‘Maniac.’ This limited series from 2018 is a bit of a departure from the other shows I’ve recommended – it’s got a sci-fi twist to it. Starring Emma Stone and Jonah Hill, ‘Maniac’ is about two strangers who get tangled up in a bizarre pharmaceutical trial. It’s got the same kind of dark humor you loved in ‘Beef’, and it’s full of surprises.
In ‘Maniac,’ you’re getting a show that’s thought-provoking, funny, and utterly unique. It’s definitely a trip, but if you’re looking for something that blends humor with heavier themes just like ‘Beef’, you might find ‘Maniac’ to be a great fit.
Trust me, with these shows, you’re in for some great TV time!
