If laughter is the best medicine, then you're in luck! The world of streaming services has produced an abundance of hilarious series, with Rotten Tomatoes serving as an excellent navigator. Here, we'll explore the highest rated comedy series, delving into their unique humor and the reasons behind their critical acclaim.
First, let's set the stage with a brief overview of Rotten Tomatoes' scoring system. A 'Tomatometer' score is calculated by assessing professional reviews, with a minimum of 80% indicating 'Certified Fresh' status - a beacon of quality. Now, let's dive into the comedic waters and find out which series have made critics laugh until their keyboards shook.
Sitcoms for the Modern Era
Sitcoms may have traditionally been dominated by network TV, but streaming services have given us a fresh wave of hilarious series, drenched in relatable content and innovative storylines.
Fleabag (BBC/PPV)
Fleabag, created by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, is a British phenomenon that stormed Netflix. With a Tomatometer score of 98%, it's dark humor, whimsical fourth-wall breaking, and Waller-Bridge's standout performance have left audiences craving more.
The show's unique blend of laughter and drama, combined with its compelling exploration of modern womanhood, has critics begging for a fourth season (or at least, a spin-off!).
The Good Place (NBC/Netflix)
The Good Place, helmed by creator Michael Schur, took the viewers on an philosophical rollercoaster ride. With a score of 97%, this afterlife comedy combined stunning visuals, snappy dialogue, and unexpected plot twists.
The show's intelligent discourse on philosophical ethics, coupled with an ensemble cast that sparkled with comedic brilliance, left viewers in a state of perpetual 'bons fai?u'.
Binge-Worthy Dark Comedies
In the realm of dark comedies, Rotten Tomatoes has a wealth of hilariously twisted shows to choose from. These series aren't afraid to tackle tough subjects, all while keeping audiences in stitches.
BoJack Horseman (Netflix)
Netflix's BoJack Horseman is an animated series with a 92% Tomatometer score, proving that cartoons aren't just for kids. Through its cringe-inducing humor and relevant social commentary, BoJack explores the dark depths of Hollywood and mental health.
With its complex characters, unexpected plot developments, and unflinching look at depression, this series holds a mirror up to society, showing us our funny yet dysfunctional reflections.
After Life (Netflix)
Ricky Gervais' After Life, with an 85% Tomatometer score, is a heartfelt comedy-drama about finding purpose after loss. Gervais' deadpan delivery and taboo-breaking humor provide pitch-perfect comedy, while the show's sincere exploration of grief tugs at the heartstrings.
This series masterfully weaves laughter and tears, proving that comedy and emotional depth don't have to be mutually exclusive.
A final word on these highest rated comedy series: they prove that laughter is indeed the best medicine. Whether you're looking for snappy sitcoms or darker comedies, Rotten Tomatoes has a wealth of hilarious and critically acclaimed series to keep you laughing through the night. So, fetch your remote and navigate your way through the comedic gems that await!
