The short-form series became a true cultural phenomenon, offering a welcome antidote to the pressure of a long-term commitment. Perfect for a quick binge or a casual watch between meetings, these shows prove that a captivating narrative doesn’t need an hour to hook you.
Russian Doll
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Blending sci-fi, dark comedy, and existential drama, Russian Doll follows Nadia, a cynical software engineer stuck in a surreal time loop. Each episode unravels another layer of her bizarre reality. The sharp writing and Natasha Lyonne’s commanding performance have made it a standout in the Netflix catalog.
I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson
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Sketch comedy gets a surreal twist in this unpredictable Netflix original. I Think You Should Leave thrives on awkward social encounters that spiral into absurdity, often pushing boundaries. Each episode features a series of short, unrelated sketches that are outrageous, and oddly relatable, making it impossible to watch just one.
High Maintenance
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What started as a Vimeo web series evolved into a critically adored HBO show. High Maintenance follows a nameless weed delivery man as he bikes across New York City, entering the lives of a diverse range of clients.
Friends
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A staple of ’90s television and still one of the most streamed shows globally, Friends is the ultimate comfort watch. Set in New York City, it follows six close-knit friends (Rachel, Ross, Joey, Phoebe, Monica and Chandler) navigating life, love, and adulthood. Each episode runs about 22 minutes, making it easy to lose track of time and binge multiple storylines in one sitting. Its humor, chemistry, and iconic moments have proven timeless.
Modern Family
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With its mockumentary format and ensemble cast, Modern Family redefined the family sitcom for the 21st century. Following three interconnected households, it offered a look at parenting, marriage, and generational differences. Quick-witted and emotionally grounded, the 20–24-minute episodes are ideal for marathon viewing or casual drop-ins.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
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This police precinct comedy became a breakout hit thanks to its lovable cast and quick humor. Brooklyn Nine-Nine offers a refreshing balance of workplace comedy and light crime-solving, often tackling serious topics without losing its levity. Each episode clocks in at about 21 minutes, making it a go-to option for quick, feel-good viewing.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
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Created by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt follows a woman who escapes a doomsday cult and starts over in New York City. The show is packed with surreal situations, and rapid-fire jokes that often demand a rewatch to catch them all. With episodes averaging around 23 minutes, it’s easy to fly through a season in a weekend.
Please Like Me
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Written by and starring Australian comedian Josh Thomas, Please Like Me is a heartfelt dramedy that deals with mental health, sexuality, and the awkwardness of early adulthood. It finds humor in vulnerability and sadness in comedy, often within the same scene. Episodes average 25–28 minutes.
Abbott Elementary
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A mockumentary-style sitcom set in a Philadelphia public school, Abbott Elementary uses humor to tackle serious issues in education. Led by Quinta Brunson, the ensemble cast brings warmth and authenticity to every scene.
Fleabag
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Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag is a masterclass in modern storytelling. The British comedy-drama blends raw emotion with razor-sharp wit, chronicling the life of a young woman navigating love, loss, and dysfunctional relationships in London. The fourth wall breaks are legendary.
