Best Web Series List by Genre: Find Your Next Favorite Show

Comedy Web Series: Laugh Your Way Through the Internet

Finding a good laugh online is easier than ever, thanks to the abundance of hilarious web series. These bite-sized comedic gems offer a quick dose of joy and are perfect for a short break or a binge-watching session.

• “High Maintenance”: What started as a low-budget, independently produced series about a weed delivery guy in New York City blossomed into an HBO darling. The brilliance lies in its episodic structure, focusing on the diverse and often eccentric clients of “The Guy.” Each episode is a self-contained story, exploring different aspects of urban life with humor, empathy, and sharp observation. The show’s strength is its realism and relatable characters, making it a standout in the comedy genre.

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  “Broad City”: Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer star as fictionalized versions of themselves, navigating the absurdities and challenges of their early twenties in New York City. “Broad City” is known for its fearless humor, embracing awkward situations and celebrating female friendship. The show’s improvisational style and willingness to push boundaries make it a refreshing and consistently funny watch. Its exploration of mundane tasks and everyday struggles through a comedic lens resonates with a wide audience.

• “Awkward Black Girl”: Issa Rae’s breakthrough web series, “Awkward Black Girl,” paved the way for her success with HBO’s “Insecure.” The show follows J, an awkward and introverted black woman navigating the complexities of work, relationships, and identity. “Awkward Black Girl” is praised for its relatable characters, witty writing, and honest portrayal of black female experiences. It’s a charming and insightful comedy that celebrates individuality and embraces imperfections.

• “Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis”: This mock talk show hosted by Zach Galifianakis is a masterclass in awkward and uncomfortable humor. Galifianakis interviews celebrities in a deliberately unprofessional and often antagonistic manner, creating hilarious and unpredictable moments. The show’s deadpan delivery and absurd questions make it a uniquely funny and memorable experience. The celebrity guests, often playing along with the absurdity, add to the show’s comedic appeal.

• “Drunk History”: Comedians get incredibly drunk and attempt to narrate historical events, which are then re-enacted by actors. The result is a hilarious and often surprisingly informative take on history. “Drunk History” is a unique blend of comedy and education, making learning about the past entertaining and memorable. The show’s improvisational nature and unpredictable narrations contribute to its comedic brilliance.

Drama Web Series: Immerse Yourself in Compelling Storytelling

For viewers seeking captivating narratives and emotionally resonant characters, drama web series offer a diverse range of stories that explore complex themes and human experiences.

• “Her Story”: This groundbreaking web series tells the stories of trans women navigating love, relationships, and identity. “Her Story” is praised for its authentic representation, nuanced characters, and powerful storytelling. The series tackles important issues such as discrimination, visibility, and the challenges faced by the trans community. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, fostering understanding and promoting inclusivity.

• “Brown Girls”: This web series explores the friendship between two young women of color in Chicago as they navigate love, careers, and identity. “Brown Girls” is celebrated for its realistic portrayal of millennial life, its diverse cast, and its nuanced exploration of race, culture, and sexuality. The show’s relatable characters and authentic storytelling make it a compelling and thought-provoking watch.

• “Whatever This Is.”: This series follows three aspiring filmmakers in Los Angeles as they navigate the challenges of their careers, relationships, and personal lives. “Whatever This Is.” is a realistic and relatable portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of young creatives trying to make it in Hollywood. The show’s authentic characters and insightful storytelling resonate with viewers who have experienced similar challenges.

• “Inconceivable”: A group of diverse women in Cape Town, South Africa, navigate the complexities of fertility treatments and the emotional toll of trying to conceive. “Inconceivable” is a gripping drama that explores themes of motherhood, family, and the lengths people will go to achieve their dreams. The series is praised for its strong performances, compelling storyline, and sensitive portrayal of a difficult subject.

• “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries”: A modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” told through vlogs. Lizzie Bennet, played by Ashley Clements, shares her thoughts and experiences with viewers, offering a fresh and engaging take on the classic story. “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” is a clever and innovative web series that captures the spirit of Austen’s novel while updating it for a contemporary audience.

Sci-Fi & Fantasy Web Series: Explore New Worlds and Imaginations

For fans of science fiction and fantasy, web series offer a gateway to imaginative worlds, thrilling adventures, and thought-provoking concepts.

• “Star Trek Continues”: This fan-made web series meticulously recreates the look and feel of the original “Star Trek” series, continuing the adventures of Captain Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise. “Star Trek Continues” is a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise and a loving tribute to its legacy. The series is praised for its high production values, strong performances, and faithful adherence to the spirit of the original.

• “RWBY”: An animated web series set in a world where young warriors train to fight monsters. “RWBY” is known for its stylish animation, action-packed fight scenes, and compelling characters. The series has gained a large and dedicated following for its unique blend of fantasy, action, and humor.

• “Critical Role”: A group of voice actors playing Dungeons & Dragons. “Critical Role” has become a phenomenon, attracting a massive audience who tune in to watch the players’ collaborative storytelling and improvisational skills. The series is praised for its engaging characters, intricate storylines, and the genuine camaraderie between the players.

• “Carmilla”: A gothic vampire romance set in a modern-day university. “Carmilla” is a popular web series known for its strong female characters, LGBTQ+ representation, and engaging storyline. The series has gained a dedicated following for its unique blend of romance, mystery, and supernatural elements.

• “Dimension 20”: Another D&D actual play series, Dimension 20 distinguishes itself with high production value, including miniature sets and elaborate props, and often features comedic elements mixed into its fantasy narratives. Hosted by Brennan Lee Mulligan, it provides a unique experience that blends tabletop roleplaying with improv comedy.

Thriller & Horror Web Series: Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

If you’re looking for suspense, chills, and a healthy dose of fear, thriller and horror web series offer a convenient way to get your adrenaline pumping.

• “Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared”: A surreal and unsettling web series that starts off looking like a children’s educational program but quickly descends into disturbing and often nightmarish territory. “Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared” is a unique and thought-provoking series that explores themes of conformity, propaganda, and the dangers of blind acceptance.

• “Marble Hornets”: A found-footage horror series that follows a film student as he investigates the disappearance of his friend, who was working on a student film called “Marble Hornets.” The series is known for its slow-burn suspense, creepy atmosphere, and effective use of the found-footage format.

• “EverymanHYBRID”: Another found-footage horror series that blends elements of Slender Man mythology with psychological horror. “EverymanHYBRID” is known for its complex storyline, disturbing imagery, and unsettling atmosphere.

• “No Sleep”: An anthology series that adapts popular horror stories from the Reddit NoSleep forum. “No Sleep” offers a diverse range of horror tales, from creepy encounters to psychological thrillers.

• “V/H/S” (Web Series Adaptations): While the “V/H/S” franchise is known for its anthology films, several short stories from the films have been adapted into web series, expanding on their narratives and providing more in-depth scares. These adaptations offer a deeper dive into the disturbing worlds created in the original films.

Animated Web Series: Cartoons for Adults (and Kids!)

Animation isn’t just for kids anymore. Animated web series offer a wide range of styles, genres, and target audiences, from adult comedies to family-friendly adventures.

• “Hazbin Hotel”: An adult animated musical comedy series about a demon princess who opens a hotel to rehabilitate sinners in Hell. “Hazbin Hotel” is known for its catchy songs, dark humor, and vibrant animation style.

• “Helluva Boss”: A spin-off of “Hazbin Hotel,” “Helluva Boss” follows the employees of I.M.P. (Immediate Murder Professionals), a company that specializes in assassinating living people. “Helluva Boss” is known for its dark humor, over-the-top violence, and colorful characters.

• “Bee and PuppyCat”: A surreal and charming animated series about a young woman named Bee who becomes the unlikely companion of a mysterious creature named PuppyCat. “Bee and PuppyCat” is known for its whimsical animation style, dreamy atmosphere, and relatable characters.

• “Lackadaisy”: A beautifully animated series set in a 1920s speakeasy run by cats. “Lackadaisy” is praised for its stunning visuals, engaging storyline, and historical accuracy.

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