Indie Web Series to Watch: Hidden Gems & Underrated Shows

Indie Web Series to Watch: Hidden Gems & Underrated Shows

The digital landscape is saturated with content, a vast ocean of streaming services and user-generated videos. While Netflix and Hulu command a significant portion of viewership, a vibrant ecosystem of independent web series thrives beneath the surface. These indie productions, often born from passion, ingenuity, and minimal budgets, offer a refreshing alternative to mainstream narratives. They are a breeding ground for innovative storytelling, diverse representation, and raw, unfiltered creativity. This article dives deep into the world of indie web series, highlighting some of the hidden gems and underrated shows that deserve your attention. We’ll explore various genres, production styles, and platforms, providing a roadmap to discovering your next favorite binge.

Comedy: Finding Humor in the Unexpected

Indie web series often excel in comedy, leveraging relatable situations and quirky characters to deliver laugh-out-loud moments. Without the constraints of network television, creators can push boundaries and explore unconventional humor.

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  “High Maintenance” (Vimeo): Before its HBO incarnation, “High Maintenance” began as a Vimeo web series created by Ben Sinclair and Katja Blichfeld. This anthology series follows “The Guy,” a weed deliveryman, as he interacts with a diverse cast of clients across New York City. Each episode offers a poignant and often hilarious snapshot of urban life, exploring themes of loneliness, connection, and the human condition. The series’ strength lies in its observational humor and its ability to find empathy in even the most eccentric characters. The original Vimeo episodes retain a unique charm and intimacy that make them a must-watch for fans of the HBO version.

• “Brown Girls” (YouTube): Created by Fatimah Asghar and Sam Bailey, “Brown Girls” is a coming-of-age dramedy that centers on Leila, a queer Muslim writer, and Patricia, a sexually fluid performance artist. The series navigates the complexities of friendship, identity, and self-discovery in Chicago’s vibrant South Asian community. Its authentic portrayal of young women of color and its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes have garnered critical acclaim. “Brown Girls” is a celebration of diversity and a testament to the power of representation in media.

• “Whatever, Linda” (YouTube): This hilarious mockumentary web series follows the antics of two eccentric office workers, Dawn and Linda, as they navigate the mundane realities of their corporate jobs. Created by Hannah Cheesman and Julian De Zotti, “Whatever, Linda” is a masterclass in deadpan humor and awkward situations. The series’ relatable characters and sharp writing make it a perfect antidote to the stresses of everyday life.

• “The Guild” (YouTube): A pioneer in the world of web series, “The Guild” chronicles the lives of a group of online gamers who form a tight-knit community through their shared love of a fictional MMORPG. Created by Felicia Day, the series cleverly satirizes online gaming culture and explores the complexities of virtual relationships. “The Guild” is a testament to the power of online communities and the enduring appeal of geek culture.

Drama: Exploring the Depths of Human Experience

Indie web series often tackle complex and emotionally resonant themes, offering a platform for stories that might not find a home in mainstream television.

• “Her Story” (YouTube): This groundbreaking web series, created by Jen Richards and Laura Zak, explores the lives of two transgender women in Los Angeles. “Her Story” provides a nuanced and authentic portrayal of the trans experience, addressing issues of dating, relationships, and societal acceptance. The series’ powerful performances and its commitment to representing trans voices have made it a critical darling.

• “Control” (YouTube): This psychological thriller follows a young woman named Maddie who wakes up with no memory of the past three years. As she pieces together her lost memories, she uncovers a web of secrets and conspiracies that threaten her sanity. “Control” is a suspenseful and gripping series that explores themes of identity, trauma, and the power of manipulation.

• “After Forever” (Amazon Prime Video): This heartfelt drama tells the story of Brian and Jason, two men who have been together for 15 years. When Jason unexpectedly dies, Brian must navigate the challenges of grief and loss while trying to rebuild his life. “After Forever” is a poignant and moving series that explores the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection. It won two Daytime Emmy Awards, showcasing the potential for indie web series to achieve mainstream recognition.

• “Carmilla” (YouTube): A modern adaptation of the classic gothic novella, “Carmilla” follows Laura Hollis, a freshman university student, as she investigates the mysterious disappearance of her roommate. Along the way, she encounters Carmilla Karnstein, a seductive and enigmatic vampire. “Carmilla” is a stylish and suspenseful series that explores themes of love, identity, and the supernatural. Its strong female characters and its LGBTQ+ representation have earned it a dedicated fanbase.

Sci-Fi & Fantasy: Unleashing Imagination and Innovation

Indie web series often push the boundaries of genre, creating imaginative worlds and exploring complex themes through the lens of science fiction and fantasy.

• “Star Trek Continues” (YouTube): This fan-made web series continues the adventures of the original Star Trek crew, picking up where the original series left off. Created by a dedicated team of fans, “Star Trek Continues” meticulously recreates the look and feel of the original series, while also exploring new and compelling storylines. The series is a testament to the enduring legacy of Star Trek and the passion of its fans.

• “RWBY” (Rooster Teeth): This animated web series follows four young women, Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long, as they train to become Huntresses at Beacon Academy, a school dedicated to protecting the world from the Grimm, creatures of darkness. “RWBY” is a visually stunning and action-packed series that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the fight against evil.

• “LARPs: The Series” (YouTube): This Canadian mockumentary follows a group of live-action role-players as they navigate the challenges of their hobby and their personal lives. “LARPs: The Series” is a hilarious and insightful look into the world of LARPing, exploring themes of community, escapism, and the power of imagination.

• “Con Man” (Vimeo): Created by Alan Tudyk, “Con Man” is a comedic web series that follows Wray Nerely, an actor who starred in a cult science fiction show called “Spectrum.” Wray struggles to find work after “Spectrum” ends, while his co-star, Jack Moore, enjoys mainstream success. “Con Man” is a witty and self-deprecating satire of the science fiction convention circuit and the challenges of navigating a career in Hollywood.

Horror & Thriller: Delivering Chills and Suspense

Indie web series often excel in the horror and thriller genres, utilizing creative storytelling and innovative production techniques to create truly unsettling experiences.

• “Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared” (YouTube): This surreal and unsettling web series uses puppets and catchy songs to explore seemingly innocent topics, only to reveal dark and disturbing undertones. “Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared” is a visually striking and thought-provoking series that challenges viewers to question the nature of reality and the dangers of indoctrination.

• “Marble Hornets” (YouTube): This found-footage horror series follows Jay as he investigates the mysterious events surrounding the filming of a student film called “Marble Hornets.” As Jay delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a terrifying presence known as the Operator. “Marble Hornets” is a masterclass in suspense and atmosphere, creating a truly chilling experience for viewers.

• “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” (YouTube): This modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” is told through the vlogs of Lizzie Bennet. While initially appearing lighthearted and comedic, the series gradually reveals darker and more complex themes, exploring issues of social class, family dynamics, and the pressures of modern life. “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” is a clever and engaging reimagining of a classic novel.

• “Vampire Mob” (YouTube): This comedic horror series follows a group of vampires living in Staten Island, New York. “Vampire Mob” is a hilarious and irreverent take on the vampire mythos, exploring themes of family, community, and the challenges of living an undead life in the modern world.

Finding and Supporting Indie Web Series

Discovering indie web series requires a bit of exploration and a willingness to venture beyond the mainstream. Here are some tips for finding your next favorite show:

• YouTube: YouTube remains the primary platform for many indie web series. Search for specific genres, keywords, or creators.
• Vimeo: Vimeo is a hub for high-quality independent films and web series.
• Dedicated Websites: Websites like Tubefilter and IndieWire often feature articles and reviews of indie web series.
• Social Media: Follow indie web series creators and communities on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
• Film Festivals: Many film festivals, such as the Tribeca Film Festival and the Web Series Festival, showcase the best in indie web series.
• Support the Creators: Consider supporting indie web series creators through crowdfunding platforms like Patreon or by purchasing merchandise.

By exploring the world of indie web series, you can discover a wealth of creative and innovative content that you won’t find anywhere else. These hidden gems offer a refreshing alternative to mainstream television and provide a platform