Underrated English Web Series You Need to Discover

Underrated English Web Series You Need to Discover: Beyond the Blockbusters

The world of streaming is dominated by Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, but buried beneath the avalanche of big-budget productions lies a treasure trove of independent web series just waiting to be discovered. These often-overlooked gems offer unique narratives, innovative storytelling, and compelling performances, often operating with significantly smaller budgets and relying heavily on creativity and passion. This article delves into a selection of underrated English web series that deserve your attention, exploring their plots, key strengths, and why they stand out from the crowd.

1. “Carmilla” (2014-2016): Lesbian Vampires and University Intrigue

Based loosely on Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu’s novella of the same name, “Carmilla” reimagines the gothic tale for a modern audience. Set at the fictional Silas University, the series follows Laura Hollis, a bright and bubbly journalism student, as she investigates the mysterious disappearance of her roommate. Her search leads her to Carmilla Karnstein, a brooding and enigmatic vampire with a penchant for biting and a surprisingly complicated past.

• Plot: Laura’s initial investigation quickly spirals into a complex web of supernatural occurrences, secret societies, and ancient prophecies. As she spends more time with Carmilla, a reluctant alliance forms, which gradually blossoms into a romantic relationship. The series cleverly blends humor, horror, and romance, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience.
• Key Strengths: “Carmilla” is celebrated for its sharp writing, witty dialogue, and strong female characters. The chemistry between Elise Bauman (Laura) and Natasha Negovanlis (Carmilla) is undeniable, fueling the romantic tension at the heart of the story. The series also tackles themes of identity, acceptance, and the importance of fighting for what you believe in.
• Why it Stands Out: “Carmilla” was one of the first web series to gain a significant online following, largely due to its authentic representation of LGBTQ+ characters and its active engagement with its fanbase. It proved that web series could be more than just amateur productions, paving the way for other independent creators to thrive.

2. “High Maintenance” (2012-2020): A New York City Pot Portrait

Before it was picked up by HBO, “High Maintenance” began as a web series created by Katja Blichfeld and Ben Sinclair. The series follows “The Guy” (played by Sinclair), a nameless cannabis deliveryman who connects with a diverse array of New Yorkers. Each episode focuses on the lives of his clients, offering a glimpse into their anxieties, desires, and everyday struggles.

• Plot: “High Maintenance” is not driven by a central plot but rather by a series of interconnected vignettes. The Guy serves as a common thread, linking these disparate stories and providing a unique perspective on the city’s underbelly. Episodes range from comedic to poignant, exploring themes of loneliness, addiction, and the search for connection.
• Key Strengths: The series’ strength lies in its nuanced characterizations and its ability to capture the essence of New York City. Blichfeld and Sinclair have a keen eye for detail, creating characters that feel authentic and relatable. The series also boasts a strong ensemble cast, featuring a mix of established actors and newcomers.
• Why it Stands Out: “High Maintenance” is a masterclass in minimalist storytelling. It proves that you don’t need a big budget or elaborate plot to create compelling television. The series’ focus on ordinary people and their everyday lives resonates with viewers, making it a truly unique and memorable viewing experience.

3. “Husbands” (2011-2013): A Gay Marriage Comedy with Superhero Flair

Written by Jane Espenson and Brad Bell, “Husbands” is a sitcom that follows the whirlwind romance and marriage of Brady, a professional baseball player, and Cheeks, a charming actor. The series satirizes the media frenzy surrounding same-sex marriage while also exploring the challenges and joys of building a relationship.

• Plot: The series opens with Brady and Cheeks waking up married after a drunken night in Vegas. Their unexpected union becomes a media sensation, forcing them to navigate the complexities of being public figures while also getting to know each other. The series incorporates superhero elements, adding a layer of absurdity and humor to the already comedic premise.
• Key Strengths: “Husbands” is witty, fast-paced, and genuinely funny. The series boasts sharp writing and strong performances from Bell and Sean Hemeon, who play Brady. Espenson’s experience writing for shows like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Battlestar Galactica” is evident in the series’ clever dialogue and genre-bending storytelling.
• Why it Stands Out: “Husbands” was one of the first web series to tackle the issue of same-sex marriage with humor and heart. It helped to normalize LGBTQ+ relationships and challenge societal norms, proving that web series could be both entertaining and socially relevant.

4. “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” (2012-2013): Jane Austen for the YouTube Generation

“The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” is a modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” told through vlogs. The series follows Lizzie Bennet, a grad student in mass communications, as she chronicles her life, her family, and her encounters with the enigmatic Mr. Darcy.

• Plot: The series unfolds through Lizzie’s video diaries, which she posts on YouTube. She shares her thoughts on her sisters, her friends, and the various romantic entanglements that arise. As she interacts with Mr. Darcy, she is forced to confront her own biases and prejudices.
• Key Strengths: “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” is praised for its clever adaptation of Austen’s classic novel. The series successfully translates the themes and characters of “Pride and Prejudice” to a modern setting, making them relatable to a new generation of viewers. Ashley Clements delivers a standout performance as Lizzie, capturing the character’s wit and intelligence.
• Why it Stands Out: “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” was one of the first web series to successfully leverage the power of social media. The series encouraged viewers to engage with the characters and the story through comments, tweets, and other online platforms. It demonstrated the potential of web series to create a truly immersive and interactive viewing experience.

5. “Whatever, Linda” (2012-2014): Office Absurdity and Millennial Angst

“Whatever, Linda” is a workplace comedy that follows the lives of three interns at a public radio station in Los Angeles. The series satirizes office culture, millennial angst, and the struggles of trying to make it in the creative industry.

• Plot: The series revolves around the daily lives of the interns, as they navigate the challenges of their low-paying jobs, their complicated relationships, and their aspirations for the future. The series is filled with quirky characters, absurd situations, and witty banter.
• Key Strengths: “Whatever, Linda” is praised for its sharp writing, its relatable characters, and its hilarious portrayal of office life. The series captures the anxieties and frustrations of millennials trying to find their place in the world. The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, creating a believable and engaging dynamic.
• Why it Stands Out: “Whatever, Linda” is a refreshing take on the workplace comedy genre. The series is not afraid to be silly and absurd, but it also tackles important issues such as economic inequality, mental health, and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a web series that is both funny and thought-provoking.

6. “Brown Girls” (2017): Friendship, Identity, and Chicago Life

“Brown Girls” centers on the friendship between Leila, a queer writer struggling to find her voice, and Patricia, a sexually fluid musician navigating the complexities of love and career. Set in Chicago, the series explores themes of race, identity, and the challenges of being a young woman of color in America.

• Plot: The series follows Leila and Patricia as they navigate their personal and professional lives. Leila grapples with writer’s block and questions her identity, while Patricia struggles to balance her music career with her romantic relationships. Their friendship serves as a source of support and strength as they face these challenges.
• Key Strengths: “Brown Girls” is praised for its authentic and nuanced portrayal of women of color. The series tackles important issues such as racism, sexism, and homophobia with sensitivity and intelligence. The writing is sharp and witty, and the performances are strong and believable.
• Why it Stands Out: “Brown Girls” offers a refreshing perspective on the lives of young women in America. The series celebrates diversity and challenges stereotypes, providing a platform for voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media.

7. “Squaresville” (2010-2013): Indie Rock, High School, and Awkward Encounters

“Squaresville” is a coming-of-age comedy that follows the lives of two best friends, Esther and Zelda, as they navigate the challenges of high school in a small town. The series is set against the backdrop of the indie rock scene and features a quirky cast of characters.

• Plot: The series revolves around Esther and Zelda’s attempts to fit in (or not fit in) at their high school. They face the usual challenges of teenage life, such as crushes, friendships, and academic pressure. The series is filled with awkward encounters, witty dialogue, and plenty of indie rock music.
• Key Strengths: “Squaresville” is praised for its charming characters,