The whole world is dealing with anxiety and stress, as well as the physical complications of home quarantine. Even in these trying pandemic-tinged times, we find that laughter can still be the best medicine. At the very least, it can make things more bearable. Here are stand-up shows on Netflix that, for at least an afternoon, will allow you to indulge in some comic relief.
Not often, or ever, do you see a woman doing stand-up deep into her third trimester. Ali Wong presented her debut special Baby Cobra back in 2016 while pregnant, delivering a loud, provocative, and unapologetic performance that touched on subjects such as miscarriage, motherhood, sexuality and feminism.
Rarely do we get to see comedians from countries like Iceland, which is why Pardon My Icelandic, which stars the charming and thoroughly engaging Ari Eldjárn, was quite the pleasant surprise. His adorable personality (sly winking at its best) gives added punch to hilarious insights into Iceland and other Nordic countries. Best for those who are culturally curious.
Time and time again, Dave Chappelle has proven why he’s one of the most controversial comedians of our time. Sticks & Stones is pure dark comedy—needless to say it is not for sensitive souls. Chappelle delves into topics considered taboo, from the #MeToo movement to the LGBTQ community to gun control, with a shocking show of fearlessness . Nothing and no one is off-limits.
If you can ignore for a moment the controversy surrounding her toxic behavior in the workplace, you’ll find that Ellen DeGeneres is still one to watch when it comes to good laughs. The famous TV star unleashes hilarious stories on topics that we can all relate to, including her inspiring story about her path to fame.
Offbeat British comedian James Acaster will make you laugh about all things considered mundane and banal, such as fortune cookies, grocery stores, and his experience at Pret A Manger. He peppers these astute observations with witty stories about his childhood.
Mr. Universe is one of the few Netflix comedy specials that audiences, both young and old, can enjoy. Jim Gaffigan’s relatively “clean” (i.e., barely any profanity, no touchy topics) monologue hinges on his ability to change his voice and make his stories come to life in the most effective and hilarious way. The comedian talks about his kids, his daily life and, in true Gaffigan nature, the deconstruction of fast food.
Ken Jeong’s first standup special is everything you would expect from the doctor-turned-comedian who played the unforgettable Leslie Chow in The Hangover—crude, filled with stereotypical Asian jokes and brimming with slapstick humor. But Jeong’s energy is catching and his antics translate well into a silly, albeit entertaining, watch. This is the kind of show that asks you to just lie back and not think too much, which, in a slow day of isolation, can be quite enjoyable.
Kevin Hart is a household name in the comedy world, therefore it was no surprise that What Now?, his most recent stand-up special, filled up a football stadium with an audience of over 50,000. And very few, if none, were disappointed when Hart gave a highly infectious performance that harped on topics he knew best: the suburban life, raising kids, and dealing with newfound wealth and fame.
Jones rose to fame for her hilarious performances on long-standing comedy show Saturday Night Life. In this stand-up special, Jones reminds us why we fell in love with her in the first place. Because she’s fun, she’s unapologetic and she’s unique. Beyond just delivering well-timed gags, the 53-year-old comedian uses the stage to reflect on her decades-long career. In one of the best bits, she rattles off a funny but poignant message to her struggling 20-year-old self. Awww.
Brit humor is widely renowned for its dry absurdity and its ability to cut like a knife. And the jokes from Ricky Gervais, who wields the sharpest blade, are no exception. Humanity is Gervais’ first stand-up in seven years, and here he culls some of his best material, taking jabs at everything that revolve around the concept of being human.
No one can deadpan and make self-deprecating jokes better than Simon Amstell. In his first special for Netflix, the British comedian conquers the stage with heartfelt stories about his family, sexuality and love. His comedy is honest, brutally self-aware and very relevant in these times.
Wanda Sykes is often portrayed as a loudmouthed but highly likeable character in many comedy films. She’s not much different when just being herself on stage. Sykes is at her best when shrewdly but adeptly delivering jokes about personal matters, such as parenthood with her French wife Alex Niedbalskiand and her hatred for The Bachelor.
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