Do you know how I know if we’re going to get along famously? It’s decidedly simply by whether or not we laugh at the same things. For example, last night I was in the mood for some stand-up comedy and turned on an old Ellen DeGeneres special. I remember really like her humor back in the day and since my 8 year old as still up, I thought it’d be safe.
Well, it was safe. But it just wasn’t funny. Seriously. I had a straight face and not even the laughing-on-the-inside kind of straight face.
At least there’s no shortage of stand-up comedy on Netflix. I’ve just found that if I really want to laugh, I need to put the kid to bed and have a little adult time. Let me talk to you about some of my favorites.
If you don’t know Jim Gaffigan, it’s time to get introduced. Want a quick glimpse of his style of humor? Listen to his kale rant. I like kale, personally, but I don’t think I’d ever admit it around Jim.
Did you like that? Did you think he was funny? My son even caught me watching YouTube clips of his and joined in the fun. Luckily, his humor is mostly PG-13 so we were able to laugh together. Like his entire rant on Hot Pockets. Yes, Hot Pockets. Bottom line is most of us have eaten them whether we want to admit to it or not. And that experience draws us all closer together as a people.
Therefore, I’m going to recommend both Jim Gaffigan specials on Netflix.
Jim Gaffigan RULES
Jim Gaffigan: Beyond the Pale (2005)
Comedian Jim Gaffigan cuts loose on a variety of topics, including Hot Pockets, holidays, Catholicism and his favorite activity: doing nothing.
Jim Gaffigan: My Universe (2012)
Funnyman Jim Gaffigan offers up his unique take on everything from Disney World to overweight whales in this live show from Washington, D.C.
But variety is the spice of life. And it’s the spice of humor. We all have different things that make us laugh. For example, I don’t think I cracked a single smile during Home Alone but I’ll giggle like a little girl watching School of Rock.
As a result, I’ve previewed (not watched, because I only wish I had that much time) at least 5 minutes of each of the following comedians. If they didn’t make me laugh a little, or even just unexpectedly smile, they failed to amuse me and therefore did not make the list. If I found them amusing at all, I’ve presented them to you here. If you have a favorite that’s listed above or below (or not at all), let me know. I’m always looking for some good laughs. And if your choice doesn’t make me laugh… well, then, I guess I know a little bit more about you now.
Jim Jefferies: Bare (2014)
I’d never heard of this Australian comic gold until I watched his explanation on America’s take on gun control. And now I find he’s been right there in my Netflix box all along. Definitely not for children or anyone who minds the F word.
Nothing is sacred in this show from Australian comic Jim Jefferies, whether it’s the mother of his child, auditioning disabled actors, or gun control.
Anjelah Johnson: That’s How We Do It (2009)
She was always my favorite on MadTV (maybe you remember her as Bon Qui Qui from the “out of the hood” program). And she’s so adorable, I just want to put her in my pocket.
Former “MADtv” cast member Anjelah Johnson waxes comedic about makeup mishaps, the game of football, and what it’s like to be cute, funny and broke.
John Mulaney: New In Town (2012)
If you’re looking for more family-friendly humor, I found it in John Mulaney. Disclaimer: I’m talking about in the 5 minutes I watched. Nice, clean humor that might make you crack a smile.
Stand-up comedian John Mulaney tackles such red-hot topics as quicksand, Motown singers and an elderly man he once met in a bathroom.
Bill Burr: I’m Sorry You Feel That Way (2014)
I’m not sure I was familiar with him or his humor before I started this little project and it took me a few minutes to really get his style. And then I loved it. Tender and good-hearted with a crusty, foul-mouthed exterior.
Bill Burr escapes the zombie apocalypse, explores how rom-coms ruin great sex and explains how too many childhood hugs may be the downfall of man.
Donald Glover: Weirdo (2012)
I’ll admit that I was drawn in because I’ve watched him on Community. I gave him the 5 minute test and I’ll go back for more. Plus he’s adorable.
Fearlessly funny stand-up comic and sitcom star Donald Glover puts on a live show in New York, confessing his love for Cocoa Puffs and Toys “R” Us.
That’s my take on humor. Don’t forget that Netflix streaming is good for more than just movies. It’s a great place to discover humor that you like and then let Netflix give you suggestions that they think you might like. And sometimes you do.
This post was written as part of my role on the Netflix Stream Team. Topics, selections, and all opinions are my own. Wouldn’t have it any other way.
6 comments
Hi! I know the topic is funny stuff on Netflix. But did you know there is a character named Fadra? She is on the “Hot Wives of Atlanta” on the free Hulu. She is hilarious. You should check her out!
It must be related to the Real Housewives of Atlanta. I know there is a woman on there named Phaedra Parks. But nobody ever gets us confused. I think we look very very different!
I adore Jim Gaffigan! Have you checked out Kathleen Madigan’s special on Netflix? I’ve watched it a million times and still laugh every time.
I *almost* previewed her special but then I said to myself, “no, women aren’t really that funny.” And I mean that. Women that do stand-up often feel like they’re trying too hard. And then I realized I included a woman. So I think I’ll check her out.
ooooooh! This is exciting. I just discovered Jim Gaffigan when a co-worker told me to read one of his books… I didn’t know he had specials on Netflix. Added to the queue!
I’ve watched so many YouTube clips that I’ve pretty much watched these specials without officially watching them. I LOVE him!