7.2 / 10 (based on 1644 reviews)
A woman becomes obsessed with a sofa she has seen in a shop window. Unable to think of anything else, she goes to desperate lengths to possess the furniture of her dreams.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Diane Morgan, Michelle Greenidge, Michael Spicer, Alistair Green
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 14 episodes, 15-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Mandy (2019)
Motherland (2016)
7.9 / 10 (based on 6695 reviews)
This is a programme about navigating the trials and traumas of middle-class motherhood, looking at the competitive side and unromantic take on parenting – not the cute and acceptable public face of motherhood.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Anna Maxwell Martin, Lucy Punch, Diane Morgan, Paul Ready
Creators: Sharon Horgan, Graham Linehan, Helen Serafinowicz
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 19 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Alma’s Not Normal (2020)
7.9 / 10 (based on 1335 reviews)
After a recent break-up, Alma tries to get her life back on track. But with no job, no qualifications and a rebellious streak a mile wide, it’s not going to be easy. Meanwhile her mum, who is battling a heroin addiction, has been sectioned for arson, and her vampish Grandma Joan wants nothing to do with it.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Sophie Willan, Jayde Adams, Lorraine Ashbourne, Siobhan Finneran
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes, 28.0-minute runtime
The Other One (2017)
7.5 / 10 (based on 1660 reviews)
After Colin Walcott drops dead at his birthday party, his wife Tess and daughter Cat discover he had a long-term mistress Marilyn by whom he has a daughter Cath.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Ellie White, Lauren Socha, Siobhan Finneran, Rebecca Front
Creators: Holly Walsh
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes, 29.0-minute runtime
GameFace (2017)
7.7 / 10 (based on 2280 reviews)
Marcella is an aspiring actress recovering from a relationship break up. Despite her optimistic attempts, and with help from her friends, therapist and driving instructor, she is unable to get her life back on track.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Roisin Conaty, Damien Molony, Caroline Ginty, Dylan Edwards
Creators: Roisin Conaty
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Charlie Brooker’s Weekly Wipe (2013)
8.6 / 10 (based on 1540 reviews)
Charlie Brooker highlights the week’s news in a comic fashion.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Charlie Brooker, Diane Morgan, Al Campbell, Doug Stanhope
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 18 episodes
Back to Life (2019)
7.5 / 10 (based on 5794 reviews)
After 18 years behind bars, Miri Matteson returns home and stumbles back into adult life in the claustrophobic coastal town she once knew in this half-hour comedy series.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Daisy Haggard, Geraldine James, Richard Durden, Adeel Akhtar
Creators: Daisy Haggard
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 12 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Semi-Detached (2019)
6.2 / 10 (based on 460 reviews)
Real-time sitcom following the hapless Stuart struggling between his new family and ex-wife, who lives across the road
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Lee Mack, Patrick Baladi, Neil Fitzmaurice, Sarah Hoare
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 7 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
The Cleaner (2021)
7.1 / 10 (based on 4547 reviews)
Paul ‘Wicky’ Wickstead, a state-certified cleaning technician, is responsible for the removal of any signs of death from the crime scenes.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Greg Davies, Zita Sattar, Helena Bonham Carter, Jo Hartley
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Pandemonium (2020)
7.2 / 10 (based on 955 reviews)
The Jessops decide to boost family morale by going on a summer holiday – in October.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Katherine Parkinson, Jim Howick, Freya Parks, Tom Basden
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 1 episode
Back (2017)
7.3 / 10 (based on 3267 reviews)
Sitcom following estranged foster-brothers Stephen and Andrew as they vow to take over the family business following the death of their father.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: David Mitchell, Robert Webb, Louise Brealey, Penny Downie
Creators: Simon Blackwell
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
In the world of television, where originality often seems to be in short supply, there’s a show that stands out for its uniqueness: “Mandy” (2019). Created by and starring Diane Morgan, “Mandy” is a comedy series that dives into the life of its titular character, a woman with big dreams and a straightforward approach to achieving them. Let’s explore what makes “Mandy” a must-watch, without resorting to the usual fluff.
The Genius Behind Mandy: Diane Morgan
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the show itself, it’s worth spotlighting Diane Morgan. Known for her deadpan humor, especially as Philomena Cunk on various Charlie Brooker projects, Morgan brings her distinctive style of comedy to “Mandy.” Not only does she star as the lead, but she also wears the hats of writer and director for the series. This triple threat approach ensures that Morgan’s unique voice is present in every aspect of “Mandy,” from the dialogue to the direction.
The Premise
“Mandy” centers around its eponymous character, a woman who is unapologetically herself. She’s on a quest for fulfillment, which for her means finding the right job and the perfect sofa. It’s a simple premise, but don’t be fooled. The show is anything but ordinary. Mandy’s journey takes viewers through a series of bizarre and hilarious situations, from participating in a banana-eating contest to diving into the world of competitive dog breeding.
Why “Mandy” Stands Out
In a sea of sitcoms and dramedies, “Mandy” makes a splash for several reasons:
Relatable Yet Outlandish
First, there’s the balance between relatable desires and outlandish scenarios. Who hasn’t wanted to find their purpose or the perfect piece of furniture? Yet, how many of us have gone to the lengths that Mandy does, like getting a job at a banana factory for the sole purpose of entering a banana-eating contest she believes will change her life? This blend of the everyday and the absurd gives “Mandy” a unique flavor.
Minimalist Yet Impactful
The show’s style is minimalist, focusing on Mandy’s interactions with the world rather than relying on flashy visuals or complex plots. This simplicity is part of its charm, allowing the humor and characters to shine. It’s a testament to the show’s writing and Morgan’s performance that “Mandy” can elicit laughs and moments of genuine emotion without needing to overcomplicate things.
A Strong Supporting Cast
While Morgan is undoubtedly the star, “Mandy” also features a strong supporting cast that adds depth to the show. Characters like Lola, Mandy’s best friend, and her various employers and adversaries, bring out different facets of Mandy’s personality. Their interactions highlight her determination, her unconventional problem-solving skills, and her unwavering confidence.
Memorable Episodes and Moments
“Mandy” is packed with memorable episodes that showcase its range. One standout is the episode where Mandy decides to become a competitive dog breeder. The lengths she goes to, including renting a dog, underscore her commitment to her goals, no matter how misguided. Another highlight is the banana-eating contest episode, which is as absurd as it sounds but also strangely inspiring, showing Mandy’s determination to win at all costs.
Then there’s the episode where Mandy sets out to buy a sofa, a quest that turns into an epic journey with unexpected twists. It’s a perfect example of the show’s ability to turn a mundane goal into an extraordinary adventure.
The Humor of Mandy
At its heart, “Mandy” is a comedy, and it excels in this regard. The humor is dry and often comes from the juxtaposition of Mandy’s deadpan demeanor against the absurdity of her situations. Morgan’s delivery is pitch-perfect, turning even the simplest lines into comedic gold. The show doesn’t shy away from visual gags and physical comedy, but these are always grounded in character, making them all the more effective.
Why “Mandy” Matters
In an era where many shows strive to be the next big thing, “Mandy” is content to be its own thing. It’s a reminder that comedy doesn’t have to be complex to be effective. The show’s focus on a singular character’s quest for fulfillment, no matter how quirky that quest might be, is both refreshing and relatable.
“Mandy” also represents a significant achievement for Diane Morgan, showcasing her talents not just as a performer but as a creator. It’s a show that proves you don’t need a large ensemble cast or high-stakes drama to make compelling television. Sometimes, all you need is a strong voice, a unique perspective, and a character willing to eat more bananas than is probably healthy.
Final Thoughts
“Mandy” is a gem of a show that deserves more attention than it gets. Its blend of relatable goals, absurd situations, and minimalist style creates a comedy that’s both funny and heartwarming. Diane Morgan has created a world that’s slightly off-kilter but utterly engaging, and it’s a world worth visiting.
So, if you’re tired of the same old sitcom formulas and looking for something that marches to the beat of its own drum, give “Mandy” a shot. It’s a show that proves sometimes the simplest desires can lead to the most entertaining journeys. And who knows? You might just find yourself rooting for Mandy to find that perfect sofa as much as she does.