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What are the best funny series in the style of "The Office" or "Community"?

If you're a fan of the mockumentary style and quirky ensemble casts of "The Office" or "Community," you're in for a treat. This list dives into the best hilarious series that capture that unique comedic spirit, perfect for your next binge-watching session.

The Good Place
Superstore
Arrested Development

The landscape of comedy television was forever changed by shows like "The Office" and "Community," which perfected the art of character-driven humor within a distinct, often self-aware, format. These series didn't just deliver punchlines; they built worlds with idiosyncratic characters and relatable, often awkward, situations that resonated deeply with audiences.

Take "Parks and Recreation," for instance, which started with a similar mockumentary style to "The Office" but quickly found its own optimistic and endearing voice, proving that even government bureaucracy can be hilariously charming. Or consider "Arrested Development," a masterclass in layered jokes and running gags, where every rewatch uncovers new comedic brilliance. Its influence is still felt in how many modern comedies structure their humor.

Then there's the sharp, witty dialogue of "30 Rock" and the political satire of "Veep," both of which showcase brilliant writing and performances that elevate their respective genres. These shows often push the boundaries of conventional sitcoms, opting for a more intelligent, fast-paced, and sometimes absurd brand of humor. They prove that comedy can be both incredibly funny and incredibly smart, offering a much-needed escape into laughter while also providing clever social commentary.

14. The Big Bang Theory (2007)

The Big Bang Theory became one of the most popular sitcoms of its time, centering on a group of socially awkward but brilliant scientists and their aspiring actress neighbor. The show found its niche by blending traditional multi-camera sitcom humor with a celebration of geek culture, scientific references, and the comedic clashes between different personality types. While some of its humor might not appeal to everyone, its massive success speaks to its ability to create widely appealing characters and situations, particularly the eccentric Sheldon Cooper. It's a show that brought science and comic books into mainstream living rooms with a laugh track.

The Big Bang Theory

13. How I Met Your Mother (2005)

How I Met Your Mother became a cultural phenomenon, following Ted Mosby as he narrates to his children the long, winding story of how he met their mother, primarily focusing on his adventures and misadventures with his four best friends in New York City. The show is known for its unique narrative structure, running gags, and heartfelt moments that blend seamlessly with its comedic elements. While opinions on its ending are divided, the journey itself is filled with iconic catchphrases, intricate callbacks, and a group of characters whose friendships feel incredibly real. It's a show that defined a generation for many viewers.

How I Met Your Mother

12. The Mindy Project (2012)

The Mindy Project brings a fresh, modern voice to the romantic comedy genre, following the professional and personal life of Dr. Mindy Lahiri, an OB/GYN who is obsessed with romantic comedies and finding her perfect love story. Created by and starring Mindy Kaling, the show is packed with witty dialogue, pop culture references, and a healthy dose of self-deprecating humor. It explores the complexities of dating, friendship, and career in New York City with a unique and often hilarious perspective. Mindy's journey is relatable, messy, and always entertaining, making it a charming and fun watch.

The Mindy Project

11. Better Off Ted (2009)

Better Off Ted is a wonderfully quirky and intelligent satirical comedy set within the morally questionable R&D department of a soulless mega-corporation, Veridian Dynamics. Ted, the head of research, tries to maintain his conscience while navigating increasingly absurd and unethical experiments and directives from his ruthless boss, Veronica. The show's humor is derived from its deadpan delivery, the bizarre scientific projects (like growing edible beef without a cow), and the company's hilariously manipulative corporate videos. It's a smart, underappreciated gem that offers a fresh take on workplace comedy with a distinct, dry wit.

Better Off Ted

10. Party Down (2009)

Get ready for a hilarious and often darkly comedic peek behind the scenes of a catering company in Party Down. This cult favorite follows a group of aspiring actors and writers working as caterers in Los Angeles, constantly encountering bizarre clients and even stranger situations at various events. The show's brilliance lies in its sharp dialogue, the fantastic chemistry among its ensemble cast (including Adam Scott and Lizzy Caplan), and its ability to blend cringe comedy with genuine pathos. It's a smart, underrated gem that offers a unique take on the struggles of creative ambition and the absurdity of service industry life.

Party Down

9. Silicon Valley (2014)

Delve into the cutthroat world of tech startups with Silicon Valley, a sharp and often painfully accurate satire of the industry. The series follows a group of socially awkward programmers trying to make it big with their groundbreaking compression algorithm, Pied Piper. It masterfully lampoons the absurdities, jargon, and inflated egos found in the real Silicon Valley, while also delivering genuinely funny character interactions and high-stakes business drama. The show is renowned for its technical accuracy (often consulting with real tech experts) and its ability to find humor in the most intense entrepreneurial struggles. It's a smart, timely, and incredibly funny series.

Silicon Valley

8. Veep (2012)

For those who enjoy their comedy with a sharp, cynical edge and a healthy dose of political satire, Veep is an absolute must-see. Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivers an astounding performance as Selina Meyer, the Vice President (and later President) of the United States, whose political career is a constant struggle against incompetence, backstabbing, and her own profound inability to connect with the public. The show's dialogue is legendary for its rapid-fire insults and profanity-laden exchanges, making it incredibly unique. It's a ruthless, no-holds-barred look at the absurdity of Washington D.C., and it's brilliantly executed from start to finish.

Veep

7. The IT Crowd (2006)

Dive into the hilariously dysfunctional world of IT support with The IT Crowd. This British sitcom is a cult classic for a reason, focusing on two socially inept IT technicians, Roy and Moss, and their technologically illiterate manager, Jen, who somehow find themselves in the basement of a large corporation. The show's humor is rapid-fire, relying on incredibly awkward social situations, classic British wit, and a healthy dose of geek culture references. If you've ever had trouble with your computer, or just enjoy watching incredibly specific and well-executed comedic scenarios, you'll find The IT Crowd absolutely brilliant. Just remember to try turning it off and on again!

The IT Crowd

6. 30 Rock (2006)

Enter the wild and wacky world of late-night television with 30 Rock, Tina Fey's Emmy-winning satirical comedy. Fey stars as Liz Lemon, the head writer of a fictional sketch comedy show, trying to wrangle her eccentric cast and network executives, especially the hilariously out-of-touch Jack Donaghy, played by Alec Baldwin. The show is known for its lightning-fast dialogue, surreal humor, and constant pop culture references. It's a love letter to the chaos of television production, packed with absurd situations and unforgettable characters. If you appreciate sharp writing and a healthy dose of self-aware comedy, 30 Rock is a must-watch.

30 Rock

5. Arrested Development (2003)

Arrested Development redefined the sitcom with its groundbreaking, highly intricate humor and running gags. Following the perpetually dysfunctional Bluth family after their patriarch is imprisoned, the show is a masterclass in comedic timing, layered jokes, and meta-narrative. Jason Bateman leads a phenomenal cast as Michael Bluth, the only sane member trying to keep his eccentric relatives from completely imploding. The show's influence can be seen in countless comedies that followed, thanks to its unique style and commitment to an ongoing narrative. It's a series that rewards re-watching, as you'll constantly discover new jokes and subtle references you missed the first time around.

Arrested Development

4. Superstore (2015)

Step into the chaotic aisles of Cloud 9 with Superstore, a brilliant workplace comedy that perfectly captures the mundane absurdity of retail life. This show thrives on its relatable characters and the everyday struggles of working in a big-box store. From Jonah's well-meaning but often clumsy attempts to elevate the discourse, to Amy's grounded cynicism, and Garrett's hilarious one-liners, the ensemble cast is fantastic. It expertly balances laugh-out-loud moments with surprisingly poignant observations about class, ambition, and the American dream. If you've ever worked in customer service, you'll find this show hits very close to home in the best possible way.

Superstore

3. The Good Place (2016)

The Good Place is a comedic masterpiece that dares to ask the big questions about morality, ethics, and what it means to be a good person, all while being incredibly funny. Kristen Bell shines as Eleanor Shellstrop, who accidentally ends up in the titular 'Good Place' after her death and must pretend to be someone she's not. The show's ingenious premise allows for constant twists and turns, keeping viewers on their toes. Michael Schur, the co-creator of Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, once again delivers a smart, witty, and surprisingly profound series that will make you think as much as it makes you laugh. It's truly a unique entry in the comedy landscape.

The Good Place

2. Parks and Recreation (2009)

Prepare for a delightful journey into the quirky world of local government with Parks and Recreation! This series starts strong and only gets better, evolving into one of the most beloved comedies of all time. Leslie Knope, played by the incredible Amy Poehler, is a relentlessly optimistic public servant whose passion for her town is infectious. The show's genius lies in its ability to create a truly endearing cast of characters, from Ron Swanson's stoic, meat-loving libertarianism to April Ludgate's cynical charm. It's a show that celebrates idealism, friendship, and the often-hilarious absurdity of bureaucracy. You'll find yourself wishing you could work in the Pawnee Parks Department!

Parks and Recreation

1. Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013)

Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt with Brooklyn Nine-Nine! This show is a true gem, blending workplace comedy with police procedural elements in a way that feels incredibly fresh and genuine. The ensemble cast is pure magic, with each character bringing their unique brand of humor to the precinct. You'll fall in love with Jake Peralta's childish antics, Rosa Diaz's stoic intensity, and Captain Holt's deadpan delivery. It's a masterclass in character-driven comedy, proving that even a police station can be a place of pure joy and hilarity. Plus, the show tackles important social issues with grace and wit, making it not just funny, but genuinely smart and heartwarming.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

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