If you loved the raw, heartfelt, and often hilarious portrayal of modern motherhood and womanhood in 'Better Things' (2016), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same blend of humor, authenticity, and emotional depth. Whether you're drawn to complex female leads, family dynamics, or slice-of-life storytelling, these recommendations will keep you entertained and emotionally invested.

Louie (2010)
Description: Louie shares a similar semi-autobiographical approach with Better Things, blending comedy with poignant, slice-of-life moments. Both shows explore the complexities of single parenthood and feature a creator-star who draws from personal experiences. The visual style is understated yet impactful.
Fact: Louie was created by and stars Louis C.K., who also directed most episodes. The show is known for its unconventional structure and mix of stand-up comedy with dramatic storytelling. It won multiple Emmy Awards during its run.


Broad City (2014)
Description: Broad City, like Better Things, celebrates female friendship and the chaos of everyday life with irreverent humor. Both shows feature strong, quirky female protagonists who navigate urban life with resilience and wit. The tone is playful yet grounded in real emotional stakes.
Fact: Broad City was created by and stars Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson, who initially developed it as a web series. The show was executive produced by Amy Poehler. It's known for its absurd humor and feminist themes.


Atlanta (2016)
Description: Atlanta and Better Things both offer a unique, artistic take on everyday life, blending humor with surreal and introspective moments. Both shows feature a strong directorial vision and explore themes of identity, family, and societal pressures. The storytelling is unconventional and deeply personal.
Fact: Atlanta was created by and stars Donald Glover, who also wrote and directed several episodes. The show won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for Glover. It's known for its genre-blending and innovative storytelling.


Catastrophe (2015)
Description: Catastrophe, like Better Things, delves into the messy realities of relationships and parenting with sharp wit and honesty. Both shows feature flawed but relatable characters who navigate life's unpredictability with humor and resilience. The dialogue is naturalistic and the emotional tone is bittersweet.
Fact: Catastrophe was co-created by and stars Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney. The show was inspired by their real-life experiences. It was critically acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of marriage and parenthood.


Insecure (2016)
Description: Insecure shares with Better Things a focus on the complexities of modern womanhood, friendship, and career struggles. Both shows feature strong female leads and explore themes of self-worth and relationships with humor and honesty. The visual style is distinctive and enhances the storytelling.
Fact: Insecure was created by and stars Issa Rae, based on her web series Awkward Black Girl. The show received critical acclaim for its portrayal of Black women's experiences. It was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards and won for Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing.


Chewing Gum (2015)
Description: Chewing Gum, like Better Things, offers a bold, unfiltered look at a young woman's life with humor and heart. Both shows explore themes of sexuality, family, and personal growth with a unique voice. The protagonist's awkward yet endearing journey is central to the narrative.
Fact: Chewing Gum was created by and stars Michaela Coel, who drew from her own experiences. The show won a BAFTA for Best Female Performance in a Comedy Programme. Coel went on to create the critically acclaimed series I May Destroy You.


Fleabag (2016)
Description: Fleabag shares similarities with Better Things in its raw, unfiltered portrayal of a complex female protagonist navigating life's challenges. Both shows blend humor with deep emotional moments, exploring themes of family, love, and self-discovery. The storytelling is intimate and character-driven, with a strong female perspective.
Fact: Fleabag was created by and stars Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who initially developed it as a one-woman play. The show won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series. The fourth wall breaks are a signature element of the series.


Ramy (2019)
Description: Ramy, like Better Things, explores cultural identity and personal growth through a deeply personal lens. Both shows balance humor with heartfelt moments, offering a nuanced portrayal of family dynamics and self-discovery. The protagonist's journey is central to the narrative.
Fact: Ramy was created by and stars Ramy Youssef, who drew from his own experiences as a first-generation Egyptian-American. The show won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy for Youssef. It's praised for its authentic representation of Muslim life in America.


The Other Two (2019)
Description: The Other Two shares with Better Things a sharp, satirical take on family dynamics and the entertainment industry. Both shows blend humor with emotional depth, exploring the absurdities of modern life. The sibling relationships are a key focus, portrayed with both humor and heart.
Fact: The Other Two was created by former Saturday Night Live writers Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider. The show stars Drew Tarver and Heléne Yorke as siblings navigating their younger brother's sudden fame. It's praised for its witty writing and relatable characters.


Shrill (2019)
Description: Shrill and Better Things both center on women reclaiming their power and identity in a world that often undervalues them. Both shows blend comedy with poignant moments, exploring themes of self-acceptance and societal expectations. The protagonists' journeys are empowering and relatable.
Fact: Shrill is based on Lindy West's memoir and stars Aidy Bryant. The show was praised for its body-positive message and authentic portrayal of a woman's life. It was developed by Bryant, West, and Alexandra Rushfield.
