10 Shows & Movies Similar to Documentary Now! (2015)

Description: A perfect companion to 'Documentary Now!', this show parodies 1980s horror and sci-fi TV, complete with intentionally bad acting and production values. Both shows excel at mimicking and mocking specific genres, offering hilarious and affectionate tributes to their sources.

Fact: Created by Matthew Holness and Richard Ayoade. The fictional author Garth Marenghi is portrayed by Holness. The show was initially overlooked but gained a cult following after its release.

Description: This surreal comedy shares 'Documentary Now!'s' penchant for absurdity and genre-blending. Both shows feature eccentric characters and imaginative storytelling, though 'The Mighty Boosh' leans more into fantasy and musical elements, creating a unique, whimsical world.

Fact: Created by and starring Noel Fielding and Julian Barratt. The show originated as a radio series before moving to television. Known for its vibrant costumes and quirky musical numbers.

Description: This show, like 'Documentary Now!', thrives on absurdity and parody, though with a more surreal and grotesque edge. Both shows deconstruct television formats, using low-budget aesthetics and bizarre humor to create a unique comedic experience that challenges traditional storytelling.

Fact: Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim also created 'Tom Goes to the Mayor.' The show features intentionally poor production quality for comedic effect. Guest stars include John C. Reilly and Zach Galifianakis.

Description: Both 'Portlandia' and 'Documentary Now!' use sketch comedy to parody specific subcultures and societal norms. While 'Portlandia' focuses on hipster culture in Portland, both shows employ a mockumentary style and feature recurring characters, offering sharp, satirical commentary on modern life.

Fact: Created by Fred Armisen, Carrie Brownstein, and Jonathan Krisel. The show's iconic 'Put a Bird on It' sketch became a cultural phenomenon. Guest stars include Kyle MacLachlan as the mayor of Portland.

Description: Like 'Documentary Now!', 'The Eric Andre Show' subverts traditional television formats, particularly talk shows, with absurdist humor and surreal segments. Both shows employ a mockumentary style, breaking the fourth wall and playing with audience expectations to create comedic and often bizarre moments.

Fact: Eric Andre's chaotic interviews often leave celebrity guests bewildered. The show features fake commercials and public pranks, adding to its unpredictable nature. Hannibal Buress co-hosts, providing deadpan humor that contrasts with Andre's manic energy.

Description: This show shares 'Documentary Now!'s' mockumentary approach, blending reality with absurdity. Nathan Fielder's deadpan delivery and the show's faux-business advice format mirror the satirical and often cringe-worthy humor found in 'Documentary Now!', as both push the boundaries of conventional comedy.

Fact: Nathan Fielder is a real business school graduate, adding credibility to his outlandish schemes. The show's most famous episode, 'Dumb Starbucks,' became a viral sensation. Fielder's interactions with real people often result in unintentionally hilarious outcomes.

Description: While darker in tone, 'Inside No. 9' shares 'Documentary Now!'s' anthology format and love for genre parody. Each episode is a self-contained story, often with a twist, mirroring the variety and creativity of 'Documentary Now!' in exploring different styles and narratives.

Fact: Created by Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton of 'The League of Gentlemen.' The show is known for its clever writing and unexpected endings. Episodes range from horror to comedy, showcasing the creators' versatility.

Description: Similar to 'Documentary Now!' in its mockumentary style and comedic take on historical events, 'Drunk History' parodies the documentary format by having intoxicated narrators recount historical tales, which are then reenacted by actors. Both shows blend humor with a faux-educational tone, appealing to audiences who enjoy satire and absurdity.

Fact: The show was created by Derek Waters and Jeremy Konner, inspired by a web series. Famous actors like Jack Black and Will Ferrell have appeared in reenactments. The narrators are genuinely drunk during filming, adding to the show's authenticity and hilarity.

Description: Like 'Documentary Now!', this show parodies the talk show format with absurd humor and celebrity guests playing exaggerated versions of themselves. Both shows thrive on improvisation and breaking conventional TV norms, creating a fresh and unpredictable comedic experience.

Fact: Based on the podcast of the same name hosted by Scott Aukerman. The show features a mix of scripted and improvised segments. Reggie Watts served as the bandleader for the first four seasons.

Description: This sketch comedy show, produced by Bob Odenkirk, shares 'Documentary Now!'s' love for parody and homage. Both shows feature tight, clever writing and a variety of comedic styles, often referencing and satirizing pop culture and media formats.

Fact: The group originated as a Los Angeles-based comedy troupe. The show features recurring sketches and characters, much like 'Documentary Now!' Despite critical acclaim, it was canceled after two seasons.