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Episode 4 of the Australian web series Sarah’s Channel opens with the familiar singsong social media battle cry of “Hi, guys!” before immediately pivoting into some depressing terrain. “I guess having a group of disgusting freaks watch you sleep every night would be weird for some people,” the host cheerfully explains, “but it’s normal for me. It’s all part of my… DAILY ROUTINE!”
Written and directed by Nick Coyle, the six-episode series stars former Love scene stealer Claudia O’Doherty as the titular Sarah, a social media influencer who hosts a vlog in a post-apocalyptic dystopia after being reanimated by a small group of “slime people.” Sarah’s Channel utilizes a slow burn approach to storytelling, waiting until the beginning of Episode 3 to fully explain its unique premise. From the opening moments of the pilot we know something’s amiss, but the series decides to use the ambiguity as yet another way to excavate humor from its delightfully absurd environment.
2019 has had no shortage of incredible new shows, but few things have made me laugh out loud more than Sarah’s Channel.
Sarah’s Channel is such a joy to watch because it delivers a distinct brand of humor. Comedy thrives on conflict, so the cheerfully resilient Sarah’s attempt to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of an impending war with a mysterious monster is naturally hilarious. The series deftly toggles between Sarah’s bubbly influencer videos and the grim reality of being forced to live with a gaggle of subterranean mutants because everyone you’ve ever known is dead.
You know, that old trope.
Another reason for the show’s creative success is the real-life friendship between creator Nick Coyle (who also plays Justin) and O’Doherty. As Broad City, Playing House, Detroiters, and a host of other shows have continuously demonstrated, there’s just no substitute for the crackling comedic chemistry that emanates from genuine friendship. Sarah’s Channel is 29 minutes of weird, wonderful comedy bliss. Claudia O’Doherty’s performance is otherworldly as the actress continues to prove that she’s one of the hands down funniest people on the planet.
I know there are a ton of shows you need to catch up on, but Sarah’s Channel is a breezy 29-minute binge. That’s basically half an episode of Stranger Things! Give the show a chance. I guarantee you’ll love it.
