44 Hilarious Dark Comedy TV Shows on HBO Max for Your Binge List

Dark Comedy TV shows on HBO Max strike a unique balance between humor and darker, often taboo subjects. These shows offer a refreshing take on comedy, blending it with elements of drama, tragedy, and sometimes even horror. This type of comedy often indulges in ironic, satirical, or grotesque humor, providing a different kind of laughter that invites the audience to laugh while simultaneously feeling a sense of discomfort or introspection. The type of TV shows in this genre typically involves intricate plots that revolve around flawed, complex characters navigating through morally ambiguous situations. These characters might include anti-heroes, morally dubious protagonists, and eccentric sidekicks, whose flaws and dark tendencies contribute significantly to both the humor and the gravity of the content. The narrative often explores themes of existential dread, social and political commentary, and human vices, all while wrapping them in layers of witty dialogue and black humor.

Two Weeks to Live

Thrilling revenge-seeking journey of a young woman

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Released: 2020

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1 Seasons Available (6 Episodes)

Cast
Maisie Williams, Sian Clifford, Mawaan Rizwan, Taheen Modak, Sean Pertwee, Jason Flemyng, Thalissa Teixeira, Kerry Howard

Two Weeks to Live is a must-watch for fans of dark comedy and action-packed adventures. This 2020 series follows Kim Noakes, portrayed by Maisie Williams, on a high-stakes, revenge-fueled quest after her bizarre, secluded upbringing. With elements of British humor and survivalist scenarios, its both thrilling and hilariously unpredictable. The series is produced by Sky UK and Kudos Productions, with direction by Al Campbell and a sharp script from Gaby Hull. Williams, transitioning from her iconic role as Arya Stark in Game of Thrones, gives a captivating performance, supported by a talented cast including Sian Clifford and Mawaan Rizwan. Set in Kent, England, the show combines action, adventure, and humor, appealing to viewers seeking a unique, engaging series. With only one season of six episodes, it's perfect for a quick, yet satisfying binge-watch. Don’t miss this edgy, witty take on survival and revenge!

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Vice Principals (HBO)

Riveting school-based drama with twisted humor

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Released: 2016

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 2 Seasons Available (18 Episodes)

Cast
Danny McBride, Walton Goggins, Kimberly Hebert Gregory, Georgia King, Sheaun McKinney, Busy Philipps, Shea Whigham, Shea Wigham, Busy Philipps, Danny McBride, Georgia King, Kimberly Hebert Gregory, Sheaun McKinney, Walton Goggins

Vice Principals is a must-watch for fans of dark comedy and innovative storytelling. This HBO series, running from 2016 to 2017, spotlights the tumultuous, laugh-inducing rivalry between Neil Gamby (Danny McBride) and Lee Russell (Walton Goggins), two vice principals with clashing ambitions at a high school. Created by McBride and Jody Hill, the series brilliantly combines sharp black humor with engaging narratives, set against the charming backdrop of Charleston, South Carolina. The stellar performances by McBride as the insecure but tough Gamby, and Goggins' cunning and manipulative Russell, provide endless entertainment. Adding depth, Kimberly Hebert Gregory as Dr. Belinda Brown delivers a powerful portrayal of the new, hard-hitting principal. Bursting with clever quotes, a memorable soundtrack, and intriguing trivia, Vice Principals offers a unique viewing experience that's both hilariously dark and irresistibly engaging. Don't miss out on this captivating blend of humor and drama.

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Tour De Pharmacy (HBO)

Satirical take on doping in professional cycling.

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Released: 2017

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-MA

Run time:

Cast
Andy Samberg, Orlando Bloom, Freddie Highmore, Joe Buck, Nathan Fielder, Daveed Diggs, John Cena, James Marsden, Maya Rudolph, Danny Glover, Mike Tyson, Julia Ormond, Jeff Goldblum, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Lance Armstrong, Dolph Lundgren, Eric Nenninger, Kevin Bacon, Will Forte, Chris Webber, Phylicia Rashad, J.J. Abrams, Jon Hamm

Tour De Pharmacy (HBO) Stepping into the hilarious realm of competitive cycling, Tour De Pharmacy is a mockumentary set against the backdrop of the 1982 Tour De France, rife with performance-enhancing drug scandals. This HBO special, directed by Jake Szymanski and penned by Murray Miller, narrates a fictional race where disqualifications leave only five contestants—each more absurd than the last. The film humorously highlights the ruthlessness of sports, amplified by star-studded performances from Andy Samberg, Orlando Bloom, Freddie Highmore, John Cena, and Daveed Diggs. Comedic cameos and satirical takes on real-life sporting issues make this film a must-watch. With a vibrant 1980s soundtrack curated by Stuart A. Staples, Tour De Pharmacy not only entertains but also cleverly parodies the doping controversies that have plagued competitive cycling. For a riotous, laugh-out-loud experience that melds humor with a pinch of reality, this film is unmissable.

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Arthur's Law

Unlucky man schemes after accidental homicide

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Released: 2021

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1 Seasons Available (6 Episodes)

Cast
Jan Liefers, Martina Gedeck, Martina Gedeck, Nora Tschirner, Michael Klammer, Cristina Rego, David Bredin, Jan Josef Liefers, Cristina do Rego, Martina Gedeck, Nora Tschirner, Michael Klammer, David Bredin

Arthurs Law is a must-watch for fans of dark humor and intricate narratives. This German comedy-drama series, directed by Christian Zübert and released in 2021, follows Arthur Ahnepol, whose attempts to escape his unhappy marriage lead him into a captivating web of lies and crime. With Jan Josef Liefers delivering a stellar performance as the mediocre man-turned-schemer and Nora Tschirner playing his domineering wife with a perfect mix of menace and humor, the series promises an engaging experience. Cristina do Rego as Detective Monika Wrobel adds a thrilling dimension, elevating the suspense. The shows unique blend of black comedy and suspenseful drama, combined with its exceptional soundtrack, sets it apart as a trendsetter in narrative comedy. As Germanys first original series for WarnerMedias Joyn, Arthurs Law brilliantly balances humor with tension, making it an essential addition to your watchlist.

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About This Collection

Twisted humor with satirical and edgy narratives.

Dark Comedy TV shows on HBO Max blend humor with macabre themes, offering a unique take on life's darker aspects. These series leverage sharp wit and thought-provoking narratives to explore complex characters and situations. Fans of unconventional humor will find dark Comedy TV shows on HBO Max a thrilling escape from traditional genres.