In a streaming landscape dominated by grim dramas and endless seasons, Feel Good arrives as a refreshing antidote. This Netflix comedy, created by and starring comedian Mae Martin, packs a punch in just 12 episodes—less than five hours of screen time. It's the perfect binge for anyone craving something that feels both substantial and effortlessly entertaining.
The show centers on Mae, a recovering cocaine addict, who falls into a whirlwind romance with George (Charlotte Ritchie), a woman who has never been with another woman before. Their relationship becomes the crucible for exploring addiction, codependency, and the messy process of coming out. Martin's writing is sharp, witty, and deeply human, finding humor in the most unexpected places—like a scene involving a horny Alien reference that you'll have to see to believe.
What sets Feel Good apart is its ability to balance comedy and drama without missing a beat. The characters often behave as if they're in a high-stakes drama, which amplifies the comedy. Yet the show never loses sight of the emotional core: that life's toughest moments can still be laced with joy and laughter. It's a philosophy that feels especially resonant in a time when so much media leans into pessimism—think BoJack Horseman or Breaking Bad. Feel Good offers a more optimistic, if still honest, take.
The series excels at showing how Mae and George's relationship mirrors addiction. Mae's compulsive need to be with George is a stand-in for her former drug use, and the show doesn't shy away from the uncomfortable parallels. In one memorable moment, Mae tells her NA sponsor, "I love grapes. Sometimes I think I just love George, but I actually also love grapes." It's a line that captures the show's blend of absurdity and insight.
Their attempts to avoid their problems lead to hilariously awkward roleplay, including a police uniform that George spends 300 pounds on. The comedy is rooted in the characters' inability to communicate, but it never feels mean-spirited. Instead, it's a testament to Martin's skill that these moments are both laugh-out-loud funny and painfully relatable.
Unlike traditional sitcoms that reset every episode, Feel Good allows its characters to grow. Mae's mother, played by Lisa Kudrow, delivers a brutally honest assessment of Mae's romantic history, forcing her to confront her patterns. This growth is messy and nonlinear, but it's what makes the show feel real. By the end, you're not sure if Mae and George are meant to be together, but you're invested in their journey.
For those who love a good short series, Feel Good is a gem. It's a show that respects your time while delivering a complete, satisfying story. If you're looking for something that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even cry, this is it. And with its compact runtime, you can easily finish it in a single afternoon—perfect for a lazy weekend.
So, if you're tired of the same old dramas and want a comedy that actually has something to say, give Feel Good a shot. It's a reminder that even in the darkest times, there's room for humor and hope. And that's a message we could all use right now.
