Running out of TV shows and movies to stream? The Purbalite is here to help, with another installment of our What to Binge Watch feature.
Sitcoms have always been a staple of American television, whether it’s the Brady Bunch, Full House, or something like Young Sheldon, which has dominated the modern sitcom scene. Sitcom-style shows have been done to death, but Detroiters stays fresh by highlighting abstract social comedy and straying away from the typical familiar structure of most sitcoms.
Detroiters follows Tim Cramblin (Tim Robinson) and Sam Duvet (Sam Richardson), who take charge of Tim’s father’s advertising company after the father loses his mind. The pair navigate the highs and lows of making and selling advertisements to businesses in modern Detroit.
Robinson is best known for his work in I Think You Should Leave, where he highlights absurdist situations through his character work. Detroiters blend this unique comedic style with the modern sitcom.
Unlike in I Think You Should Leave, the uncomfortable moments with Tim Cramblin are masterfully balanced by the presence of Sam Duvet, Cramblin’s best friend and business partner. This character dynamic essentially prevents the show from ever going too far off the rails while also not restraining Robinson or Richardson’s abilities.
The cast manages to make most characters feel like someone viewers could meet in real life. No matter how ridiculous the situation, their struggles are rooted deep in reality.
Throughout the series, Sam searches for love while Tim focuses on continuing his father’s legacy and building the family business back to its former glory. The two are helped by long-time secretary Sheila, a new intern Lea, and the iconic character Tommy Pencils.
Despite being canceled after its second season, the show has seen a cult resurgence since its recent addition to Netflix.