This weekend I have … half an hour, and I missed the boat.
‘Insecure’
When to watch: Now, on Netflix or Max.
All five seasons of this HBO comedy are now available on Netflix – the first of several high-profile series that once crossed an unbridgeable divide between rival platforms. (“Band of Brothers” and “Six Feet Under” will also be coming to Netflix soon.) Issa Rae, a creator of the show, stars as a woman struggling to launch the next chapter of her life, the more established and mature chapter, the one where she’s supposed to know what she’s doing with her career and her BFFs and her love life. “Insecure” makes for a great binge, especially if you like frictionless friendships.
… three hours, and I love Agatha Christie.
“Why didn’t they ask Evans?”
When to watch: Now, on BritBox; Episode 1 is also available on Amazon.
Hugh Laurie adapted and directed this three-part mystery set primarily in Wales. Bobby (Will Poulter) is playing a round of golf by the sea when he comes across a dying man whose dying words are “Why didn’t they ask Evans?” Why indeed! This sets Bobby and his childhood friend Frankie (Lucy Boynton) on a romantic investigation, full of banter and famous faces. “Evans” has a bouncy charm, a sense of humor and mischief that more intense murder shows often avoid. If you like the ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ costumes, check it out here.
… six o’clock, and I want a quirky comedy.
‘Laid’
When to watch: Now, on Freevee, the Roku channel or Tubi.
There are only two six-episode seasons of this naughty, sweet Australian comedy that originally ran from 2011-12, so adjust yourself accordingly. Roo (Alison Bell) is struggling with a lousy job and hanging out with her supportive bestie when her ex-boyfriends suddenly start dying one by one. At first it seems like a tragic series of coincidences, but Roo becomes convinced that something more specific, perhaps supernatural, is going on. While the setup for the show is dark, “Laid” is actually racy and goofy, much more “The Good Place” than “The Leftovers”. If you like cute dirtbag characters, kick off those crusty flip flops and watch this.