Best-Reviewed Comedy Specials 2018
With Netflix’s continued investment in stand-up comedy, it’s no surprise the streaming service has captured critics’ attention and dominates the list of the year’s best specials. Hannah Gadsby’s thoughtful rumination on the medium, Nanette, lands in the No. 1 spot.
The order of the rank below reflects the Adjusted Score as of December 31, 2018. Scores might change over time.
#1
Adjusted Score: 101826%
Critics Consensus: Hannah Gadsby: Nanette brilliantly moves modern comedy into nakedly honest new territory, pivoting from dry humor to raw, powerful storytelling.
Synopsis: Australian comic Hannah Gadsby reshapes standard stand-up by pairing punchlines with personal revelations on gender, sexuality and childhood turmoil....
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#2
Adjusted Score: 100355%
Critics Consensus: Chris Rock reasserts his credentials as one of comedy's preeminent figures in Tamborine, an introspective standup act delivered with fresh sensitivity and trademark exuberance.
Synopsis: Emmy and Grammy award-winning comedian Chris Rock, who redefined stand-up comedy with his hilarious and brilliant takes on relationships, race...
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#3
Adjusted Score: 100236%
Critics Consensus: Ali Wong emerges a mother still perturbed in Hard Knock Wife, a hilariously honest hour of comedy that highlights the joys and oh boys of motherhood with fearless energy and just the right amount of squirmy detail.
Synopsis: Two years after the hit "Baby Cobra," Ali Wong is back with another baby bump -- and a torrent of...
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#4
Adjusted Score: 100177%
Critics Consensus: John Mulaney incisively describes his own befuddlement with the modern world in this uproariously funny deconstruction of manners, relationships, and religion.
Synopsis: John Mulaney relays stories from his childhood and "SNL," eviscerates the value of college and laments getting older in this...
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