The Micallef P(r)ogram(me) Series Deux

Most sketch comedy shows are content to throw jokes at the wall and hope a few stick. The Micallef P(r)ogram(me) Series Deux feels like it built an entirely new wall just so it could throw stranger jokes at it. Shaun Micallef plays a gloriously self-important version of himself, introducing a parade of bizarre characters, fake interviews, oddball public service announcements and sketches that can switch from razor-sharp satire to complete absurdity in the space of a sentence.

This is the series where the show really hits its stride. The writing is smarter, weirder and more confident, and the cast attack every ridiculous premise with a completely straight face, which somehow makes everything even funnier. One minute it's poking fun at Australian television, politics and celebrity culture, the next it's obsessing over something so strangely specific that you can't believe someone not only thought of it, but built an entire sketch around it. Clever without being smug and silly without being dumb, Series Deux remains one of the most unique comedy shows Australia has ever produced.