5 Web Series on Our Watchlist (That Should be on Yours too.)

It's no secret that breaking into Hollywood is hard. There's an impenetrable glass dome surrounding the industry that only a few (compared to how many are trying to break in) have been able to crack. With the introduction of YouTube, creatives found new ways to tell their stories. Many of which bypassed Hollywood's red tape with web series.

I first discovered the world of web series when I stumbled upon what was known then as Issa Rae Productions (currently Hoorae Media) and Black and Sexy TV. These two YouTube channels gave me gems such as Awkward Black Girl, First, Sexless, and Roomie Lover Friends.

As time moves on, Hollywood is still refusing to let everyone's voice be heard, and as disheartening as this may be, creatives are doing what they can to keep the spirit of expression and web series alive. Here are five web series delivering amazing stories to diverse audiences everywhere.

1. Queerious

   Set in Los Angeles, the show follows a queer group of friends as they explore the complexity of love and relationships in Los Angeles. It is the flagship series for Queer·ious TV created by Alexander King.

2. Girl Texts

Inspired by "her own neurotic tendency to spiral at the smallest details of a text interaction." Zoe Mills created the series to explore the nuances of texting and how "a single period can change everything" The series can be watched on YouTube as well as the website girltexts.com

3. The Comic Shop

   
   

One of the most anticipated web series of the year, The Comic Shop, created by Cheyenne Ewulu, had a viral kickstarter campaign, raising over $200,000 to bring to life 6 high quality episodes. The mockumentary style show follows the adventures of four friends attempting to keep their comic shop open.

4. Happy Hour

Similar to the mockumentary style of The Office and Abbott Elementary, 'Happy Hour', Created by Maya Peezy, follows a week in the life of Dom, a full time film student and part time bartender. While currently the only episode available is the pilot episode, more episodes look to be on the way.

5. Moments

Created by Malik Baker, Moments is an anthology series that explores everyday life. Each 3-8 minute episode aims to offer a unique perspective on the moments that shape our lives. The second season is now airing on YouTube.