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Netflix is like a goldmine of entertainment, offering everything from gripping series and eye-opening documentaries to laugh-out-loud comedy specials. But let’s be real -- just because it’s on Netflix doesn’t mean it’s worth your time. Case in point: this August, the streaming giant has dropped not one but two comedy specials that we confidently brand as must-skips.
Wondering which comedy specials you should pass on? We’ve got you covered -- no need to guess!
Both Joe Rogan and Matt Rife have been no strangers to controversy, whether it's for divisive opinions or a style of humor that doesn’t quite hit the mark. So, it’s no surprise that Rogan's Burn the Boats, which debuted on August 3, and Rife's upcoming special Matt Rife: Lucid - A Crowd Work Special, set to drop on August 13, are raising more eyebrows than laughs.
Now, while we can’t dictate your Netflix queue, we can definitely steer you away from these two duds. But if your curiosity gets the better of you -- or you just enjoy a good cringe -- stick around as we dive into what makes these specials the ultimate must-skips.
What is Burn the Boats about?
Joe Rogan’s Netflix special, Burn the Boats, delivers exactly what you’d expect... controversial jokes that toe the line! Rogan tackles hot-button issues like the LGBTQ community, COVID misinformation, and societal taboos with his trademark provocative style. From accents and jokes about pregnant men to mentions of Alex Jones and Elon Musk, Rogan seems more interested in shock value than substance.
The special touches on gender, social awareness, and conspiracy theories, all while maintaining a laid-back tone aimed at eliciting laughs rather than making any profound statements. If you’re a die-hard Rogan fan, this might be for you; otherwise, it’s an easy pass.
What is Matt Rife: Lucid - A Crowd Work Special about?
Matt Rife: Lucid - A Crowd Work Special marks Netflix’s first dive into the world of crowd work comedy, with the ever-controversial Matt Rife taking the stage in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Rife has a history of pushing boundaries -- sometimes a bit too far. His previous specials have sparked backlash, especially for jokes about domestic violence, earning him a reputation for humor that can be more edgy than funny. If his past performances are any indication, this special is likely to tread similar ground.
For those who weren’t fans of Rife’s earlier work, this might be one to skip, as it’s expected to serve up more of the same.
What to watch on Netflix instead
Netflix is always brimming with fresh content, so if you’ve decided to take our advice and skip the latest Joe Rogan and Matt Rife specials, don’t worry -- there are plenty of other options to keep you entertained this August!
Here are our top picks:
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder – In a small town haunted by a five-year-old murder-suicide, high school senior Pippa Fitz-Amobi is on a mission to prove the accused, Sal Singh, was innocent. As she uncovers dark secrets and gets closer to the truth, she puts herself and her loved ones in grave danger, leading to a shocking revelation about the real killer.
The Chucky Franchise – Get your horror fix with the Chucky series, where a doll possessed by serial killer Charles Lee Ray terrorizes anyone in his path. Available on Netflix:
- Child's Play 2 (1990)
- Child's Play 3 (1991)
- Bride of Chucky (1998)
- Seed of Chucky (2004)
- Curse of Chucky (2013)
- Cult of Chucky (2017)
Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax – This animated classic follows young Ted as he embarks on a journey to discover the truth about the Lorax, a mystical creature who "speaks for the trees." Along the way, Ted learns valuable lessons about environmental conservation and the importance of protecting the planet.
Fire Country, season 1 – Follow Bode Donovan, a young convict seeking redemption by joining a firefighting program in Northern California. As he battles wildfires and confronts his past, Bode forms bonds with his team and strives to earn a second chance at life.
Fury – Set during the final days of World War II, this intense war film follows Sergeant Wardaddy and his tank crew on a dangerous mission behind enemy lines. With limited resources, they must navigate the brutal realities of war and test their loyalty and courage.
Godzilla Minus One/Minus Color – Japan faces its greatest threat yet as Godzilla emerges, wreaking havoc on cities and testing the resilience of its people. Godzilla Minus One explores themes of survival, while Godzilla Minus Color offers a visually distinct take on the iconic monster.
Not Another Teen Movie – This satirical comedy hilariously parodies teen film clichés, following Jake Wyler as he bets he can turn an "unattractive" girl into prom queen. As the plan unfolds, Jake learns about love, acceptance, and the absurdity of high school tropes.
White Chicks – In this outrageous comedy, two FBI agents go undercover as wealthy socialites, disguised as white women, to solve a high-profile kidnapping case. As they navigate their new identities, hilarity ensues in a series of laugh-out-loud situations.
Reminiscence – In a near-future world where memories can be accessed and relived, private investigator Nick Bannister becomes obsessed with a mysterious woman who disappears. As he dives into a dangerous conspiracy, the line between reality and memory blurs, leading to unexpected revelations.
Love Is Blind: UK – This reality dating show challenges singles in the UK to form connections without ever seeing each other. As emotions run high, participants must decide whether love truly is blind, leading to proposals and the ultimate test of their relationships.
With so much choice there's bound to be something to catch your eye!
Stay tuned to Netflix Life for more updates, insights, recommendations and more!