“The Characters” is now on Netflix. This comedy series follows one actor or actress in each episode as they become several different characters with semi-related narratives.

I have to say, it’s hard to make it through an episode without checking to see how much time is left.

Netflix is supposed to waste your time without making you feel like you are wasting your time, yet watching “The Characters” made me feel like I should definitely be doing something else with my life.

Something was just off about the show. The characters themselves are often very strange, but that is not bothersome. Many of the stories are satiric, which is fun, but for some reason they don’t all hit.

The show felt very similar to Saturday Night Live. It was like skit after skit using the same special guest–in this case the main actor or actress for the episode. The only problem is SNL is improvised, which is what makes it funny. “The Characters” has the same style and comedy, but it doesn’t strike when it’s not live or improvised.

I felt myself being distracted by how over-stylized the show was. It just felt like they were trying too hard to be funny and satiric.

With that said, there were decently funny moments, and the premises behind many of the stories and satire are great ideas. It’s just not complete.

One thing that the show does excel in is camerawork. Whether it’s the use of zoom, close-up, or medium shot, or whether it’s the use of panning and movement, the camera jives with the mood that each story is trying to create.

While the show does not feel complete, the idea of having a new main actor for every episode is very interesting.

It’s not worth a binge, but it might be worth a try to see if the style of the show suits you.

2/5