Last Updated on 15 January 2025 by frenchflicks
While we’re still recovering from the cancellation of Standing Up (Drôle), Netflix has just released a new French comedy, Off the Hook (Detox), about two young women deciding to take control of their lives by ditching their phones and internet for a month.
Does Netflix still believe in original French series? The streaming platform quietly released Standing Up early last year. Despite receiving great reviews, the show—created by the mind behind Call My Agent! (10 pour cent)—was canceled after just one season due to low ratings. Now, Netflix seems to be following a similar path with Off the Hook, another French comedy series that has been released with little fanfare. Fortunately, if you’ve previously watched French movies or TV shows on Netflix, it should show up in your suggested lists. So, what is Off the Hook (Detox), and is it worth watching?
A goofy comedy… a bit over the top
The six-episode series follows two friends, Léa and Manon, who are both navigating an existential crisis. Léa is obsessively cyber-stalking her ex, to the point where he threatens to sue her. Meanwhile, Manon dreams of a career in show business but accidentally becomes an internet sensation after a disastrous live performance involving a fake bottom.
The two roommates decide to make a pact: give up their phones and internet for an entire month, realizing that technology has taken over their lives and emotions.
From this amusing premise, creator Marie Jardillier crafts a series of goofy situations. How do you navigate Paris without Google Maps? How do you know what people are up to? And how do you meet friends without a pre-arranged plan? And, of course, how do you figure out who’s single if you can’t stalk them online?
The comedy delivers just the right amount of silliness for a sitcom—without the laugh track. It’s fast-paced, with jokes landing every 30 seconds, and most of them stick. However, the show lacks depth and realism. Many situations feel superficial, as do the characters—much like Emily in Paris. The two lead actresses seem directed to overact, as if they were in The King of Queens or a Jim Carrey film. This over-the-top style diminishes the relatability of their struggles.
At the end of the day, Off the Hook packs enough laughs to entertain but lacks the substance to leave you craving more.
Is there going to be a season 2 of Off the Hook?
Netflix has yet to announce whether the show will return for a second season. The streaming giant may be waiting for viewing figures, especially after the underwhelming ratings of Standing Up (Drôle). However, with Netflix looking to cut costs on original programming, the show will likely need strong word-of-mouth to earn a renewal.
If you’re looking for more French content on Netflix, check out our list of every French movie on Netflix and our selection of the best French movies available now on Netflix.
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