Comedy series "Das Manko" on ZDF breaks with viewing habits

A German comedy series titled Das Manko has sparked widespread discussion after its debut on ZDF, breaking with traditional viewing habits. The show, created by Arne Feldhusen, known for his work on Stromberg, features a satirical take on the absurdities of the workplace through physical comedy. It premiered in the early hours of August 18 and is already available in the ZDF Mediathek. The series has been praised for its unique approach to humor and its departure from conventional television formats. The four-part series follows eleven incompetent employees who are meant to be fired but end up enrolled in a training program for high performers. This sets off an absurd journey filled with exaggerated situations and comedic scenarios. Each episode runs between 20 and 25 minutes, making the entire series under 90 minutes long. Despite its brevity, the show has drawn attention for its unconventional structure and content. Arne Feldhusen directed the series in collaboration with the theater group Das Manko GbR. Feldhusen previously worked on shows such as Stromberg, a German adaptation of the British series The Office, and Der Tatortreiniger, which stars Bjarne Mädel as a janitor named Schotty. His experience in creating humorous takes on office life is evident in Das Manko, which continues this tradition with a more theatrical and physical approach to comedy. According to Feldhusen, the project was particularly rewarding. He described the ensemble cast as "brave, eccentric, and rare in Germany," highlighting their commitment to the show's unique style. The group Das Manko has been active since 2020, and Feldhusen expressed enthusiasm when they proposed translating their stage work into film format. The result is a blend of physical comedy and surreal storytelling that challenges typical television narratives. The first episode received particular praise for its depiction of a bleak corporate environment. Set in a brutalist office space, the episode showcases the monotony and lack of communication among employees. When the phone rings, the team reacts with shock, only to fall back into their lethargic state. A sudden announcement of a snack day brings temporary excitement before returning to routine. The second episode moves to a hospital, featuring a chaotic chase involving a personified death figure. The third episode takes place in a logistics center, leading to a surreal musical revolution reminiscent of Bertolt Brecht’s works. The final episode is set in heaven, filmed at the Bauhaus UNESCO World Heritage site in Bernau near Berlin. Anna Mateur appears as a guest star in the fourth episode, bringing her comedic talents to the heavenly setting. Her performance adds another layer of absurdity to the already surreal narrative. The show's locations and settings contribute significantly to its visual and thematic elements, enhancing the overall experience for viewers. Reactions to Das Manko have been mixed. While some critics argue that the series is too short, others appreciate its concise yet impactful storytelling. The show's departure from traditional sitcom structures and its embrace of physical comedy mark a notable shift in German television. As the series gains traction, it is likely to influence future projects in the genre, encouraging more experimental approaches to comedy on screen.