Watch Ctrl

Ctrl is an innovative, innovative and ultimately groundbreaking NBC web series from 2009 that has steadily gained status as a cult classic. This original series combines elements of comedy, mystery and science fiction, resulting in a unique viewing experience that keeps audiences entertained and intrigued from the first moment to the last.

The protagonist of Ctrl is Stuart Grundy, an introverted and somewhat socially awkward office worker played by Tony Hale, best known for his roles on "Arrested Development" and "Veep". Stuart works at a large, complex corporation named Utterly Thankless in Office Parks, commonly referred to as UTOP. The company produces undefined products, adding a layer of quirky mystery to the work life. Stuart's character is brought vividly to life with Hale's trademark comedic talent, making him relatable and easy to root for despite his quirks and out-of-the-ordinary circumstances.

The primary source of the series' intrigue and comedy is the sci-fi twist that is introduced early on. Stuart discovers that he possesses the supernatural-like ability to manipulate his human reality via his error-riddled, unreliable office computer after spilling a caffeinated drink on the keyboard. This involves undoing interpersonal mistakes, deleting problematic colleagues, or fast forwarding past less than pleasant moments. This gives Stuart an unusual edge in his seemingly mundane life, as his life begins to play out like a fantastical computer simulation, intertwined with real-world complexities of office dynamics.

The series underscores the comedic paradox between this newfound, extraordinary power and the ordinary, often boring life led by the protagonist. It plays with the popular fantasy of being able to control our lives with a 'ctrl' button like a computer program. As the series unfolds, viewers see Stuart learn to navigate his unusual powers, getting himself in and out of comedic mishaps along the way.

With each episode running at a brisk five to six minutes, Ctrl successfully packs a surprising amount of story, comedy, and character development into its brief runtime. The short episode format, coupled with the show's brisk pacing and evolving serialized narrative, helps to keep viewers engaged and eagerly anticipating what wild and imaginative directions the storyline will take next.

The show also boasts a solid supporting cast, including Emy Coligado as Elizabeth, Stuart's no-nonsense yet congenial co-worker, and Steve Howey as Ben Piller, the classic office nuisance. These characters add substantial depth to the overall narrative, introduce varied comedic angles, and contribute to the overall charm of the series.

Ctrl explores themes of power dynamics, office politics, the monotony of everyday work life and the strange and sometimes surreal nature of corporate America, with a healthy dose of levity and far-fetched fantasy. Immensely relatable themes are set against the backdrop of an absurd, computer-aided reality, creating a clever contrast that drives the show's humor and intrigue.

In its brief run, Ctrl has proven to be a memorable entry in the genre of comedy. Its original and unique premises make it a noteworthy endeavor in web-based television programming, and it has built a loyal fan base drawn to its charmingly offbeat humor and engaging storytelling.

In conclusion, Ctrl is a unique and entertaining series from NBC that combines humor, intrigue, and a touch of sci-fi to deliver a refreshing take on office life. With its fascinating premise, memorable characters, and a consistent undercurrent of humor, Ctrl is a hidden gem that offers a delightful viewing experience you won't soon forget.