
Iconic french serie bref. is back after 10 years and it is breaking all records Identity crisis alert (but it's for the better, we promise)
It’s a comeback rarely seen in France. Released a few days ago on Disney+, bref. 2 seems to be breaking all records. The series co-written by Kyan Khojandi and Bruno Muschio, which made waves in 2011 with its first season, now tops the platform's list of the best series of all time. With an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 1000 reviews on Allociné, bref. 2 surpasses giants like Game of Thrones and Breaking Bad (4.7 out of 5), establishing itself as a must-watch. But how has a series over a decade old managed such a strong comeback and taken the top spot?
Objectivement, c’est ce qui est arrivé de mieux à la fiction française depuis bien longtemps. Rien ne jure, ne dérange dans l’exécution. C’est fin, un peu fou, humble, intelligent, drôle, bouleversant. Un morceau de vie, en 6 épisodes de 30min.#Bref2, c’était génial. pic.twitter.com/pkJjBMMC8R
— M. Cinéphile (@m_cinephile) February 14, 2025
The first season of bref was a massive hit, especially among today’s millennials. Its 2-minute episodes, fast-paced narration, and sharp punchlines, with often quirky humor, attracted a young audience seeking new ways to consume TV. Yet, the series ended in 2012, leaving many fans nostalgic. The success of bref. 2 largely stems from how it has reinvented a concept that seemed exhausted. While retaining its quick narration and distinct visual style, the show has updated itself to address contemporary audience concerns. Covering work life, romantic relationships, and social dilemmas, bref. 2 tackles current topics with the same lightness that fueled its original success. This blend of nostalgia and modernity appeals to a wide audience, making all the difference. The longer format, with episodes exceeding 30 minutes, allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in the story and connect deeply with the characters.
@cloo.mts DINGUERIE je m’en remets pas, je pense la re regarder @bref. #bref #brefsaison2 #fyp #foryou #creatorsearchinsights son original - Chloé
Another key factor in bref. 2’s success is undoubtedly the impact of social media. From its release, comments and shares flooded platforms like X, Instagram, and TikTok. Young adults nostalgic for the original series quickly spread clips and memes, creating an unprecedented viral effect. This digital word-of-mouth helped bref. 2 spread rapidly, far beyond France’s borders. Memes around the series exploded, allowing specific moments to reach an even wider audience. Cult scenes were recreated and remixed, further fueling the media buzz. Within days, viewers flocked to streaming platforms, making bref. 2 unmissable. While originally a generational phenomenon, bref. 2 has managed to appeal to a broader audience. The new generation, unfamiliar with the first season, was drawn to its biting humor and unique narrative structure. Additionally, the series' "connected" aspect resonates with those who grew up with smartphones and social media. The fusion of real-life experiences with quick, humorous digressions perfectly matches their consumption habits.
Les psys des 30 et 40 après la fin de la saison 2 de Bref pic.twitter.com/w8N61ev0pr
— Marine (@LabouryMarine) February 16, 2025
Finally, a fundamental element of bref. 2’s success lies in the strength of its characters. The main character, played by Kyan Khojandi, remains true to himself while evolving, and his relationships—especially with his friend and surrounding characters—remain refreshing and endearing. This undeniable character charm resonates with viewers’ attachment, a key reason they keep returning. In summary, bref. 2 exceeded expectations by combining a strategic comeback with a reinvented format captivating both old fans and new audiences. The power of social media, modern adaptation, and a solid universe have propelled the series to the top of all-time best series. A beautiful comeback proving it’s never too late to reinvent and reach new heights.