Is It Funny Though? - Best of 2023
Welcome to the show! On your left we have an anti-capitalist anthem, on your right we have dolls come to life, behind you is a pedophilia joke, up ahead are some jubilant pirates, above you is a sick Metal breakdown, and just around the corner is a world of wonder, this is.....Jake Michael Chandler's 14th Annual All-Time Best of the Year Every Year It Don't Stop Party Time Again List Circa 2023!
This is officially the latest I've ever finished my list, but I promise it was worth the wait. It's amazing that every year, without fail, someone is sure to make one of your new favorite things, be it a film, song, joke, or something else. Like a collector I try to catch 'em all, but unlike with Pokemon, it's a never-ending task. Hopefully I've captured at least 1 or 2 new-to-you pieces of media that you'll enjoy, whether because it's devastatingly good, or it lifts your spirits. So come on in, take a gander at my intangible wares, and discover the next thing you want to take over your brain for a few hours!
Disclaimer: For the major categories (Albums/Films/TV/Stand-Up) I start with my favorite and then the rest are in no particular order. Also? You, reading this? You're pretty cool. Go get 'em kid!
All previous reviews here.
MUSIC
As always, we begin with what started this absurd ritual I do every year - the music! From upbeat indie/pop, to carnival-like energy, to somber folk, to metal and "baddie core" – heavy-yet-sensual music you can make thirst traps to, basically – we've got a plethora of aural pleasures below. Crank that volume and get hyped, it's time for the OG "Best of" list!
BEST OF 2023 MIX
2. “I’m Fine (No Really)” – Durry
3. “The Summoning” – Sleep Token
4. “Not Worth Saving” – Skyler Acord
5. “Less Happy More Free” – Ben Lapidus
6. “Oblivious” – Young Rising Sons
7. “Wake the Dead” – Blessthefall**
8. “Hope” – NF
9. "labour” – Paris Paloma
10. “Welcome to the Show” – Dr. Villain
11. “Rivers is a Vampire” – Bear Ghost
12. “Shhhh! Golf is On” - Hot Mulligan
13. “Thoroughfare” – Ethel Cain
14. “HAMMS IN A GLASS” – Winona Fighter
15. “A Charmed Society” – The Young Hearts
16. “AmEN! (feat. Lil Uzi Vert and Daryl Palumbo)” – Bring Me the Horizon**
17. “i’m confident that i’m insecure” – Lawrence
18. “Deadweight” – Late November
19. “RISK, RISK, RISK!” - Jhariah
20. “0 > 1” – Project 86**
** Metal band warning! But the choruses are catchy as hell.
Youtube Playlist (some videos may contain flashing lights)
If you enjoy a different platform feel free to make the playlist there and send me the link, I'll add it!
I always try to make my mix no longer than what could fit on a CD, so coming in at a HOT 1hr 18min this slides right under the limit. Kicking off with 2 of my favorite songs of the year, they are so fun. SUNSCREEN is a Finnish guy who I found in Sept., so sadly I wasn’t able to crank his album (or this song) all Summer long, because I totally would have. His brand of upbeat indie-pop is just a chef’s kiss on sunny days. I’ll talk more about Durry and Sleep Token in a later section. Ben Lapidus continues with his quirky and clever lyrics lamenting about late 20s/early 30s life, and blurring the lines between indie-rock and pop/punk.
While I’m no rap connoisseur, someone like NF occasionally makes an appearance in my listening habits. He spits rhymes about his mental health and his backing tracks are more akin to cinematic scores than a regular rap beat, and strings and horns are a siren’s song for me, so I always get pulled in. Paris Paloma is way over men, and no song shows this more than “labour,” which I can only assume is about an ex. With a folky, chamber-pop sound she does all but shout an anthem I’m sure many women have rightfully felt. Musically speaking the song is worth it for the ending bridge/outro alone.
My fondness of carnival-like cabaret/rock was filled by several bands this year, one of which is Dr. Villain, a side project of the southern gothic/americana/folk-rock group Poor Man’s Poison. “Welcome to the Show” does exactly what it says – gives you the feeling of being welcomed to the beginning of a creepy, exciting night at the traveling circus. Bear Ghost is another band filling that sound for me, but in a different way. With electric guitars, a latin-esque breakdown, and constantly playing with their song’s dynamics, they bring about a controlled chaos I love. Ethel Cain and this 9min long song will also be talked about in a later section. Bring Me the Horizon continue to be the biggest band helping bring metal to the mainstream, and while they have slowly brought back their heavy side, they’ve kept up with the super catchy choruses, and this song is no exception.
I’ve fallen in love with Lawrence and their fun, modern soul-pop sound over the past couple years, always looking forward to the next song. Starting chill with just a ukelele, the whole band is in by the end of the song and Gracie’s vocals are as powerful as ever. I never thought I would have a Project 86 song on my mix since I stopped listening to them before I started making these lists back in 2010, but here we are. After nearly 30yrs in the business they’ve released their final albums, and while it’s different from their sound when I loved them 20yrs ago, “0 > 1” is a great doom metal track and I love yelling along with the powerful chorus.
Cover Song of the Year:
“Pony” – Slothrust – If you’re wondering, yes, it is the same song originally by 90s R&B star Ginuwine. With a thick bass and grungy, distorted guitar, this version is meant for the diviest of dive bars, and I love it.
Bonus Songs That I Think Deserve to be Listened to While Watching the Video:
Two are fun. One is sad. Take a guess!
“Starship Velociraptor” – Jonathan Young
“Snowbank Blues” – The Backseat Lovers
“Perception Check” – Tom Cardy
ALBUMS
If you liked any of the music above, check out more by them! And get ready to dive deeper into some of them right now, as 5 of them are actually below in album form. Here we've got the new hot thing, some Australians, an album from 2022, and a couple indie/pop/rock gems.
“Suburban Legend” by Durry
My favorite album of the year! Durry is a brother/sister duo and (mostly) upbeat indie/rock band from Minnesota who made my mix in 2022 and I’ve been following them since. With one sibling being a young millenial and the other an older Gen-Z, on their first full-length they talk about many subjects, some naturally being more relevant to the 25-45 generations – the depressing outlook on work life and the economy, defying some of the outdated advice of the older generations, relationships, mental health, and more. “I’m Fine (No Really)” is my favorite track on the album, speaking to the mind-numbing routine of a 9-5 job that feels pointless. “Who’s Laughing Now” is their breakout hit sing-along. A 3min tale about the frustrations of coming-of-age as a millenial and the sliver of hope that can come along when putting all your effort into doing your own thing. Do yourself a favor and throw this album on rotation to get out your frustrations, gain some hope, and bop your head.
“Take Me Back to Eden” by Sleep Token
THE surprise hit of the year. For a little backstory, Sleep Token has slowly been making a name for themselves in the Metalcore community since 2016. What they’ve evolved into has become more than just another group of guys with guitars. With an entire lore around them (they wear masks, go by the names II, III, IV, and Vessel, and the members are mostly anonymous) they hail from the UK and uniquely blend elements of metal and R&B/pop. Having built a decent sized following by 2022 (roughly 300k followers on Spotify) they absolutely exploded into the mainstream in 2023 with their song “The Summoning” being extremely popular on Tiktok (they currently have over 3m followers on Spotify and now have tickets reselling for $300+ to their shows). The 6min song starts typically enough for them – deep, clean vocals, heavy guitars, intricate drumming, some screaming along the way – but after some simple ambiance around the 4min mark, it transforms into some R&B fusion that you might find on a sexytime playlist, complete with groovy sounding guitars and bass, the singer’s recognizable baritone, and synths you would find on a more relaxing song by The Weeknd. This dichotomy continues on the rest of the album, with some songs being completely one way or the other, and other songs mixing the sounds just like on The Summoning. If you’re interested in seeing what the current sound is of where the Rock and Pop lines intersect, look no further, this is it. Shoutout to “Euclid,” the closing track on the album, being my other favorite that I almost put on my mix.
“SMILE, YOU’RE ON CAMERA!” EP by SUNSCREEN
Yes, I’m throwing a couple EPs in this year. As I briefly mentioned, SUNSCREEN is a man from Finland making infectious, upbeat indie-pop that deserves to be going through you ears if you want to jam out on a sunny day. When “Stand Up” popped on over my speakers I was instantly hooked. From the tone of the guitars, to the synth lines, and vocal melody choices, it’s everything you could want from your favorite indie-pop band.
“Deadweight” by Late November
The other EP I recommend this year. On the opposite side of the world from Finland, we have Late November – a group of 8 guys from rural Australia. They make mid-tempo indie/rock that I think might be hailed as the next best thing from hipsters and college kids that don’t follow the mainstream charts. With guitars that remind me of the alternative and indie bands of over a decade ago, plenty of group shout-along moments, and their excellent use of saxophone, Late November has the best vibes if you want to get drunk around a campfire or reminisce about seeing underground bands in someone’s basement or small venue.
“Preacher’s Daughter” by Ethel Cain
This album is from 2022, but it deserves to be here nonetheless. Hayden Anhedonia created her musical persona, “Ethel Cain,” several years ago, and it’s the perfect name to bring us an album by someone who grew up in a harsh, Southern Baptist community. The first full song (its 2nd track “American Teenager”) is an upbeat, dream-pop tune reminiscent of “Dreams” by The Cranberries and might lead you to believe this is good, but is just another of the many “sad girl indie” projects out there that treat the supergroup boygenius as gods. Well, you wouldn’t be more wrong. The rest of the album has a dark, gothic-folk sound that is the ultimate soundtrack for giving you the feeling of a film set in a church-centered, backwoods, southern town of 1950s americana. The instruments and vocals occasionally dripping heavy like the humidity in a swamp. The lyrics bubbling with biblical references, questions, desires, and more. As you saw on the mix, “Thoroughfare” is my favorite track, slowly building and blending elements together. It starts with just acoustic guitar before shifting to just an ambient synth in the background, before bringing in minimal drums, a harmonica, and finally an electric guitar. With her layered vocals lilting about above everything it’s an amazing sound to behold. It IS over 9min long, but the last 2.5min is a relaxed instrumental. As a straight guy I might not be able to relate to the trials and tribulations of a trans woman, but this album is undeniably great and needs to be heard.
FILM
I watched 29 brand new movies last year (not counting Hallmark Christmas movies) and while there were some excellent dramas this year, like "Past Lives," my top picks skewed in the comedy and fun direction. My absolute favorite was overshadowed by the Barbenheimer juggernaut that ruled the summer, so hopefully you can see it now and enjoy it as much as I did. But don't worry, you'll find Barb, and myriad movies you should watch with your friends, below too. Enjoy!
“Bottoms”
(Fubo or rent/buy elsewhere)
2023 was arguably the year of Ayo Edibiri, and we’re all better off
for it. She and longtime friend/creative partner Rachel Sennott (who
co-wrote the film with director Emma Seligman) star in "Bottoms," the
funniest film of the year. The premise? With high school coming to an
end, gay best friends PJ and Josie decide to start an after-school
self-defense club for their fellow female classmates…..but only
because they want to try and get closer with their crushes. From
there chaos, hijinks, and drama ensues. The dialogue, improvisation,
and absurd physical comedy are top notch, easily making it my
favorite film of the year. Gather your friends and favorite snacks
for this one, you’ll be sure to have a great time filled with racous
laughter!
“Barbie”
(Max)
This movie was hyped to the moon and back, and it deserves all the accolades and praise it’s received. The premise? We find out just what happens when Barbie leaves her pristine bubble of a universe and enters the real world. From the perfect casting, to the heartfelt speeches, to Alan and Weird Barbie, to the hit song of the year, it was the ideal blockbuster of the summer. I can’t think of any other film in recent memory whose influence has spread as wide as "Barbie" – fashion, political debates, and just what, exactly, IS Kenergy? You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe even be inspired. I Ken only hope and pray Barbie reads this. Hi Barbie!
“Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves”
(Prime)
Songs, swords, magic, destiny, adventure! And yes – dragons! They
really did everything right when it came to this film, and if you’ve
never played the tabletop roleplaying game, well, this is exactly
what many of us picture during a session together. In a lush, detailed world, we follow our motley crew of adventurers as they traverse
large cities, snowy prisons, caves flowing with lava, and more! If
you enjoy a good heist, slinging some spells, fighting evil, and
singing jaunty tunes, this is for you.
“Poor Things”
(still in Theaters)
I’ve admired Emma Stone for a long time now, from many of the great
projects she’s been part of, to being one of my favorite SNL hosts.
Funny, charming, acting chops for days, if she’s involved there’s
a high chance I’m gonna like it. In “Poor Things,” her second
collaboration with director Yorgos Lanthimos, Stone’s character
rapidly goes through the emotional turmoil of growing up, seeing the
world for what it truly is, and figuring out your place in it. Set in
an alternative victorian era Europe, the set design stands out almost
more than the story and actors, and I love it. Despite the horrific
premise, this film does indeed fall into the comedic category.
Whether it’s everyone’s nonchalance about it, or Willem Dafoe and
Mark Ruffalo doing their excellent character work, you’ll find
yourself chuckling and shaking your head. The entire thing feels more
like a play than a movie, and I enjoyed that quality immensely. If
you’re looking for something slightly off the beaten path, take a
look. Warning: Lots of nudity/sex scenes, so avoid the awkwardness of
watching with your parents or family.
“Thanksgiving”
(only for rent/buy currently)
It’s about damn time we get more movies based around this holiday.
This one? It’s a horror/thriller and, in my mind, an immediate
classic slasher flick. There’s a serial killer loose in town and
this Thanksgiving everyone is a just a turkey waiting to be hunted
by them. The tension is palpable leading up to the first death and
the chaos around it. After that, the film continues its terrific
pacing with scenes of unease, abrupt action, curiosity, and terror.
I’m not exactly a big Eli Roth fan, but he did well by this genre’s
renowned counterparts such as Scream, or I Know What You Did Last
Summer, creating an exciting, all-around fun night at the movies.
Grab some popcorn, feel your heart race, and don’t watch this one
alone.
Quick Picks
"Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" – (Disney+) - This is actually one of my top
films of the year, but since it’s a sequel, I feel you need to
watch the other 2 films to really appreciate it. Filled with all the
action and fun you’ve come to expect from them, the Guardians face
one of their most serious threats yet. The drama has been upped, and
this one will make you feel all the feels.
"A Haunting in Venice" – (Hulu) - Kenneth Branagh once again brings Agatha Christie’s eccentric Inspector Poirot to life, and possibly death, in this creepy and curious tale. Have you enjoyed all the fun murder/mystery movies from the past ~6yrs? Well it continues here, but with a dark, paranormal addition.
"Cocaine Bear" – (Prime) - It’s exactly what you’d expect – and I loved it. Drug runners, no-good teens, the local park rangers, a mother and her runaway son…..and a bear with more cocaine in its system than everyone at Studio 54 combined. It’s the 80s baby, and we’re gonna have some bloody, good fun!
"Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse"
– (Netflix) - Similar to Guardians of the Galaxy, I highly recommend this
movie, but only if you watch the first one. With the first
installment being such a surprisingly amazing film, this had a hard
reputation to live up to, but it did. Pushing their astonishing
animation even more to the edge and giving us an adventure that allows
the fans to get what they want, all while
actually keeping the story good?
*chef’s kiss* Magnificent.
"Asteroid City" – (Prime) - If you like
Wes Anderson, you’re gonna continue liking him. As usual we have a
star-studded ensemble bringing us the funny with the dry, deadpan
humor Anderson is known for. If you’ve never seen a Wes Anderson
film, this is a great one to start with! A meta movie-play about a
group of people in the 1950s gathered in a small, 80-person town –
that’s really more of a tourist attraction – to attend a
distinguished science award ceremony for teenagers, is just the type
of story you’ve come to expect from this quirky, eccentric
director.
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem"
– (Paramount+) - Over the past 30yrs Hollywood has occasionally tried to give the
Turtles their due, but since the original cartoon none have gotten it
as right as this. Part of doing it right was making the story about them literally being teenagers who aren't quite sure what they're doing, instead of the hardened, experienced incarnations we've seen before. Another aspect was hiring actual teenagers
to voice the titular characters, which they did! So come see your favorite pizza-eating sewer surfers do their best to save the day and try to make some friends doing it!
TV
When there’s so many good shows that are 2+ seasons deep (The Bear, Harley Quinn, Sex Education, Ted Lasso…..) it’s hard to take time to start the new stuff. Well, I did my best and watched 12 new shows in full, and here’s my top picks!
“The Last of Us”
(Max)
Feels like it was so long ago that "The Last of Us" sprouted into the
world and became THE show to watch, but it was just at the beginning
of last year! The best part? You don’t have to have played the game
to enjoy the show, it’s great all on its own. The quick premise: an
incurable fungal disease quickly took over the world, turning people
into freaky looking creatures that will kill you on-sight. Fighting
their inner demons, and on probably the most important road trip that's ever been taken, an aging
single father and a young orphan girl embark on the most dangerous
adventure of their lives. I know, I know, post-apocalyptic media? In
the 2020s? Yeah, we all feel it’s been overdone, but pulling from a
source that came out during the middle of all the post-apocalyptic
hype – one that executed it flawlessly– you have nothing to
worry about. The relationship between the two main characters is the
focus, at times heartwarming, other times heartbreaking. If you’re
looking for a character-based drama, set in a tense and thrilling
world, you need to watch this.
“One Piece”
(Netflix)
Oh man, are you ready for some fun? Here we have another show that
has previous source material, but again, you don’t need to know any
of the source material to enjoy it! I sure didn’t know anything.
This live-action adaptation is full of flashy pirates, a corrupt
government, fish people, astonishing creatures, snails as
communication devices, and one young man who has the biggest dream of
them all. We follow the optimistic Monkey D. Luffy as he ventures
through the high seas in his search for the One Piece, slowly
gathering a ragtag crew who, like everyone, are baffled but inspired
by Luffy’s attitude and behavior. With limited emotional moments of
sincerity smattered between the action and camaraderie, the show
doesn’t take itself too seriously, but don’t let that fool you –
even though it may be fun and easily digestible, the story is
exciting and well thought out. Gather your mates and set sail for a
rousing excursion across the oceans!
“Jury Duty”
(Freevee/Prime)
The little show that could. With all the challenges it faced, "Jury
Duty" was sure to either be an unwatchable mess, or one of the best
shows of the year – nothing in-between. Thankfully, it became the
latter. The idea? Can we make a show – partially scripted, mostly
improvised – about a group of jurors, but one of them doesn’t
know they’re on a show? Comprised of actors who’ve cut their
teeth in the comedy world for years, one famous movie star, a real
retired judge, and one well-meaning, oblivious man, this is one of
the most unique shows in years. Follow along as this odd, yet
charming, group of characters reveal more and more about themselves,
debate an absurd but still believable court case, and make one man
ask the question….“Is this actually happening?” Shot
documentary-style, this delightful production triumphs through its
uncertainties, and is just the thing you need when all else feels too
dark and cold.
Apple has been killing it with their shows, so instead of a regular top 5 I’m just gonna finish by recommending all 3 of these and try to be quick about it.
“Shrinking” – With a show about a therapist who’s freshly 1yr into being a widower/single father, you might think it’d be all intense dramatics. Well, there are substantially moving moments for several characters, but there’s plenty of humor to go around. You’ll both laugh and heavily sigh as Jason Segal’s character unravels, trying more unconventional methods to help his patients. And Harrison Ford is a pleasure to watch as his crotchety old mentor. A little heavy and a lot funny, it’s a top-tier show.
“The Big Door Prize” – Are you looking for something a little more offbeat? Look no further. When a machine mysteriously appears in the grocery store of a small town, offering anyone who uses it to tell them their “life’s potential,” things start to get a little bizarre. While the machine gives some a straightforward answer, such as a job title, others receive more abstract potentials, such as “royalty” or “storyteller.” This leads some to experience the freedom of pursuing their interpretation of their potential, and others to be more fearful of it. Who’s right and who’s wrong? With many secrets floating about town it’s the perfect recipe for things to boil over. Oh, sorry, I’ve made it sound like an intense thriller. It’s actually quite the comedy, especially with Chris O’Dowd in the lead.
“Platonic” – Can you still hangout ‘til 3am if you have a husband and kids at home? Is it actually considered “stealing from your ex” if the pet lizard was yours to begin with? Do aliens exist? Some of these questions, and more, are answered when former best friends, fast approaching their mid-40s, reunite after one of them gets divorced. Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne bring the funny in this one, full of escapades sure to make you laugh. From a minor heist, to dating in your 40s, dealing with a wealthy chain restauranteur, partying like you did in your 20s, rejoining the workforce after 10yrs+ of being a stay at home parent, reigniting friendships, and dealing with a spouse who isn’t acting like their usual self, this comedy has it all. Fairly easy to digest, and relatable for anyone going through a major change in their life, it’s got my recommendation.
Quick Picks
"Mrs. Davis" – (Peacock) – A nun, her ex, a pleasant A.I. used by the majority of
the world, magic tricks, a secret society, and the literal Holy
Grail. Would you believe it’s billed as mostly a comedy? An absurd
request from the seemingly omnipotent A.I. will lead one nun on the
most wild expedition of her life, and possibly her death. Join her,
and bring a healthy dose of dry humor. (starring the talented Betty
Gilpin!)
"Beef "– (Netflix) – Laden with award nominations, Beef didn’t hit quite as
hard for me as the rest of the world it seems, but it is really good.
Excellent performances by Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, who quickly
become each other’s archnemesis after a simple incident in a
parking lot spirals out of control. Hilarious and thrilling, this
one’s for you if you’re looking for something with bubbling
tension that occasionally explodes into sometimes funny, sometimes
dire, consequences.
STAND-UP
From dark to experimental, crass to laid back, I watched 28 full stand-up specials, and even more random short clips, this year. With some of the older, and biggest, names continuing to churn out mediocre work, it’s the perfect time to find some “newer” comics if you haven’t (aka comics who’ve still been doing this for 15yrs+ but have only recently gotten more famous). Take a gander and find a new favorite who can make you laugh just by talking on stage.
"From Bleak to Dark" by Marc Maron
(Max)
I had the pleasure of seeing Maron several times throughout 2021-22,
working out this special 15min at a time. Known for his jaded and
exhausted demeanor regarding the state of the world, Maron is at his
peak in this special. He brings his weary, cynical soul to the topics
of modern-day idiots, his parents, his own aging and mortality, and a
personal tragedy. The special’s title lives up to its name right
from his opening line, as these aren’t the jokes for anyone looking
for light fun or escapism. Few can bring you through the murky waters
of death, brain disorders, anti-semitism, and more, and have you come
out laughing on the other side. If you’re looking for a special to
watch while having a nice glass of whiskey – or 3 – take a deep
breath and settle in, you’re gonna love it.
"Shocks and Struts" by Kyle Kinane
(Youtube)
My favorite comic to come out of Chicago, I’ve talked about him
anytime a new special appears, loving each one, and this one’s no
different. Many comics take stories from their own life and add a
little embellishment and flair – in fact, I’d say that’s one of
the most common forms of stand-up – but none have a way with words
quite like Kyle Kinane. From changing pillowcases, getting surgery,
going on a cruise during the pandemic, and an epic 20min closing bit
about being stranded in Joshua Tree, he’ll have you chuckling and
shaking your head with delight through all his tangential thought
processes and conspiracy theorist-like energy. If you’re looking
for an easygoing, relatable fellow whose comedy is about anything BUT
serious topics, and whose only stance on “open-carry” laws is
when it comes to drinking, you’ve found just what you need.
"If You Didn't Want Me Then" by Beth Stelling
(Netflix)
Hailing from Dayton, Ohio (where this special was filmed) Stelling is
another comic who cut her teeth in comedy in Chicago. I don’t know
her personally, but as someone else who’s biked through multiple
Chicago winters, I believe we share a bond in some form. Stelling has
covered many topics in her previous work, but this one’s almost all
about her family – growing up in a house with just her sisters and
mom, visiting her peculiar dad after he moved to Florida, birth
control, and the trouble she’d get into as a kid. Even though some
of her seemingly offhand jokes land in a darker territory, they fit
right in with her style, which I can only describe as playfully
deadpan. This is the one if you’re looking something calm, well
thought-out, and funnier than most of the stand-up last year.
"Baby J" by John Mulaney
(Netflix)
I’ve loved every special from Mulaney, and I wasn’t sure what to
expect after all of the hullabaloo over his tabloid-worthy year. With
his stint in rehab, his divorce, his new celebrity girlfriend,
infidelity speculations, and his first child being born, there was
plenty of material for him to mine. But unlike his varied past
specials, this one is almost entirely focused on just two things –
his rehab experience, and his drug addiction in general. Well, even
though it’s slightly toned down (for obvious reasons), the
theatrical panache he’s become known for is still in his delivery.
Mulaney buzzes about the stage as he talks about his intervention,
some of his absurd activity when he was using, the difference between
his doctor in rehab vs. the one he was seeing before, and name-drops
a few famous friends along the way. I can’t say it’s my favorite
of his, but it’s hard to compare with his previous works. I can
say he’s
still got the chops and tenacity of a Broadway performer doing his
best, just to make you laugh.
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"The Old Man and the Pool" by Mike Birbiglia
(Netflix)
Possibly the most thoughtful storyteller in stand-up, Birbiglia
brings us another new hour with an overarching theme, complete with
lighthearted jests and somber observations. The theme this time? His
own mortality. Doctor visits as you get older, visiting the YMCA for
the first time in decades, formative experiences as a kid, writing a
will, and apartment issues. These may not seem like much at first,
but it all revolves around some heavy topics in his life that
Birbiglia deftly guides us through. You may get the sense of a
measured and poignant NPR story when watching one of his specials,
except Birbiglia knows how to expertly craft a punchline, and he’s
full of them. If you’re looking for something a little more
refined, with a relaxed energy while laughing about some heavier
content, then grab some tea and throw on a sweater, you’re here.
Quick Picks
Ralph Barbosa – "Cowabunga" – (Netflix) – After years of hard work Ralph Barbosa finally blew
up in 2023, getting his own Netflix special at 26yrs old. He brings
his low-energy vibe talking about trying to drink more water,
dreaming about his ideal girlfriend, living in the country, working
at a restaurant at 12yrs old, and more. An all-around solid first
hour from someone who hopefully has many more ahead of him.
John Early – "Now More Than Ever" – (Max) – With a backing band and tight leather pants, John
Early commits 100% to every moment of this special. Intercut with
some scripted “behind the scenes” moments, Early takes the stage
(and occasionally runs off it) with confidence. Known for creating
uncomfortable and cringeworthy humor, this one is for anyone seeking
something firmly in the “alternative” comedy scene. Whether he’s
singing Britney, hating all the common advice we give each other, or
talking about being a gay man, this hour is almost entirely
self-aware and tongue-in-cheek, poking fun at stereotypical Millenial
humor.
Sarah Silverman – "Someone You Love" – (Max) – From her flared jeans to her edgy jokes about the
holocaust and her latest porn preference, Sarah hasn’t changed much
over the years. Not taking anything too seriously in this special, if
you enjoy crass humor but think that it seems to either have
disappeared or become a tool for only eye-roll inducing shock comics,
give this one a shot.
Nate Bargatze – "Hello, World!" – (Prime) – Bargatze slowly paces the fully circular stage, delivering his mostly clean comedy through his good ol’ boy Tennessean accent. He isn’t mostly clean for any particular reason, it’s just how his jokes unfold for him. From growing up poor and naive, to feeling dumb as an adult, and the differences between his wife and himself, this is a lighthearted romp through one laid-back comedian’s life.
And that's all she wrote! Thank you for taking the time to check out my ridiculous reviews and rants, I hope you found some new things to like. And if you did, let me know! I'd love to talk about it (obviously hah). Also tell me your favorite things from the year, I love to find new stuff.
Until next year.....or the next time we hang out.....the show's over, farewell!
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