Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)Somehow, the FX Network has become the go-to channel for cutting edge entertainment. Their successful comedy line-up features some of the brightest and most daring programs on the air--embracing an outrageous lewdness that regular network TV doesn't touch. Louis CK is certainly a talented comedian and I've followed his exploits for many years. But in truth, I was no huge fan of his short-lived HBO endeavor "Lucky Louie." With so many peripheral characters, this non-traditional family sitcom simply spread itself too thin and never felt particularly cohesive. There were moments of brilliance, but the "everything but the kitchen sink" approach to comedy never really allowed a closeness to the main characters. I say this not to be berated by its fans (which will happen) but to explain that I almost didn't watch "Louie." And that would have been a big mistake. Here, Louis CK has refined his character (pretty much playing himself) into a lovably awkward every man struggling to get by.
I feel, without a doubt, that this is his break-through moment and performance. Incorporating comedy club footage into each episode (but to more laughs and purpose than Seinfeld did), some of these sets are fall-on-the-floor funny. Pushing past the edge of good taste, Louis CK leads you right into the crudest scenarios possible but never loses you. I won't contend that this was the best show of the year--but it easily had some of the biggest singular laughs of the current TV season. Interspersed within the club material, we see Louie struggle with life's daily misadventures. Whether taking care of his daughters or exploring the dating realm, this is a guy you can identify with and share in his frustrations and challenges. I feel like Louis CK really lets the viewer into his world and invites us to partake in the unified silliness of humanity.
Of course, Louis CK is the primary creative force behind the show so it's refreshing to see such openness. And it really does pay off. As with any sitcom, you will have your favorite episodes. Season One consists of 13 complete shows (even though as of 4/27/11, Amazon has the runtime of this DVD listed incorrectly as 23 minutes). A particular favorite in our household was the recurring character of Ricky Gervais--and old friend of Louie and a doctor on the show. The irrepressible Gervais lives to torture his old buddy and the humor in these sequences is so disturbingly wrongheaded, it borders on offensive genius. "Louie" may not be for the most sensitive of viewers--it is not an old fashioned sitcom--but if you like a little edge and bite, I'd definitely say you should give this a try! Season Two pops up on FX on Thursday, June 23--so they haven't given you much time to catch up via DVD. But it's an easy recommendation--and from someone who almost didn't watch the show! KGHarris, 4/11.
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