This week's pick: "Documentary Now!"
Have you ever stumbled upon a show only to find yourself still on the couch, still watching, eight to 14 episodes later? Well, "Documentary Now!" is one of those very shows. From the great comedic minds of Fred Armisen, Bill Hader and Seth Meyers, "Documentary Now!" takes popular, renowned docs and spoofs them.
And they are, without mincing words, f*cking hilarious.
Each episode parodies a celebrated documentary, matching its style but changing the subject. In season 1 alone, they tackle VICE News, the "History of the Eagles" doc (which is also available on Netflix) and "The Thin Blue Line," a film that actually saved a Texas man from a murder conviction.
Each episode is so gut-busting-ly funny that you'll find yourself less interested in the real documentaries and more invested in the absurdist take "Documentary Now!" presents.
If you like laughing, you'll love "Documentary Now!"
And if you think "Documentary Now!" sounds silly or stupid or dumb or not worth your time, please leave a detailed comment in the comments section below (at least three paragraphs, single-spaced) explaining why. Thank you.
What's it about, you ask?
"Documentary Now!" is about smart, witty, well-thought-out and well-executed comedy.
I could go ahead and list the documentaries they parody, the subject matter contained within each, the nuances and nuttiness that make each more hysterical than the last -- but that'd just spoil it for you.
The show is about poking fun in the most pleasant way. It takes serious subject matter and dumbs it down with pointed humor without causing offense. Which (especially for all of us sensitive millennials out here) is practically impossible in today's day and age.
But what makes it <i>different</i>?<div><sup>And why should I care?</sup></div>
First thing's first -- Helen FREAKING Mirren!
No big deal but -- OK, just kidding -- HUGE deal: She hosts the show. Now, if that isn't different and incredible and weird and hilarious, I don't know what is! The first time I watched "Documentary Now!" I practically spit out my afternoon cereal, I was so surprised to see such a big, prestigious name on screen.
Next up, the rest of the talent involved in this thing. They've already been mentioned, but Hader, Armisen and Meyers alone are powerhouses in the acting and comedy worlds. Then, you have the other featured stars -- Owen Wilson, Kenny Rogers, Michael Keaton, Jack Black, Anne Hathaway -- and the list doesn't stop there.
Finally, you have the unexplored format. No one has made a television series like this before. Despite the fact that it's a parody, "Documentary Now!" is covering fresh ground. Finding originality in Hollywood these days is becoming increasingly difficult, especially if you don't have access to multiple streaming services and other outlets.
In summation, "Documentary Now!" is the binge-worthy comedy show you've been waiting for and if you haven't already watched it, there's no better time than now.
If you're still on the fence...
- Watch one episode, they're not long.
- Watch the trailer for season 3 below.
- Watch the first episode of season 3, for FREE! It's not on Netflix, but good guy IFC is givin' you an exclusive sneak peek.
- Remember that you're a human and you enjoy laughter.
- You read this whole article, might as well watch it.
- Netflix gives out free trials. Watch it.
- Just watch it.