Remembering The Comedians Of Comedy, Netflix's First True Original Production (A Quasi-Oral History)
If I asked you to name the first original production from Netflix, what would you say? An educated guess might bring you to "House of Cards" or "Lilyhammer," and that's a fair assessment. While the former was Netflix's first piece of original programming produced specifically for the company's streaming service (released in February of 2013), the latter technically has the honor of being Netflix's first original streaming production (premiering on Netflix in February of 2012), even though it was only partially funded by Netflix and actually premiered in Norway first under the TV network NRK1.
But what if I told you that neither of these was the first true Netflix original? What if I told you Netflix produced their first original production even before they created the now-defunct Red Envelope Entertainment? Yes, before streaming, Netflix had a film financing and acquisition arm that shuttered in 2008 after investing in more than 100 films and...
But what if I told you that neither of these was the first true Netflix original? What if I told you Netflix produced their first original production even before they created the now-defunct Red Envelope Entertainment? Yes, before streaming, Netflix had a film financing and acquisition arm that shuttered in 2008 after investing in more than 100 films and...
- 10/2/2023
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Of all the unofficial holidays derived from an apocryphal bit police code, 4/20 is by far the most enduring. And just as “420” has gradually become entrenched as stoner shorthand for marijuana, the date April 20 has become an opportunity not just for college kids looking to indulge in a little extralegal fun, but also for drug law reformers and other advocacy groups to stump for a more reasonable national attitude toward America’s big green weed of choice.
And as marijuana laws have shifted over the years—from outright prohibition, to limited medicinal usage, to tightly regulated recreational use within certain states—marijuana themed movies have likewise evolved. Once upon a time, the only movies that even touched the subject of pot were hysterical propaganda pieces like Reefer Madness. Then, from the 1960s onward, weed became a popular (and hip) subject of broad comedy—in everything from Animal House to Annie Hall to Friday.
And as marijuana laws have shifted over the years—from outright prohibition, to limited medicinal usage, to tightly regulated recreational use within certain states—marijuana themed movies have likewise evolved. Once upon a time, the only movies that even touched the subject of pot were hysterical propaganda pieces like Reefer Madness. Then, from the 1960s onward, weed became a popular (and hip) subject of broad comedy—in everything from Animal House to Annie Hall to Friday.
- 4/20/2023
- by Matt Warren
- Film Independent News & More
The HBO comedy “South Side” will not move forward after three seasons.
The HBO Max Original series starred best friends Simon (Sultan Salahuddin) and Kareme (Kareme Young), who work at a rent-to-own furniture store while planning for bigger things.
“While HBO Max will not be moving forward with a fourth season of South Side, we are so proud of the rich world Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin created,” an HBO Max spokesperson said in a statement to media. “We thank them and Michael Blieden, Tony Hernandez, the supremely talented cast and crew and our partners at MTV Entertainment Studios.”
The show was shot on location in Englewood, a neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. Brothers Sultan and Bashir co-created the comedy show, in which Bashir also appears as police officer Goodnight, along with Diallo Riddle, who played alderman Allen Gayle. Bashir’s wife Chandra Russell played officer Goodnight’s partner,...
The HBO Max Original series starred best friends Simon (Sultan Salahuddin) and Kareme (Kareme Young), who work at a rent-to-own furniture store while planning for bigger things.
“While HBO Max will not be moving forward with a fourth season of South Side, we are so proud of the rich world Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin created,” an HBO Max spokesperson said in a statement to media. “We thank them and Michael Blieden, Tony Hernandez, the supremely talented cast and crew and our partners at MTV Entertainment Studios.”
The show was shot on location in Englewood, a neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. Brothers Sultan and Bashir co-created the comedy show, in which Bashir also appears as police officer Goodnight, along with Diallo Riddle, who played alderman Allen Gayle. Bashir’s wife Chandra Russell played officer Goodnight’s partner,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Dessi Gomez
- The Wrap
The South Side crew is closing up shop: HBO Max has cancelled the comedy after three seasons, TVLine has confirmed.
“While HBO Max will not be moving forward with a fourth season of South Side, we are so proud of the rich world Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin created,” an HBO Max spokesperson said in a statement. “We thank them and Michael Blieden, Tony Hernandez, the supremely talented cast and crew, and our partners at MTV Entertainment Studios. For three seasons, this beloved series balanced cutting, hyperlocal social commentary about life on the South Side of Chicago with silly,...
“While HBO Max will not be moving forward with a fourth season of South Side, we are so proud of the rich world Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin created,” an HBO Max spokesperson said in a statement. “We thank them and Michael Blieden, Tony Hernandez, the supremely talented cast and crew, and our partners at MTV Entertainment Studios. For three seasons, this beloved series balanced cutting, hyperlocal social commentary about life on the South Side of Chicago with silly,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
“South Side” has been canceled after three seasons at HBO Max.
The comedy series followed Simon (Sultan Salahuddin) and Kareme (Kareme Young), best friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but are stuck working at a rent-to-own furniture store until they do.
MTV Entertainment Studios produced the series. Executive producers included Bashir Salahuddin, Riddle, Michael Blieden, Jax Media’s Tony Hernandez and MTV’s Ari Pearce, Kristyn Deignan and Tara Power.
“While HBO Max will not be moving forward with a fourth season of South Side, we are so proud of the rich world Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin created,” an HBO Max spokesperson said, confirming that the series would not be moving forward. “We thank them and Michael Blieden, Tony Hernandez, the supremely talented cast and crew and our partners at MTV Entertainment Studios.”
“For three seasons, this beloved series balanced cutting,...
The comedy series followed Simon (Sultan Salahuddin) and Kareme (Kareme Young), best friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but are stuck working at a rent-to-own furniture store until they do.
MTV Entertainment Studios produced the series. Executive producers included Bashir Salahuddin, Riddle, Michael Blieden, Jax Media’s Tony Hernandez and MTV’s Ari Pearce, Kristyn Deignan and Tara Power.
“While HBO Max will not be moving forward with a fourth season of South Side, we are so proud of the rich world Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin created,” an HBO Max spokesperson said, confirming that the series would not be moving forward. “We thank them and Michael Blieden, Tony Hernandez, the supremely talented cast and crew and our partners at MTV Entertainment Studios.”
“For three seasons, this beloved series balanced cutting,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max declined to pick up a fourth season of South Side, the comedy from Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin.
South Side, which debuted on Comedy Central before moving to HBO Max for Season 2 in November 2021, follows two friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but until they do, they’re stuck working at Rent-t-Own. Shot on location in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, the show offers an authentic look into what life on the South Side is all about.
Related Story TV Series Fading To Black In 2023 & Beyond: Photo Gallery Of Canceled Shows Related Story 'Succession' Star Brian Cox Doubles Down On Criticism Over Jeremy Strong's Acting Style: "It's F-ing Annoying" Related Story 20 Questions On Deadline Podcast: 'Hacks' Paul W. Downs Teases The Season 3 Episode That Made Him And Jean Smart Cry & "Bucket List" Guest Stars
Season...
South Side, which debuted on Comedy Central before moving to HBO Max for Season 2 in November 2021, follows two friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but until they do, they’re stuck working at Rent-t-Own. Shot on location in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, the show offers an authentic look into what life on the South Side is all about.
Related Story TV Series Fading To Black In 2023 & Beyond: Photo Gallery Of Canceled Shows Related Story 'Succession' Star Brian Cox Doubles Down On Criticism Over Jeremy Strong's Acting Style: "It's F-ing Annoying" Related Story 20 Questions On Deadline Podcast: 'Hacks' Paul W. Downs Teases The Season 3 Episode That Made Him And Jean Smart Cry & "Bucket List" Guest Stars
Season...
- 2/22/2023
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Checkup with Dr. David Agus,” a six-episode docuseries featuring notable names in entertainment as they sit down with the doctor for intimate conversations about their personal health struggles, will premiere on Paramount+, with the first three episodes will debuting on the platform Tuesday, Dec. 6. The final three episodes will follow on Monday, Dec. 12.
Guests for the docuseries include Ashton Kutcher, Oprah Winfrey, Maria Shriver, Howie Mandel, Amy Schumer, Nick Cannon, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Each guest goes into personal detail about life-threatening diseases, women’s health issues such as reproductive health, the loss of a child and more.
The series is produced by Skydance Television and See It Now Studios. Agus serves as executive producer alongside Amy Coleman and David Ellison and Dana Goldberg for Skydance Television. For See It Now Studios, Susan Zirinsky and Terence Wrong are executive producers, Aysu Saliba is the supervising producer and Adam Goldfried is the executive director.
Guests for the docuseries include Ashton Kutcher, Oprah Winfrey, Maria Shriver, Howie Mandel, Amy Schumer, Nick Cannon, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Each guest goes into personal detail about life-threatening diseases, women’s health issues such as reproductive health, the loss of a child and more.
The series is produced by Skydance Television and See It Now Studios. Agus serves as executive producer alongside Amy Coleman and David Ellison and Dana Goldberg for Skydance Television. For See It Now Studios, Susan Zirinsky and Terence Wrong are executive producers, Aysu Saliba is the supervising producer and Adam Goldfried is the executive director.
- 11/30/2022
- by EJ Panaligan
- Variety Film + TV
“South Side” has been renewed for Season 3 at HBO Max.
Season 3 of the comedy series will now be the second season of the show to air on HBO Max. Season 1 debuted on Comedy Central in 2019 before the show was sold to HBO Max along with fellow Comedy Central series “The Other Two,” which was picked up for a third season in September. The first two seasons of “South Side” are currently streaming on HBO Max.
“South Side” follows two friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but until they do, they’re stuck working at Rent-t-Own. The show is shot on location in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.
“We are blessed,” said series co-creators, stars, and executive producers Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle. “We get to make a show starring our family and friends about a city we love. ‘South Side’ finds joy...
Season 3 of the comedy series will now be the second season of the show to air on HBO Max. Season 1 debuted on Comedy Central in 2019 before the show was sold to HBO Max along with fellow Comedy Central series “The Other Two,” which was picked up for a third season in September. The first two seasons of “South Side” are currently streaming on HBO Max.
“South Side” follows two friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but until they do, they’re stuck working at Rent-t-Own. The show is shot on location in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.
“We are blessed,” said series co-creators, stars, and executive producers Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle. “We get to make a show starring our family and friends about a city we love. ‘South Side’ finds joy...
- 2/8/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max will get even more South Side goodness, renewing the comedy from Bashir Salahuddin, Diallo Riddle and Sultan Salahuddin for Season 3.
South Side, which first debuted on Comedy Central before moving to HBO Max for Season 2 in November 2021 , follows two friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but until they do, they’re stuck working at Rent-t-Own. Shot on location in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, the show offers an authentic look into what life on the South Side is all about.
“We are blessed. We get to make a show starring our family and friends about a city we love. South Side finds joy in the extraordinary adventures of ordinary folks,” said Salahuddin and Riddle. “We challenge ourselves to make every episode a unique and unexpected journey. We have no clue where our characters will find themselves in season three and...
South Side, which first debuted on Comedy Central before moving to HBO Max for Season 2 in November 2021 , follows two friends who just graduated from community college and are ready to take over the world, but until they do, they’re stuck working at Rent-t-Own. Shot on location in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, the show offers an authentic look into what life on the South Side is all about.
“We are blessed. We get to make a show starring our family and friends about a city we love. South Side finds joy in the extraordinary adventures of ordinary folks,” said Salahuddin and Riddle. “We challenge ourselves to make every episode a unique and unexpected journey. We have no clue where our characters will find themselves in season three and...
- 2/8/2022
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
The Comedy Central shows “The Other Two” and “South Side” are moving to HBO Max.
In a deal between Comedy Central Productions and the streaming service, the first seasons of both shows will become available on HBO Max in 2021, with future seasons debuting exclusively on HBO Max instead of Comedy Central.
In addition, HBO Max will become the exclusive streaming home of the Comedy Central series “Awkwafina is Nora from Queens.” The first season is now available on HBO Max. Season 2 will debut on Comedy Central next summer before becoming available on HBO Max.
“These ground-breaking and hilarious programs are cultural touchstones and we are excited about the diverse group of comedic voices they will bring to HBO Max. We know our audiences will want to watch again and again,” said Michael Quigley, executive vice president of content acquisitions at WarnerMedia. “We are strategically thinking of the fans first, and...
In a deal between Comedy Central Productions and the streaming service, the first seasons of both shows will become available on HBO Max in 2021, with future seasons debuting exclusively on HBO Max instead of Comedy Central.
In addition, HBO Max will become the exclusive streaming home of the Comedy Central series “Awkwafina is Nora from Queens.” The first season is now available on HBO Max. Season 2 will debut on Comedy Central next summer before becoming available on HBO Max.
“These ground-breaking and hilarious programs are cultural touchstones and we are excited about the diverse group of comedic voices they will bring to HBO Max. We know our audiences will want to watch again and again,” said Michael Quigley, executive vice president of content acquisitions at WarnerMedia. “We are strategically thinking of the fans first, and...
- 8/13/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max has struck a programming deal with Comedy Central for three of its original live-action series.
Under the pact, praised Comedy Central comedies The Other Two and South Side will migrate to the WarnerMedia platform and become HBO Max originals, starting with their upcoming second seasons. Additionally, HBO Max has become the exclusive streaming home to Comedy Central’s hit semi-autobiographical comedy Awkawfina is Nora from Queens, headlined by The Farewell and Crazy Rich Asians star Awkwafina.
Comedy Central has been pairing down its live-action comedy slate while shifting its programming focus on adult animation, tapping into IP across ViacomCBS to build an original animated slate around stalwart South Park. In the past couple of months, the network has greenlighted Beavis and Butt-Head and The Ren & Stimpy Show reboots as well as Daria spinoff Jodie. Comedy Central’s remaining live-action lineup consists of a couple of series, led by Awkawfina,...
Under the pact, praised Comedy Central comedies The Other Two and South Side will migrate to the WarnerMedia platform and become HBO Max originals, starting with their upcoming second seasons. Additionally, HBO Max has become the exclusive streaming home to Comedy Central’s hit semi-autobiographical comedy Awkawfina is Nora from Queens, headlined by The Farewell and Crazy Rich Asians star Awkwafina.
Comedy Central has been pairing down its live-action comedy slate while shifting its programming focus on adult animation, tapping into IP across ViacomCBS to build an original animated slate around stalwart South Park. In the past couple of months, the network has greenlighted Beavis and Butt-Head and The Ren & Stimpy Show reboots as well as Daria spinoff Jodie. Comedy Central’s remaining live-action lineup consists of a couple of series, led by Awkawfina,...
- 8/13/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Midway through its freshman run, Comedy Central has ordered a 10-episode second season of its hit scripted series South Side, Deadline has confirmed.
Written by and starring Bashir Salahuddin (Glow) and Diallo Riddle (Marlon), South Side is set in and around the working class neighborhood of Englewood on the South Side of Chicago.
Season one of South Side is averaging a 1.02 rating in L+3 with African American P18-49 viewers through its first five episodes. That makes it Comedy Central’s highest-rated new series in that demo since the Key & Peele launch in 2012. It’s also the #1 new original primetime cable comedy of the year in the demo and the #1 new cable comedy of 2019 with African American M18-49 (1.23 rating). Overall, South Side is averaging a .35 P18-49 L+3 rating, up +13% from the same time slot average in 2018.
The show follows two friends who just graduated community college … so now...
Written by and starring Bashir Salahuddin (Glow) and Diallo Riddle (Marlon), South Side is set in and around the working class neighborhood of Englewood on the South Side of Chicago.
Season one of South Side is averaging a 1.02 rating in L+3 with African American P18-49 viewers through its first five episodes. That makes it Comedy Central’s highest-rated new series in that demo since the Key & Peele launch in 2012. It’s also the #1 new original primetime cable comedy of the year in the demo and the #1 new cable comedy of 2019 with African American M18-49 (1.23 rating). Overall, South Side is averaging a .35 P18-49 L+3 rating, up +13% from the same time slot average in 2018.
The show follows two friends who just graduated community college … so now...
- 8/28/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Comedy Central has renewed “South Side” for a second season.
The series hails from co-creators, executive producers and stars Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle. “South Side” follows two friends who just graduated from community college and work at a rent-to-own store in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.
“South Side is a truly unique and special show – one that is first and foremost incredibly funny, but also redefines perceptions of Chicago through storytelling and humor,” Jonas Larsen and Sarah Babineau, co-heads of Original Content for Comedy Central, said. “Diallo, Bashir and Michael have created such an incredible comedic world with this show and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for season two.”
Also Read: Why 'South Side' Co-Creator Bashir Salahuddin Got 'Whoopings' Because of His Brother/Co-Star Sultan
Through the first five episodes, “South Side” is averaging a 1.02 rating among African-American viewers between the ages of 18 and...
The series hails from co-creators, executive producers and stars Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle. “South Side” follows two friends who just graduated from community college and work at a rent-to-own store in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.
“South Side is a truly unique and special show – one that is first and foremost incredibly funny, but also redefines perceptions of Chicago through storytelling and humor,” Jonas Larsen and Sarah Babineau, co-heads of Original Content for Comedy Central, said. “Diallo, Bashir and Michael have created such an incredible comedic world with this show and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for season two.”
Also Read: Why 'South Side' Co-Creator Bashir Salahuddin Got 'Whoopings' Because of His Brother/Co-Star Sultan
Through the first five episodes, “South Side” is averaging a 1.02 rating among African-American viewers between the ages of 18 and...
- 8/28/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Comedy Central, the #1 brand in comedy, today announced a new late night series with David Spade; the return of Crank Yankers; a second season order for new, hit scripted series The Other Two; the first look at new scripted comedy South Side; and scripted projects in development with Naomi Ekperigin, Matteo Laneand Samantha Irby.
The announcements come on the heels of Comedy Central’s seventh consecutive quarter of year-over-year share growth. While Comedy Central remains the #1 full-day cable entertainment network with people 18-34, in 2018 the brand recorded its highest-rated year among women 18-49 since 2014, up +13% from the previous year. To start 2019, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah is the highest-rated late night series across all of TV among men 18-34.
More information on Comedy Central’s announcements from the TCA Winter Press Tour are included below:
Comedy icon David Spade will lead a new 11:30 p.m. series featuring his...
The announcements come on the heels of Comedy Central’s seventh consecutive quarter of year-over-year share growth. While Comedy Central remains the #1 full-day cable entertainment network with people 18-34, in 2018 the brand recorded its highest-rated year among women 18-49 since 2014, up +13% from the previous year. To start 2019, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah is the highest-rated late night series across all of TV among men 18-34.
More information on Comedy Central’s announcements from the TCA Winter Press Tour are included below:
Comedy icon David Spade will lead a new 11:30 p.m. series featuring his...
- 2/24/2019
- by Andrew Wendowski
- Age of the Nerd
Comedy Central showed off its first look of this summer’s scripted comedy series South Side which is set around the Chicago working class neighborhood of Englewood. The creators of the show today at TCA exclaimed how they want the neighborhood to tells its own story with its astronomers and teachers. The series features local Chicagoans, both in front of and behind the camera, who provide an authentic look at the neighborhood.
South Side follows two friends who just graduated community college with big dreams, but who are stuck at Rent-t-Own, a retail-rental crossroads where the South Side’s vast ensemble of characters come together.
South Side is written by Bashir Salahuddin (Glow) and Diallo Riddle (Marlon). Salahuddin, Riddle, and Michael Blieden – all Late Night with Jimmy Fallon alumni – are executive producers. Bashir Salahuddin and Riddle star in the series, alongside Sultan Salahuddin and Chandra Russell. Guest stars this season include Lil Rel Howery,...
South Side follows two friends who just graduated community college with big dreams, but who are stuck at Rent-t-Own, a retail-rental crossroads where the South Side’s vast ensemble of characters come together.
South Side is written by Bashir Salahuddin (Glow) and Diallo Riddle (Marlon). Salahuddin, Riddle, and Michael Blieden – all Late Night with Jimmy Fallon alumni – are executive producers. Bashir Salahuddin and Riddle star in the series, alongside Sultan Salahuddin and Chandra Russell. Guest stars this season include Lil Rel Howery,...
- 2/12/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Welcome to the Windy City. Comedy Central has ordered the South Side TV show to series. South Side, however, is still a working title, so we'll keep our eyes peeled for any changes and let you know. Back in April of 2017, the cable network announced it was developing the then untitled project from Late Night with Jimmy Fallon alum Diallo Riddle and Bashir Salahuddin, with Sultan Salahuddin. The press release notes the Salahuddin brothers grew up on the South Side of Chicago. A scripted workplace comedy, South Side will be executive produced by Riddle, Bashir Salahuddin, and fellow Late Night vet Michael Blieden. Set in the South Side's Englewood neighborhood, at a rent-to-own store, the Comedy Central TV series centers on two old friends who are trying to make it, despite all of the stumbling blocks in...
- 10/17/2017
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Comedy Central’s latest development slate is diverse in more ways than one.
Not only has the cable network put together several new series with performers of color at the center, but the three shows picked up Tuesday by Comedy Central are all very different.
Ordered to series are the stand-up/musical show “The New Negroes,” the comedy game show “Taskmaster” and the scripted comedy “Corporate.” In development are shows from creators including Awkwafina, Neal Brennan, Arturo Castro, Franchesca Ramsey, Noël Wells and Flint Wainess, among others.
“The network when I got here was pretty traditionally targeted toward young white guys, both in terms of who the audience was and who was creating the shows for the audience,” said Comedy Central president Kent Alterman. “We started changing that a few years ago by expanding that into having funny women on the network, with Amy Schumer and Broad City and a lot more since.
Not only has the cable network put together several new series with performers of color at the center, but the three shows picked up Tuesday by Comedy Central are all very different.
Ordered to series are the stand-up/musical show “The New Negroes,” the comedy game show “Taskmaster” and the scripted comedy “Corporate.” In development are shows from creators including Awkwafina, Neal Brennan, Arturo Castro, Franchesca Ramsey, Noël Wells and Flint Wainess, among others.
“The network when I got here was pretty traditionally targeted toward young white guys, both in terms of who the audience was and who was creating the shows for the audience,” said Comedy Central president Kent Alterman. “We started changing that a few years ago by expanding that into having funny women on the network, with Amy Schumer and Broad City and a lot more since.
- 4/18/2017
- by Michael Schneider
- Indiewire
MTV has set the cast and directors for comedy pilots Little Darlings (working title) and Untitled Kaplan/Elfont Project. Rebecca Thomas (Electrick Children) will direct the pilot for Little Darlings (wt) and Michael Blieden (Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll) will helm the pilot for Untitled Kaplan/Elfont Project. Additionally, Amanda Lasher (Gossip Girl) will join Little Darlings (wt) as Executive Producer and showrunner. From Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, Little Darlings centers on two…...
- 10/15/2015
- Deadline TV
Broad City, Season 2, Episode 7, “Citizen Ship”
Written by Anthony King
Directed by Michael Blieden
Airs Wednesdays at 10:30pm on Comedy Central
Broad City has never been overly concerned with plot serialization. Most of the time, a viewer can jump in at any episode and be able to understand everything that’s going on. There are certain constants, such as the undying love between Abbi and Ilana, or the amicable relationship between Ilana and Lincoln. The problem with this, even within an absurdist comedy such as this, is that the result can become stasis. If nothing really changes, it can be difficult to find new stories to tell, and the audience will get bored. Broad City is learning this deep into its second season, a place many shows in the past have felt the same growing pains. There have been hints at certain elements that are presented here, but “Citizen...
Written by Anthony King
Directed by Michael Blieden
Airs Wednesdays at 10:30pm on Comedy Central
Broad City has never been overly concerned with plot serialization. Most of the time, a viewer can jump in at any episode and be able to understand everything that’s going on. There are certain constants, such as the undying love between Abbi and Ilana, or the amicable relationship between Ilana and Lincoln. The problem with this, even within an absurdist comedy such as this, is that the result can become stasis. If nothing really changes, it can be difficult to find new stories to tell, and the audience will get bored. Broad City is learning this deep into its second season, a place many shows in the past have felt the same growing pains. There have been hints at certain elements that are presented here, but “Citizen...
- 2/26/2015
- by Jake Pitre
- SoundOnSight
In addition to being a modern comedy giant, Bob Odenkirk seems like a really nice guy. He’s like the Dave Grohl of comedy, minus the backlash. The movies have not treated him all that well, however, particularly in the case of the Mr. Show-derived Run Ronnie Run, which became a heavily-compromised affair. Still, Odenkirk has to date managed to produce three features as a director, and they remain largely under the radar as far as mainstream audiences are concerned. With his star having risen via Breaking Bad, and now Better Call Saul, Odenkirk seems poised for greater popular recognition. Here’s hoping the extra clout can him back behind the camera making features because, as good as the first three are, it feels like the best is still ahead of him.
Melvin Goes to Dinner (2003)
Mr. Show fans could not have expected Odenkirk’s debut feature to be...
Melvin Goes to Dinner (2003)
Mr. Show fans could not have expected Odenkirk’s debut feature to be...
- 1/17/2015
- by Steven Fouchard
- SoundOnSight
Denis Leary’s upcoming comedy show, Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll, has been ordered to series by FX, with 10 episodes now in the pipeline. Written by Leary and directed by Michael Blieden (Children’s Hospital), the show follows Johnny Rock (Leary) – an aging rocker, desperately chasing one last shot at fame and fortune.
The show sets up his character as someone who, back in the early 1990s, led a band called The Heathens to the height of the New York rock scene. He was headed for greatness, along with best friend and lead guitarist Flash (John Corbett), until he precipitated their downfall with his predilection for drugs, alcohol and the wives of his friends. We learn that the band released one record and broke up on the same day. Two decades later, Johnny has reunion on his mind.
Starring Elizabeth Gillies (Victorious), Elaine Hendrix (See Dad Run) and Bobby Kelly (Louie...
The show sets up his character as someone who, back in the early 1990s, led a band called The Heathens to the height of the New York rock scene. He was headed for greatness, along with best friend and lead guitarist Flash (John Corbett), until he precipitated their downfall with his predilection for drugs, alcohol and the wives of his friends. We learn that the band released one record and broke up on the same day. Two decades later, Johnny has reunion on his mind.
Starring Elizabeth Gillies (Victorious), Elaine Hendrix (See Dad Run) and Bobby Kelly (Louie...
- 7/1/2014
- by Sarah Myles
- We Got This Covered
Fans of Rescue Me, and/or Denis Leary, have something to be happy about as FX orders a new series, Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll, from the comedian.
This one is quite a different effort from the surprisingly dramatic Rescue Me, but looks as though it is going to mix a lot of elements. Leary is likely just the guy who can deliver an aging, washed out musician who barely had a career in the first place, and is now trying to make something happen for himself. That’s especially true if this is angling for a comedy that can also deliver some weightier moments, which looks to be the case.
Catch all the info below, and let me know what you think. Will you be tuning in?
Reunited And It Feels So Good
FX Orders 10 Episodes of Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll Created by and Starring Denis Leary
Leary, Jim Serpico...
This one is quite a different effort from the surprisingly dramatic Rescue Me, but looks as though it is going to mix a lot of elements. Leary is likely just the guy who can deliver an aging, washed out musician who barely had a career in the first place, and is now trying to make something happen for himself. That’s especially true if this is angling for a comedy that can also deliver some weightier moments, which looks to be the case.
Catch all the info below, and let me know what you think. Will you be tuning in?
Reunited And It Feels So Good
FX Orders 10 Episodes of Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll Created by and Starring Denis Leary
Leary, Jim Serpico...
- 6/30/2014
- by Marc Eastman
- AreYouScreening.com
Denis Leary is officially returning to FX, with the cable network giving a series order to his comedy project Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll.
The ampersand-heavy title is follows a middle-aged rocker (Leary, of course) trying to reunite his early ’90s band after falling into years of drugs and debauchery. The cast also includes John Corbett, Elizabeth Gillies, Elaine Hendrix, and Bobby Kelly.
The show marks Leary’s FX reunion after co-creating and starring in Rescue Me, which ran for seven seasons on the network. “I am extremely elated at the opportunity to once again be working with John Landgraf and...
The ampersand-heavy title is follows a middle-aged rocker (Leary, of course) trying to reunite his early ’90s band after falling into years of drugs and debauchery. The cast also includes John Corbett, Elizabeth Gillies, Elaine Hendrix, and Bobby Kelly.
The show marks Leary’s FX reunion after co-creating and starring in Rescue Me, which ran for seven seasons on the network. “I am extremely elated at the opportunity to once again be working with John Landgraf and...
- 6/30/2014
- by James Hibberd
- EW - Inside TV
FX is continuing its aggressive recent push into comedy with a series order for Denis Leary's typographically controversial "Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll." The "Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll" -- no spaces, silly FX -- order is for 10 episodes, with the series set to premiere in 2015. Nearly everybody involved wanted to have comments in the official press release. "I am extremely elated at the opportunity to once again be working with John Landgraf and the fine executive talent over at FX," blurbs Leary. "They have a great platform for comedy, an award-winning marketing team and an amazing new Nespresso machine in the conference room. The Gran Maestria C520 Platinum? Get this: it heats the cup! Also, doing this show with FX will allow me to live one of my last show-business dreams: Emmy-winner Peter Tolan will be playing my gay stepdad. I know what you're thinking - isn't Peter just a few years older than Denis?...
- 6/30/2014
- by Daniel Fienberg
- Hitfix
Building on the cult success of Portlandia and the impending debut of cult comedian Marc Maron’s sitcom, IFC announced a development slate of 11 scripted comedies today, which cumulatively show the Network Formerly Known As The Independent Film Channel continuing its efforts to rebrand itself as Alt-Comedy Central.
The network ordered three interesting-on-paper pilots. Garfunkel & Oates stars the titular comedy-folk duo Riki Lindholme and Kate Micucci playing fictionalized versions of themselves. International Plan stars Michael Blieden and Eric Ledgin, a pair of Late Night With Jimmy Fallon writers…who play fictionalized versions of themselves. (In this case, they’re...
The network ordered three interesting-on-paper pilots. Garfunkel & Oates stars the titular comedy-folk duo Riki Lindholme and Kate Micucci playing fictionalized versions of themselves. International Plan stars Michael Blieden and Eric Ledgin, a pair of Late Night With Jimmy Fallon writers…who play fictionalized versions of themselves. (In this case, they’re...
- 4/10/2013
- by Darren Franich
- EW - Inside TV
IFC intends to grow its comedy programming, as evidenced by the cable channel's announcement that they ordered three pilots and eight scripts for 2014.
Highlights of the announcement are a pilot built around Garfunkel & Oates, the female musical comedy duo made of up actress/musicians Riki Lindhome and Kate Micucci, and a script written by Megan Mullally ("Will & Grace," "Party Down") called "Two Idiots," about "a pair of odd women raised in an old world Beverly Hills hotel."
Lindhome and Micucci previously had a web series on HBO Go as Garfunkel & Oates.
Other highlights include a pilot from "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" alums Michael Blieden and Eric Ledgin called "International Plan," about two friends travelling around the world looking for love; the animated pilot "Timms Industrial Piping" featuring the voice talents of Maria Bamford, Nick Kroll and John Lithgow, among others; and a script order of "Stupid Life," an adaptation...
Highlights of the announcement are a pilot built around Garfunkel & Oates, the female musical comedy duo made of up actress/musicians Riki Lindhome and Kate Micucci, and a script written by Megan Mullally ("Will & Grace," "Party Down") called "Two Idiots," about "a pair of odd women raised in an old world Beverly Hills hotel."
Lindhome and Micucci previously had a web series on HBO Go as Garfunkel & Oates.
Other highlights include a pilot from "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" alums Michael Blieden and Eric Ledgin called "International Plan," about two friends travelling around the world looking for love; the animated pilot "Timms Industrial Piping" featuring the voice talents of Maria Bamford, Nick Kroll and John Lithgow, among others; and a script order of "Stupid Life," an adaptation...
- 4/10/2013
- by The Huffington Post
- Huffington Post
IFC, which has been transforming itself from a network known for indie film to one that's embraced alternative comedy, has announced a development slate that includes pilot orders for scripted projects from Riki Lindhome and Kate Micucci of the very funny folk-comedy duo Garfunkel and Oates, Steve Conrad ("The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," "The Promotion") and Fallon writers Michael Blieden and Eric Ledgin. Also in works for 2014 consideration are eight scripts in development, from Matt Besser, Chris Gethard and Tom Scharpling, Megan Mullally and others, including one from a New York Television Festival deal-winner. IFC's currently airing Ryan Quincy's animated coming-of-age series "Out There," and will premiere Marc Maron scripted comedy "Maron" on May 3rd. Pilot orders: Timms Industrial Piping (working title) A scripted comedy set in the fictional town of Timms Valley, Wisconsin, where the lives and livelihoods of its citizens are intertwined with the fate of the.
- 4/10/2013
- by Alison Willmore
- Indiewire
Awkward., Season 2, Episode 12: “The Other Shoe”
Written by Lauren Iungerich
Directed by Michael Blieden
Airs Thursdays at 10:30 Pm on MTV
A path of unexpected success and luck can always leave individuals used to things not going their way more than a little nervous. The idea that something immense and catastrophic is right around the corner is an unshakeable feeling, and waiting for that often prevents individuals from enjoying the moment, or making rational decisions. With the constant troubles that have plagued Jenna Hamilton from the moment she received the care-frontation letter, and even prior to that, it stands to reason that she’d react to good luck in a less than enthusiastic manner, waiting for the other shoe to drop. The final episode of the season examines how Jenna reacts to good circumstances, and imparts some interesting lessons along the way.
This episode took a very interesting approach...
Written by Lauren Iungerich
Directed by Michael Blieden
Airs Thursdays at 10:30 Pm on MTV
A path of unexpected success and luck can always leave individuals used to things not going their way more than a little nervous. The idea that something immense and catastrophic is right around the corner is an unshakeable feeling, and waiting for that often prevents individuals from enjoying the moment, or making rational decisions. With the constant troubles that have plagued Jenna Hamilton from the moment she received the care-frontation letter, and even prior to that, it stands to reason that she’d react to good luck in a less than enthusiastic manner, waiting for the other shoe to drop. The final episode of the season examines how Jenna reacts to good circumstances, and imparts some interesting lessons along the way.
This episode took a very interesting approach...
- 9/22/2012
- by Deepayan Sengupta
- SoundOnSight
Awkward., Season 2, Episode 11: “Once Upon a Blog”
Written by Erin Ehrlich
Directed by Michael Blieden
Airs Thursdays at 10:30 Pm on MTV
“Hindsight is 20/20″ is one of the most common phrases today. People often find themselves, in times of turmoil, looking back at the decisions they have made, and wondering how things would turn out had they gone with another option instead. Many movies and television shows have explored this idea as well, providing an interesting glimpse into how things would have looked had writers decided to alter characters even a little bit. Awkward. goes down this route in this week’s episode, and while the hypothetical scenarios are fun to watch, the end result leaves this episode feeling like a filler to tide over audiences, an unexpected disappointment from the show.
The episode took an interesting approach towards revisiting Jenna’s life, by going down an exaggerated comedic route,...
Written by Erin Ehrlich
Directed by Michael Blieden
Airs Thursdays at 10:30 Pm on MTV
“Hindsight is 20/20″ is one of the most common phrases today. People often find themselves, in times of turmoil, looking back at the decisions they have made, and wondering how things would turn out had they gone with another option instead. Many movies and television shows have explored this idea as well, providing an interesting glimpse into how things would have looked had writers decided to alter characters even a little bit. Awkward. goes down this route in this week’s episode, and while the hypothetical scenarios are fun to watch, the end result leaves this episode feeling like a filler to tide over audiences, an unexpected disappointment from the show.
The episode took an interesting approach towards revisiting Jenna’s life, by going down an exaggerated comedic route,...
- 9/16/2012
- by Deepayan Sengupta
- SoundOnSight
With a new documentary about the life of Bill Hicks opening in New York City this weekend, it seemed like a good time to dig deeper into the world of documentaries about stand-up comedians. And, pending an thorough examination, this is what we found: there aren't a lot of good ones. Obviously there are plenty of concert films of stand-ups, just not a ton of docs about stand-ups, and most of the ones that do exist aren't very good. "American," which is smartly edited and constructed, is a fine exception. Here are five more:
"The Comedians of Comedy" (2005)
Directed by Michael Blieden
As "The Comedians of Comedy" opens, Patton Oswalt talks about one of the worst gigs of his life: Yuk-a-Buck Night, six comedians, six bucks, one comedy club. Places like that Yuk-a-Buck joint, with their lowest common denominator expectations and two drink minimums, are the reason Oswalt gathered together Brian Posehn,...
"The Comedians of Comedy" (2005)
Directed by Michael Blieden
As "The Comedians of Comedy" opens, Patton Oswalt talks about one of the worst gigs of his life: Yuk-a-Buck Night, six comedians, six bucks, one comedy club. Places like that Yuk-a-Buck joint, with their lowest common denominator expectations and two drink minimums, are the reason Oswalt gathered together Brian Posehn,...
- 4/7/2011
- by Matt Singer
- ifc.com
Jimmy Fallon took center stage at the 2011 PaleyFest Friday night (March 11), and this time he was the interviewee, not the interviewer.
Fallon was the sole guest at the festival, submitting to an easygoing, funny and clip-filled interview with his friend, comedian and "Web Soup" host Chris Hardwick. He talked a lot about how he puts together "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon," the type of people he likes to work with (he hired his writers "based on their talent, not their resumes") and about his career leading up to "Late Night," including his time on "Saturday Night Live."
He also shared a few things we didn't previously know. Depending on your level of Fallon fanaticism, some of these things might be familiar to you. But we thought found the following six tidbits pretty interesting.
1. He didn't pass his first "Saturday Night Live" audition. Producers liked his audition bit -- as part of his early stand-up act,...
Fallon was the sole guest at the festival, submitting to an easygoing, funny and clip-filled interview with his friend, comedian and "Web Soup" host Chris Hardwick. He talked a lot about how he puts together "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon," the type of people he likes to work with (he hired his writers "based on their talent, not their resumes") and about his career leading up to "Late Night," including his time on "Saturday Night Live."
He also shared a few things we didn't previously know. Depending on your level of Fallon fanaticism, some of these things might be familiar to you. But we thought found the following six tidbits pretty interesting.
1. He didn't pass his first "Saturday Night Live" audition. Producers liked his audition bit -- as part of his early stand-up act,...
- 3/12/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Uninhibited, enlightening, ridiculous - comedian Jason Nash's latest character The Shaman is like that guy you should have left at Bonnaroo. It's hard not to watch this cosmic train wreck of a man trying desperately to maintain an ephemeral existence surrounded by the sobering responsibilities of modern Los Angeles life. That's really just a fancy way of saying he's a lazy roommate. The other end of that roommate coin is Matt Price, a comedian Nash has worked with on his basement podcast, Guys With Feeling, and who capably pulls of the straight man to Nash's joker. Nash steps up with a unique spin on the Will Ferrell-popularized flabby everyman on mission routine. He's the mushroom-toting hippy version that the more jocky Ferrell hasn't nailed yet. For more on the production and secret tidbits of the series, take another look at our interview with Jason earlier this spring, where we learned,...
- 6/22/2009
- by Marc Hustvedt
- Tubefilter.com
Maybe you're a raving pothead who runs around going "Dude, it's 4/20 today! Let's totally bake oooout!" Or maybe you're a non-partaker who still enjoys watching stoned people act silly. Or Maybe you hate marijuana but you just like documentary films that dole out funny and informative in equal measure.
Well good news. Tonight All of you can tune in to the television world premiere of Super High Me, which is a pro-weed doco that played to an appreciative (if slightly fragrant) audience at last year's SXSW Film Festival. Borrowing a leafy page from Morgan Spurlock's (clearly influential) Super Size Me, Michael Blieden's Super High Me charts the journey of one serious pot-smoker (affable comedian Doug Benson) who decides to abstain for thirty(!) full days ... before smoking like Cheech times Chong for the Next 30 days. Along the way we learn a lot of (baked and biased but still interesting) things about pot culture,...
Well good news. Tonight All of you can tune in to the television world premiere of Super High Me, which is a pro-weed doco that played to an appreciative (if slightly fragrant) audience at last year's SXSW Film Festival. Borrowing a leafy page from Morgan Spurlock's (clearly influential) Super Size Me, Michael Blieden's Super High Me charts the journey of one serious pot-smoker (affable comedian Doug Benson) who decides to abstain for thirty(!) full days ... before smoking like Cheech times Chong for the Next 30 days. Along the way we learn a lot of (baked and biased but still interesting) things about pot culture,...
- 4/20/2009
- by Scott Weinberg
- Cinematical
By Stephen Saito
With 4/20 only a little more than a month away, Sxsw kicked off an all-encompassing celebration of marijuana on Friday with the regional premiere of the Doug Benson doc "Super High Me" at the Paramount Theatre, shortly before other comedies about the herb made their premieres (officially: "Humboldt County"; unofficially: Jonathan Levine's Sundance hit "The Wackness," which played Saturday night as a secret screening). Part concert film culled from "Best Week Ever" regular Benson's stand-up act and part social documentary about the ongoing battle in California between the feds and the newly created legalized "dispensaries," which have been empowered by state law to sell medical marijuana, "Super High Me" sets its sights on being entertaining and informative and manages to do a little of both.
As Benson proves, it's not difficult to procure a doctor's note, and the film follows him as he detoxifies for 30 days from...
With 4/20 only a little more than a month away, Sxsw kicked off an all-encompassing celebration of marijuana on Friday with the regional premiere of the Doug Benson doc "Super High Me" at the Paramount Theatre, shortly before other comedies about the herb made their premieres (officially: "Humboldt County"; unofficially: Jonathan Levine's Sundance hit "The Wackness," which played Saturday night as a secret screening). Part concert film culled from "Best Week Ever" regular Benson's stand-up act and part social documentary about the ongoing battle in California between the feds and the newly created legalized "dispensaries," which have been empowered by state law to sell medical marijuana, "Super High Me" sets its sights on being entertaining and informative and manages to do a little of both.
As Benson proves, it's not difficult to procure a doctor's note, and the film follows him as he detoxifies for 30 days from...
- 3/9/2008
- by Stephen Saito
- ifc.com
Rainn Wilson and Michael Blieden have joined Janeane Garofalo in ABC's midseason comedy pilot Slice o' Life, from Universal Network TV. Meanwhile, Wilson (Six Feet Under) also has booked a lead role opposite Mario Van Peebles in Peebles' independent film Gettin' the Man's Foot Outta Your Ass and Other Life Lessons, about the making of Melvin Peebles' (Mario's father) 1971 indie Sweet Sweetback's Baad Asssss Song. Also tapped to co-star are Joy Bryant and Nia Long. Slice o' Life, created by Bill Diamond, stars Garofalo as a producer of light segments at a prestigious TV newsmagazine.
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