Post by Robert C. on Oct 6, 2008 2:47:08 GMT
Each episode of Mr. Show essentially consists of a series of sketches, each one transitioning to the next by way of a tangential—or sometimes direct—segue, called a link. For example, a minor character in one sketch might return as the major character in the next. Often, common themes or storylines are returned to at different times throughout an episode. It is regarded by sketch comedy aficionados as perhaps the best of its era, though as a premium cable show its audience was necessarily limited. DVD editions, however, have sold briskly, opening the show to a broad new audience.
[edit] Format
The format of Mr. Show is heavily influenced by the British sketch comedy show Monty Python's Flying Circus, particularly in the linking of one sketch to the next, a strong point for both shows, as it negates the tendency to expect each sketch to end on a punch line or similar high note (a common feature of more traditional sketch comedy shows such as Saturday Night Live). The interweaving of taped bits and stage-performed sketch found in Flying Circus is prevalent in Mr. Show. Both shows depend greatly on absurdist humor.
In later seasons, the show would satirize celebrities in an indirect fashion, by changing the name and some of the aesthetic idiosyncrasies of the celebrity, while maintaining a transparently obvious parody. For instance, "Willips Brighton" was a character spoofing Brian Wilson, Marilyn Manson became "Norma Jean Monster" and later "Marilyn Monster," Carrot Top became "Blueberry Head," and Dr. Demento became "Dr. Retarded."
The show contains a strong, confident contrarian viewpoint that at times mocks or satirizes organized religion or global capitalism. Additionally, many of the show's sketches were constructed with a strong critique of modern television in mind, whether it be infomercials or sitcoms. Cynicism plays a heavy role in the show and there is little respect for traditionalism.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mr._Show_with_Bob_and_David
...Basically, you're all going to love this show and should start watching now. I'll post my favorite clips from time to time, but there's too many to count and I'm desperately short on time these days.
Mr. Show with Bob and David - "We are friends again"
www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7BmZlMRy-c
3:38-4:41 is one of the better written segments in the history of 'television.'