There’s something familiar about Crashing, but something different too. At its core, it revolves around another stand-up comedian’s take on the “fictional version of himself” tale, with all the cliques and exaggerations that come with it. So far so Louie, but where Crashing differs is in the less cynical nature of its protagonist and the smart deployment of a gimmick that sees him moving from sofa to sofa, courtesy of his comedic friends, as he tries to put his life and career back on track after the end of a relationship.
Pete (Holmes) finds his life thrown into disarray when he discovers his wife Jessica (Lauren Lapkus) is cheating on him. Unable to support himself without his wife’s income, he moves to New York to follow his dream of being a stand-up comedian. Living on the good grace of his friends, moving from sofa to sofa, he becomes more antiquated with the comedy scene, his own skills on stage, and sorts his personal life out in the process. It’s a structure similar to the cyclic nature of Inside Llewyn Davis, only he’s a stand-up comedian instead of a musician, and a sweetheart instead of a dick. It’s a cute concept, one that is mined well for laughs and allows the show to fold in other stand-ups (Sarah Silverman, Artie Lang, and TJ Miller are highlights), giving it a lot of variety, not to mention laughs along the way.
The show draws well on the kind of inter-comedic banter seen recently in The Big Sick and the aforementioned Louie. Where it differs from the latter is in its tone. Despite the collapse of his life, Pete is surprisingly upbeat, a sweet, good-natured soul. It imbues the show with a cheery optimism. It makes for a refreshing breezy change, but tastes will differ. The draw of a more cynical Louis CK or Larry David is more my speed, but it’s a charming diversion. While you cheer on Pete’s growth and moments of self-realization, he is something of a passive, weak soul. You kinda get why his wife cheated on him in the first place. With that response, it’s curious how long this show can endure.
The Package
As with any recent TV show shot digitally, the picture quality and transfer here is solid. No problems with detail, color, or contrast. The release includes all 8 episodes of season 1. Special features include:
- Guest Star Fan Club — Pete Holmes talks about his experience working with comedians Artie Lange, T.J. Miller, Hannibal Buress, and Sarah Silverman, all of whom guest starred in Season 1 of Crashing.
- Comedy Extras — Enjoy the comedy stylings of T.J. Miller, Aparna Nancherla, and Pete Holmes as they perform their hysterical scenes from Season 1.
- About Crashing — Get the hilarious lowdown on Crashing with star Pete Holmes and executive producer Judd Apatow.
- The Art of Crashing — Hear what it takes to make it in the comedy business from Pete Holmes and his comic cohorts in this behind-the-scenes featurette.
- Includes One-Hour HBO Comedy Special Pete Holmes: Faces and Sounds
Overall, it’s surprisingly stuffed, not common for a HBO release. The stand-up special is a great addition as are the insights into the show itself. A code for a digital download is also included.
The Bottom Line
Crashing has a clever hook, and makes great use of a likable lead and a brilliant supporting cast of comedians. But the show does lack an edge; whether that is welcome or something that will disappoint is up to your perspective. But there’s no denying the show charms and entertains.
Crashing is available on Blu-ray via HBO from August 1st