‘The Studio’ Review: Seth Rogen’s Late Arrival to the Hollywood Spotlight
Apple TV+’s new series, “The Studio,” finds itself at the intersection of art and commerce in the film industry—an all-too-relatable battleground for creatives navigating today’s entertainment landscape. The series stars Seth Rogen as Matt Remick, an executive at a fictional studio, navigating the precarious balance between genuine artistry and the relentless demands of corporate greed.
The Premise: A Dream Job or a Nightmare?
Midway through the season, a pivotal moment unfolds when Matt sits down with regular civilians at a dinner, hoping to charm them with tales of his glamorous role in Hollywood. Instead, he faces an uncomfortable truth: “If you want art, you watch TV,” one dinner guest quips. To borrow a line from the acclaimed series “The Sopranos,” Matt feels like he’s “came in at the end” of something significant.
As the narrative kicks off, Matt is granted the opportunity of a lifetime: he is appointed the head of Continental Studios following the firing of its former leader, played with adept humor by Catherine O’Hara. Eager to leave his mark, Matt envisions a transformative era for the studio, filled with auteur-driven projects and lush film-making. Yet reality quickly swoops in as his first assignment involves creating a blockbuster hit from the Kool-Aid Man, a desperate maneuver inspired by the success of “Barbie.”
A Satirical Take on Modern Hollywood
“The Studio” doesn’t shy away from portraying the film industry’s decline. In an era where streaming and technology threaten traditional filmmaking, the series delivers a razor-sharp commentary on Hollywood’s evolution—or lack thereof. The creators, including Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, and others, have crafted a narrative that delves into the implications of corporate control and the commodification of art—making it not just timely but also audibly entertaining.
While previous films have depicted Hollywood as a glamorous entity, “The Studio” sheds light on its struggles, asking: Is there still a place for art in this ruthless machine? The answer is occasionally yes, but more often than not, it’s painting a bleak picture of a once-great industry reduced to a candy-coated product—like the very Kool-Aid Man Matt is tasked with resurrecting.
A Balanced Perspective on Flawed Characters
Unlike a traditional satire that seeks to tear its subjects down, “The Studio” offers a nuanced approach. Matt is portrayed with a mix of self-loathing and aspiration; he’s neither a villain nor a hero – just an anxious cog in the industry’s machine. Rogen delivers a compelling performance, reminiscent of Albert Brooks, layering humor over existential dread as he navigates mishaps with his decidedly oddball team.
The direction complements this sentiment, employing jittery takes and a frenetic soundtrack that reflects Matt’s mounting anxiety. The series vibrantly brings to life the chaotic essence of moviemaking, from marketing meetings to wild casting calls, with episodes that pay homage to classics like “Chinatown” and even take a stab at a lengthy single shot reminiscent of “Goodfellas”.
Celebrity Cameos and Side Characters Steal the Show
What could easily fall prey to a clichéd template of celebrity appearances cleverly sidesteps that trap. Rogen’s character frequently engages with a star-studded lineup, including Martin Scorsese, Olivia Wilde, and Ron Howard. However, the real heart of the series lies within its regular cast.
Kathryn Hahn shines as the marketing exec who embraces the business side without flinching, while O’Hara’s high-minded veteran exemplifies what Matt stands to lose. Ultimately, “The Studio” is about the making and unmaking of movies beyond the camera lens, revealing that sometimes, the biggest battles occur not on set but behind closed doors in boardrooms.
A Mixed Bag: Humor and Heart in Equal Measure
As “The Studio” unfolds, it captures the highs and lows of Hollywood with an entertaining blend of cringe-worthy comedy and poignant commentary. At its strongest, the show delivers laughter that rivals anything on television today—moments like a viral dance featuring Matt’s Kool-Aid project offer biting satire on contemporary marketing tactics.
However, toward the latter half of the season, the series can occasionally lose track of its storyline, juggling too many targets of parody and diluting its emotional stakes. The overarching narrative—the fate of a studio hinging on an anthropomorphized beverage—risk losing momentum amid its numerous gags.
Final Thoughts: A Testament to Cinematic Agony and Joy
At its core, “The Studio” is a reminder that even in this age of corporate entertainment, the art of filmmaking can elicit genuine laughter and reflection. It stands as a testament to the chaotic synergy of Hollywood today—a microwave dinner of trades, tidal waves of marketing, and a nostalgia for a bygone era of cinema. So, as we journey through Matt Remick’s tumultuous tenure at Continental Studios, it begs the question: What will become of creating art in a world increasingly ruled by commerce?
For those interested in exploring the intricacies of Hollywood and its impact on creativity, be sure to catch “The Studio”, streaming now on Apple TV+.
