Is Tom Segura’s New Sketch Series Worth Your Time? A Deep Dive
Tom Segura is no stranger to the spotlight, shining as a stand-up comedian, podcast host, and now, a budding actor in his new Netflix sketch series. After all the accolades and laughs, his foray into acting is intriguing yet controversial. But is it a hit, or should you skip it? Let’s break it down.
The Opening Shot: Setting the Stage
The series kicks off with a striking drone shot hovering over the U.S. Capitol, establishing an air of anticipation before diving into its first sketch. This choice creates a bold backdrop for what’s about to unfold.
The Gist: A Bizarre Comedy Journey
In the premiere sketch, we meet Agent Six, played by Segura, sent to Havana for an assassination mission. What unfolds next is a spiral into hilarity and chaos as he accidentally shoots a waitress—violating his agent code of "no women, no children." In a panic, he mutters his next rule: “never lose your cool.” Cue the cringe-worthy moment where he soils himself, leading to a frantic dash through the Cuban streets.
His attempts to manage the situation only complicate matters further as he unsuccessfully tries to charm his boss with indecent proposals. The comedic stakes are immediately raised, showcasing Segura’s flair for physical comedy as he navigates this dreadful conundrum.
The Sketch Highlights: A Mixed Bag
Vignettes of the Workforce
Segura’s journey continues through a monologue that humorously highlights job absurdities: “You know that dumb stuff you get sent to HR for saying? I get paid for that.”Film Parody Gone Wrong
One memorable sketch features an Italian janitor lifting spirits in a nursing home—inappropriately—by asking elderly patients to lick his behind. An unexpected twist leads Segura’s character, Massimo, to make a hasty exit in an Uber.- Office Antics
In a final sketch depicting an office meeting, Segura plays Cyrus from IT, lost in a virtual reality world—but not without producing some eyebrow-raising moments that blur the line between work and, well, interactive adult content.
What Shows Will It Remind You Of?
Imagine I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson but with a heavy emphasis on gross-out gags. This show serves a different flavor of cringe, appealing mainly to lovers of shock humor.
Our Take: Ambition vs. Execution
While the trailer hints at an ambitious project, the first 17-minute episode falls short, catering primarily to those drawn in by crass humor. Even Segura’s mother wasn’t impressed, boldly stating, “This is an insult to humanity!” In a promotional Mother’s Day clip, she bluntly criticized the show, leaving us to ponder if familial opinion holds merit.
The show attempts to capture deep thoughts, but sadly, it often lands flat, lacking the poignant touch seen in Jack Handey’s Deep Thoughts segments from Saturday Night Live. Instead, the content feels predominantly shallow and, at times, outright grotesque.
Sex and Skin: A Brief Overview
Expect some racy elements—Segura unveils his bare backside in the opening sketch, with suggestive scenes peppered throughout. It might not be for everyone, but certainly stays true to the adult comedy genre.
Parting Shot: A Tease for What’s Next
As the episode wraps up, Cyrus’s somber frown transforms into a smirk as he gazes at a leftover office cake reading “TO BE CONTINUED” beneath the crumbs. An odd mix of anticipation and absurdity leaves viewers questioning what’s next.
Sleeper Star: Notable Co-Stars in a Lackluster Setting
Segura is joined by well-known talents like Shea Whigham, Dan Stevens, and Robert Iler. Though they shine brightly in their roles, particularly Iler’s portrayal of Evan, the overall content doesn’t fully utilize their potential.
Our Verdict: Skip It
Despite its creative ambitions, this series falters when measured against Netflix’s stellar offerings from other comedians like John Mulaney and Ali Wong. Tom Segura’s new endeavor might not resonate, and even dedicated fans may find it lacking. If you’re seeking genuinely inventive comedy, you might want to look elsewhere.
For a fresh perspective on comedy, check out The Comic’s Comic Presents, a podcast exploring comedians’ origin stories through engaging interviews.
In the end, only time will tell if Segura’s bold steps into sketch comedy will resonate with audiences. Until then, don’t be surprised if you skip this one.
