The Peanut Gallery Reviews Season 1 of The Studio

The Studio: A Must-Watch Comedy on Apple TV

Apple TV isn't known for many comedies, except for a few hits like Ted Lasso and Bad Monkey. However, this streaming service might be the best in terms of quality. When my wife and I saw the trailer for The Studio, we immediately recognized its potential. The cast includes comedy heavyweights like Seth Rogen, Catherine O'Hara, Kathryn Hahn, and Ike Barinholtz. We knew it would soon become a staple in our weekly watch schedule.

Season 1 of The Studio just concluded with its 10th episode. Great news—it's been renewed for a second season! This show did not disappoint.

SOME MINOR SPOILERS BELOW

A Blend of Unique Styles

The Studio has a unique spinning blend of styles. If you've watched the frenetic, anxiety-inducing Birdman, you'll notice its pacing and shooting techniques. This show features many scenes with minimal cuts. The tension keeps building episode after episode. The stakes may be lower than in Birdman, but the laughs are abundant.

As Rogen and his team, playing Hollywood executives at the fictional Continental Studios, face escalating challenges, the humor shines. The lighting and cinematography resemble those of Birdman, bringing a unique flair to the series.

You can also draw comparisons to Veep, which deserves a spot on the Mt. Rushmore of TV comedies. Veep delivered countless lethal insults and sharp one-liners. Similarly, The Studio delivers rapid-fire quips without the need for lengthy setups. The characters engage in a relentless exchange of banter, keeping viewers entertained throughout.

Both The Studio and Veep humorously portray specific industries. While Veep reveals the underbelly of politics, The Studio holds up a mirror to the film industry. It captures the essence of both shows—a delicate blend of humor and exceptional writing.

Commitment to Performance

When an ensemble cast consists of comedic legends, such as Bryan Cranston, you expect actors to compete for the spotlight. Surprisingly, The Studio avoids this pitfall. Each actor understands their strengths and works cohesively as an All-Star team. Chase Sui Wonders, making her debut, shines even among such established talent. I anticipate seeing much more from her in upcoming projects.

Cameos That Steal the Show

The show features a host of celebrities including Dave Franco, Zoë Kravitz, Martin Scorsese, Ice Cube, Ron Howard, and Anthony Mackie. Each guest star appears as themselves but takes on surprising personas. For example, we see Martin Scorsese openly weeping, Ron Howard playfully bullying a studio executive, and a hilariously wacky Zoë Kravitz tripping on mushrooms—lots of mushrooms!

No one on The Studio takes themselves too seriously, and this lightheartedness generates a wealth of comedic moments.

Binge-Worthy Viewing Experience

The Studio is officially bingeable now that Season 1 has wrapped up, setting the stage for Season 2. This show has met and even exceeded my expectations with its star-studded cast. Apple TV has once again hit a home run with quality programming.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The Studio has carved out a distinct niche in the crowded television landscape. With its unique blend of storytelling and humor, it stands out as an essential addition to your watchlist. Plus, the chemistry among its actors elevates the series further. Don't miss out on this engaging comedy; it's sure to keep you entertained.

PG Score: 9.25/10

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