I'm Dying Up Here

As I never saw promotion for this series, I started watching it when I stumbled upon it one night during what was the 5th episode. I immediately had to go back and watch the first 4 episodes. Having lived through this time, I see a lot in this series that seems familiar, bringing back memories of a quite different time. Anyone who doesn't get this show does not realize it is portraying the 70's! A lot of jokes from then do not translate well today but they are telling it like it is, or was. Ron's storyline reminded me of when Jerry Seinfeld actually had a bit part on Benson. A lot of great comics evolved during this period. I believe this show is not meant to be "haha" funny, but to show the struggles of those who make us laugh. Love the cast they do a superb job! Hope Showtime gives this show a 2nd season, a better time slot, and promotes it this time!

I truly do not understand all the negativity and one star reviews of this show. I don't write a lot of reviews, but felt compelled to when I saw the low rating and negative reviews.

There's only 2 episodes at the time of this review, but I really enjoyed the writing, acting and overall feel of the show. It's not a sitcom, folks. It's a comedy/drama. There are serious moments and situations. That said, there were many laugh out loud moments and I have thoroughly enjoyed what I have seen so far. Melissa Leo as Goldie delivers a stand out performance.

Several reviewers complain about the seventies costuming and sets being over the top. I grew up in the seventies and I think it's spot on and I love the look of the show.

Ignore the one star reviews and give it a try. I'm really glad I didn't let the 6.5 rating stop me from missing out on a great new series.

Stand-up is experiencing a renaissance and "I'm Dying Up Here" is the blueprint for building a masterful comedic series. This is the real deal. the show represents the period with authenticity, the plot and jokes are intelligent, thought provoking, engaging, and most of all -- funny, the characters have real depth and the comedians take it to another level by delivering brilliant performances as actors. Showtime has a hit on their hands.

Like the tragically cancelled Roadies I'm Dying Up Here has not received it's due praise. It's funny and touching examination of the lives of upcoming comedians masks the true magic of the show, which is to relate universal struggle all of us face in trying to realize our future potential while nurturing healthy relationships and balancing responsibilities right now. Shooting for the top before fizzling out or exploding. Reconciling our past with our present.

I don't know why these amazing shows have so much trouble finding an audience or critical acclaim. It seems like if character arcs are not clearly defined then critics think it is muddled. This is not the case though.

I love this show as I loved Roadies. The history and trade knowledge serve to enrich the themes adding texture and ambiance. I love it. The critics got it wrong but an 80 percent favourable audience score on Rotten Tomatos sounds about right.

You've definitely got to have some sort of comical education to appreciate this show. This history behind the comedy store is one thing but having that comedy mindset and understanding of the clever narrative of this show is a must. Possibly why it wasn't so popular on the mainstream. This show was awesome, refreshing, clever and an articulate comedy. I loved it.