Interior Chinatown

A show that's actually unique and unpredictable. Glad one of my favorite critics said you have to trust the strange angles, beats and that many of the multiple questions will have payoff come in time. The first episode and a half are a bit of a struggle but with the whole season finished I'm glad they didn't feed us a lot of answers.

Funny, in a non-typical way but also in terms of real punchlines. Pretty well directed satire and some real good commentary on social issues, American contradictions and minorities being neglected as well as overtly mistreated. I don't feel like they forced the social commentary in there and it really is just a central part of the unorthodox flow. Really excited to see where they take it!

Any fans of non-formulaic stories, good acting, good comedy and strangeness should try. Just give it more than two episodes.

What if life is just a B-list cop show, and everyone is stuck playing ridiculous side characters?

Sure, it's weird. But it's the kind of weird that makes you go, "Am I laughing? Crying? Having an existential crisis?" Yes. The answer is yes. Interior Chinatown is like watching your favorite show while eating spicy noodles-you're amused, slightly overwhelmed, and maybe questioning your life choices.

If you like shows that are unapologetically weird, self-aware, and make you laugh while sneaking in existential punches to the gut, this is it. Just don't expect it to make sense in a traditional way-it's a kung fu fever dream.

It's tough to describe this show, which is probably why I feel like all the descriptions that I've read don't quite seem to fit. The way it plays with its premise, it's rather ambiguous as to how the "show within the show" really works: there's reality mixed with television, seriousness mixed with absurdity. The lines are often blurred, which is a strength. It can be a little confusing, but it's one of those premises where sometimes you just have to stop trying to overthink and enjoy it for what it is. They do a good job of easing into the concept and keeping the logic consistent. The writing is very good, the humor is abundant, and the acting is great. This is a great cast, and no character goes to waste. Good pacing, good direction. The episodes fly by. I can see why this might not be for some, but for me it's one of the best new shows I've seen in a long time.

Within one episode I usually know whether I'm going to stick with a show. "Interior Chinatown" is different. After watching 2 episodes, the jury's still out. So, what is this show about? The themes (so far) appear to be: what happens when we become personally defeated, how to offer support to others, and discovering our life's purpose and potential. This highly stylized show is a blend of fantasy, satirical comics, and slick Hollywood sets. The combo will work for some viewers. For others, it will be a sensory overload. Does this show overreach to impress and seduce the viewer? You be the judge.

First, some positives: outstanding set design and lighting. The quirky, effective music sets the tone. Overall the cast is apt, but several characterizations fall flat, primarily due to the direction. My favorite characters are Jimmy O. Yang as Willis (the central role), his buddy Fatty (Ronny Chieng), and Jimmy's dad (Tzi Ma).

One major drawback for me: the writing is uneven. There are some genuinely funny moments, but certain scenes go overboard with the physical gags. One example is when Willis attempts to enter a building... it drags on for way too long.

A few minor elements are dissuading: the amount of stuff jammed into the darkened homes of several Chinese characters is ridiculous. So they look like hoarders, just because they live in an older, cramped building in a sketchy area of town? Give me a break! Next: the heavy cosmetics on the lead detective (played by Lisa Gilroy) is too perfectly applied, which overplays the stereotype of typically attractive females in detective shows.

Really happy to see Chloe Bennet again! Which is why I'm watching this. She is so awesome and gorgeous! She has such a great onscreen presence and charisma that really shows in her acting, and the roles she takes.

I've enjoyed all the episodes so far. I'm on episode 8 and it's gots its faults, but whatever, I'm sure I'll enjoy the rest of it.

I like the different atmosphere this show brings. The comedy from each of the characters has definitely pulled me in. It's a little wonky, and you're trying to figure what's really going on, but in a good, unique way.

Really hope for success with the show, with more seasons to come.