Baskets

When the series started, and I saw that Zach Galifianakis was starring, I set my DVR to record the series. Yes, I started watching for Zack Galifianakis- I now watch it, primarily, for Louis Anderson. During last season I told my husband, If Louis Anderson doesn't win an Emmy I will be physically ill. Louis won the Emmy, I didn't have to get ill. So glad that Zach & Louis CK saw his potential outside of stand-up. The rest of the cast, it goes without saying, is so special, Scripts are so well written. Truly a gem, I feel very lucky to have found it.

If it was only season 1, I would rate it a 10. The first Seasons is why I fell in love with the show. The type of humour is my absolute favorite, and I loved Penelope, I was very disappointed when I realized she wasn't in any other season. Well, she appears in S2 and 4 but only for a couple episodes. She was such a great complement to the character or Chip.

S2 was pretty good, not as good as the first one, but still pretty solid. S3 has really good moments, I particularly love the episodes about the opera, the trip to vegas and when they want to film the commercial for the rodeo.

S4 however was a major dissapointment. I felt like nothing happened, everything was skippable, and from season 2 onwards, Chip is just less and less as a clown.

Also I didn't like what they did with the characters of Martha and Dale on S4. Martha is now sort of aggressive which is nothing like her in previous seasons. Dale is now this weird stereotypical republican trailer park 2nd ammendement crazy guy and I dont know, I didn't like that, nor did I find it funny. The only episodes worth watching are the first and last one. But even so, it didn't feel like it got a proper closure.

And also, one of the reasons I fell in love with the show was that it didnt have any jokes relying on current politics and social stuff, in seasons 2 and 3 there are a couple jokes like that, but in season 4... Too many, I mean, for this show it was too many, so unfunny. Like the whole situation with dale in the restaurant... cringe.

However, Christine is the only character that remains perfect all throughout the show. I have never ever seen such a great portrayal of a woman, by someone who is not a woman. It is beyond fantastic. He doesn't try any weird mannerisms or be or sound feminine and exaggerated, and still it is as if he was an actual mother. Sometimes I just can't believe how good Louie is in this role.

Louis Anderson is the standout in this series. While Zach Galifianakis is a good actor in his own right, he is great here.. But Louis Anderson is outstanding. His performance makes me want him to be my mom.

I'm going to miss this show. Seems that people had somewhat different takes on the show. But for me it was about an imperfect, but surprisingly familiar family making its way through life with its everyday concerns, humor, and disappointment. It was special.

The writing, acting, production and direction of this black comedy are fantastic. I realise for anyone looking for an uplifting experience it won't be your cup of tea, but for those with a particular sense of humour it'll be thoroughly addictive.

If you're a fan of Louis CK in general and especially if you enjoyed Horace and Pete you'll love this. It's a great tip of the hat to concept of the sad clown. I also think if you'll find something in this if you liked The Office. Zach Galifianakis's character reminds me of Michael Scott in many ways.

As with any TV show, don't rely on a review, check it our for yourself! :)