Greg Giraldo: Midlife Vices

I am a big fan of the stand up comedy genre, some of my favorites include such comedians as Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, Patrice O'Neal and Bill Hicks. Greg Giraldo was of the last non-apologetic comedians. Nowadays it seems as if everyone is afraid of their own shadow, even brilliant comedians like Louis C.K. always seem to be too careful at times. Giraldo was quick witted, brilliant and absolutely fearless, which made him an incredible roaster. He had incredible charisma which made his humor even more appealing. People always say: "it's such a shame that he was a drug addict and died so early..." I absolutely agree with the latter, but his drive and personality were the very essence of what made him appealing to all of us, and he seemed to have accepted who he was. To quote Jimi Hendrix: "I'm the one that's gotta die when it's time for me to die, so let me live my life the way I want to..." R.I.P. Greg Giraldo.

Watching a dead celebrity do one of their many or few stand up specials just makes you miss them more. In a way it makes you appreciate them more, and it makes you glad you knew the person and their work. But sometimes it's a little heartwrenching to watch. Giraldo and George Carlin are two comedians I hate to watch. They're both fabulous and hilarious, but it's hard to watch them because you know they aren't around anymore. I'm sure you know what I mean.

Giraldo goes into different topics like politics, obesity, and random ranting which is pretty much what he does best. One thing Giraldo does that many comedians can't do naturally is build off one topic. A topic can go from cancer to the most recent Super Bowl in a matter of minutes. Carlin could do that as well which makes it very fun to listen to. Plus he rarely spends time digging in to the same subject, so his special is never droning or feels lengthy.

The only subject I found going a bit too far was the topic of sexual intercourse with animals, but even then the topic is entered into and gets abandoned right before one has chance to change the channel. Midlife Vices is a great way to remember loved comedian Greg Giraldo, and his very witty, clever ways. Giraldo died on September 29, 2010 after being in a coma because of a drug overdose. This special and his appearances on Comedy Central Roasts are a great way to remember him.

Starring: Greg Giraldo.