Whether you love him or hate him, Pete Davidson is currently one of the biggest names in comedy. He has made a name for himself through his eight-season stint on Saturday Night Live, his stand-up comedy routines, legendary dating portfolio, and burgeoning movie career. Now, Davidson is heading back to the small screen with the Peacock original series Bupkis Review. This wacky and ambitious comedy series showcases Davidson’s unique sense of humor and explores different genres and storytelling styles. In this article, we will delve into the world of Bupkis, highlighting its unconventional approach and notable performances.
Related: Pete Davidson and John Mulaney spoof ‘Heat’ scene in ‘Bupkis’ trailer
The Premise of Bupkis
Bupkis follows Davidson as an exaggerated version of himself. He lives with his mom, played by the talented Edie Falco, and tries to maintain a relationship with his dying grandfather, portrayed by the legendary Joe Pesci. The series also features Chase Sui Wonders as Davidson’s on-again-off-again girlfriend. While Bupkis shares similarities with Davidson’s semi-autobiographical film The King of Staten Island, it takes a different approach by serving as an anthology series.
An Anthology of Genres
Bupkis stands out by tackling different genres and forms of storytelling in each episode. While some elements are drawn from Davidson’s real life, the series ventures into outlandish and unexpected territories. Each episode presents a fresh and unique experience, ensuring that viewers are always surprised and engaged. Bupkis is a playground for Davidson’s creativity and allows him to experiment with different comedic styles.
Raunchy Humor and Unexpected Moments
The first episode of Bupkis sets the tone with a raunchy sex-comedy plot. Davidson hires an older sex worker, brilliantly played by Lynne Koplitz, to spend time with his grandfather and his friend Roy, portrayed by Brad Garrett. The series then takes a dramatic shift in the second episode, which serves as a flashback to a wedding attended by a young Davidson, just weeks after losing his father during 9/11. The third episode, featuring Charlie Day, parodies the film “What About Bob.” These episodes showcase the versatility and range of Bupkis, offering a diverse array of stories to its audience.
The Playful Plot of Bupkis
As the title suggests, Bupkis embraces the idea of being “nothing at all.” The series incorporates surreal elements while also touching on deeply personal moments. It strikes a balance between absurdity and vulnerability, allowing Davidson to explore his own struggles with mental illness and themes of loss, addiction, and unconditional love. Bupkis is not afraid to push boundaries and takes advantage of Davidson’s comedic style to create a truly unique viewing experience.
A Stellar Cast of Guest Stars
Bupkis boasts an impressive ensemble of guest stars who add depth and authenticity to the series. Jon Stewart, Machine Gun Kelly, Sebastian Stan, Art the Clown, and even Al Gore make appearances, enhancing the world Davidson has created. While some may view the star-studded cameos as a gimmick, they seamlessly blend into the narrative, making Davidson’s world feel more tangible and realistic. Bupkis capitalizes on Davidson’s connections and showcases his famous friends in imaginative and unexpected ways.
Stand-Out Performances
While Davidson shines in his role as the lovable doofus, it is the performances of Edie Falco and Joe Pesci that truly steal the show. Pesci’s return to acting after his acclaimed performance in “The Irishman” is a pleasant surprise. He dominates the screen with his commanding presence, delivering foul-mouthed insults and poignant moments with equal finesse. Falco brings her signature sarcasm to her role as Davidson’s mother, infusing the character with a genuine chemistry that resonates with audiences. Together, they create the heart of the show and anchor the emotional core of Bupkis.
Davidson’s Signature Humor
Davidson’s sense of humor is on full display in Bupkis. It is self-deprecating, dark, and politically incorrect, appealing to his dedicated fanbase. However, the series also showcases his ability to handle more dramatic material. Davidson has never shied away from discussing his vulnerabilities and struggles with mental illness, and Bupkis serves as a form of therapy for him. Through the series, he addresses personal challenges while incorporating humor and absurdity, creating a well-rounded and engaging performance.
Cinematic Quality and Visual Appeal
Directed by Jason Orley, who has collaborated with Davidson in the past, Bupkis exhibits a certain cinematic quality. The series captivates viewers with its visually stunning scenes and attention to detail. Even in quieter moments, the frames are vibrant and visually appealing. Orley’s direction breathes life into the narrative, making Bupkis a visually captivating and dynamic viewing experience.
Peacock’s Success with Original Content
Peacock has gained momentum with its original content, and Bupkis adds to its growing success. Following the recent triumphs of “Poker Face” and “Mrs. Davis,” the streaming service has found its footing in delivering quality shows. Bupkis contributes to Peacock’s reputation for innovative and daring programming, bringing a fresh and zany comedy series to its viewers. Regardless of personal opinion, it’s difficult to deny the ambition and creativity showcased in Bupkis.
Sum It Up!
Bupkis Review is a wacky and ambitious comedy series that highlights Pete Davidson’s unique comedic style. With its anthology format, diverse genres, and unexpected storytelling, the series offers a fresh and engaging viewing experience. Supported by a talented cast and strong performances, Bupkis manages to strike a balance between raunchy humor and vulnerable moments. Peacock’s success with original content is further solidified by the addition of Bupkis to its lineup. Whether you’re a fan of Pete Davidson or simply seeking something unconventional and entertaining, Bupkis is undoubtedly one of the best new shows of the year.
