Plot: This six-part dark comedy series sees Tom Segura venture into bizarre scenarios and wild fantasies, all wrapped up in a cinematic experience.
Review: Tom Segura has made a name for himself by embracing edgy humor that resonates with his audience. Alongside fellow comedians like Bill Burr and Bert Kreischer, he has a knack for weaving relatable anecdotes that provoke discomfort and laughter in equal measure. His latest project, Bad Thoughts, embodies this spirit, marrying audacity with narrative ambition. This anthology of loosely connected tales will undoubtedly delight fans of innovative comedy series such as Key & Peele, Louie, Better Things, and Dave, while skillfully capturing the eerie vibe reminiscent of classics like The Twilight Zone and Black Mirror. Each episode not only entertains but also prompts viewers to confront unsettling aspects of their own thoughts.
The series kicks off with an homage to the spy genre, launching into a frenetic, Mission: Impossible-inspired opener where Segura plays a black ops assassin. Although he maintains a strict policy of not harming women and children, the chilling moment when he shoots a waitress shocks audiences, setting the stage for the ensuing chaos. As the narrative unfolds, Segura’s character faces a series of ludicrous events, from frantic escapes to unexpected medical emergencies, all while navigating precarious negotiations for mercy. The fusion of raunchy humor and slick production quality elevates these segments, making them both polished and engaging. Segura cleverly introduces each episode from an ethereal white void, echoing Rod Serling’s iconic openings in The Twilight Zone.
The parallels between Bad Thoughts and The Twilight Zone extend beyond mere storytelling; both series take everyday experiences and inject them with surreal twists that reveal hidden complexities. While Bad Thoughts dips into darker themes like those found in Black Mirror, it probes into a wider variety of subjects beyond mere technological critiques. From playful jabs at Segura’s purported rivalry with country star Garth Brooks to a hilariously savage take on Steven Seagal—mocking both his physique and his controversial associations—this series consistently delivers surprises. Segura oscillates between being the central villain and adopting various roles, frequently donning costumes and wigs that amplify the self-deprecatory humor.
The format of short episodes makes it inherently binge-worthy, as viewers are left eager to discover the direction each sketch will take. Some episodes conclude with cliffhangers that seamlessly lead into the subsequent vignette. A repeat character, portrayed by The Sopranos‘ Robert Iler, weaves a dynamic layer of intrigue throughout the series. Although not every installment utilizes the overarching narrative effectively, Segura’s comedic talent shines brightly. I found myself continually amazed as each sketch surpassed the last, showcasing his ability to surprise without overstaying its welcome. Whether spoofing a movie trailer or telling a humor-laden short story, each piece masterfully traverses a range of genres, from film noir to more experimental A24-style narratives.
Behind the scenes, Tom Segura collaborates with Jeremy Konner and Rami Hachache for direction, supported by a diverse writing team that includes Konner, Hachache, Craig Gerard, Conor Galvin, Greg Tuculescu, and Matthew Zinman. The series also features an impressive roster of guest stars like Dan Stevens, Daniella Pineda, Shea Whigham, Kirk Fox, Bobby Lee, and Rachel Bloom, all bolstering the humor with their contributions. Fans of Segura’s distinctive comedic style will appreciate the intricate layers of humor on offer. The production quality competes with other leading comedy series, embodying the filmmakers’ dedication to their craft, similar to that of contemporaries like Jordan Peele and Louis C.K. Segura’s cinematic appreciation radiates through these cleverly woven tales.
From the opening shot to the end credits, I found myself in stitches. My only critique stems from the series’ brevity, with most episodes running under thirty minutes; however, this conciseness is a mark of its captivating content. Sketch comedies can often be hit-or-miss, yet Bad Thoughts achieves a remarkable consistency and is poised to become a favorite among Netflix viewers. While the future of a second season hangs in the balance, Segura has firmly established himself as a writer and director capable of rivaling the likes of Jordan Peele. Don’t miss the episode with its hilariously absurd premise involving giant penises; it epitomizes the show’s quirky essence.
Bad Thoughts is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
Source: Nova Play.com
