EPISODIC REVIEW: "Loot" Redefines the Workplace Comedy
11/12 ForReel Score | 5/5 Stars
When thinking about some of the greatest comedians of today, I personally would put Maya Rudolph at the top of the list. Rudolph has proven time and time again her deep understanding of comedy in films like Bridesmaids or her run on SNL. No matter the story or situation, she generates a joyous and hysterical presence, and I’m happy to see that she brings that power to Apple TV’s latest satirical workplace comedy, Loot.
This feel-good comedy follows Molly Wells (Rudolph) as she finds her place in the world after divorcing her billionaire tech husband John Novack played by Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation). Left with a settlement of 87 billion dollars and no purpose, Molly indulges herself with lavish vacations and high quality drugs, yet none of it is fulfilling to her until she finds new purpose by reengaging with her charitable foundation. It’s been twenty years since Molly lived a mundane life, causing her to be highly tone def and offensive at times, generating a comedic sweetspot. Loot doesn’t shy away from sitcom stereotypes, in fact it elevates them.
Co-creators Matt Hubbard (30 Rock) and Alan Yang (Parks and Recreation) are quite familiar with creating beloved feel good comedies. They use their past experiences to make a masterful commentary on wealth and political blindness by pointing out how easy it is to lose your individuality once in a relationship. Hubbard and Yang understand the importance of chemistry and have brought together a cast that is just laugh out loud hilarious.
Maya Rudolph is a comedic genius. Her delivery is consistently on point, as she adds a little magic with every punchline. No matter how out of touch her character gets, it’s impossible to hate her. Rudolph humanizes her in such a way that the audience is able to perfectly understand where she’s coming from. Her interview with the acclaimed interview show Hot Ones is a knee-slapping stand out moment that will stick with audiences. Added with the adorable will-they-won’t-they relationship between Molly and her timid accountant, Arthur, played by Nat Faxon (The Descendants), will keep viewers coming back for more. It definitely could be played with for seasons much like Pam and Jim in the Office.
Molly is not the typical billionaire, but the ex-wife of a self made billionaire. She has a completely different mindset and doesn’t take too much offense when called out for her ignorance. The head of foundation, Sofia (MJ Rodriguez, Pose) acts as the voice of reason. Rodriguez adds a loving presence to the screen. She is understanding of Molly’s situation, but distanced enough that she can objectively steer the conversation back to growth and charity. Then there’s Molly’s assistant Nicholas (Joel Kim Booster, Fire Island) who isites chaos. He prefers to block out reality and take part in enjoying
Molly’s wealth. Booster is incredibly whip smart and uses his charm to add levels to his characters, making him anything but a caricature. The development of some other characters is a tad glacial, but shows like 30 Rock and Parks and Recreations also took a few seasons to find their groove. Loot is just a few licks away from hitting that juicy center.
Music editor Jennifer Barak (Mad Men), and music supervisors Kerri Drootin (Psych) and Charlie Haggard (Channel Zero) take a major role in hoisting Loot above the rest. Complimenting the show with many many diverse beloved classics like “Doo Wop (That Thing)” by Lauryn Hill, “Family Affair” by Mary J. Blige, and “Lost in the Supermarket” by The Clash among others. Each song is always unexpected, yet they meld perfectly to the dramatic entrances, aid the transition between scenes, and highlight memorable moments.
Apple TV seems to be finding their stride in the streaming wars and finally emerging as a competitor to other services like HBO Max and Hulu. Loot rediscovers the magic sitcoms have been missing these past few years and heightens it to soar past those that have come before. Maya Rudolph, Nat Faxon, MJ Rodriguez, and Joel Kim Booster are homogeneous together and have the capability to be audiences’ next favorite ensemble cast. They are able to keep things light and heartwarming as Hubbard and Yang investigate the ethical efficacy of extreme wealth - a dynamic that is worth the watch.
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Acting and Casting - 2 | Visual Effects and Editing - 1 | Story and Message - 2 | Entertainment Value - 2 | Music Score and Soundtrack - 2 | Reviewer's Preference -2 | What does this mean?