I’m not going to kid you, but with the St. Louis Cardinals playing so poorly, I’ve been searching for new shows to spend my valuable lounging time on. Recently, I’ve been spending a lot of time on Netflix binge-watching six seasons of “Vikings.” I tell my wife it’s research, as it’s possible there could be a Jewish Viking popping up at any minute. So far, no Jewish Vikings have shown up.
But guess who has shown up? Adam Sandler. Here, let me set the scene. You get your big screen all revved up, that first screen pops up with all your options for streaming; you select Netflix and then the anticipation begins. It’s worse than ketchup, but you wait for that rush of color and that tremendous crescendo of the Netflix boom. Not sure what else to call it, but you know what I mean.
Anyway, after the boom, your updated Netflix screen arrives. Last night, the screen arrived with the always handsome face of Adam Sandler. There he was, with the grin only my mother could love, with the title of his special “Adam Sandler: Love You” coming out of his ear.
Adam Sandler loves you? Me? He loves all of us and boy, can we all use a laugh right now.
Adam Sandler: Love You
This special “offers a blend of chaotic humor and heartfelt moments, capturing what critics describe as ‘strong Jewish dad energy.'” Yes, that is straight from the Netflix press release, but I’ll take it as I too give off SJDE.
Directed by Josh Safdie, who I had to Google. Safdie is known for his intense and chaotic film style. The special is set in a fictional rundown theater which adds to its offbeat charm.
The special’s humor is quintessentially Sandler, so not for everyone. It’s raunchy, absurd and self-deprecating. He touches on everything from awkward parenting moments to surrealist jokes about fame and household chores. Sandler’s signature musical comedy also plays a significant role, with songs that are as filthy as they are catchy, reflecting his ability to make the outrageous feel endearing.
Sandler’s genuine love for comedy is right in front of you. He really loves being on that stage and it shines through, especially in the final moments when he dedicates a song to the healing power of laughter and pays tribute to his comedic heroes, all of whom you will recognize and are probably yours too.
So, whether you’re a fan of Sandler’s filthy jokes or his more tender moments, this special delivers a little something for everyone.