Bookie

I almost didn't watch this series, because the trailer makes it look like a buddy action drama. But all the reviews said it was really funny, and it's from Chuck Lorre, so I took a chance, and it's really funny.

It's about a couple of bookies bantering, taking bets, and dealing with their personal and professional issues. Like Lorre's Kominsky method, this is filmed like a movie instead of like a sitcom, and it can get pretty dark in its humor. But always funny.

Great cast, great writing, well paced, and a genuinely interesting look at the lives of some genuinely sketchy but likable people.

Recommended.

This is the best comedy to come around in a long time. Actually, this series deserves better praise than that because most shows are a total waste of time. I was never a big fan of the stand-up of Sebastian Maniscalco, but he hits his mark here.

Literally every character that steps into this series is noteworthy and could probably handle their own spin-off. I think this is a rare mix of good writing and actors who go above and way beyond what is written down on the page for them. They are all so much fun to watch. Even the kid is great in this and not the usual Anthony Soprano-type spoiled monster.

Not to give away any spoilers, but when the little birthday balloon flew away, I was rolling on the floor, and it takes a LOT to make me laugh like that. Whoever wrote that bit deserves a decent bottle of scotch in their Christmas stocking.

The humor is consistently dark and to pull this off you need flawed characters, and Danny and Ray are toxic waste dumps on legs. Each episode comes with a great punchline and leaves you wanting more. Please tell me this is coming back for another season.

What would you call the opposite of a feel-good comedy? I think that's what we have here.

I was kind of on the fence about this show, Bookie but after watching the first episode I was reeled in hook, line, and sinker. It's great, the collaboration between Sebastian and Omar works so well they are made for these roles hurray to the casting agent for this one. Actually ALL the characters casted are just perfect fits! You have to listen closely because there a a number of one liners or something comedic they just drop in. For example...In one episode Omar & Sebastian are in a funeral parlor where a body is being prepped. Omar HATES funeral parlors. The embalmer says to Sebastian "hey watch this" he presses the body's stomach and a fart lets out, Sebastian asks "hey do it again" I lost it. I watched it over & over & couldn't stop laughing. There's so many little things like that in this show it's hilarious. I love it I'm really hoping there's a season 2. The situations these guys get into are off the charts. The episodes are like 20 to 25 minutes long so give it a chance, you can afford a few minutes. If you like everyday type humor on steroids you'll love this show. The actors make this feel so real, like I could believe some of these situations if someone was telling them to me. Now I'm a true Chicagoian born & raised so I can relate to the life of a bookie & we all know if you don't pay your bookie, you wind up hurt or even dead. The way this show is written I actually have empathy for Danny & minus the violence if you don't pay, it's well written on how gamblers settle what they owe. Sebastian is so good in this series he makes you feel sorry for him one minute, then the next minute he shows his I don't care attitude just pay me. It's a great show. Give it a chance believe me you'll thank me!!

The pilot episode of this show sets a strong foundation, immediately capturing attention with its brisk pace and effective storytelling. As the series unfolds, the pace may decelerate slightly, but the overall quality remains high. Notably, Sebastian Maniscalo delivers a delightful comedic performance, portraying the well-intentioned Bookie who doesn't always make good choices. Alongside him, Omar J. Dorsey is splendid in the role of the sidekick, bringing charisma to the character. The duo often find themselves in some sticky situations, and the fun is watching how they get out it.

The supporting characters are developed in such a clever and enjoyable way. Each character feels fully realized, contributing to the dynamic ensemble and adding layers of humor to the storyline. The episodic stories strike a balance between being fun, light-hearted, and good-natured while also containing a mild hint of adult themes such as sex, violence, and drugs (namely Mushrooms), making it suitable for a wider audience without veering into overly mature content. But if you have young kids, you might want to wait until they go to bed before watching this show. If you give it a try, I think you will find it's a highly watchable show that's worthy of your time.

I wasn't sure what to expect with Bookie, especially with Sebastian Maniscalco leading a series, but I've been pleasantly surprised. From the very first episode, the show pulled me in with its sharp writing, witty dialogue, and a cast of characters that feel both authentic and hilariously over-the-top. Maniscalco brings his signature style to the role, blending humor and tension in a way that keeps each episode engaging.

One of the show's biggest strengths is its mix of comedy and drama, striking a balance that makes you care about the characters while keeping the laughs coming. The supporting cast adds plenty of personality, and the cameos are a real treat-sometimes unexpected, always entertaining. Whether it's familiar faces from the comedy world or surprise guest stars, they add an extra layer of fun to an already strong series.

I've found myself enjoying Bookie a lot more than I anticipated, and by the end of each episode, I'm always left wanting more. It's the kind of show that sneaks up on you-in the best way. I really hope season three comes soon because I'm not ready to be done with this world yet.