Bookie

This one looked great in the previews but in the first half of the first episode it seemed very forced and awkward. That did not last. It actually fleshed out in the second episode as a very funny and interesting show. The premise is about two bookies trying to make it in modern day California and struggling with being tough, without being "tough". They can;t seem to get out of their own way, and that leads to some interesting scenarios. The characters are good. The dynamic between the leads works well. Sebastian Maniscalco has already established himself as a good actor in other things so it was no surprise. I look forward to more with this one.

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 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!!

In an entertainment era often criticized for its lack of genuine laughs, Bookie emerges as a refreshing exception. Breaking away from the clichés that pervade the comedic landscape, this series managed to elicit sincere laughter from me, a rare feat in today's climate of cautious humor.

From the opening moments of the pilot, Bookie defied my expectations, replacing the usual smirks with hearty laughter. The humor was not just a fleeting moment; it persisted throughout, making me genuinely LOL multiple times until the very end.

Impressed by the comedic prowess displayed, I eagerly dove into the second episode, only to find the laughs continuing to flow effortlessly. The clever writing and comedic timing left me hooked, eagerly anticipating more episodes to indulge in the delightful laughter that Bookie effortlessly delivers.

In a world where comedy often treads carefully to avoid offending sensibilities, Bookie fearlessly embraces humor, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air. I look forward to future episodes, eager to see if Bookie can maintain its comedic charm and keep the laughter rolling.

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.