John Mulaney: Baby J

I would have given a higher rating if not for the seemingly endless "Al Pacino" phone call skit. That was not funny at all, and it went on and on and on. But everything else was really good. My husband and I had a lot of fun watching this. I think my favorite skit was when he "misunderstood adult dating dynamics." Don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just leave it at that. Probably not the funniest part of the show for most people, but it had me laughing hard. I think the Al Pacino bit is my only complaint.

Some of these skits were pretty brilliant really, in my opinion. Some were too much of a stretch, but they still work if you're not a nit-picker like me.

Not quite as good as Comeback Kid and the other Netflix one, but definitely not a disappointment in the least.

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I've been a fan of John Mulaney for years. But on my first viewing of this special, I started it and then stopped it. His rhythm is different. His tone and manner are different. I felt guilty at the notion that I may have preferred him as a comedian when he was using. I thought more about it and something hit me. I needed to grieve the loss of who I thought he was and make space for the truth of who he is. I went back and watched the whole thing thinking I may just need a moment to be reintroduced to him. So glad I did. He'll never be the same but wow he's still hilarious and this time it's sustainable. This special is really insightful, honest and genuine. It's rare for a comedian to leave me both laughing and reflecting. Definitely worth the watch.

Quick answer? Yes. In my opinion it is. I have always been a fan of Mulaney's and he is a master speaker without a doubt. And that still stands. He is very smart and knows how to sell it. But what has changed? Well.. He did. There is no more jumping arround, no more dancing, yelling.. It is not like I didn't like that kind of delivery but this John Mulaney just feels more real. He was blown by the wind and a bit waethered. Something huge happened and changed the way he acts and Mulaney feels much more open and truthfull. And that to me is what stand up is about a lot. As a person who had some rough years fighting addiction, anxiety or depression I really can relate to the new Mulaney much more and it puts him in a different angle for me. Now I feel like I get him. Just like that watch shop in New York.

I approached John Mulaney's "Baby J" with a different expectation, anticipating a profound exploration of his journey through rehab based on the clips I had seen. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself thoroughly entertained. As a recovered addict, I strangely found myself relating to some of the experiences he shared and understanding where he was coming from.

Had I approached this special purely as a comedy show, I might have rated it a 3 or 4, as many of the topics Mulaney delves into are truly terrifying rather than humorous. Nevertheless, he skillfully weaves jokes into his narratives, creating a unique blend of darkness and laughter. I can imagine that those who haven't experienced addiction might feel uncomfortable or confused by his approach, but from my perspective, it strikes a chord deep within my heart.

Mulaney assumes a sort of villainous persona throughout the special, leading some to claim that he seems detached from the severity of his past struggles. However, I believe this is merely his way of coping with the trauma he endured. As a recovered/recovering addict, I may be biased in my review, but every word he utters resonates with me on a profound level. I read a review suggesting that the reviewer couldn't fathom Mulaney actually experiencing any of what he described, and I find that notion incredulous. It seems that the reviewer fails to grasp the immense gravity of addiction.

While I acknowledge that non-addicts might find great enjoyment in "Baby J," I can only provide my perspective, which might be off-putting or uncomfortable for some. However, I view the special as a powerful message infused with dark humor from start to finish.

This is John Mulaney's first show since his personal scandal surrounding his drug addiction, rehab experience, and divorce. Following these tragedies he got serious with the amazing Olivia Munn, and had a baby. He seems to be past the worst parts of his life. This very funny and, sometime shocking, special is about the darkest times and more. He is painfully funny and honest about the darkness of the experience and his dealing with it. This is raw and honest and funny because it is authentic. Many comedians evolve from chaos and, quite honestly, are not funny at all. This is not true here. He is as funny as ever. Evolved as can be, but funny as ever. See this one, even if this is your first Mulaney special.