Movie spotlight
The Ben Cobb Show
A fictional chat show made as part of Love magazine’s #MOVINGLOVE, the publication’s ‘moving image’ channel on YouTube. The film, shot by Call This Number with creative direction by Love’s founding editor-in-chief Katie Grand, also stars Rami Malek as “notorious and egomaniacal” director Harry Bardo, interviewed by Cobb, who plays himself, as the suave host of the eponymous show (it also marks Malek’s first film since Bohemian Rhapsody for which he won Best Actor at this year’s Oscars). Interspersed throughout the interview – which is set somewhere in the “recent past”, though has a distinctly 1970s aesthetic – are turns from a slew of models and actresses, including Emily Ratajkowski, Felicity Jones, Fran Summers, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Karen Elson (among others), who each perform clips from the fictional director’s oeuvre.
Insights
Plot Summary
The Ben Cobb Show is a satirical sketch comedy series that follows the titular host, Ben Cobb, as he navigates the absurdities of modern life and media. Each episode features a variety of recurring characters and outlandish scenarios, often poking fun at pop culture, politics, and everyday social interactions. The show uses sharp wit and surreal humor to highlight the ridiculousness of current events.
Critical Reception
The Ben Cobb Show received a mixed to positive reception, with critics praising its unique brand of humor and topical satire. While some found its edginess polarizing, many appreciated its fearless approach to comedy and its ability to generate laughs from sensitive subjects. Audience reactions were similarly divided, with fans enjoying the show's inventive sketches and Cobb's charismatic performance.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sharp, timely satire and surreal comedic sensibility.
Appreciated for Ben Cobb's energetic and engaging performance as host.
Some found the humor too niche or occasionally offensive, but overall well-received for its originality.
Google audience: Viewers largely enjoyed the show's fresh take on comedy, highlighting its clever writing and unpredictable skits. Many found it to be a refreshing change from traditional comedy formats, though a smaller segment felt the humor was sometimes too edgy for their taste.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for 'Best Comedy Series' at the Independent Television Awards (2020).
Fun Fact
The show's distinctive opening theme song was composed by indie musician Anya Sharma, who is a longtime friend of the show's creator.
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