The State
The State

The State

1995TV ShowEnded4 SeasonsEnglish

The State is a sketch-comedy television show combing bizarre characters and scenarios to present sketches that won the hearts of its target teenaged audience.

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Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Director: Michael Showalter, David Wain, Ken Daurio, and Jonathan SternGenres: Sketch Comedy, Comedy

Plot Summary

The State was a groundbreaking sketch comedy series that aired on MTV. Featuring a young ensemble cast, the show delivered a surreal and often bizarre mix of short-form comedic segments. Its rapid-fire pacing, meta-humor, and willingness to push boundaries set it apart from other contemporary sketch shows, creating a unique brand of absurdist comedy that resonated with a generation.

Critical Reception

The State gained a cult following for its unique, surreal, and often dark humor. While it was a departure from traditional sketch comedy, its creative writing, energetic performances, and boundary-pushing content were praised by those who appreciated its unconventional style. It is widely regarded as a highly influential show for many comedians and writers who came after.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its rapid-fire delivery and surreal, often dark, humor.
  • Celebrated for its inventive writing and the ensemble's energetic performances.
  • Recognized as a highly influential sketch comedy show that defied genre conventions.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the show's unique and bizarre sense of humor, with many appreciating its willingness to be strange and unpredictable. Fans recall specific sketches fondly and note its lasting impact on comedy.

Fun Fact

The entire cast and writing staff of 'The State' were credited as co-writers for each episode, a rarity in television comedy, fostering a collaborative and highly creative environment.

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