Friday, October 18, 2013

Not yet ‘Super Fun,’ but potentially rebellious

(Published Oct. 18, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

It has yet to become really super and fun, but the new Rebel Wilson sitcom “Super Fun Night” shows promise.

Created by the popular and witty Australian comedienne, the show is about an underdog (and underachieving) lawyer, Kimmie Boubier, who often goes out with her “besties” to unwind after work. As Kimmie, a New Yorker, she speaks in an American accent convincingly.

The first episode also introduced a rival in fellow lawyer Kendall (Kate Jenkinson), who is envious of Kimmie’s flirty friendship with the boss’ son Richard (Kevin Bishop).

“Super Fun Night’s” executive producers include Wilson and talk show host Conan O’Brien, among others. Wilson previously appeared in the films “Bridesmaids” and “Pitch Perfect,” and hosted the MTV Movie Awards last April.

The show’s humor mostly stems from the awkwardness of the lead character and her best friends. Kimmie, the plus-size girl at the office, is vocal about liking pastries and is afraid of public speaking. In the first episode, her night out with friends at the piano bar was meant to be a break from work, but conniving Kendall shows up to upstage her because Richard was there.

Kimmie manages to muster up the courage to sing in front of people—and as soon as she does, she gives a rousing rendition of Meatloaf’s “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That).” The uninvited Kendall, however, attempts to sabotage the number by singing some of the lines, resulting in an unexpected sing-off.

“Super Fun Night” is actually quite simple and derivative, so far. There’s obvious sexual tension between Kimmie and Richard; she and her similarly uncool friends (played by Lauren Ash and Liza Lapira) go through some potentially disastrous experiences weekly; her slim and ambitious rival belittles her whenever possible.

But it has the potential to be truly different and, well, rebellious. There’s already a mix of smart and risqué gags, and the show successfully transmits a feel-good vibe. It also has a small and engagingly quirky cast, and charming Wilson gives much of herself to the less-than-subtle humor.

(“Super Fun Night” airs Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m., on ETC.)

No comments: