Hacks (2021)

Hacks, starring Jean Smart, is a rare, smart and actually funny comedy to stream on TV these days. The setup is that established, and successful comedy legend Deborah Vance (brilliantly played by Jean Smart) is in danger of losing her Vegas residency because the owner of the casino wants to bring in more 'relevant' acts to appeal to a younger crowd. To punch up her act, she is (against her will) paired with a young, talented but also arrogant and entitled Gen Z comedy writer Ava (Played by newcomer Hannah Einbinder, original SNL cast member Laraine Newman's daughter) so she can be more current. The smart writing that features the dynamic of a grizzled, baby boomer comedy veteran with a strong work ethic clashing with a talented but spoiled Gen Z'r is sauce that makes this show. It's hard to believe that this is Einbinder's first gig because she more than holds her own against the always dazzling Jean Smart. Unlike so many current comedy series that telegraph their jokes before they hit you in the face, Hacks understands that most of the comedy is what happens between the characters and, the really funny dialogue, like in all great comedies, is never hammered at you but thrown away. Finally, a comedy series to look forward to every week.

I'm not entirely sure what people are talking about. This show is glamorous, it's fun, it's dramedy, it's accurate to the entertainment industry and what people, especially women go through. It deals with the aftermath of cancel culture, it has religious undertones, it's layered. It's brilliant and I think you should give it a chance!

While watching the first two episodes I thought maybe this is ever so loosely based on Joan Rivers.

Thank you Jean Smart for a "Quality All-American Comedy Series" to quote another review. My Husband & I have loved/adored you in everything! We are just a few years younger than you but this is what America needs right now...Take away the sadness, let us belly laugh, escape in "Real Comedy" & just laugh together. You have brought back what Comedy should be like. We are so very sad to hear about you're Husband's passing. Sending Prayers/Love/Thoughts to you & you're Family. Thank you for all that you do & have done. BEST SHOW EVER!!

Jean Smart really makes the series worth watching the throw away lines the clothes,house etc is just what you'd expect from a Star 🌟 Sadly she's not keeping up with technology, treatment of staff will be interested to see what happens by the last episode.

I'm not sure why this is starting off with a low rating. Maybe it's because the show is centered around strong, yet flawed, females. I've seen the first two episodes and I'm looking forward to more. Jean Smart is great in everything and Kaitlin Olson (from Always Sunny in Philadelphia) is always fun to watch. I'm not familiar with the the actress who plays Ava, the young writer in need of a job, but she's very good as well. I'm sure as more people get a chance to watch this, the rating will go way up. It deserves at least an 8.

I love Jean Smart. Anything she is in is always worth watching. I am having a hard time liking Hannah Einbinder. I don't know if it's the story line or the actual actress herself. She's unbearable to watch. 3rd episode and I can't stand the character Ava.

Jean is amazing to watch. The writing on this show is so great. Her character is a typical Las Vegas Diva but also relatable and hilarious. There are some real moments on this show that tug at heartstrings amongst all the comedy. I was hooked by episode 1, can't wait to see how the rest of the season plays out!

Love Jean Smart, at first thought I wasnt going to get into this show. But I was wrong.. I am enjoying her and the cast, its super funny and warm, and the different personalities of her and her new hired writer;

While I'm not loving Jean Smart in Mere of Easttown, she is spot on in Hacks. There's great chemistry between the to along with great critiques of the absurdity of celebrity and fame. The whole thing feels fresh and innovative.

Subtle, insightful, hilarious in a non-stupid way. Jean Smart can do anything. She shines here and manages the detachment and observational life a true comedian must inhabit with skill and ease. Love her! Love it!

So far I love this. Smart editing and production. Writing is spot on (for most part.) Best thing Jean Smart has done, and that's saying a lot. And newcomer Hannah Einbinder is perfectly believable as Ava. Looking forward to what they come up with next.