Hacks

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.