Hung (TV Series) Great Sausage or Can I Call You Dick? (2009) User Reviews

Entertaining but not inspiring ; good performers and characters ; short format but intriguing story

[igoatabase · 6/10 · 1 February 2010]

This second episode wasn't as interesting as the first one. It was still entertaining but not as funny even it should make you laugh enough. But what I really missed were the sad and smart elements of the pilot that allowed us to relate to the characters. In fact it mostly focused on the pimp arc and not really how the protagonist is going to get things back right on track. So I really hope it won't become as superficial as shows like Weeds and Californication. Moreover as it not even lasted a half hour I worry that the episodes duration won't allow the writers to properly cover essential topics like character development.

But even if I was slightly disappointed by it I can only recommend it because I think the show has potential. The acting is good and even Tanya grew on me. There's also something intriguing going on with the mum and their children. In fact they're so ugly that they reminded me of the King in the film Dragon Heart. I also enjoyed how the plot was reverse designed because it's often surprising to know the end first. All the new characters revolving around Ray should also bring up some spice to his story even if I really hope it won't make him less authentic.

Marketing the tool

[jotix100 · 9/10 · 4 June 2010]

The Lakefield high school is all abuzz with rumors. Some teachers have been let go. Ray Drecker, although worried, figures the sports program will be the last thing to be eliminated from the curriculum. He has showed to school with a hickey on his neck that everybody notices. When his name is announced to go to the principal's office, he begins to panic. First, there is the possibility he is losing his job, and then, he is concerned about showing his love mark on his neck. He should not have worried, Rhonda Barr has other things to discuss with him.

Tanya comes to Ray with a lot of ideas about how to proceed with his new venture. His ads in the local paper, she feels, is not the way to go. She thinks it is essential for Ray to "look" the part. For that, a new wardrobe, even bought at a discount store, will help. Ray is reluctant because he is not a man that feels comfortable wearing a suit and tie, but he goes along with her suggestions. Tanya wants to rehearse Ray in the way he will present himself to prospective clients.

An old co-worker, Lenore, who never was too friendly with Tanya, is now a personal shopper, advising wealthy women in what to wear. Tanya pitches the idea to her friend promising a discount and satisfaction, once she tries Ray's merchandise. A meeting is set for them. Their tryst goes well; Lenore proves to be a receptive woman, guiding Ray into how to please a more demanding type of clientele. He had only wanted to stay as little, as possible, but ends up spending the night at Lenore's. Getting dressed the following morning, Ray notices his wallet is missing, plus he is late for school.

Ray's day at work is not as smooth as he wanted it to be. Rhonda Barr has received a few complaints from concerned parents that object to Ray's teaching method, which include graphic pictures of insects and poop. Ray, who tries to hide his even bigger hickey, is not able to pull the wool over Rhonda's eyes. She has seen it, and she asks him if it is a hickey! Another great episode in the series.

The creators, Colette Burson and Dmitri Lipkin wrote this chapter and Craig Zisk directed with excellent timing. "Hung" is not recommended for everyone. There is nudity, so any viewer objecting to watching sexual interaction, even if it is fake, should probably stay away from tuning to the show. The creators do not make excuses for the material, sex is what the program is about and they do not make a big deal about it.

Thomas Jane is a good comedic actor, whose deadpan portrayal of a man at the end of his rope, does a marvelous job in his portrayal of Ray. Jane Adams surprises with her neurotic Tanya. She is a versatile actress we have admired for her prior work. Anne Heche makes a valuable contribution with her take on Jessica . The material suits her well; she makes Jessica the confused woman she is supposed to be. Rebecca Creskoff is fun to watch as Lenore.