Bo Burnham: Inside
By: Reagan Carpenter
“Should I be joking at a time like this?” is a question I have been asking myself more and more often since the first time I heard the words “COVID-19” uttered by my local TV newscaster. In a reality plagued by uncomfortable conversations and heated debates on racial injustice, corrupt politicians, and foreign wars, it feels inherently wrong to fill the awkward silence with humor. Yet, a Youtube sensation and Netflix comedian has pushed the boundaries of acceptable humor in a time of tragedy through catchy songs, vulnerable monologues, and pure creativity. I’m not alone in asking my question. According to the star of the hit Netflix Special, “Bo Burnham: Inside,” joking right now is an absolute must.
Bo Burnham’s work is a collection of unique comedic stand-up shows combined with musical performances. In his latest special, “Inside,” Burnham ditches his usual satirical ‘cringe-worthy’ stand-up persona and reveals an authentic narrative on his time in quarantine. Burnham filmed this special over a year in his apartment, utilizing projectors, laser lights, and green screens to present a single room as a visually appealing work of art. Burnham invites the audience into his intimate world of loss, questioning, and ironic hilarity in fifty-three minutes of unparalleled songwriting.
Viewers experience Burnham’s lowest points, as seen in the song “30,” an emotional piece sung on his thirtieth birthday as well as reflections of his lonely childhood in “Look Who’s Inside Again.” His unkempt beard, sweatpants, and disheveled room are all-too-relatable for those watching from their couches and unmade beds, which reinforces the shared sympathies of both the watchers and the creator. Burnham doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable conversations circulating social media and the news, as heard in the quirky yet existential “How the World Works” and dark-humored “Welcome to the Internet.” Topics such as the consequences of a capitalist society on the environment and severe mental health issues are presented in quick-witted jokes spoken by a sock puppet, adding a bizarre yet light-hearted approach to controversial points.
Alongside serious commentary on societal, political, and personal matters, Burnham appeals to fans of his stand-up work by embracing relatable matters of millennials and young adults affected by the pandemic, as seen in flashy, colorful musical segments. Burnham sings about the comedic but all-too-real struggles of modern online dating in “Sexting” as well as technology use by older people in “Facetime with My Mom (Tonight).” He pokes fun at current trends on popular social media apps in the visually stunning photo montage, “White Woman’s Instagram,” showcasing his talent as a photographer and performer. Burnham does a fantastic job of smoothly transitioning from darker, more pessimistic concepts to sing-in-the-shower pop songs, thus creating a balance of dark humor and comedic breaks. The inclusion of parody songs allows the viewer to feel joy and laughter without guilt, reminding us that it’s okay to escape from reality sometimes, specifically in these unprecedented times.
To describe “Bo Burnham: Inside” simply as a well-made Netflix special would be an understatement and insult to the creative genius that is Bo Burnham. Melding elements of original songwriting, ironic jokes, and visual art, Burnham has successfully created a piece that goes deeper than stand-up comedy and is truly groundbreaking in the world of satirical entertainment. He took the risk of documenting his battles with the pandemic, creating a never-before-seen safe space to laugh and express how one truly feels through the screen. “Inside” is a piece that is incredibly unique to the period of 2021, and proves that comedy and tragedy can coexist tastefully. If you have ever experienced that feeling of loneliness, boredom, or low self-esteem, this special is a breath of fresh air for anybody who needs a break from the news.