Paul W. Downs, Emmy-nominated co-creator of 'Hacks,' joins forces with fellow creators Lucia Aniello and Jen Statsky to discuss their creative process. They share how they brainstormed ideas through emails, the challenges of cancel culture in comedy, and Lucia's remarkable commitment to directing while in labor. David Bianculli reflects on classic cinema and its influence on modern storytelling. The conversation captures the humor, legacy, and intricate dynamics that define the world of 'Hacks' and beyond.
The concept for 'Hacks' emerged from discussions on gender inequality in comedy during a road trip in 2015.
The show skillfully navigates cancel culture, encouraging reflection on the evolution of humor and the complexities of accountability.
Deep dives
The Genesis of Hacks
The idea for the series originated during a 2015 road trip when the creators discussed the lack of respect and opportunities for female comedians compared to their male counterparts. This conversation sparked the concept of a show featuring a seasoned comic struggling to adapt to a new generation, represented by a young writer. They aimed to highlight the generational clash between traditional and contemporary comedy while addressing the broader phenomenon of women in the entertainment industry. This narrative emphasis on female comedians reflects their personal experiences in the comedy scene, especially through the lens of alt-comedy culture.
Complex Characters in Comedy
The character of Jimmy serves as a complex figure in the show, depicted as a nepo baby navigating the pressure of living up to his father's legacy in the entertainment industry. His dynamic with Deborah, a legendary comedian, showcases his struggles with identity and authority as he tries to manage her career. The show explores the fantasy of his situation, given Downs' own background, which is devoid of ties to show business. By inheriting Deborah as a client, Jimmy's character grapples with the contrast between representing established legends and the emerging comedy scene, creating rich narrative tension.
The Nature of Comedy and Conflict
A central theme is the confrontation between Deborah and Ava, illustrating how honest, blunt dialogue can energize creative relationships. Their fiery exchanges reveal a deeper bond as both characters respect each other's wit and prowess, suggesting that true humor often stems from conflict and challenge. This dynamic serves as a catalyst for Deborah's artistic rejuvenation, allowing her to confront her past in a fresh light. The show suggests that for comedians, the ability to grow and evolve creatively is intertwined with the acknowledgment of the change within themselves and their art.
Addressing Cancel Culture in Comedy
The series deftly tackles the topic of cancel culture without becoming overtly political, allowing comedy to be the springboard for meaningful dialogue. It features scenarios where characters confront their past jokes and the repercussions of their humor, showcasing the complexities of accountability in their lives. By maintaining a balance of perspectives from both Deborah and Ava, the show encourages viewers to reflect on the nature of comedy's evolution in response to societal changes. This nuanced approach underlines the importance of comedians engaging with their past, not as a means of condemnation, but as a path towards growth and adaptation.
Paul W. Downs co-created the HBO Max show with his wife, Lucia Aniello and their friend and collaborator, Jen Statsky. The three met at the Upright Citizens Brigade. Downs talks with Ann Marie Baldonado about how they came up with the idea for Hacks, tackling cancel culture, and how his wife continued directing the show while she was in labor. Hacks is nominated for 16 Emmy awards this year, including for Downs for his role as Jimmy.
Also, David Bianculli reflects on the Turner Classic Movies series Two for One.