Hacks
Aging comedian mentors young writer in Las Vegas
About Hacks
Released: 2021
Platform: Max
Rating: TV-MA
Run time: 2 Seasons Available (18 Episodes)
Cast
Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Paul Downs, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Kaitlin Olson, Christopher Mcdonald, Mark Indelicato, Poppy Liu, Johnny Sibilly, Meg Stalter, Rose Abdoo, Ming-Na Wen, Martha Kelly, Laurie Metcalf, Margaret Cho, Jane Adams, Harriet Harris, Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Carl Clemons-Hopkins
About Hacks
"Hacks" is a dark comedy TV series released in 2021 by HBO Max. With a TV-MA rating, the show weaves the tale of a seasoned Las Vegas comedian, Deborah Vance, whose career is on the decline. In a desperate bid to rescue her faltering stardom, she reluctantly teams up with an unpopular, entitled television writer. As they navigate professional challenges and personal relationships, the duo forms an unexpected bond, and hilarious chaos ensues.
Making / Production
The show was created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, all renowned for their extensive experience in comedy writing. Produced by Broad City and 3 Arts Entertainment, the series presents interconnected plots filled with humor and wit. The production team flawlessly encapsulates Las Vegas's glitz and glamour, juxtaposed against the raw realities of the entertainment industry.
Actors
- Jean Smart as Deborah Vance - A legendary Las Vegas comic dealing with a dwindling career. Smart delivered a standout performance seamlessly transitioning from comedy to drama.
- Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels - An entitled, outcast television writer who forms an unlikely alliance with Vance. Einbinder, in her role, perfectly portrays the trials of a younger writer in the industry.
- Carl Clemons-Hopkins as Marcus - Deborah Vance's dedicated, long-serving manager. Hopkins's accurate depiction of his role adds another layer to the story.
Trivia / Interesting Facts about it
- The series, though set in Las Vegas, was mostly filmed in Los Angeles.
- Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder had never met before the script reading.
Awards
"Hacks" received great acclaim, bagging multiple awards such as the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (Jean Smart) and Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series (Jean Smart).
Quotes
- "People think it's a dirty place, but it's actually really beautiful." - Deborah about Las Vegas.
- "I'm not funny? I made Carrot Top cry in under a minute." - Ava Daniels.
Music, Soundtrack
- The series features an original score composed by Keegan DeWitt.
- Popular songs like "Spank" by Jimmy "Bo" Horne and "I'm Coming Out" by Diana Ross are featured in the series.
About Hacks
Hacks explores a darkly comedic relationship between a legendary Las Vegas comedian and a young, outcast TV writer.