High Maintenance (HBO)

About High Maintenance (HBO)

High Maintenance is an American television and web series created by Ben Sinclair and Katja Blichfeld. This dramedy, which was originally made available online, later moved to HBO in 2016. The show examines the intricacies of life in New York City, largely through the eyes of a marijuana deliveryman, referred to as "The Guy."

The Guy's client base is extensive, involving characters from disparate socio-economic backgrounds, allowing the series to examine the city and its inhabitants in a unique and intimate light. Over the course of the series, viewers encounter an assortment of characters with various narratives, only linked by their common drug dealer.

Making / Production

The series was initially created as a web series which was hosted on Vimeo. It was created by Ben Sinclair and Katja Blichfeld who were working as a casting director and commercial editor respectively. Following the success of the web series, HBO picked it up in 2016 and since then, the series has continued and has aired 34 episodes.

Actors

• Ben Sinclair: Playing the role of "The Guy," Sinclair does an excellent job in portraying the calm and understanding marijuana deliveryman who offers a unique perspective on life.
• Katja Blichfeld: Though primarily behind the scenes, Blichfeld makes several appearances throughout the series, bringing depth and intrigue to her roles.
• Michael Cyril Creighton: Creighton expertly plays a recurring character in the series, showcasing his acting versatility and depth.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The original web series was funded primarily by Ben Sinclair and Katja Blichfeld.
• The episodes are not directly linked together, but the common character of "The Guy" connects them.
• The series features a blend of professional actors and untrained performers.

Awards

In 2015, "High Maintenance" received the first-ever Writer's Guild of America Award for Short Form New Media – Original for the episode, "Rachel."

Quotes

• "It's weird, everyone feeling like they have to post everything they do, need constant witnesses."
• "It's not the pot, it's the not wanting to get out of bed and face the world."
• "Kindness. Kindness is just love with its work boots on."

Music, Soundtrack

• The series features a curated selection of music ranging from Leonard Cohen to Tame Impala.
• Charge It to the Game featuring Liz Armour - "All Night Long" is a popular track from the series.
• "Little Drummer Boy" is the series finale song, adding an eerie depth to the ending.