On The Lighter Side

Okay, enough of the philosophical and historically analytical crap. I just wanted to mention a few really funny shows that seem to have me as the entirety of their intended demographic. The fact that they remained on the air for a reasonable amount of time I find somewhat reassuring - while it crushes my sense of self-worth by confirming that I am not as unique as I think I am, it also provides some solace in knowing that I am not alone ;)

But seriously, here is a list of several really funny shows, in no particular order, that you will love if you are into all things nerdish:

• Spaced - a British comedy about a small group of youngish (late 20s) people who just don't fit in. Written by and starring the same guys who brought you Shaun of the Dead (in fact one of the episodes inspired the movie) it aired for two seasons 1999 and 2000. How can you go wrong with verbal sparring between two characters trying to say the most hurtful things to each other interspersed with clips of Tekken 2 - Nina Williams and Paul Phoenix fighting - whenever one scores a verbal barb, they cut to a scene of their respective character pulling off a combo - "Daisy Wins"
• Sealab 2021 - so many nerdy references it is unreal - coupled with a stellar voice cast, and funny plots, with a touch of the fourth wall breaking "meta" aspects as well. Add in the fact that you might have watched the original as a young tyke, and you have a winner.
• South Park - the most mainstream show on my list, but still filled with Star Trek references and plays on all sides of politics, this is the show for the person who is simultaneously sophisticated and crude, who likes subtle political/social commentary as well as jokes about people crapping out of their mouths - to quote Homer Simpson "It works on so many levels"
• The Tick - whether live action or animated, the greatness of this show cannot be denied. Spoof every heroic convention, and add in a pinch of realism to boot - the combination is amazing.
• Red Dwarf - Take every sci-fi idea and turn it inside out, and you've got this show. Brilliantly written and acted, I have not seen an episode that I haven't enjoyed. If you disagree, Mr. Flibble and I will sentence you to two hours W.O.O. (With Out Oxygen)

That's it for now, I just stuck to the comedies, but who knows, maybe a more comprehensive list is forthcoming. You owe it to yourself to watch these, and if you know me, I own them all and could loan them to you - I don't own every South Park or Red Dwarf yet, however.

Either way, if you are a nerd, you owe it to yourself to watch these. Either netflix 'em, download 'em, or buy 'em (and I would recommend the last to support the poor schmoes who write this wonderful stuff for us), but whatever you do, watch them. If you don't, then you might as well turn in you Blue Blazer Regular ID card, and start watching Star Trek Next Generation (I could think of no worse punishment, except, perhaps, watching Star Trek: Voyager)