I hate this show. It’s chaotic, offensive, irritating, often disgusting, and on at 11:30, strategically placed just after The Daily Show, so I never get any sleep. And I’m absolutely addicted.

The premise itself is fabulous. Colin Quinn hosts, and four comedians join him to discuss current events and controversial issues. It’s Animus with a comedic edge.

But it all depends on the guests. Many of them don’t seem to know how to shut up, and several are just flat-out rude. Even those who are generally excellent occasionally have an off night or just don’t get along with another guest. And the conflicts that arise don’t thrill me. They’ve very nearly turned me off of the show for good. But I keep watching, hoping for another episode like the one-year anniversary one. This one had four of my favourite guests – Nick DiPaolo, Jim Norton, Keith Robinson, and Greg Giraldo. They discussed the issues calmly and rationally, made humourous jokes, and had at least an underlying respect for one another. It was entertaining and refreshing.

My faith in the show was almost completely destroyed March 15 th when the first half was fraught with yelling, personal attacks, and a major clash of ego. It all came to a head when Greg Giraldo attempted to make a point and found himself utterly unable to. Frustrated, he hunched up in his seat and glowered as one of the other guests (whom I greatly enjoy on another program but almost lost my respect altogether) mocked him. Giraldo’s anger reassured me that there would be more discussions like the anniversary one. And it is because of this that I continue to watch. I’m not sure whether or not this will ultimately be a good thing.

In any case, I love Colin, I love Greg, I love Judy, I love the other three I mentioned earlier, I love a couple of people who have been on a time or two. If any of them are going to be on, I will watch. Most anyone else just makes me wish I hadn’t bothered.

Definitely time for bed.
Created March 21, 2004.