Is ‘The Studio’ the best comedy on TV right now?
Seth Rogen’s latest venture, The Studio, has taken Apple TV+ by storm, delivering a sharp, satirical look at Hollywood’s inner workings. Rogen stars as Matt Remick, a film enthusiast thrust into the chaotic role of studio head at Continental Studios. The series masterfully blends classic comedy tropes, including slapstick and sharp writing, with standout celebrity cameos from the likes of Martin Scorsese and Charlize Theron.
It’s been a long time since we’ve seen physical comedy this good—maybe not since Laurel and Hardy fell off roofs and into our hearts. But The Studio brings slapstick back in full force, mixing sharp writing with delirious chaos to create the most original and flat-out funniest show on TV right now.
It’s not a mockumentary. It’s not trying to be meta or ironic. The Studio is simply a masterclass in comedic timing, absurd escalation, and sheer physical brilliance.
What sets it apart
The Studio doesn’t lean on snark or self-awareness. It charges headfirst into classic physical comedy—falling lights, collapsing sets, and exquisitely timed accidents—without losing its sharp wit. The writing is tight, but the performances? Loosely explosive. Every scene teeters on the edge of disaster, and that’s exactly where the show thrives.
It’s not about a failing network and the industry satire should be more biting. It’s just about the glorious mess of making live comedy, with all the backstage egos, technical malfunctions, and spontaneous chaos that come with it.
Apple TV+’s The Studio closed its first season with a two-part finale that was nothing short of a comedic tour de force. Episodes 9 (“CinemaCon”) and 10 (“The Presentation”) delivered a riotous blend of physical comedy, industry satire, and emotional depth, solidifying the series as the standout comedy of 2025.
Chaos at CinemaCon
In “CinemaCon,” the Continental Studios team heads to Las Vegas to present their upcoming film slate. The situation quickly spirals into chaos: CEO Griffin Mill, portrayed by Bryan Cranston, becomes incapacitated due to drug use, and the team scrambles to manage the fallout. The episode features a series of escalating mishaps, including a drug-confused Zoë Kravitz and a bloodied Dave Franco, culminating in a frantic search for the missing Griffin .
The Presentation: A Slapstick Triumph
“The Presentation” picks up the pandemonium, with the team attempting a “Weekend at Bernie’s”-style ruse to present their slate without revealing Griffin’s condition. Catherine O’Hara shines as Patty Leigh, delivering a performance that balances exaggerated humor with subtle emotional depth. Her line, “My mother was having one of her spells,” exemplifies her comedic brilliance .
Dave Franco’s impromptu, drunken voiceover recap adds another layer of hilarity. Recorded on his phone within ten minutes, the segment references his past film roles and injects a playful, self-aware energy into the finale .
A Fitting Conclusion
Despite the chaos, the finale concludes with a surprisingly heartfelt moment. Matt Remick, played by Seth Rogen, delivers a sincere address that underscores his isolation and emotional journey. The ambiguous ending and unresolved tensions signal potential for storyline development in the newly confirmed second season .
Final Thoughts
The Studio’s finale masterfully combines slapstick comedy with sharp industry satire and genuine emotional beats. It’s a testament to the show’s exceptional writing and performances, particularly O’Hara’s standout role. As the series moves into its second season, it leaves viewers eagerly anticipating what further antics await at Continental Studios.
The masterpiece? The all-night shroom bender causing mayhem at Continental Studios. This climax underlines the show’s thesis: the studio machine teeters constantly on the edge of disaster. Pair this with a delightfully ironic closing song, and you have a comedy that straddles fantasy and reality with infectious optimism.
The verdict? The Studio’s got serious chops. It deftly captures the mania and mirth of a modern studio while delivering genuine laughs. Seth Rogen’s tour de force might just be TV’s reigning comedy king. For anyone relishing the skirmishes of stardom—bright lights, endless nights, and punchlines galore—this one’s for you, darling.
So, is The Studio the best comedy on TV right now? Many would argue so. Its unique blend of elements places it a cut above the rest, staking its claim as a modern classic in the making. Whether you’re drawn in by the slapstick or the sharp dialogue, The Studio stands as a testament to the timelessness of humor and its ability to reflect our most chaotic realities with a grin.
Season 1 of The Studio is now streaming on Apple TV+.
