6.2 / 10 (based on 12 reviews)
Tim and Eric present a grotesquely surreal anthology of discarded sketches, found footage, musical numbers, and 3D animation.
Genre: Short, Comedy
Main Cast: Eric Wareheim
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1 season, 6 episodes, 11-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Scum (2019)
Beef House (2020)
7.1 / 10 (based on 860 reviews)
Five men – Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim, Ron Auster, Ben Hur, Tennessee Luke – and Eric’s wife Megan, all living under one roof.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim, Tennessee Luke
Creators: Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim
Directors:
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1 season, 6 episodes
Our Bodies (2019)
5.7 / 10 (based on 24 reviews)
Each week, Tim and Eric discuss the health, wellness, and the human body with a real medical doctor.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim, Mark Laursen
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1 season, 6 episodes
Tim and Eric’s Bedtime Stories (2013)
7.8 / 10 (based on 2446 reviews)
Tim and Eric’s parody of horror anthology TV shows.
Genre: Comedy, Horror
Main Cast: Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim, Zach Galifianakis, Adam Cagley
Creators: Tim Heidecker, Eric Wareheim
Directors:
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2 seasons, 17 episodes, 11.0-minute runtime
On Cinema (2012)
9.2 / 10 (based on 1533 reviews)
Tim Heidecker reviews the latest movies in theaters with a special guest.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Tim Heidecker, Gregg Turkington, Mark Proksch, Joe Estevez
Creators: Tim Heidecker, Gregg Turkington
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12 seasons, 115 episodes
Luxury (2020)
No reviews
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Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Carrie Barrett, Katy Fullan, Brian Biancardi
Creators:
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1 season, 3 episodes
Moonbase 8 (2020)
5.8 / 10 (based on 3463 reviews)
Fred Armisen, Tim Heidecker and John C. Reilly star in this new comedy series as three astronauts trying to qualify for their first lunar mission. They encounter obstacles along the way including loneliness, self-doubt and incompetence.
Genre: Comedy, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: John C. Reilly, Tim Heidecker, Fred Armisen, Joshua Davis
Creators: Fred Armisen, Tim Heidecker, Jonathan Krisel
Directors:
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1 season, 6 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
In the world of television, every once in a while, a show comes along that defies the norms, presenting stories and characters that stick with you long after the screen goes dark. One such show is “Scum” (2019), a series that has managed to carve its own niche within the crowded landscape of television dramas. This article isn’t just another run-of-the-mill review; it’s an exploration of the elements that make “Scum” stand out, for better or worse, in the minds of its viewers.
The Premise
At its core, “Scum” is a gritty drama that doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of its setting. The series is set in a correctional facility for young offenders, a backdrop that’s ripe for exploring themes of justice, redemption, and survival. Through its run, “Scum” introduces us to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own stories, struggles, and hopes. It’s this character-driven narrative that forms the backbone of the series, inviting viewers to look beyond the surface.
Characters That Resonate
One of the show’s strongest assets is its well-rounded characters. Unlike many other series that often resort to stereotypes, especially when depicting life in correctional facilities, “Scum” offers a more nuanced approach. Characters are not just defined by their crimes or their circumstances but are given depth and complexity.
The Protagonist
Take, for instance, the protagonist (name withheld to avoid spoilers). At first glance, he’s just another young offender, but as the series unfolds, we see layers of his personality emerge. His journey from a naive newcomer to a seasoned inmate is compelling, not because it’s filled with dramatic twists, but because it feels real. His struggles with loyalty, morality, and survival are themes many can relate to, even if the setting is foreign.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast also deserves a mention. Each character, from the stern yet fair prison officer to the inmates with varying degrees of moral ambiguity, adds a layer to the narrative. Their interactions and relationships with the protagonist provide a canvas upon which the show paints a complex picture of life behind bars.
Storytelling That Holds No Punches
“Scum” is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a series that portrays the brutal realities of its setting without sugar-coating. Violence, betrayal, and hardship are part of the daily lives of the characters, and the show doesn’t shy away from depicting these aspects. However, what sets “Scum” apart is how these elements are handled.
Realism Over Shock Value
While it’s easy for shows with similar themes to fall into the trap of using shock value to attract viewers, “Scum” opts for a more grounded approach. The violence and hardships are not glorified but presented as part of the narrative’s fabric. This realism serves not to desensitize viewers but to engender empathy and understanding for the characters’ plights.
Moral Ambiguity
Another aspect where “Scum” excels is in its exploration of moral ambiguity. The series challenges viewers to question their notions of right and wrong. Characters are often placed in situations where the line between the two is blurred, forcing them to make choices that have no easy answers. This moral complexity adds a layer of depth to the storytelling, making the series more engaging and thought-provoking.
Visuals and Soundtrack
While the narrative and characters are the heart and soul of “Scum,” the visuals and soundtrack contribute significantly to the overall experience. The cinematography captures the bleakness of the correctional facility, using a muted color palette that reflects the grim reality of the inmates’ lives. Yet, amidst this bleakness, there are moments of beauty, often highlighted through clever use of lighting and camera angles, reminding viewers of the humanity of the characters.
The soundtrack, though subtle, effectively complements the mood of the series. It ranges from haunting melodies that underscore the more emotional moments to more upbeat tracks that accompany the rare moments of levity. The careful selection of music adds an additional layer to the storytelling, enhancing the viewing experience.
Impact and Legacy
Since its debut, “Scum” has left a mark on its viewers and the television landscape. Its unflinching portrayal of life in a correctional facility, combined with its complex characters and moral ambiguity, has sparked discussions about the justice system, rehabilitation, and the human capacity for change.
Moreover, “Scum” has shown that there’s an appetite for stories that don’t just entertain but also challenge and provoke thought. It’s a testament to the power of television as a medium to reflect and examine societal issues, making “Scum” more than just a TV show; it’s a conversation starter.
Conclusion
“Scum” is a series that defies easy categorization. It’s a gritty drama, a character study, and a commentary on the justice system, all rolled into one. Its strength lies in its ability to present a world that’s often overlooked or misrepresented with honesty and empathy. Through its nuanced characters, realistic portrayal of life behind bars, and moral complexity, “Scum” offers a viewing experience that’s as challenging as it is rewarding.
For those willing to venture into its bleak yet compelling world, “Scum” promises a journey that’s not just about the struggles of its characters but also a reflection on the themes of redemption, morality, and the human spirit. It’s a series that stays with you, prompting reflection long after the credits roll, and that’s perhaps its greatest achievement.