Ep 3. Bar Fights

Drunk History season 4 episode 3, Bar Fights, takes viewers on a wild ride through history as comedians and actors retell the stories of some of the most infamous bar fights in American history after becoming heavily intoxicated.

The episode begins with a narration of the infamous fight between Andrew Jackson and Charles Dickinson in 1806. Through the hazy and slurred storytelling of comedian Joe Lo Truglio, viewers learn about the heated feud between the two men that ultimately led to their deadly duel. The reenactment of this brawl is both hilarious and intense, with fight choreography that feels reminiscent of an action movie.

Next up is the tale of Lucy Parsons, retold by Tymberlee Hill. Parsons was a prominent anarchist, labor organizer, and writer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and her life was not without its share of bar fights. Hill's drunken narration of Parsons' run-ins with corrupt police officers and union-busting goons is both entertaining and informative, shedding light on the important but often overlooked history of labor struggles in America.

The third story of the night is told by Jackie Kashian and focuses on the Everett Massacre of 1916. The fight between striking dock workers and anti-union vigilantes is depicted with all the gritty realism of a Scorsese film, with brawling sailors, gunshots, and fiery explosions filling the screen. Despite the comedic tone of Drunk History, the historical accuracy of this segment is impressive, as Kashian clearly has a deep understanding of the events she's retelling.

The fourth and final recounting of the night comes from sober historian Dr. Yohuru Williams, who tells the story of the Stonewall riots of 1969. While Williams' sober and straightforward narration stands in stark contrast to the drunken ramblings of his predecessors, his passion and knowledge of the topic is infectious. The actors who play the queer individuals who battled police in the streets of New York during Stonewall imbue their performances with a genuine sense of rebellion and courage.

Throughout all four segments of Bar Fights, the true star of the show remains the inebriated narrators. Their slurred words, B-movie sound effects, and uncoordinated movements provide a level of hilarity that only enhances the historical accounts being told. Whether it's Lo Truglio stumbling through the story of Jackson's duel or Hill drunkenly shouting about the struggles of the working class, each comedian's unique style brings an added layer of humor to the proceedings.

In addition to the hilarious retellings of these historical events, the cinematography of the show is also a standout feature. The actors who reenact the brawls do so with intensity and skill, making each fight sequence feel like a mini-movie in its own right. The use of slow-motion, choreography, and dramatic music all contribute to the polished and engaging production value of the show.

Overall, Drunk History season 4 episode 3, Bar Fights, is a laugh-out-loud funny and educational look at some of the most notorious brawls in American history. The combination of inebriation, history, and talented performances makes for a memorable viewing experience that is both entertaining and informative.