Ep 13. Amy Schumer

Amy Schumer burst onto the comedy scene in the late 2000s, quickly establishing herself as a raunchy yet relatable voice in the world of stand-up. In her Comedy Central Presents special, Schumer showcases her unique brand of humor, mixing personal anecdotes with sharp observations about society and relationships.

Schumer's set starts off with some self-deprecating humor about her appearance and dating life. She jokes about how she's always the "dumbest person in the room," and how she struggles to find men who are attractive and smart. But while her jokes may be self-deprecating, Schumer's confidence and charisma shine through in her performance.

As the set progresses, Schumer delves into more topical material, taking aim at everything from Hollywood culture to gun control. She skewers the idea of "unattainable beauty standards" in a hilarious bit about Gwyneth Paltrow, and pokes fun at the absurdity of celebrity charity efforts. She also tackles more serious issues, like the prevalence of gun violence in the United States, and the need for stricter regulations.

One of the standout moments in Schumer's special is her bit about sexual assault. She shares a personal story about a sexual encounter that ultimately left her feeling violated, and turns that experience into a powerful commentary on the ways in which women are often disbelieved and dismissed when they come forward with stories of assault. It's a bold move, but one that Schumer handles with grace and humor.

Throughout the set, Schumer's energy never wanes. She's a master of physical comedy, using her body to bring her jokes to life in a way that's both hilarious and endearing. Even when the subject matter gets heavy, she never loses sight of her ultimate goal: to make people laugh.

In many ways, Schumer's Comedy Central Presents special feels like a precursor to her groundbreaking show, "Inside Amy Schumer." The combination of personal anecdotes, social commentary, and absurdist humor that she showcases here would go on to become hallmarks of her style. But even viewed through the lens of hindsight, this special is still a riotous and highly entertaining hour of comedy.

Overall, Amy Schumer's Comedy Central Presents special is a standout entry in the long-running series. It's bold, irreverent, and showcases the unique voice of a comedian who would go on to become a true icon of the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Schumer's work, or just looking for a good laugh, this special is definitely worth checking out.