Ep 4. Celebrity, Batman

Review is a satirical television series that follows the life of Forrest MacNeil, a seemingly mild-mannered man who hosts a show where he reviews different life experiences at the request of his audience. In Season 1, Episode 4 titled "Celebrity, Batman," Forrest takes on the task of reviewing what it's like to be a celebrity, as well as immersing himself in the world of Batman.

The episode begins with Forrest eagerly announcing his plan to explore the world of celebrity, a widely sought-after and often glamorous lifestyle. Armed with a list of celebrity experiences given to him by his viewers, he is ready to delve into the highs and lows of fame.

First on the agenda is "Being recognized in public," an essential aspect of celebrity life. Forrest starts small by attending a local farmers market, but soon finds himself overwhelmed as spectators start gathering around him, requesting autographs and taking photos. Surprised by the frenzy, Forrest struggles to maintain composure and accommodate everyone's demands. The experience leaves him feeling both excited and invaded, offering viewers a glimpse into the challenges of fame.

Next, Forrest tackles "Dealing with rumors." He decides to fabricate a scandalous rumor about himself to see how he can handle the media storm that follows. As he plants the story and watches it spread like wildfire, the episode explores the absurdity and often invasive nature of celebrity gossip. Forrest confronts the media and tries to set the record straight, but soon finds that the truth is often buried beneath waves of sensationalism.

The episode takes a lighter turn as Forrest caters to the public's demand for more Batman content. Embracing the superhero persona, he begins patrolling the streets as the Caped Crusader, attempting to fight crime and create a safer community. Dressed in a Batman costume, Forrest encounters a range of situations, from stopping jaywalkers to intervening in domestic disputes. This comical exploration of Batman's world presents a delightful contrast to the previous serious themes of celebrity, showcasing Forrest's willingness to immerse himself fully in his reviews.

Continuing with the Batman theme, Forrest reviews the "Batmobile." He attempts to build his own version of the iconic vehicle, using an old minivan as a base. Though initially excited about the project, Forrest discovers that constructing a Batmobile from scratch is far from simple. As he struggles with customizing the van and adding various gadgets, the challenges and frustrations of DIY projects become apparent. Forrest's determination and resourcefulness, however, make for an entertaining and engaging review.

The final review in this episode focuses on "The Bat-Signal," a famous symbol that calls upon Batman in times of need. Emulating this iconic sign, Forrest decides to create his own signal and test its effectiveness. He sets it up on a rooftop and waits for someone to shine it, signaling that they need his help. As the night progresses, Forrest realizes just how difficult it is to attract the attention of a passerby and how this may reflect the complexities of being a vigilante superhero.

"Celebrity, Batman" encapsulates the comedic and often satirical nature of Review, while exploring the various facets of celebrity life and the world of Batman. With its witty writing and clever social commentary, the episode offers both laughs and insights into the juxtaposition of fame and heroism. Forrest's willingness to wholeheartedly embrace his reviews, no matter how outrageous, continues to make Review a distinctive and entertaining series.