Ep 23. The Best of Amy Poehler
- January 1, 2009
The show Saturday Night Live has been a staple for over four decades and has been known for producing some of the best comedians in the industry. In Season 34, Episode 23, the show pays tribute to one of its most beloved female cast members, Amy Poehler. This episode is titled "The Best of Amy Poehler," and it is a compilation of Poehler's best sketches, characters, and impressions from her seven years on the show.
The episode begins with a montage of Poehler's most memorable moments on the show, including her performances as Hillary Clinton, Dakota Fanning, and Betty Caruso. Her energy and commitment to her roles are evident in every clip, and it sets the tone for what is to come.
The first sketch is a classic, "Bronx Beat," where Poehler and Maya Rudolph play two elderly women hosting a neighborhood talk show. The banter between the two is hilarious, and their guests are equally entertaining. This sketch is a prime example of Poehler's ability to create memorable characters that are relatable and funny.
Next up is "Weekend Update," where Poehler served as the co-anchor for many years. She proved to be the perfect foil to co-anchor Seth Meyers, and their chemistry was undeniable. In this segment, the best of Poehler's jokes and one-liners are showcased, and they still hold up today.
Another memorable sketch that appears in this episode is "Kaitlin at the Mall." In this sketch, Poehler plays a hyperactive teenage girl who interviews shoppers in the mall. Her rapid-fire questions and antics are both ridiculous and hilarious, making this one of the most memorable sketches of the episode.
One of Poehler's most iconic characters, Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation, also makes an appearance in this episode. The sketch is a parody of The Bachelor, where Leslie competes for the affections of Ben Wyatt. Her over-the-top dedication and enthusiasm for everything is on full display, and it's a testament to Poehler's talent as an actress.
Another classic sketch that showcases Poehler's improvisational skills is "Debbie Downer." In this recurring sketch, Poehler plays a perpetually depressed woman who always manages to bring down the mood of the conversation. The sketch is famous for featuring real-life breaking moments, where the cast has trouble keeping a straight face and bursts out laughing.
The episode concludes with a musical performance from Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Poehler joins the band for a rockin' rendition of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," and it's a fitting end to an episode that celebrates the career of one of SNL's most accomplished performers.
In conclusion, "The Best of Amy Poehler" is a must-see episode for fans of Saturday Night Live. It's a tribute to one of the show's most talented and beloved cast members, and it's a reminder of the incredible impact that Poehler had on the show during her seven-year tenure. The episode is packed with hilarious sketches, characters, and performances that will leave viewers laughing out loud and wanting more.
