Aziz Ansari: Right Now - A Comedy Special That Misses the Mark

Aziz Ansari, the once-beloved comedian, made a return to the stage with his Netflix special "Right Now," released in July 2019. Filmed in Brooklyn, New York, this special was supposed to be Ansari's big comeback after a hiatus following allegations of misconduct. But instead of a triumphant return, what we got was a lukewarm attempt at humor that panders to the woke crowd and leaves true comedy fans wanting more.

First off, let's talk about the elephant in the room: the allegations. Ansari opens the special by addressing the controversy, but rather than taking a strong stance or offering a genuine apology, he tiptoes around the issue. It's a classic case of trying to please everyone and ending up pleasing no one. Instead of owning up or defending himself, he gives a half-hearted acknowledgment that feels more like a PR move than a sincere moment.

Then there's the content of the special itself. Ansari spends a significant portion of his time on stage discussing social issues, but instead of offering fresh insights or clever commentary, he regurgitates the same tired talking points we've heard a million times before. It's as if he's reading from a script written by a committee of social justice warriors. The jokes are predictable, the punchlines are weak, and the whole thing feels like a lecture rather than a comedy show.

Ansari's delivery, once sharp and energetic, now seems subdued and cautious. It's as if he's afraid to offend anyone, which is a death sentence for a comedian. Comedy is supposed to push boundaries and challenge norms, not tiptoe around them. But in "Right Now," Ansari seems more concerned with staying in the good graces of the Twitter mob than making his audience laugh.

The setting of the special, a small, intimate venue in Brooklyn, is supposed to create a sense of closeness and authenticity. But instead, it highlights the disconnect between Ansari and his audience. The laughter feels forced, the applause sounds obligatory, and the whole thing comes off as a carefully curated performance rather than a genuine expression of humor.

And let's not forget the irony of Ansari's attempt to tackle issues like privilege and inequality while performing in one of the most gentrified neighborhoods in America. It's a classic case of do as I say, not as I do. Ansari wants to be seen as a champion of the underprivileged, but his actions speak louder than his words.

In the end, "Right Now" is a missed opportunity for Ansari. Instead of reclaiming his place as one of the top comedians of his generation, he delivers a forgettable performance that panders to the lowest common denominator. It's a sad reminder of what happens when comedians prioritize political correctness over genuine humor.

So, if you're looking for a comedy special that challenges the status quo and delivers real laughs, you might want to look elsewhere. "Right Now" is a perfect example of how not to do a comeback. It's a cautionary tale for any comedian who thinks they can win over the woke crowd without losing their comedic edge.