Big Time in Hollywood, FL
Common Sense says
- Comedy Central
- Comedy
- 2015
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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that Big Time in Hollywood, FL centers on two self-absorbed men who go to drastic measures to dodge responsibility when their parents attempt to send them out into the real world. Their deception and trickery has dangerous consequences that threaten them and their family, but it never deters them from their own selfish desires. Expect a lot of language ("s--t," "f--k," and "dick" are edited; "goddammit" and "hell" are audible) and some fairly graphic violence, including the bloody shooting death of a central character. The fact that Jack and Ben are far from positive role models is actually a selling point for this hilarious comedy, and older teens will find the guys' delusional view of the world stands in comical contrast to how they know it to work.
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What's the story?
BIG TIME IN HOLLYWOOD, FL follows adult brothers Jack (Alex Anfanger) and Ben (Lenny Jacobson), aspiring filmmakers living the sweet life in their parents' house and shooting movie trailers in the garage with their dim friend, Del (John Bass). But when Diana (Kathy Baker) and Alan (Stephen Tobolowsky) decide it's time for their boys to move out and get real jobs, it sends the guys into a panic, and they concoct a plan to change their parents' minds and fund their next movie project at the same time. Unfortunately, things take a drastic turn when the authorities get involved, and the guys are thrust into an epic adventure worthy of the movies they're trying to sell.
Is it any good?
It's impossible not to sympathize at least a little bit with Jack and Ben, if for no other reason than their exceedingly naïve view of the world. They're forever aghast at what they see as their parents' selfishness and horrified at the idea of being kicked out of the nest. Get a job? Find a place to live? How can they manage to do that and launch a successful film career? Their quandary makes for a hilarious comedy that pokes fun at both the delusional 20-somethings and their long-suffering parents.
With the likes of Cuba Gooding Jr. and Ben Stiller slated for guest spots, and Anfanger and Jacobson absolutely nailing the roles of blissful reliance, Big Time in Hollywood, FL is a laugh-out-loud comedy for the older teen and grown-up crowd. It doesn't set out to comment on a societal trend or further enable the characters' mooching; it's just meant to tickle the funny bone. Yes, the laughs are mostly brainless and totally outlandish, but if you don't think too hard about it, you'll really enjoy the ride.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about the show's messages about responsibility. Do Jack and Ben ever show maturity? How does society generally view adult children living with their parents?
To what degree do the better-known stars help this show's appeal? Are you more inclined to try a new show or movie if you're familiar with one or more of the actors? Which celebrities do you consider to be good role models?
Teens: What are your life goals? How hard are you willing to work to achieve them? What education and training do you anticipate needing? What rewards do you expect from this kind of work?
TV details
- Premiere date: March 25, 2015
- Cast: Kathy Baker, Lenny Jacobson, Alex Anfanger
- Network: Comedy Central
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters
- TV rating: TV-14
- Available on: Streaming
- Last updated: March 13, 2020
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