Jon Benjamin Has a Van
Common Sense says
- Comedy Central
- Comedy
- 2011
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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 this show's edgy (and at times experimental) humor includes jokes about war and other topical subjects, along with sexual innuendo (from bare buttocks painted on a van to absurdly simulated sex) and comedic violence (gun fights, pushing, etc.). There's also some bleeped swearing (mostly "f--k") and social drinking/smoking.
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What's the story?
Voiceover actor H. Jon Benjamin (Archer, Bob's Burgers) steps out of his vehicle and in front of the camera for JON BENJAMIN HAS A VAN, a sketch comedy series composed of fake news vignettes, roving reporter segments, and awkwardly conducted interviews. Segments include "Cash Stall," an impromptu quiz show that takes place in a public toilet, and "You Can't Shoot Here," a series of bits filmed inside businesses that (you guessed it) don't allow filming on the premises.
Is it any good?
Although he's often credited as H. Jon Benjamin (the "H" is for "Henry"), Benjamin drops his first initial for this chuckle-worthy Comedy Central sketch show that he created with help from co-writer Andrew Steele. And while most people probably aren't familiar with Benjamin's work -- not to mention his face -- many will appreciate his odd kinship to break-out star Zach Galifianakis with an awkward camera schtick that, at times, feels like he's channeling Galifianakis' popular "Between Two Ferns" spots on FunnyorDie.
Not every sketch is a winner, of course, and some play much better than others, but the show's opening on-camera interview with a whispering Army recruit who sustained a serious "voice injury" while screaming out of fear at basic training camp is a definite high point. As is a segment featuring a special musical performance by a preeminent jazz air guitarist whose earnest technique is pretty priceless.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about the appeal of watching fake news and why some people prefer it to the real thing. Parents can also explain the concept of parody.
Does this show have a message, or is it all in the name of fun? How does it compare to shows like The Daily Show and The Colbert Report?
TV details
- Premiere date: June 14, 2011
- Cast: H. Jon Benjamin
- Network: Comedy Central
- Genre: Comedy
- TV rating: TV-14
For kids who love comedy
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