Parents' Guide to

Jon Benjamin Has a Van

By Kari Croop, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 16+

Fake news is edgy and experimental but effectively funny.

TV Comedy Central Comedy 2011
Jon Benjamin Has a Van Poster Image

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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?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

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

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