Hannah Gadsby’s show “Douglas” — named for her dog — is her brilliant follow-up to “Nanette.” I was lucky enough to see “Douglas” in person last year and a recording of the show is now on Netflix.
Gadsby begins by giving us a long overview of what the show will be, and then fulfills every expectation and then some. She continues to redefine the comedy form. She is able to take on misogyny and the patriarchy with such satisfaction. We always associate comedy with raucous laughter, but Gadsby’s comedy, while at times laugh-out-loud funny, is brilliant in its analysis of the culture.
“Douglas'” best bits include an explanation of how “Americans are the straight white men of culture.” She schools us on art history and anti-vaxxers, says she has resting bitch face, and talks about her autism diagnosis. She’s probably one of the most relevant and effective comedic personalities of our time.
“Hannah Gadsby: Douglas” is now streaming on Netflix.