Kevin James: Never Don't Give Up

Kevin James: Never Don't Give Up is a refreshingly hilarious and innovative comedy stand-up special released on Netflix in 2018. Marking a significant comeback from an extended hiatus from stand-up, Kevin James rocks the stage in a way that only he can. The film is directed by Andy Fickman, a director well known in Hollywood for his successful comedies and is filmed at the Beacon Theatre, a stunning historic venue located in New York City’s Upper West Side.

The special primarily features the star of the show, laugh-riot and actor extraordinaire Kevin James. For those who aren't familiar with his antics - this is the man who has previously left audiences around the world in splits with his performances in shows like 'King of Queens', and movies like 'Hitch', 'Grown Ups', and 'Paul Blart: Mall Cop.' His endearing and natural persona captivates audiences effortlessly and he keeps you hooked for the full run time of approximately one hour.

In this stand-up special, James revisits his knack for observational comedy, examining the beloved yet often frustrating facets of everyday life. He dives into his personal experiences, sharing anecdotes on family, fatherhood, and the joys and challenges of aging. He successfully manages to capture the intricacies and idiosyncrasies of family life, and provides a humorous take on the changing social landscape and the trials of being an everyman in the modern world.

For example, James hilariously touches upon subjects like the dilemmas of deciding over lunch options, choosing good workout plans versus giving into the temptation of slouching on the sofa, dealing with constantly evolving technology, and all the intricacies of maintaining a healthy and balanced relationship with his wife and children. His comedy does not feel forced or scripted, but rather is derived from relatable life situations that resonate with his viewers. His natural wit and charm are at their best in this stand-show, and he manages to keep the laughter flowing and the energy high right until the end.

His comedy hybridizes wit, sarcasm, and an unending series of personality quirks, resulting in enjoyable viewing for audiences of all ages. His uplifting energy is infectious, and you’ll find yourself immersed in his world. James' ability to draw laughter out of mundane life experiences is near unparalleled and he does it with an almost casual ease, making it seem more like a natural conversation rather than a scripted comedy show.

Perfectly timed punchlines, deliberate pauses, and well-placed comedy props add to the crafty stand-up performance, making it a memorable experience worth revisiting. His engaging style, subtle humor, and typical personae is proof of his outstanding comedic skills and his unmatched ability to understand and entertain his audience.

The entire experience is enhanced by the stunning background of New York City's Beacon Theatre. The audience's reactions are captured and played back seamlessly, forming an integral part of the special and adding a unique shared experience to the whole special.

The star brings a sense of intimacy to the large Beacon Theatre where you feel like you might as well be sitting in his living room listening to him recount the highs and lows of everyday life. His comic tone is further augmented by the warmth and the energetic response from the audience, perfectly painting a vivid image of his comedy prowess.

Kevin James: Never Don't Give Up is a testament to Kevin James's exceptional humor and ability to connect to an audience level. This stand-up special is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys good humor, Kevin James's fantastic comedy talent, or simply wants a hearty laugh. It's a reminder that despite the struggles in our lives, we have to remember to find the humor in it all and 'never don’t give up'.