The Degenerates

The Degenerates is a comedic powerhouse brought to you by Netflix in 2018, meant for individuals who are eager to ingest raw, uncensored humor that serves to challenge their perspectives and catalyze belly laughter. This Netflix Original is not a sitcom, drama, or traditional comedy show, but a collection of standup specials - six to be precise - each of which showcases the comedy stylings of a different edgy and painfully funny comedian. These are individuals who have made a name for themselves in the bustling, unforgiving world of comedy through their ability to break boundaries and demean decency from a stage, with nothing more than a microphone and their own audacious wit.

Each approximately half-hour episode of The Degenerates is filmed in Las Vegas, traditionally known for its vibrant nightlife and free-spirited atmosphere, providing the perfect backdrop for this no-holds-barred comedy series designed to shock, titillate and provoke uncontrollable laughter in equal parts. This is adult comedy at its most real, largely uncensored and unafraid to venture into topics that would make the more traditional comedians blush.

The ambience of the show perfectly marries its content. A quintessential Vegas venue, complete with plush red seats, imbues a sense of audacious pomp and ceremony, an atmosphere that heightens and complements the brave, unapologetic shtick of the comedians. The audience, well-lit under the spotlight, is captured reacting to the performances, often caught off guard, laughing, cringing, or gaping at the outrageous displays of humor by the performers.

Each of the different stand-up comics has a unique style, a unique voice, and unique 'degenerate' humor to bring to the table. The roster includes Big Jay Oakerson, Joey Diaz, Liza Treyger, Yamaneika Saunders, Christina P. and Brad Williams, each with a different comedic perspective and each sharing a glimpse into their own life through anecdotes and personal experiences, rendered through their unique sense of humor.

Big Jay Oakerson is known for his storytelling style, sharp crowd work and borderline offensive, yet endearing humor. Joey Diaz, a comedian known for his outrageous stories, takes his comedy to a whole new level with brutal honesty. Liza Treyger showcases her uncensored views on casual sex, female empowerment and body shaming, pushing the audience to reconsider societal norms through laughter. Yamaneika Saunders takes us on a hilariously raunchy journey through her experiences as an African-American woman, combining her personal anecdotes with societal commentary. Christina P. gives an audacious take on motherhood and family life, blending hilarity with shameful truths, while Brad Williams rounds up the bunch with a high-energy display of funny quips and stories about dwarfism and married life.

While the common point of unity is the desire and the ability to push the envelope, the differing styles and personal scripts of each performer assure that The Degenerates does not grow monotonous. Rather, each episode brings a new form of comedy, a new angle of approach, a new narrative to look forward to. This diversity in comedic style allows for a grand spectrum of amusement, from raucous laughter to stunned gasps, all in the span of one episode.

Being a standup special, The Degenerates doesn't follow a plot but instead hammers down on uncovering humor from the absurdities of life. The flow of the show is very much according to the individual comedian's performance and depends on the direction they choose to take their act. No topics are off-limits, from sexuality to personal quirks, from societal taboos to political incorrectness; everything is fair game in this comedy extravaganza.

Yet, at the heart of The Degenerates, beneath its shock-value comedy, is an exploration of deep-seated beliefs and societal norms. Through these degenerate acts, the comedians aim to make the audience question, reconsider, and sometimes, uncomfortably acknowledge the biases they carry.

The Degenerates is intended for an audience that appreciates bold comedy, loves a good stand-up special, and isn't afraid to be met with moments of discomfiture. This Netflix series scales the heights of degeneracy in comedy with gusto and is a must-watch for those who revel in humor unbound by restrictions. Orderly, sensitive, and easily offended folks might want to steer clear of this presentation. As for anyone else with a hearty appetite for audacity, The Degenerates awaits with open arms and a devil-may-care grin. It's irreverent, it's bold, and it's raucously funny. It's comedy with no limit - The Degenerates.