The New One

The New One is a breathtakingly honest, poignant, and uproariously funny one-man show that premiered on Netflix in 2019. Starring award-winning comedian and writer Mike Birbiglia, this show is not just a standard comedy special, but an intimately crafted blend of theatrical performance, fine storytelling, and sharp comedic timing.

The New One begins with a story about Birbiglia having an inexplicable new couch and transitions, in ultrasuave manner, to the central subject of the show - parenting. It is not your standard conversation about bringing a new life into the world but a profound exploration of the complexities, contradictions, and delights of becoming a father.

Birbiglia starts off by confessing his doubts about parenthood with a profound sense of introspection. He provides a funny yet tender portrayal of his life before fatherhood - an apparently perfect existence that he felt no need to complicate with the addition of a child. His retelling of these fears and anxieties serves as a central thread throughout the show, creating a relatable narrative for audiences irrespective of their own stance on parenting.

As the show progresses, Birbiglia's journey towards becoming a dad unfolds in a series of gripping narratives, each filled with his characteristic humor, irony, and wit. With astonishing storytelling skills, Birbiglia shares the intensely personal tale of his bumpy journey to parenthood, his dawns of realization, and the surprising transformation that the fatherhood experience brought into his world.

His uncertainties and vulnerabilities are relatable, and his anxieties mirror those that many people have felt but seldom express. The way he threads countless stand-up routines into a single narrative structure is commendable, providing an immersing watching experience while peppering it with laughter and deep contemplations.

What makes The New One even more captivating is Birbiglia’s self-disclosure. He doesn't shy away from sharing his struggles and illuminates the less-spoken aspects of parenting. He takes the audience on an emotional roller coaster ride with his incredibly insightful observations about life before and after the new one - his daughter Oona.

All throughout, the production is thoughtfully framed in an intimate setting. It's visually sober and focused - matching Birbiglia's authentic style. The stage, the couch, and the lighting design keep the focus where it needs to be - on Birbiglia’s narrative.

Director Seth Barrish does a remarkable job in creating a soul-stirring atmosphere that resonates well with Mike's performance. It's powerfully shot and delivered in a way that it never loses the personal touch which is the definitive charisma of the show.

The New One isn't just about becoming a parent. It's also about self-transformation, about embracing that transformation, about personal growth, and about dealing with the curveballs that life throws at you in the most unexpected ways. It takes the audience by surprise, making them laugh one moment and reflect the next.

Moreover, Mike Birbiglia flawlessly transitions between the lighter and heavier moments, attesting to his mastery of narrative pacing. His comedy is warm and inviting, and his tales have an all-inclusive feel, inviting everybody to join in irrespective of their parenting status. Birbiglia’s capacity to be humorously insightful is nothing short of amazing.

The New One is a show that delivers humor and emotional resonance in equal measure. It’s deeply human, genuinely funny, and offers a layered comedic experience that is rare to encounter these days. The unique charm of The New One lies in the way it explores universal themes, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative.