Not Just the Best of Larry Sanders Show

Reviewed by:
Gene Newman

Larry Sanders isn't just a comedy show. It's possibly the best and most consistently funny comedy show in the history of TV. While this collection isn't the complete series on DVD—since when did Garry Shandling do anything the easy way—it's 23 of what he considers the best episodes. The fake HBO late-night behind-the-scenes talk show, showcasing countless celebs in often-embarrassing situations, never failed to amaze. Holding it all together was the egotistical and neurotic Sanders, who makes Larry David seem calm and well-adjusted. Aside from a bunch of classics featuring some of the best TV characters ever conceived (sidekick "Hey Now" Hank and producer Artie) it's the extras that push this beyond. In keeping with the improv and realistic nature, there are hours of raw and often-uncomfortable interviews with many of the show regulars and participating celebs. Some are really funny and insightful, like Shandling and longtime friend Jerry Seinfeld shooting the shit in the park. Others are awesomely painful to watch, like his breakfast with a visibly annoyed Sharon Stone. Even after ending the show on his own terms in '98, well before it could Jump the Shark, he manages to re-create the spirit that made fake TV more realistic than reality TV. There's still a bunch more episodes to go (the series had around 90 in all), so let's hope it doesn't take 10 years to see those on DVD.

Read our exclusive interview with Garry Shandling!

Read our review of The Larry Sanders Show: The Entire First Season

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