Finals week is hard, and unfortunately for me, it's still going. The past several days have been incredibly stressful, and it's a relief to know that this will all be over soon. Whenever I'm feeling particularly overwhelmed, I like to unwind by watching stand-up comedy. Most people have favorite bands; I have favorite comedians. In general, I find that jokes and laughter help me relax more than music does. If you need a good laugh (and who doesn't at this point), here are some stand-up specials you should definitely check out:
1. Patton Oswalt: "Talking for Clapping"
In Patton Oswalt's latest stand-up special, he talks about political correctness, the worst stand-up set he ever did, and raising his seven-year-old daughter. It premiered on Netflix just a few weeks ago! His other special, "My Weakness is Strong," is available on Netflix as well.
2. Chris Hardwick: "Funcomfortable"
I had the pleasure of seeing Chris Hardwick perform in D.C. last year on my birthday! That was a lot of fun, but as the title suggests, his jokes are both funny and slightly uncomfortable. If you like blurring the line between squeamishness and hilarity, this is special for you! (Warning: Watching with parents or other adult relatives will cause extreme awkwardness. For the sake of your own enjoyment, watch with friends or by yourself.) You can watch it for free on Comedy Central's website or listen to it on the Nerdist podcast for a limited time. (Don't let the cover photo scare you; it's actually great.)
3. Maria Bamford: "The Special Special Special"
Most stand-up specials are taped in a theater or a club, but this one was recorded in her home for an audience of two: her parents. Maria's multitude of voices and her unique, witty take on her struggles with mental illness can't be missed! The special can be found on Netflix, the same place that her new show, "Lady Dynamite" will premiere on May 20!
4. Wanda Sykes: "Comedy Half Hour"
Her special, "I'ma Be Me," used to be on Netflix, but I can't find it anymore. However, there is a half-hour special with her on Hulu. It's from several years ago, but it's still very funny.
5. Kathleen Madigan: "Gone Madigan"
The first time I saw this special, I laughed so hard that I peed myself a little bit. No shame. From religion to politics to Irish family antics, she has something for everyone! This special is on Netflix, along with another, "Madigan Again."
6. Todd Glass: "Todd Glass Says Stuff"
This one is still on my "To Watch" list, but I'll probably be seeing it very soon. When I saw him emcee a comedy show as part of the Just for Laughs comedy festival in Vancouver last summer, he was super funny (and slightly scary, but mostly funny.) You can catch it on Hulu!
8. George Carlin
A while ago, all of George Carlin's stand-up specials were on Netflix. Sadly, they're not anymore, but they are on Hulu! There isn't a single one I don't like, and I highly recommend them all.
9. Louis C.K.: "Chewed Up"
Louis C.K. is irreverently hysterical, and I'm not just saying that because we have the same hair color. Both "Chewed Up" and "Live at Beacon Theater" are on Netflix.
10. Jim Gaffigan: "Mr. Universe"
This very blond, very pale comedian loves talking about holidays, food, and his five children. Two of his specials, "Mr. Universe" and "Beyond the Pale," are on Netflix.
11. Chelsea Handler: "Uganda Be Kidding Me"
Chelsea is pretty open about everything, including her drinking habits and sexuality. In this special she talks mostly about her vacation in Uganda, which is both funny and problematic. Check it out on Netflix!
Here's to a positive, minimal-stress week. We can do this, guys! And laughter helps in any tough situation.
