'Loudermilk' Is a Refreshing Comedy in an Unfunny Time

These days, it’s nearly impossible to create a new comedy film or television series. First, today’s media environment is globalized, and humor doesn’t translate well for non-American audiences. Second, streaming platforms usually want pre-written scripts before filming, which prevents writers from receiving audience feedback and reworking screenplays to make them better—a major sticking point in the WGA strikes last year. Third, thanks to social media, news cycles and trends have sped up so much that writing satire is next to impossible since jokes will inevitably seem dated and lame by the time the movie or show airs. Fourth, increased political and cultural polarization has drained comedy of its authenticity and wit. Rather than providing ironic down-to-earth commentary on the way real people live, most comedy now comes off like artificial propaganda that serves elite opinion. Fifth, even four years out, the Covid pandemic has effectively smothered all forms of levity in American culture—in general, people are grouchier and less in the mood to laugh.