32 reviews
It Grows On You
This one looked great in the previews but in the first half of the first episode it seemed very forced and awkward. That did not last. It actually fleshed out in the second episode as a very funny and interesting show. The premise is about two bookies trying to make it in modern day California and struggling with being tough, without being "tough". They can;t seem to get out of their own way, and that leads to some interesting scenarios. The characters are good. The dynamic between the leads works well. Sebastian Maniscalco has already established himself as a good actor in other things so it was no surprise. I look forward to more with this one.
- tkdlifemagazine
- Nov 30, 2023
- Permalink
Why the Rush?
The show has potential without a doubt. But the disappointment inside the reviews likely stem from the storyline feeling so rushed. It's almost as if there was a 30 day window to get the whole 8 episodes finished and they finished even that early? It's bad enough that right when you settle into the episode it ends(20+mins), so you're left feeling why get invested? The actors even look forced to act on the 'awkward' and quick 1 liners, only to then jump right into the next scene?? Here's the unfortunate part...the acting was 1000% better than I thought it would be!! But maybe that's the point? Maybe the HBO wanted it to be a momentary show that was quickly forgotten...and if they did then bravo! It has the ability to be so much more-
Solid television - worthy of an 8
The pilot episode of this show sets a strong foundation, immediately capturing attention with its brisk pace and effective storytelling. As the series unfolds, the pace may decelerate slightly, but the overall quality remains high. Notably, Sebastian Maniscalo delivers a delightful comedic performance, portraying the well-intentioned Bookie who doesn't always make good choices. Alongside him, Omar J. Dorsey is splendid in the role of the sidekick, bringing charisma to the character. The duo often find themselves in some sticky situations, and the fun is watching how they get out it.
The supporting characters are developed in such a clever and enjoyable way. Each character feels fully realized, contributing to the dynamic ensemble and adding layers of humor to the storyline. The episodic stories strike a balance between being fun, light-hearted, and good-natured while also containing a mild hint of adult themes such as sex, violence, and drugs (namely Mushrooms), making it suitable for a wider audience without veering into overly mature content. But if you have young kids, you might want to wait until they go to bed before watching this show. If you give it a try, I think you will find it's a highly watchable show that's worthy of your time.
The supporting characters are developed in such a clever and enjoyable way. Each character feels fully realized, contributing to the dynamic ensemble and adding layers of humor to the storyline. The episodic stories strike a balance between being fun, light-hearted, and good-natured while also containing a mild hint of adult themes such as sex, violence, and drugs (namely Mushrooms), making it suitable for a wider audience without veering into overly mature content. But if you have young kids, you might want to wait until they go to bed before watching this show. If you give it a try, I think you will find it's a highly watchable show that's worthy of your time.
- DarthWalker-34381
- Mar 9, 2024
- Permalink
Great!
I never write reviews. I mean what can I say, most of the time it's already 5,8 million reviews that basically all say the same thing but I just had to write something this time since I actually laughed out loud?! I never do that watching comedies, or very very rarely though. But this was just hilarious. 10/10 from grumpy old man.
Great cast, spot on back and forth between the main characters, great support cast. It's just a really good show. It boasts with the creators of 2 1/2 men involved here too. It wasn't a selling point for me at least but they sure did a good job.
Hope they keep it up for the coming episodes.
Great cast, spot on back and forth between the main characters, great support cast. It's just a really good show. It boasts with the creators of 2 1/2 men involved here too. It wasn't a selling point for me at least but they sure did a good job.
Hope they keep it up for the coming episodes.
Finally, old style comedy that is genuinely funny.
In an entertainment era often criticized for its lack of genuine laughs, Bookie emerges as a refreshing exception. Breaking away from the clichés that pervade the comedic landscape, this series managed to elicit sincere laughter from me, a rare feat in today's climate of cautious humor.
From the opening moments of the pilot, Bookie defied my expectations, replacing the usual smirks with hearty laughter. The humor was not just a fleeting moment; it persisted throughout, making me genuinely LOL multiple times until the very end.
Impressed by the comedic prowess displayed, I eagerly dove into the second episode, only to find the laughs continuing to flow effortlessly. The clever writing and comedic timing left me hooked, eagerly anticipating more episodes to indulge in the delightful laughter that Bookie effortlessly delivers.
In a world where comedy often treads carefully to avoid offending sensibilities, Bookie fearlessly embraces humor, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air. I look forward to future episodes, eager to see if Bookie can maintain its comedic charm and keep the laughter rolling.
From the opening moments of the pilot, Bookie defied my expectations, replacing the usual smirks with hearty laughter. The humor was not just a fleeting moment; it persisted throughout, making me genuinely LOL multiple times until the very end.
Impressed by the comedic prowess displayed, I eagerly dove into the second episode, only to find the laughs continuing to flow effortlessly. The clever writing and comedic timing left me hooked, eagerly anticipating more episodes to indulge in the delightful laughter that Bookie effortlessly delivers.
In a world where comedy often treads carefully to avoid offending sensibilities, Bookie fearlessly embraces humor, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air. I look forward to future episodes, eager to see if Bookie can maintain its comedic charm and keep the laughter rolling.
Meh...at best
One word: "Corny". Expected more from Sebastian. I was excited to watch but realized one ep in that this was a miss. The acting is suspect at best. The plot line is fun but it tries way too hard. One weak one liner after another which brings us back to the fact that it's really corny. Will be hard to watch for a whole season. I'm tapping out after two episodes. It even had my guy Charlie Sheen but still wasn't enough to make this watchable. One predictable one liner after another- exhausting. I wanted to like this but between the OVER acting and constant scooby doo next adventure type plot I have to tap out. I am legit shocked that there are so many favorable reviews. I can't believe I'm going to say this because I love his work but Sebastian's acting in this actually hurts to watch .'sorry all, but this has changed everything I thought I liked about Sebastian.
- Johnnyutah280
- Dec 2, 2023
- Permalink
Bookie Is Hilarous
I came across Bookie by accident on MAX. It has been sometime that a serious had me laughing so much. I love the lead characters, Danny and Ray. They are very silly but in a good way. Their chemistry together is great not seeing that they are of different races or skin colors. They are actually 2 friends that like each other and would do whatever to protect each other. Watching this series makes my laugh taking my mind off all the depressing things occurring in society. I cannot get enough of this series, Bookie. I love these 2 guys characters. I hope Bookie get's a second season because I will definitely watch it.
- daddygracenyc
- Dec 7, 2023
- Permalink
Please give this series a chance, you'll thank me!!
I was kind of on the fence about this show, Bookie but after watching the first episode I was reeled in hook, line, and sinker. It's great, the collaboration between Sebastian and Omar works so well they are made for these roles hurray to the casting agent for this one. Actually ALL the characters casted are just perfect fits! You have to listen closely because there a a number of one liners or something comedic they just drop in. For example...In one episode Omar & Sebastian are in a funeral parlor where a body is being prepped. Omar HATES funeral parlors. The embalmer says to Sebastian "hey watch this" he presses the body's stomach and a fart lets out, Sebastian asks "hey do it again" I lost it. I watched it over & over & couldn't stop laughing. There's so many little things like that in this show it's hilarious. I love it I'm really hoping there's a season 2. The situations these guys get into are off the charts. The episodes are like 20 to 25 minutes long so give it a chance, you can afford a few minutes. If you like everyday type humor on steroids you'll love this show. The actors make this feel so real, like I could believe some of these situations if someone was telling them to me. Now I'm a true Chicagoian born & raised so I can relate to the life of a bookie & we all know if you don't pay your bookie, you wind up hurt or even dead. The way this show is written I actually have empathy for Danny & minus the violence if you don't pay, it's well written on how gamblers settle what they owe. Sebastian is so good in this series he makes you feel sorry for him one minute, then the next minute he shows his I don't care attitude just pay me. It's a great show. Give it a chance believe me you'll thank me!!
Fun for the Whole Family, if They're all Over 18 and Warped!
This is the best comedy to come around in a long time. Actually, this series deserves better praise than that because most shows are a total waste of time. I was never a big fan of the stand-up of Sebastian Maniscalco, but he hits his mark here.
Not to give away any spoilers, but when the little birthday balloon flew away, I was rolling on the floor, and it takes a LOT to make me laugh like that. Whoever wrote that bit deserves a decent bottle of scotch in their Christmas stocking.
The humor is consistently dark and to pull this off you need flawed characters, and Danny and Ray are toxic waste dumps on legs. Each episode comes with a great punchline and leaves you wanting more. Please tell me this is coming back for another season.
What would you call the opposite of a feel-good comedy? I think that's what we have here.
Not to give away any spoilers, but when the little birthday balloon flew away, I was rolling on the floor, and it takes a LOT to make me laugh like that. Whoever wrote that bit deserves a decent bottle of scotch in their Christmas stocking.
The humor is consistently dark and to pull this off you need flawed characters, and Danny and Ray are toxic waste dumps on legs. Each episode comes with a great punchline and leaves you wanting more. Please tell me this is coming back for another season.
What would you call the opposite of a feel-good comedy? I think that's what we have here.
- leftbanker-1
- Dec 21, 2023
- Permalink
Well... At least Charlie Sheen made a cameo
It was nice to see him working with Chuck Lorre again after all these years, same thing goes for Angus T. Jones ( The kid who played Jake ).. As for the general quality of this show I'm not impressed. Chuck Lorre is famous for making banger TV shows but this one didn't hit me the right way. The fact that there is no laugh track doesn't bother me but the jokes just weren't that funny... The humor is too dry and simple. And the characters are stereotypical, boring and one-dimensional.
Hard to get invested into it really. I want to like this but I just can't. I pray season 2 will be better but Judging by what I've seen so far, I have my doubts.
Not the worst show I've seen but still a below average production.
Hard to get invested into it really. I want to like this but I just can't. I pray season 2 will be better but Judging by what I've seen so far, I have my doubts.
Not the worst show I've seen but still a below average production.
- askeland89
- Mar 9, 2024
- Permalink
Love this show
The main characters have great chemistry and the support cast is great. Love grandma and Hector. The sister is growing on me.
We laughed a lot. I know the characters will develop more and the show will just get better.
We liked it so much we binge all the available episodes.
This is not high art? But is enjoyable. Give it a chance. I don't understand the extremely negative reviews. A nice piece of escapism in a time where we need to laugh at the absurdities of life.
Sometimes a show needs to find it's legs before it knocks it out of the park. People need to be more patient. It will come. We are willing to wait.
We laughed a lot. I know the characters will develop more and the show will just get better.
We liked it so much we binge all the available episodes.
This is not high art? But is enjoyable. Give it a chance. I don't understand the extremely negative reviews. A nice piece of escapism in a time where we need to laugh at the absurdities of life.
Sometimes a show needs to find it's legs before it knocks it out of the park. People need to be more patient. It will come. We are willing to wait.
- pcruz-73251
- Dec 16, 2023
- Permalink
Freshest show on TV
I am so happy with this show it has made me giddy. The stumbling lives of these aging bookies is hysterical. Easily the freshest new show on TV. For those who find the first episode a bit slow, hang in there, they only get better and better.
Wow there is a character requirement here, what else can I say, this show has great mood as well. I love the music, the opening credits song which they play at the end is very fun. Band name is something like Jimmy Luxury and the Tommy Rome Orchestra. Song name is Havana. I heard there stuff back in the day in Oceans 11, Me Myself and Irene and a bunch of commercials.
Wow there is a character requirement here, what else can I say, this show has great mood as well. I love the music, the opening credits song which they play at the end is very fun. Band name is something like Jimmy Luxury and the Tommy Rome Orchestra. Song name is Havana. I heard there stuff back in the day in Oceans 11, Me Myself and Irene and a bunch of commercials.
SO HILARIOUS ! !
When I saw this show was created by Chuck Lorre I knew I had to watch it. OH MY GOD, it is the funniest thing I've seen in year, thanks to the comedic skills of the two lead actors which are superb at timing, delivery and deadpan humor. First, there's Sebastian Maniscalco, (Danny) who I remembered from Why Would You Do That? He's one of the best standup comedians God ever made, and he can act. It's his understated and blasé reactions to horrific things that are so good, and I'm telling you, the end Season 1, Episode 1 had me howling for five minutes. I had to replay it several times. So original. Every episode has one of those hilarious comedic moments that just come at you, unexpectedly.
Omar J. Dorsey plays Danny's sidekick and he is a great Ying to Sebastian's Yang. He also has the same deadpan humor, but delivered in a different way. Put these two together and it's pure gold. Thanks Chuck, your show is what we all need. DAMN!
If you like to laugh, and who doesn't, you have to watch this. Great writing, good photography. I'm a sucker for anything shot in Los Angeles because I love the area so much.
Omar J. Dorsey plays Danny's sidekick and he is a great Ying to Sebastian's Yang. He also has the same deadpan humor, but delivered in a different way. Put these two together and it's pure gold. Thanks Chuck, your show is what we all need. DAMN!
If you like to laugh, and who doesn't, you have to watch this. Great writing, good photography. I'm a sucker for anything shot in Los Angeles because I love the area so much.
- rich-fouts
- Dec 21, 2023
- Permalink
Next level!
Every episode of 'Bookie' is a step above the last, solidifying its place as my third favorite comedy series after the iconic 'Chappelle Show' and 'Key & Peele'. Its weekly release makes Thursdays a highlight, offering a blend of sharp wit and rich storytelling. The series stands out with its unique humor, well-crafted characters, and scenarios that resonate many real-life experiences (e.g. The joy of gifting things that cost no cash 😂) . The show's charm lies in its balance of light-hearted comedy and deeper, more meaningful moments. With each episode, 'Bookie' delivers a fresh, engaging narrative, showcasing a talented cast whose chemistry is palpable. The writing is a mix of clever dialogue and situations that are both outlandishly funny and surprisingly poignant. It's a show that doesn't just aim to entertain but also to connect with its audience on various levels. Whether it's the laugh-out-loud moments or the subtle, reflective ones, 'Bookie' ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience. It's a testament to the creative minds behind it and a treat for anyone who loves well-executed comedy.
I like that I don't have to think
I am already a huge fan of Sebastians stand up comedy and have been for years. He has transitioned well into acting in movies like The Irishman and About my Father and this series is no exception. He brings a lot of his "isms" to this show, his quirks which are funny. I've seen a lot of reviews complaining that it's basic TV, it's basic story telling, but that's why I like it. You can sit down watch it and enjoy a good laugh, Sebastian and Omar are a great team, they play off each other well and the chemistry works. It makes me laugh, its funny and I like that I don't have to think, I can just enjoy.
Interesting Premise, Bad Writing
I thought the premise was good, and that the show has some potential. The writing, though, is horrible. There are so many obvious, crowbarred-in jokes/lines.
At best the show is mediocre. I think someone else used the words "forced and awkward." I think that is a fair way of putting it. There are just so many throw away lines that would probably be best left out of the show.
I liked the Charlie Sheen cameo, but again, that suffered from poor writing.
I don't know if the show has the ability to improve by much. I think I will give it a shot because I like mob/gangster genre and I like Maniscalco (or in other words, because I'm Italian haha).
Overall though, I didn't have high expectations, so I don't know if I'm necessarily disappointed. I was just hoping for a bit more.
At best the show is mediocre. I think someone else used the words "forced and awkward." I think that is a fair way of putting it. There are just so many throw away lines that would probably be best left out of the show.
I liked the Charlie Sheen cameo, but again, that suffered from poor writing.
I don't know if the show has the ability to improve by much. I think I will give it a shot because I like mob/gangster genre and I like Maniscalco (or in other words, because I'm Italian haha).
Overall though, I didn't have high expectations, so I don't know if I'm necessarily disappointed. I was just hoping for a bit more.
- ccali-17686
- Dec 7, 2023
- Permalink
Absolutely Hilarious
Having grown up around a professional bookie and gambler in a large city from the time I was a small child, I can relate to the lifestyle, the good days, and the bad days. I saw everything there was to see up close and personal. I love this show. This show is comedy gold. This is the best show Chuck Lorre has produced since the early (Charlie Sheen) years of Two and a Half Men. Having several of the Two and a Half Men characters make cameos makes it even better. I have only watched episodes 1 - 4 this far but I am hoping there will be many more episodes to come.
Hint: put the kids to bed before turning on this show.
Hint: put the kids to bed before turning on this show.
The vanity card at the end of the episode is hilarious!
The rant in the vanity card is priceless. I guess it's written by Chuck Lorre, who knows, but it was funny.
I really like the chemistry between Danny and Ray, and Hector blends in nicely as they meander through the city. I like how they got themselves in and out of trouble, often just as the fates allowed. While it seems they are more pawns, with very little control of their futures, they are still working to keep the bit of the world and reality they know intact as possible. But it looks like it's an uphill battle.
The last episode ends in a relationship cliffhanger, will be interesting if this gets a green light for season 2. I would definitely like to see how season 2 solves the boys relational quandries.
I really like the chemistry between Danny and Ray, and Hector blends in nicely as they meander through the city. I like how they got themselves in and out of trouble, often just as the fates allowed. While it seems they are more pawns, with very little control of their futures, they are still working to keep the bit of the world and reality they know intact as possible. But it looks like it's an uphill battle.
The last episode ends in a relationship cliffhanger, will be interesting if this gets a green light for season 2. I would definitely like to see how season 2 solves the boys relational quandries.
- stud_meister_footlong
- Dec 21, 2023
- Permalink
As the cast jells
I thought the first episode was rather slow but as it continued and the cast got used to the show and became rather humorous and interesting touching on subjects were rather Not really shown much in the media anymore would really like to see a second season That would tell how good the show really is I think it's actually a Winner Winner.
Hard to tell in times like these in Hollywood if a show that has two male leads can overcome the political climate to go forward.
But at least they (Chuck ) brought some humor back to the screen and brought some light to the darker side of gambling having lived in Las Vegas for 4 decades" I have seen it all" Good luck.
Hard to tell in times like these in Hollywood if a show that has two male leads can overcome the political climate to go forward.
But at least they (Chuck ) brought some humor back to the screen and brought some light to the darker side of gambling having lived in Las Vegas for 4 decades" I have seen it all" Good luck.
- johnmcgraw-91630
- Dec 28, 2023
- Permalink
Please DON'T cancel this show
This show is genuinely hilarious. The acting is spot on, and it seems to be effortlessly easy played out by the actors.
I have rewatched each episode at least twice, and I still find myself laughing.
It is fresh, not heavy to watch, but nor stupidly light. The balance between seriousness and comedy is close to perfect.
The only thing I can think of to criticize is the 20-24min duration of each episode. They could be 30-38min easily.
I hope for the seasons to come, that they don't spoil it with deep-diving drama, and unnecessary character unfolding events, which will destroy its current dynamic.
I have rewatched each episode at least twice, and I still find myself laughing.
It is fresh, not heavy to watch, but nor stupidly light. The balance between seriousness and comedy is close to perfect.
The only thing I can think of to criticize is the 20-24min duration of each episode. They could be 30-38min easily.
I hope for the seasons to come, that they don't spoil it with deep-diving drama, and unnecessary character unfolding events, which will destroy its current dynamic.
- Vinnie_Lazic
- Jan 20, 2024
- Permalink
So Much Fun
When I first read the description I didn't think I would like it because I generally don't care anything with degenerate gamblers in it. Fortunately I watched the trailer. The laughs I got from it made me check out the series. My one complaint is it is only eight episodes this season. It has been renewed so hopefully there will be more episodes next season...
What sets this apart is they are not the kind of bookies you usually see in movies. They sometimes act like they will break limbs, but in the end they don't do business that way because they want to keep business above board. So when some collage kid steals jewelry from his step mother because he is convinced they will hurt him, and they decide to give the jewelry to the women in their lives rather than fence them it ends up backfiring on them in a very funny way.
All in all there's just so much subtle humor you have to catch and get good belly laughs. Unlike the humor on most regular channels sitcoms that slaps you across the face with it as well as a laugh track to let you know when it is supposed to be funny...This is a real gem.
What sets this apart is they are not the kind of bookies you usually see in movies. They sometimes act like they will break limbs, but in the end they don't do business that way because they want to keep business above board. So when some collage kid steals jewelry from his step mother because he is convinced they will hurt him, and they decide to give the jewelry to the women in their lives rather than fence them it ends up backfiring on them in a very funny way.
All in all there's just so much subtle humor you have to catch and get good belly laughs. Unlike the humor on most regular channels sitcoms that slaps you across the face with it as well as a laugh track to let you know when it is supposed to be funny...This is a real gem.
Same old problem
In the first 10 minutes of season 1 episode 1, the main character is beat up by a trans woman in a "misunderstanding" about collecting gambling debts. While waiting at the hospital, the main character gets a lecture on gender identity by his costar. I turned it off there as I don't need another TV show that tries to preach politics and cultural viewpoints as opposed to writing a good story and letting the viewer be entertained. I'm giving the show 3 stars because at least I didn't have to wait more than 10 minutes to figure out the political views of the writers and could safely take the show off of my "want to watch" list. There are plenty of other shows to be watching instead where I can get a little escapism from life.
- atdavidson
- Mar 9, 2024
- Permalink
Instant classic!
This show is truly exceptional! My commendations to the writers, producers, and actors for this remarkable gift. In an era where our comedy landscape seemed withered, apart from the brilliance of Ted Lasso, nothing has left a lasting comedic impression-until now. This show resurrects the genre brilliantly! It's intelligent, hilarious, raw, and refreshingly unpredictable. Every moment was a joy, and I can't wait for future seasons. I hope this show inspires other comedic writers and actors to re-enter the scene, and bring back the comedic joy viewers crave. Give it a watch, you won't regret it!
- don_emiliano
- Jan 23, 2024
- Permalink
Place a little cash on this running
Well I'm hooked.. it's fast.. funny (sometimes) the cast seem to be having a blast. So what's not to like. Ok. Reality .. check.. As someone who grew up with a relative who in hindsight was a monstrous gambler. The money. It's nowhere.
It's not about the life of a Bookmaker. There are in the "rules" like welching on bets. You don't get another bookie giving you credit or odds if you have stiffed one of the fraternity.
But can't go any further without saying *gambler's* are some of the most time conscious people you will ever meet. Every thing is the next race, game, punt. And that's where the "Bookie" misses a real opportunity. So much comedy could be rinsed out of two guys running, hustling trying to get this bet on, cursing they did or not.
Other thing. Our guys. Costume department mistake, prop department mistake. The guys who are in this racket never miss a mirror. The front you show is what keeps you playing. U As long as you can roll them again. Life's good. It's a thing that swings. Your on credit the whole way.
Our two protagonists. Bill and Bob,Tweedledum Tweedledee. They click. It's a good double act. Scrip and cast are good too. Chuck Lorre can do buddy..man/ child stuff. His phone book must be legendary in Hollywood.
He pulls in some great actors that we love, don't know their names but we feel comfortable when they appear. Wayne Knight. Anything he puts his hat on works. Character actors they used to be called. You can just wheel them in and hey presto. Magic.. it just happens.
It's not about the life of a Bookmaker. There are in the "rules" like welching on bets. You don't get another bookie giving you credit or odds if you have stiffed one of the fraternity.
But can't go any further without saying *gambler's* are some of the most time conscious people you will ever meet. Every thing is the next race, game, punt. And that's where the "Bookie" misses a real opportunity. So much comedy could be rinsed out of two guys running, hustling trying to get this bet on, cursing they did or not.
Other thing. Our guys. Costume department mistake, prop department mistake. The guys who are in this racket never miss a mirror. The front you show is what keeps you playing. U As long as you can roll them again. Life's good. It's a thing that swings. Your on credit the whole way.
Our two protagonists. Bill and Bob,Tweedledum Tweedledee. They click. It's a good double act. Scrip and cast are good too. Chuck Lorre can do buddy..man/ child stuff. His phone book must be legendary in Hollywood.
He pulls in some great actors that we love, don't know their names but we feel comfortable when they appear. Wayne Knight. Anything he puts his hat on works. Character actors they used to be called. You can just wheel them in and hey presto. Magic.. it just happens.
- anthonymcdonald-52902
- Jan 28, 2024
- Permalink
So damn great
Worthy of high ratings, very entertaining, funny and well made all around! Got into this at the right time seems season 2 comes out in a few months. Sebastian M, and the other leads are superb. Awesome how the bulk of HBO content the last several decades has so much amazing series/ movies the service deserves praise. Bookie is easy to binge, not that it's related but the movie Bookies is excellent pretty sure came out early 2000's. I wouldn't understand any negative reviews doesn't deserve it only thing I'd say some of the time it's a little off and has a little bit of ridiculousness otherwise magnificent!
- UniqueParticle
- Sep 12, 2024
- Permalink