Being a stand-up comedian isn’t a one size fits all endeavor. Some tell stories, others structure actual jokes, and others just have quick witted one liners. What if someone could do all three? Well as it so happens, someone actually can. Neal Brennan is a guy most comedy fans probably haven’t heard of it, but he’s certainly not a ‘nobody’. On the contrary in fact, Brennan is known in the industry for being one of Dave Chappelle’s writers for Half Baked amongst other projects. He’s not just a sidekick though, and in 2017 it was finally his turn to shine.
Brennan’s Netflix special 3 Mics was an opportunity for the comedian to show his talent to a live audience, and also to the world at home
Brennan’s Netflix special 3 Mics was an opportunity for the comedian to show his talent to a live audience, and also to the world at home. He contends that there are three types of live comedy he wishes to exploit, his categories being: Stand-Up, Emotional, One-Liners. With three microphones on the stage, he moves between spotlights throughout the hour show to express himself using one of each style for his material. Once he begins, he takes the audience on a path towards laughter, vulnerability, and insight. He’s doesn’t overly excel at any one style, but he’s able to do them all. Whether it’s his opinions on dating, observations on society, or his personal testimony, Neil Brennan puts on a show not often indulged by most.
The entire production is Brennan’s, having written the material and directed himself as well. Out of the whole show, it’s the typical stand-up and the one-liners that garner the most laughs. His stand-up isn’t anything new nor is it unique, and his one-liners are clever but they aren’t exactly high IQ. What’s important is that he accomplishes what he sets out to do with the jokes, and he is funny even though much of the material isn’t insanely original. The more emotional part of the show does have its moments, but it is largely testimonial and absent even any real reason to laugh. What it does do, is make people think. It also provides context as to why he’s in comedy and how he uses it to stifle the pain he’s dealt with in life. Even if the emotional part is lacking where the other parts succeed, it does have its place in the show and it provides balance so as to keep the show from coming off like any other standard comedy routine.
3 Mics is an engrossing show to say the least. Neal Brennan thinks like the average person and behaves like one as well, but his aim here was to deviate from the norm and in that he is accomplished. His stand-up won’t split sides, but it is funny. His one-liners won’t make anyone scratch their heads, but he is witty. His emotional statements probably won’t draw out tears nor will it evoke feeling, but it is brave and it’s easy to acknowledge how difficult it is for a person to unburden themselves publicly. It’s still his time now, and he’s paid he’s dues.
