Ever feel like you're stuck in a loop of your own making? That's the essence of Tim Robinson's unique brand of comedy, and it's on full display in HBO's The Chair Company. Robinson, known for his cult hit I Think You Should Leave, has a knack for portraying characters who stubbornly cling to their delusions, even when it leads to spectacular self-humiliation. Remember that iconic sketch where he insists a door swings both ways? It's a perfect encapsulation of his comedic style. But here's where it gets controversial...
In The Chair Company, Robinson takes this concept and stretches it across eight half-hour episodes. The show, co-created by Zach Kanin (from I Think You Should Leave) and directed in the premiere by Andrew DeYoung, centers around William Ronald Trosper, or "Ron," a man who can't let go of a minor office mishap. Most of us would brush it off, but not Ron. He spirals into a conspiracy theory, convinced he's the victim of a grand scheme. And this is the part most people miss...
Ron's journey is a darkly comedic reflection of our own insecurities. He's a middle-aged, middle-class man who, in his desperation to be seen as righteous, neglects his own reality for a twisted fantasy. Is Ron a commentary on our current world, where blame and self-righteousness often overshadow the truth?
His actions frustrate his colleagues and worry his family, including his wife Barb (Lake Bell), son Seth (Will Price), and daughter Natalie (Sophia Lillis). Yet, his self-destructive behavior primarily harms himself. The show cleverly positions Ron as a funhouse mirror reflecting the impulses we all have. Who hasn't fantasized about elaborate revenge or replayed embarrassing moments in their heads, trying to turn them into tales of triumph?
Adding to the show's appeal is its supporting cast of quirky characters. From socially awkward nerds to an acting coach living in a student's spare room, the world of The Chair Company is filled with oddballs. Even the seemingly put-together CEO, Jeff (Lou Diamond Phillips), appears to be on the verge of a breakdown.
But here's the twist: Ron might actually be right. As he digs deeper, he uncovers a genuine conspiracy, leading him down a rabbit hole of eerie coincidences and menacing forces. While the specifics of the conspiracy remain somewhat vague, they serve as a perfect vehicle for throwing Ron into absurd situations. The show's brilliance lies in its performances, often delivered by wonderfully offbeat character actors.
The Chair Company is a tough sit, filled with cringing mortifications and unsettling unreality. Yet, for those who appreciate Robinson's unique comedic wavelength, it's also utterly irresistible. Does this show resonate with you? Do you find yourself identifying with Ron's struggles, or do you find his behavior off-putting? Share your thoughts in the comments!
