Watching Clickbait last month reminded me that its star Adrian Grenier had once been a part of this much-hyped series called Entourage. For the longest time, I never bothered with this series – knowing it would be misogynistic, one of those bro-shows made by men to be watched by men.
However, when I noticed this series browsing Hotstar, I idly played the first episode out of boredom. It was all that I expected, but surprisingly, I also found it funny. Still, I didn’t continue with it (I call myself a feminist, after all).
Instead, I watched Sex and the City – which was disappointing and felt like a female version of what Entourage would be like. I didn’t like the promiscuity and general bitchiness, and it didn’t feel like a girl-power show at all.
Anyway, I was at loose ends again this summer – nothing new seemed interesting, and so I started watching Entourage. And despite all the problems (and there are many), I quite liked this series.
What it’s about
In a nutshell, it’s about charismatic but affable star/actor Vincent Chase, who lives in Hollywood with his loser friends. The story revolves around Vincent Chase, but more importantly, around his entourage of friends – his manager and best friend Eric, his brother Johnny, his friend/driver/general dogsbody Turtle, and his agent Ari.
The show mainly focuses on the friendship between these guys and a peek behind the scenes at how things work in Hollywood and is loosely based on the life of the actor Mark Wahlberg and his friends.
This show originally came out in the early 2000s, so while watching it, do keep in mind that it doesn’t reflect today’s sensibilities AT ALL.
What I liked
The chemistry. I loved the chemistry between Vince and his friends. There is an easy charm about Vince, which makes even his craziest capers seem charming. He’s the typical movie star. If I met one, I am sure I would fall for the charm while at the same time cringing at the sleaze. Adrian Grenier captures that duality beautifully.
It’s genuinely funny. OK. Most of it is bro-humor, but I still found myself laughing. I started watching this series at a time when I was feeling a bit down. Now, I find I am laughing or smiling to myself, mentally playing back some of the jokes/situations in the show.
Addictive. I was hesitant to watch this series. It is eight seasons long, with several episodes in each season. Still, I was able to watch it in the space of a month – an achievement for me. I never have the patience to complete/enjoy shows with a massive number of seasons. For example, I watched all seasons of Sex and the City, but I think I zoned out sometime mid-season 4. With Entourage, I watched everything, and I came to the last episode of season 8, wishing there were still more seasons.
The cameos. Because this is a show set in Hollywood, it’s populated by tons of stars – TV, movie, sports, and more who walk in and chill with these guys. Some of the stars have recurring roles, some have a couple of scenes, but all were entertaining. I particularly liked seeing Val Kilmer (unrecognizable) and Gary Busey. There’s also a hilarious and prescient send-up of Harvey Weinstein, with an actor who could pass off as the real thing.
The bro loyalty and focus on friendship. I liked how all these people stuck with each other through thick and thin. There was no competition, and egos, or jealousy. Just love and good fun! Of course, there are conflicts, and they have their differences, but it was still a nice friendship where they all have each other’s backs.
I also really liked that the focus didn’t shift to romance at all. Yes, there are love interests, but only one of the men has an actual love arc. Also, no love triangles, no infidelity (among the main characters at least). So, yeah, surprisingly wholesome (if you ignore the topless women and threesomes 😆).
Behind the scenes look at Hollywood. OK, I am not a total idiot, I am sure Hollywood is not exactly like this, but because of the people involved, it looks like a gentle mockery of some actual people. Definitely Harvey Weinstein, but also others? I am sure a lot of Hollywood insiders could see something of themselves in these characters and their situations.
This is one show where I already have bookmarked episodes that I want to rewatch!
What I disliked
Metoo. There’s no getting away from it. There are dozens of cringe-worthy moments. Vince’s agent Ari is great, but the jokes did get over the top in some places. Also, considering the current environment, this show has aged (and not like fine wine). It would probably be impossible to make a show like this now.
But, hey, no one can accuse me of being tasteful; I enjoy Takeshi’s Castle after all.
I do have to say that the show makes sure that the crappy characters get their comeuppance or learn their lessons. Ari – the arrogant and rude agent, had to come to terms with his wife walking out on him and facing some real consequences for his actions.
The homophobia. This was a bit harder to forgive. The slurs come hard and fast, and not even a single one is funny. I don’t think it was funny then and it’s not funny now. But, maybe this is a true reflection of the general attitude in Hollywood among the power players? Perhaps that’s why some actors remain in the closet. But seriously, the homophobia is terrible. If you are looking for a reason not to watch the show, this is it.
The ending. It was bitter-sweet, note-perfect, but I am sad that the show ended at all 😟.
In summary
I enjoyed this show for its wit, humor, and heart. There’s also a good dollop of glamour. Yes, there are quite a few issues with it as well, however, it was kind of refreshing to see a show just go for it, without any consideration for political correctness or anything like that. It’s almost like they didn’t expect anyone to watch it 😀.
