Watch Judd Apatow: The Return

Judd Apatow: The Return is a candid and insightful stand-up comedy special directed by Marcus Raboy and starring Judd Apatow. It was released in 2017 on Netflix and sees Judd Apatow return to the stage for his first ever stand-up special. Apatow, who is best known for his work as a producer, writer, and director of comedy films, brings his signature self-deprecating humor to the stage, exploring his own neuroses and insecurities while also dishing out plenty of laughs along the way.

The special opens with a montage of clips from Apatow's various films and television shows, building up to the moment when he finally takes the stage. The audience erupts in applause as Apatow makes his way to the mic, clearly at ease in front of a live audience despite his lack of experience as a stand-up comedian.

From the outset, Apatow is disarmingly honest about his nerves and his tendency to ramble on when he's nervous. He jokes about the fact that he's only doing stand-up now because he's getting older and feels like he needs to prove that he can still do it. He also talks about his deep-seated fear of disappointing his father, who was a hilarious guy with a sharp wit.

Apatow's set is a mix of personal stories and observations about life, work, and relationships. He touches on everything from his daughter's obsession with Hamilton to the shame he feels when he has to buy his wife tampons. He also delves into darker territory, discussing his struggles with anxiety and depression and how they've affected his life and work.

But despite the fact that Apatow is opening up and being vulnerable on stage, he never loses his sense of humor. His self-deprecating wit is on full display, as he pokes fun at everything from his own appearance to his parenting skills. He also takes aim at some of his fellow comedians, playfully ribbing Jerry Seinfeld and Louis C.K.

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of Apatow's set is how much of it is actually about his career. He spends a significant amount of time talking about his early days as a stand-up comedian and a struggling writer, detailing the many false starts and setbacks that eventually led him to Hollywood. He also talks about his experiences working on hit shows like The Larry Sanders Show and Freaks and Geeks, and the lessons he's learned about collaboration and creative control.

Throughout it all, Apatow is a warm and engaging presence on stage. He clearly loves the art of comedy and the opportunity to make people laugh, but he's also unafraid to be serious and introspective when the moment calls for it. He's a master storyteller, and his command of the stage is impressive, considering it's his first time doing stand-up.

Overall, Judd Apatow: The Return is a hugely enjoyable and surprisingly insightful comedy special that showcases Judd Apatow's talents as a writer, director, and now stand-up comedian. Whether you're a fan of his films and TV shows or just looking for a good laugh, this special is well worth a watch.