Borges

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  • 2018
  • 1 Season
  • 6.0  (186)

Borges is a groundbreaking Latin American television series broadcast on Comedy Central in 2018. A creation from Porta dos Fundos, a prolific Brazilian comedy group, Borges Importadora de Cereais (its full name) revolutionizes the conventional norms of comedy by blending humor with the existential depths of life’s absurdities.

The series introduces us to four partners of an imploding import company named 'Borges Importadora', which, until now, catered to the niche market of grains and cereals importation. The firm, however, goes bankrupt in just the first episode, thanks to the ill-advised decision to import and sell a nonsensical amount of popcorn. The quartet is left grappling with a financial crisis that pushes them to think out of the box, ultimately transforming Borges from a grain import company into a YouTube video production outfit.

Borges features four primary characters - Jorge, Luis, Alexandre, and Itamar, each one more distinct than the other. Jorge is the responsible member of the quartet, who unsuccessfully tries to hold together the pieces of their crumbling business. Meanwhile, Luis is the free spirit, constantly dreaming about becoming a famous musician. Alexandre is the practical one, though he often finds himself in impractical situations. Last but not least, Itamar is the philosophical member of the group, who often peppers the narrative with philosophical quotes.

The core of the series lies in the interactions between these four characters and their reality-based comedy. Borges masterfully embeds profound existential insights within each episode's comedic trappings. The characters find themselves in situations that are ridiculous yet relatable, bringing forward the essence of their personalities in the most hilarious manner. They are funny in their despair, they are absurd in their reasoning, and the results are often catastrophic, yet heartwarmingly comedic.

Borges is renowned for its satirical take on many current social, political, and philosophical issues. While the characters are tangled in the web of their failures, comedically outrageous ideas, and dreams, the backdrop reflects a deeper commentary on modern life and the media industry. It never shies away from making bold commentary wrapped in comedy.

The transition from being business failures to aspiring YouTube stars unfolds amusingly, revealing the chaos, opportunities, and realities brought by the digital age. However, what makes Borges stand out is the how it integrates the element of nuanced comedy with philosophical introspection. This is seen in their numerous attempts to create viral content, which results in both hilarious failures and unexpected success, cheekily mirroring the uncertainties of our lives.

On a surface level, the character's mostly unsuccessful efforts to regain their lost fortunes appear nonsensical, adding a layer of slapstick humor. However, amidst these failed attempts, there are moments of unexpected wisdom where they discover aspects about themselves and the world around them. These moments are deeply rooted in existential philosophy, revealing the underbelly of life's absurdities and complexities beneath the hilarity.

The meta-fictional charm of the show is also hard to miss. The name 'Borges’ itself is a nod to the renowned Argentine writer and philosopher, Jorge Luis Borges, embodying the series’ philosophical outlook through its comedic narrative. The episodes’ individual titles reference a number of celebrated literary works drawing parallels between their respective themes and the show’s philosophical inclination.

Borges has a distinct comedic style that often converges with elements of tragicomedy. It pushes the envelope by using humor to delve into the absurd allegorical analogies of the human condition. Its humorous explorations of failure, despair, existentialism, and success are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining.

Each episode of Borges is standalone while also fitting into the overall narrative. This episodic design enables the show to explore multiple themes and situations, each resulting in unexpectedly funny and philosophical outcomes. From discussions about the purpose of life in a pizza parlor to desperate attempts at fame through viral videos, Borges transforms everyday life situations into comedic gold, layered with philosophical undertones.

The series enjoys a vibrant consortium of supporting characters that bring added depth and bolster the show's ability to impart fresh narratives. From eccentric professionals like mediocre lawyers and skeptical bankers to personal relations like unsatisfied wives and blood-sucking creditors, their interactions with the protagonists spark off hilariously unexpected situations.

In conclusion, Borges is a medley of everyday humor and profound philosophy that breaks the norms and raises the bar for comedies. The show is a refreshing take on the comedy genre, combining a simple premise with layered storytelling and humor that is tragic, ironic, and absurdly relatable.

Borges
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Seasons
El jefe
10. El jefe
 
Pablo becomes PA to YouTube star. A character reappears and reveals some unbelievable secrets, which puts the future of the four in jeopardy.
Canal do Leste Europeu
9. Canal do Leste Europeu
May 8, 2018
The four discover the a European channel is plagiarizing their videos, to great success. The colleagues decide to turn the situation round.
O Fiscal
8. O Fiscal
May 1, 2018
A district attorney shows up during filming of a production bordering on the pornographic. What's more, they have to direct the worst actor ever.
Evento de anime
7. Evento de anime
April 17, 2018
The colleagues receive an invite to an anime event. Things go badly when they discover that they're they've been set up by the organizers.
Gay, fan o asaltante
6. Gay, fan o asaltante
 
Sonia uses the new video to send hints to her boyfriend. Pablo tries to find out if the guy he met is a crook or a fan.
Trufas
5. Trufas
 
A problematic actor interferes with the recordings. A street vendor sublets a company office to sell food and turns Borges into a hotbed of crime.
Exame Peri
4. Exame Peri
 
Every Borges employee has their secrets, but no one counted on the indiscreet doctor, there to carry out some examinations and who can't keep quiet.
Tapicrepe
3. Tapicrepe
March 20, 2018
Erasmo wants to change his appearance and his life. Sonia tries to bring down the restaurant that treated her badly.
Religi
2. Religi
 
The video seemed harmless but it offended an unknown religion. Now they have to deal with a shaman, and resolve a problem with an Uber driver.
Viral
1. Viral
March 13, 2018
To show they were duped, four employees belonging to a beleaguered import company make a video that goes viral
Description
  • Premiere Date
    March 13, 2018
  • IMDB Rating
    6.0  (186)