Watch Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends
- Not Rated
- 1999
- 2 Seasons
-
8.5 (3,373)
Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends is a documentary series that premiered on BBC Two in the late 1990s, hosted by the British journalist and filmmaker Louis Theroux. The show is known for its irreverent and offbeat approach to exploring unconventional lifestyles and subcultures in America and abroad.
Over the course of its two-season run, Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends tackles a broad range of subjects, from survivalists in the Pacific Northwest and UFO enthusiasts in Nevada, to porn stars in California and neo-Nazis in Texas. Along the way, Theroux meets a cast of eccentric characters who offer varying degrees of insight and perspective into their worldviews.
Despite the obvious contrast between Theroux's middle-class British upbringing and the often outlandish beliefs and lifestyles of his interviewees, the show eschews overt judgment or ridicule in favor of a more curious, anthropological approach. At times, Theroux even seems to empathize with the people he's profiling, making for a nuanced and thought-provoking viewing experience.
One standout episode from the first season features Theroux exploring the world of professional wrestling in the American South. Through interviews with performers, promoters, and fans, Theroux delves into the intricacies of the wrestling world, including the blurred lines between reality and fiction, the physical toll of performing stunts, and the financial challenges of making a living in the industry. Along the way, he even steps into the ring himself, hamming it up for the camera in a hilarious and surreal sequence.
Another memorable episode finds Theroux visiting a swingers' club in suburban America, where he observes and participates in a variety of sexually explicit activities. Throughout the episode, Theroux remains non-judgmental and respectful towards his hosts, even as he clearly feels some discomfort and awkwardness at times.
Overall, Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends offers a fascinating look into some of the stranger corners of American culture, as well as a glimpse into how people with vastly different viewpoints and lifestyles navigate through the world. Despite its often bizarre subject matter, the show manages to be both entertaining and insightful, thanks in large part to Theroux's dry wit and easygoing demeanor.
