Ep 4. Enemies

Sherman's Showcase is a superb sketch comedy show that takes its inspiration from the mythology of classic music-variety shows like Soul Train, The Muppets, and SNL Studio 8H. The show is incredibly inventive, packing jokes, parodies, skits, and musical numbers into each episode. Sherman's Showcase season 1 episode 4 is no exception, and it's called "Enemies."

In this episode, we get a sense of the various rivalries that have developed throughout the series. First, we see Sherman's rival, Shandra (Bresha Webb), continuing her attempts to steal his show, hoping to launch her own showcase. Shandra tries to sabotage Sherman in a variety of ways: by changing the teleprompter, getting the talent high, and even by recruiting an assassin to take him out. But Sherman (Bashir Salahuddin) is always one step ahead, and easily foils her plans.

We also get a look at Sherman's internal rivalries. In one hilarious skit, two rival gang leaders, Lil Bit and Lil' Buck, are each vying for the top spot in Sherman's Showcase's "trap music" segment. They use their guns and their squads to intimidate each other into submission, but in the end, it's Sherman who makes the tough call.

And as always, Sherman's Showcase delivers a fantastic musical performance. This time around, it's soulful crooner D'Angelo, who performs his hit "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" on the stage of Sherman's Showcase. The performance is a tribute to the classic "Soul Train" performances of the 1970s, featuring D'Angelo clad in leather pants and a bare chest.

The episode also features some fake advertisements, including one for "Funky Divas," a line of dolls that sing R&B classics, and another for "Sweddy Balls," a Swedish delicacy that is oddly reminiscent of a certain SNL sketch.

Overall, "Enemies" is an excellent episode of Sherman's Showcase, showcasing the show's knack for parody, musical performance, and character-driven humor. The show's writing and performances are spot on, and the episode flies by as a result. Sherman's Showcase is a must-watch for any fans of sketch comedy, music, or broad satire.