Simon Amstell: Set Free

In the 2019 stand-up special, Simon Amstell: Set Free, British comedian Simon Amstell brings his unique and insightful brand of humor to Netflix. Directed by Julia Knowles, this one-hour special is a cleverly incisive exploration of Amstell's life experiences, personal revelations, and his journey navigating through them.

Simon Amstell, widely lauded for his distinctive comedic style filled with self-deprecating wit, personal narratives and raw honesty, delivers a powerful performance that strikes a perfect balance between hilarity and poignancy. From addressing his inner most feelings and struggles with identity to exploring his relationships and interactions with society, Amstell's candidness is refreshing and relatable.

Set Free starts off with Amstell sharing his experiences from his childhood and then gradually transitions into an exploration of his adult life, tackling themes like sexuality, mental health, fame, and familial relationships. Rupturing conventional norms, Amstell pushes the boundaries of comedy, using the platform not only to bring laughter but also to generate understanding and empathy. His cerebral humor derives its strength from Amstell's ability to reflect on his life, drawing elements from his journey and turning them into captivating anecdotes that resonate with viewers on a much deeper level than just comedic relief.

An integral aspect of this stand-up special that sets it apart from other comedy specials is Amstell's open discussion surrounding mental health. He articulates his encounters with depression and anxiety, simultaneously making you laugh while also instigating important conversations on matters often stigmatized in society. In Set Free, Amstell successfully illustrates that comedy could be an effective means to grasp and discuss complex experiences and emotions, making them more accessible and less daunting.

Diving into his personal experiences with fame, he shares stories from his time as the host of the popular British television show, "Popworld", and the follow-up, "Never Mind the Buzzcocks". His transition from a well-known television host to a stand-up comedian wasn't an easy one, and he uses this special to share the struggles and the absurdities he's faced along the way.

Amstell's discussion about his sexuality and coming out story is loaded with self-awareness, sensitivity, and acuity. He seamlessly incorporates his own exploration of identity within his comic narrative that viewers will find instantly engaging and relatable. Yet, this is done without compromising the comedic elements of the performance. Rather, the honesty adds depth to his humor, increasing the impact of every punchline.

Often described as a mix of neuroses, honesty, and intellectualism, Amstell's comedy is deeply rooted in authenticity and personal introspection. The comedic journey in Set Free is impactful not just because it draws laughter, but because it evokes self-realization brought about through confronting the hard truths of life.

The production quality of the special matches the high standard set by the content. The minimalist stage design is a stark contrast to the rich and varied experiences being relayed by Amstell. The simple set, devoid of excesses, pulls the attention entirely towards Amstell, who uses his expressive voice, nuanced body language, and charismatic demeanor to maintain an optimistic atmosphere.

Overall, Simon Amstell: Set Free is not just a comedy show. It is an honest, witty, and insightful exploration of life. It is a testament to Amstell's genius as a comedian capable of evoking not just laughter but also thought-provoking dialogue. His comedy provides audiences with a welcoming entry point into conversations about mental health, fame, identity, and personal battles. For anyone who appreciates smart, introspective comedy, Simon Amstell: Set Free is a must-watch.