Chelsea Does

Chelsea Does is a provocative, four-part documentary series that first premiered on Netflix in 2016. Executive-produced by and starring the irrepressible stand-up comedian Chelsea Handler, the series steps away from her usual comedic realm and delves into more serious territory. The aim of Chelsea Does is to explore four universal, humanistic topics that fascinate Handler most - Marriage, Silicon Valley (Tech), Racism, and Drugs - through a comedic yet thoughtful, distinctly Chelsea Handler lens. Through the show's four standalone episodes, contemporary cultural topics are explored in a way where comedy and insight walk hand in hand, making the subjects both accessible and entertaining.

Handler's inimitably forthright and unapologetic comedic style induced a unique and fascinating perspective on these subjects, imbuing the series with an unexpected depth of clarity. For fans of her outrageous humor and quick wit, rest assured, while Chelsea Does marks a departure from her usual shtick, it does not eschew Handler's signature comedy. There is plenty of absurdity and laughter to be had as she navigates through the various facets of these otherwise serious topics.

In the episode "Chelsea Does Marriage", Handler investigates relationship dynamics, conventions, and contemporary concepts of marriage. She confronts her personal disinterest in marriage via interviews with experts, married couples, family members, and a visit to a children's classroom. She even probes the topic with children, whose ideas about marriage are as enlightening and diverse as the adults.

"Chelsea Does Silicon Valley" touches on tech addiction and the advances in technology that society is rapidly embracing, but not necessarily comprehending. Venturing into the heart of the tech world, she interviews industry professionals and startups, attempts to learn coding, tests out 'new tech' gadgets, and even creates an app. Her travels also lead her to attend the 'Code for America Hackathon', where programmers brainstorm on public service applications for the digital age.

The third chapter, "Chelsea Does Racism" is arguably the show's weightiest and most impactful episode. In this piece, Handler journeys across America, trying to grasp the concept of racism in its various forms, understand the historical and current-day racial divide, and confront the privilege she receives from being a Caucasian woman.

Finally, "Chelsea Does Drugs" divulges into the hot topic of drug use, both recreational and medicinal. Handler experiments with substances in controlled environments, speaks with former addicts and explores the burgeoning legal marijuana industry in the United States.

What makes Chelsea Does standout particularly is that each episode seeks to approach these socially relevant topics from the standpoint of sincere curiosity, and without judgment. Handler goes into each topic with an open mind, willing to ask the hard-hitting questions and to listen to diverse opinions. These topics, while controversial, are handled tactfully, asking us, the audience, to examine our own beliefs.

It is also worth mentioning that Chelsea Does maintains a sense of authenticity throughout. As Handler ventures into each topic, she's not just observing from the outside. Instead, she immerses herself, embraces every part of the process, and gets personally involved, often to hilarious and even poignant results. This gives the audience a vicarious sense of exploration, enabling the show to deliver profound insights and yet be entertaining at the same time.

Handling sensitive topics with a humorist’s touch and investigative curiosity, Chelsea Does is a definitive stride away from Handler's previous works. It expands beyond the traditional confines of a comedian's role while reaffirming her place as one of contemporary comedy's most distinct and daring voices. The documentary series deftly balances light-hearted entertainment with reflective and informative discussion.

In closing, Chelsea Does is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates critical thinking, impact-driven conversations, and groundbreaking television. Whether you're a fan of Chelsea Handler or not, the series promises to be an unusual journey of exploration that encourages spirited dialogue, a few laughs, and possibly even a few tears. Through Chelsea Does, viewers are given an opportunity to look at the complexities of modern society through a refreshingly frank and unique lens.