Players

Players is a half-hour comedy series that aired in 2010 on Spike TV, a network known for its male-oriented programming. Strikingly different from the typical sitcoms and reality shows, Players is a unique amalgamation of humor and sibling rivalry set in a sports bar, a backdrop not commonly seen on television. This unconventional setting and storyline have proven to be recipes for a show full of entertainment and laughter. Cleverly written and effectively interactive, Players is indeed a show that appeals to viewers of all tastes.

Featuring a star-studded cast comprising of players from the world of comedy, the show revolves around the antics of two brothers, Bruce and Ken Fitzgerald, played by Ian Roberts and Jack McGee respectively. These mismatched siblings opt for a strategic reunion to run their sports bar ‘Player’s Bar’ after their failed individual personal endeavors.

Bruce, a former gifted attorney who surrendered his job owing to his sterling but questionable ethics, is the odd ball of the bunch. He emphasizes his rule disregarding nature by spending his time at leisure and women, which adds a perfect dose of comedic contrast to his elder brother's persona.

Ken, on the other hand, is a warm-hearted, down-to-earth blue-collar guy, who finds joy in simple things in life. His previous ownership of a car wash business before deciding to venture into the sports bar industry gives him a practical perspective on things, and his constant struggle to maintain order in the chaos around him forms a significant part of his persona in the show.

The sports bar presents an opportunity for the brothers to work together and share life experiences in the midst of an array of eccentric patrons and even stranger events. It provides the perfect setting for unexpected moments of comedy and drama, making every day an adventure. This bar of antics, therefore, becomes the pivotal point for the duo, representing more than just a business venture. It becomes a platform for the brothers to bond and navigate their differences.

Completing the ensemble are two central female characters – Barb, portrayed by Vicky Lewis, the tough-serving waitress of the bar who never misses an opportunity to speak her mind, and Krista, played by Dani Wheeler, a clueless bartender whose naive and spontaneous responses lend an unpredictable flair to the plot. The personalities of these characters significantly contribute to the humor and dynamics of the sitcom, making it an enticing watch.

One of the unique aspects of Players is that the narrative occasionally veers into the realm of absurdity with a refreshing mix of slapstick comedy, clever wit, and sarcasm. Recurring themes include sibling rivalry, love-hate relationships, fraternity, and even the occasional exploration of morality – all set against the backdrop of American sports culture.

The show pays homage to sport as a cultural phenomenon. Football, basketball, and baseball are often the context of the humor and the plot. However, it does not exclude audiences who are not sports enthusiasts. While the sports bar serves as a canvas to mirror reality, the essence of the show lies in the ever-evolving complex relationship between Bruce and Ken.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that the show is produced by the comedy ensemble 'Upright Citizens Brigade'- co-founded by Ian Roberts himself. Roberts, along with the other producers, infuses the show with their signature style humor, bringing out quirkiness and spontaneity in the narrative effectively.

In conclusion, Players uncovers the nuances of brotherhood, friendship, and competitive sports within the confinement of a sports bar. It is a refreshing take on the dealings of everyday life matched with comic relief and sports-related shenanigans. For viewers looking for an escape into the lives of two struggling entrepreneurs fraught with the complexities of running a business while tending to their problematic lives, 'Players' is undoubtedly a must-watch.