The State

The State is a unique and unconventional comedy series that aired on MTV between 1993 and 1995. Despite its seemingly short run, The State managed to leave an indelible imprint in the hearts of comedy lovers and significantly impacted the landscape of television sketch comedy.

The State is an ensemble creation, featuring eleven talented cast members who together crafted the show's singular voice and comedic style. Among these members is Kevin Allison, who also serves as one of the show's primary writers. Allison's performance is notable for its energy, versatility, and keen comedic timing. The series benefits from the diverse talents of its entire cast, each bringing their unique humor style and energetic performances that keep viewers engaged and laughing episode after episode.

In the somewhat traditional sphere of sketch comedy television, The State broke new grounds and established its distinct tone with its unique content. The premise of the show revolves around a sketch troupe who create and perform a series of unrelated skits on a variety of topics. There's no central narrative or set characters, providing a fresh and unpredictable experience every episode. The series thrives on the unexpected, with its random, off-kilter humor serving as both its trademark and its charm.

Each episode of The State offers a compelling mix of sketch formats, from short, rapid-fire jokes to longer, satirical pieces. Comedy here is broad and versatile – the show is not afraid to delve into absurdity and farce, nor does it shy away from teetering on the edge of cringe-comedy. The humor is not beholden to just the verbal; physical comedy and sight gags abound in the series, provided by a cast skilled at using their bodies as comedic instruments.

A standout feature of The State is its acute social commentary. The series delves into the parody of various aspects of life in America, from pop culture and politics, to everyday experiences. It grows humor out of ordinary, relatable scenarios, twisted through the lens of its offbeat sensibility and often leading towards unexpected outcomes. Through its playful, absurd sketches, the series successfully sparks conversation about societal norms and conventions.

Furthermore, The State stands out for the remarkable chemistry between its cast members. Their rapport is palpable and greatly enhances the viewing experience. The fluidity and cohesion they display, coupled with their skill to bounce off of each other's energy, are central to the dynamism present in their sketches. This interplay creates a sense of spontaneity and improv-like feeling within the tightly scripted show.

The spirit of the series further comes alive in its bold and innovative production techniques. The direction and editing of the show are just as daring and unconventional as its humor. With its distinctive aesthetics and a fearless approach to breaking the fourth wall, The State pushes past traditional sketch comedy television boundaries, delivering a modern and refreshing perspective.

Reviving an appreciation for the series, MTV re-aired all seasons of The State in 2009 with additional commentary from the cast, offering insights into the sketches' creation and their experiences during the show. This move has further solidified the series as an integral part of TV's comedy canon and a testament to its timeless appeal.

Despite its short run and relative obscurity during its airing time, The State has since grown a cult following and retained a dedicated fanbase. Many of its cast and crew, like Kevin Allison, have made significant contributions to the comedy genre, within and beyond television.

In conclusion, The State is a rebel within its class, offering a fresh and unconventional take on sketch comedy. Its appealing mix of eclectic humor, social commentary, and standout performances make it a must-watch for comedy aficionado or anyone seeking entertainment with a dash of unpredictability. It is a testament to its creative team's wide-ranging talents and a shining example of television that is unafraid to push boundaries.