Director: Doron Max Hagay
Executive Producers: Kate Berlant, Dave Kneebone, Janel Kranking, Naomi McPherson
Additional Producer: Spencer Vickers
U.S. Content Rating: TV-MA
Streaming Platform: HBO Max

Special Overview

Kate Berlant: Parmesan presents an hour of unconventional stand-up in which the comedian moves between personal stories, spontaneous observations and increasingly absurd reflections on modern life.

Filmed at Los Angeles’s historic Plaza Nightclub, the performance addresses technology dependence, sexuality, romantic relationships and everyday anxieties. Berlant uses exaggerated gestures, unexpected changes in direction and moments of deliberate awkwardness to build her routines.

The special also examines the conventions of stand-up comedy itself, using self-awareness and theatrical performance as important parts of the humor. It marks Berlant’s first HBO comedy special, following her 2022 production Cinnamon in the Wind.

About Kate Berlant

Kate Berlant is an American comedian, actress and writer known for her experimental stand-up, improvisational performances and character-driven comedy. She has appeared in television series including Search Party, The Good Place and A League of Their Own, as well as films such as Sorry to Bother You and Don’t Worry Darling.

Berlant has frequently collaborated with comedian John Early, including on the sketch comedy special Would It Kill You to Laugh? (2022). Her stage work includes the acclaimed one-woman production Kate, directed by Bo Burnham.

Her comedy incorporates absurdism, heightened emotional performances, audience interaction and satire of contemporary social behavior.

Special Overview

About Kate Berlant

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