Beyond the cast, The Fez Belcher Show is an interesting look at how a specific time and place becomes infused with how the people who were there see themselves. It’s not that Fez refuses to change. What he discovered all those decades ago fundamentally cemented itself into his psyche. If he were to change, Fez could be giving up that part of himself. The fun is seeing how he navigates life to keep that attitude and lifestyle while maturing and making ends meet. Janie’s arc is always compelling, adding layers to the complicated relationship between her and the titular protagonist. At the end, her excitement over an interview feels justified.
“…a certain charm permeates the whole production.”
The supporting characters are also charming or memorable. When Fez and his girlfriend break up because she’s now seeing a different musician, Farley wisely doesn’t make her cruel or paint her in a bad light. In fact, the scene is more about the punk rocker’s realization than about her cheating. Even Grant, for all his shady ways, is likable in a scummy kind of way. Fez’s private eye friend only has a handful of important scenes but is very funny.
The Fez Belcher Show should be viewed in the episodic nature it was created to be. The full-length version is just too long to take off as intended. Even then, several moments are repetitive and, therefore, unnecessary. But thanks to the sweet nature of the characters and the excellence of the cast, a certain charm permeates the whole production. This comedic, loving tone glues the entire thing together and makes this an easy recommendation, even with its flaws.
"…began life as a web series."
