There is something about HBO and its ability to deliver compelling, funny, serious, and dramatic television that simply outpaces all others. The channel that has already given us years of The Sopranos and left us wanting for more, a bald Jewish guy who proves that going round in life rubbing everyone the wrong way actually pays, and an entourage of boys whose whole life is the pursuit of pleasure and indolence has dealt us something more.
The Flight of the Conchords holds to the same high HBO standard but it is completely different. It is the story two New Zealander (Kiwi) friends, Bret (Bret McKenzie) and Jemaine (Jemaine Clement) and their experiences with life, love, friendship, and all the usual stuff while trying to make their lives as New Zealand's fourth most popular guitar-based digi-bongo acapella-rap-funk-comedy folk duo. Each week the boys experience a particular adventure, which they punctuate with songs. Each song has original lyrics and is rendered in a particular genre suitable for the predicament. You just have to see it to fully understand.
Their fate is sealed by the equally innocent and awkward Murray (played by comedian Rhys Darby) who, while being New Zealand’s trade representative in the Big Apple, is also their erstwhile band manager. So challenged is Murray at that task he can only schedule them at the local aquarium. Murray is in a large part responsible for the boys' quixotic adventures, and the Conchords continually dig themselves deeper when troublesome situations turn up.
A lot of words have been written on the comedic talent of Bret and Jemaine. I won't add any more, other than what really stands out is their timing, saying just the wrong things at just the right time. Although plenty of kudos go to the writers, the two key supporting actors, Rhys and New York comedian Kristen Schaal (Mel), are perfect foils for our dynamic duo. Mel plays the psychotic (only) fan of the band who knows no boundaries with her obsession. Her overt sexual innuendos towards the band members is a delight to behold, rendering fantasies that usually end with Bret and Jemaine having to make up excuses and head for the door.
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