Legendary comedian, actress, and producer Wanda Sykes returns for her second hour-long Netflix comedy special in Wanda Sykes: I’m An Entertainer. From the challenges of raising Gen Z teens to the dilemmas of being a liberal in a hyper charged political climate, Sykes, renowned for her social commentary, delivers her insightful and ferocious wit and candor audiences have come to know and love. Reuniting with director Linda Mendoza, Sykes will surely spark conversations with her topics.
Wanda first caught my attention in the early nineties on Def Comedy Jam. Her successful performance there led to an opening slot for Chris Rock, who then hired her as a writer for his show. Over the years, she’s worked with Rock numerous times and delivered scene-stealing performances in films such as Clerks II and the legendary tv series Blackish.
Sykes’s second Netflix special finds her performing to a sold-out audience. The four-time Emmy award winner delivers social commentary, punchlines, and honesty. Sykes doesn’t push the envelope as far as some may think, but her experience and the lens through which she views the world is her truth. Naturally, Sykes makes poignant observations about race, and I’m sure there will be some think pieces unfairly trying to call her out.
On the flip side, while comedy is subjective, I’m sure there will be YouTube videos saying Sykes isn’t funny. While Sykes’ humor may not always elicit uproarious laughter, her witty observations of aging, parenthood, and the challenges of having a foreign spouse are certainly relatable. However, her candid retelling of accidentally urinating in public had me bursting with uncontrollable laughter. This experience is undeniably relatable, regardless of age.
I was impressed with Sykes’ ability to connect with the audience and control the flow of her performance. She had a keen sense of where to deliver her punchlines, which kept the audience engaged and eager for more with each movement she made on stage. Sykes spoke in a charming conversational tone that made it easy and enjoyable to listen to her jokes.
When watching Sykes’s latest special, it’s clear the audience already has a fondness for her comedic style. Even if you haven’t seen her before, you feel a sense of familiarity with her.
Final Grade: B
Wanda Sykes: I’m An Entertainer premieres May 23rd on Netflix
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