Louis C.K.: 2017

“Women should be allowed to kill babies.” Though the opening of the performance with a comment on abortion seemed like a well-prepared provocation, it was an apt portent of the spirit in which the rest of the special would play out. With his nihilistic state of being pissed off at everything and everyone (pro-lifers, Christians, shitty babies), Louis is starting to resemble late-period Carlin, except that he is more self-ironic, does not go into politics as much and, for the time being, is more careful not to push the envelope too much. If we wanted, at all costs, to seek out a unifying concept of the evening, it is the realisation that nothing is permanent (not even sexual identity, as Louis demonstrates with his experience watching Magic Mike), life isn't worth much (but you just have to love it enough that you don’t to want to kill yourself), and it doesn't get much better after death (because you never know when your wife will come for you in heaven or wherever else). You can spend the time between birth and death either alone, with children who will spend their entire lives blaming you for the mistakes you made when you were raising them, with a dog that you actually hate, or in a relationship that sooner or later starts to irritate you (when love dissipates, as Louis fittingly compares to a large bubble). The most effective way to solve all problems, including the world’s, at least for yourself, is suicide, which is just one of a number of unpopular life truths that C.K. isn't afraid to bluntly say out loud. As a bonus to go with the keen observations and superbly sharp stories, Louis offers good sound effects, many vocal imitations (the stereotypes are terrible, but the weird voices are fun) and an unforgettable acting etude on the theme of “the awakening penis”. This special is a return to top-rate form after the shoddy Live at the Comedy Store. 80% (06/04/2017)