Seth Rogen’s new Apple series, "The Studio," is making waves with its sharp satire of Hollywood. Inspired by Robert Altman’s classic film "The Player," which came out in 1992, Rogen’s show takes a humorous look at the cutthroat nature of the film industry. The series features Rogen as Matt Remick, the newly appointed head of the fictional Continental Studios, stepping into the role after Patty Leigh, played by Catherine O’Hara, is ousted for overspending.
Rogen co-created, co-wrote, and co-directed "The Studio" alongside his longtime collaborator Evan Goldberg. The show has received positive early reviews, with a 95% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, though audience approval sits at 70%. This gap isn’t unusual, as critics often appreciate self-reflection in the industry, while general viewers may have different expectations.
The cast includes notable names like Bryan Cranston and Kathryn Hahn, all bringing strong comedic backgrounds to the series. The storyline is rooted in real-life events, with Rogen admitting that the character of Matt Remick reflects the experience of Amy Pascal, a former Sony executive who was let go for similar reasons.
Remick’s feelings about his new position echo those expressed by Steve Asbell, the current president of 20th Century Fox, who shared his concerns about the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success. Rogen himself grapples with this challenge as he aims to create a show that is both insightful and entertaining.
The series also features guest appearances from well-known actors and directors, including Martin Scorsese in the first episode, adding to its appeal. Rogen’s effort to tackle important questions about filmmaking while keeping the tone light and funny has resonated with audiences.
Overall, "The Studio" promises to be a compelling and humorous exploration of Hollywood’s inner workings, showcasing Rogen’s talents beyond his stand-up comedy roots.