This Will Forever Be the Greatest Pandemic Lockdown Movie

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 significantly reshaped the movie industry, with cinemas continuing to adapt to survive. Consequently, film production and distribution methods have been transformed. Unfortunately, movies such as “Sick” and “Locked Up” didn’t accurately portray the reality of lockdown life. On a more positive note, some films have effectively adapted to the pandemic by using humor, with Ari Aster’s “Eddington” being one example. However, the most authentic representation of the pandemic isn’t found in big-budget Westerns or indie slashers; instead, it is a Netflix comedy special like “Bo Burnham: Inside.” This production successfully encapsulates the challenging period in a way that is both amusing and heartwarming.

In a confined space, Bo Burnham composes numerous memorable and contemplative tunes that explore the current state of the world, satirically pointing out its absurdities and flaws in an accessible way. Despite the movie not having a traditional narrative, its message is powerfully conveyed.

Bo Burnham: Inside Was the Comedy the World Needed

In a time of stress and uncertainty about what’s to come in 2021, Bo Burnham: Inside served up the humor and relaxation we all needed. Bo Burnham showcased his comedic talent with some of the best tunes ever penned by a stand-up comic. Songs like “White Woman’s Instagram” and “Bezos” offered a witty take on technology, celebrities, and made them into infectious and side-splitting hits. While Burnham might not be a master wordsmith, his rhythmic delivery and straightforward manner of expressing his ideas result in tunes that are enjoyable for everyone.

Although working within a confined space, Bo Burnham skillfully creates breathtaking visuals. By thoughtfully arranging LED lights and clever compositions, Bo Burnham: Inside never fails to present something visually engaging. The editing enhances the visuals beautifully, imbuing the film with a music video-esque atmosphere that distinguishes it from other comedy specials on Netflix.

Apart from his songs, Burnham also creates numerous amusing comedy skits, one of the most striking being a satirical portrayal of reaction videos. In this piece, Burnham himself reacts to one of his videos, leading to an endless loop of him reacting to his own reaction videos. This isn’t just funny; it critiques the phenomenon of “reaction influencers” and reflects on internet culture. On a deeper level, it serves as a form of catharsis, mirroring how the pandemic has given Burnham the opportunity to reflect on himself and gain a better understanding of his identity. While it’s comical at first glance, delving into its deeper meaning reveals the brilliance behind Bo Burnham: Inside.

Bo Burnham Captured What Everyone Was Feeling During the Pandemic

Bo Burnham’s film “Inside” offers a humorous portrayal of the year 2020, yet beneath its comical surface lies an exploration of Bo Burnham’s personal psyche and perspectives on life. The film’s set design symbolizes both physical isolation and mental seclusion. Through his comedy special, Burnham seeks to find his role in the world and grasp the essence of humor. Songs such as “Comedy” reveal the self-centered aspects of being a comedian, along with its potential power to heal. By revealing his internal struggle, the film offers a profoundly introspective experience and justifies its lack of a conventional plot.

Typically, seeing a movie on the big screen is a more immersive way to watch it, but surprisingly, Bo Burnham: Inside functions best as a Netflix exclusive release. Watching the film from home enables viewers to identify more closely with Bo Burnham, as the movie was filmed inside a house. This setting provides a stronger connection to Bo’s mental and physical condition of being confined within your own space. Additionally, the Inside Outtakes supplementary material effectively reinforces the themes and offers valuable insights into certain aspects of contemporary internet culture.

Furthermore, “Inside” provides insights into Bo Burnham’s personal life and future aspirations. The track “30” brilliantly encapsulates his evolution as an artist while jokingly acknowledging his age. It also conveys a sense of apprehension about the fast-paced world and his readiness for what lies ahead. While it may appear that the song is merely a joke about growing up, Bo Burnham’s artistic sincerity transforms it into something far more profound than its surface suggests.

Bo Burnham: Inside isn’t just the definitive COVID-19 movie, but it ranks as one of Netflix’s finest productions ever. With its side-splitting tunes and compassionate examination of modern society, the film masterfully handles sensitive topics in an engaging and humorous fashion. Despite being a direct-to-streaming release, it has left a profound mark on the film industry that could scarcely be matched again.

Bo Burnham: Inside is now streaming on Netflix.

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2025-07-13 20:40