Review - History of the World, Part II (2023)

          Hey guys, Chuck here, and I'm not sure if you are aware, but there's an old saying in media: you can't make a Mel Brooks film today. This has to do with the fact that, in our modern world where we have become more culturally aware of certain concerns, certain styles of humor aren't seen as socially acceptable. Not to step around such concerns, but humor is subjective, and certain jokes that may be hilarious to some may not be to others. Mel Brooks, however, circumvents such concerns, and his latest project is definite proof of that. History of the World, Part II, released exclusively on Hulu, is an eight-episode limited event miniseries that serves as a sequel to his 1981 comedy film History of the World, Part I. Alongside Mel Brooks, who is a producer, writer, and the narrator, this series also features Ike Barinholtz, Wanda Sykes, and Nick Kroll, all of whom also star, write, and produce for this series, along with a slew of comedy talent ranging from the likes of Johnny Knoxville and Jack Black to Nick Robinson and Dove Cameron. 

       Okay, so much like with History of the World, Part I, History of the World, Part II is a series of historical comedy sketches taking place all throughout history, with such eras as the Civil War and the Russian Revolution serving as settings. Also, historical figures such as Sigmund Freud, Shirley Chisholm, Kublai Khan, Grigori Rasputin, and even Jesus are the focus of several recurring sketches. Now, what's really hilarious is that some of the bits also satirize more recent series such as Curb Your Enthusiasm and Jackass. Honestly, seeing Johnny Knoxville as Rasputin in a spoof of his most famous franchise, and be joined by Chris Pontius, Preston Lacy, and Wee-Man, was just hysterical. I also liked the gag of making the Princess Anastasia, played by Dove Cameron, a social media influencer during the Russian Revolution. And, yes, just as Mel teased at the end of History of the World, Part I, they did feature a sketch in History of the World, Part II called "Hitler on Ice," and it was easily the hardest I laughed watching the series. I also laughed my ass off when, during one of the segments set during the Civil War, they end up in Rock Ridge, but they clarify that it's NOT the one from Blazing Saddles, which is apparent when the town has a sign that reads "Welcome to Rock Ridge. No, Not That One." 

         Now, what's really neat is that, not only does History of the World, Part II retain that legendary Mel Brooks brand of humor, but also feels very much like an earlier sketch comedy series that Nick Kroll was a star and producer of called Kroll Show. And, honestly, Nick Kroll, along with Ike Barinholtz and Wanda Sykes, make this series as funny as it is. I also thoroughly enjoyed the various comedy performers featured throughout the series, such as Jack Black, Charles Melton, Seth Rogen, Zazie Beets, D'arcy Carden, Jillian Bell, Rob Corddry, Taika Waititi, Fred Armisen, Jay Ellis, Sarah Silverman, and Josh Gad, just to name a few. I can honestly imagine a lot of them grew up with Mel Brooks comedies, and jumped at the opportunity to star in the first Mel Brooks comedy in several years. 

      And, much like how History of the World, Part I ended with a sneak peek at History of the World, Part II, so does History of the World, Part II end with a sneak peek at a second season called History of the World, Part II Season II, which is to include sketches like "The Great Fascist Bake Off," "The Dust Bowl," and, of course, "Jews in Space." Whether we actually get a second season, or if it was just a joke thrown in to the ending, is anyone's guess. However, I absolutely loved the collaboration of the legendary Mel Brooks with modern comedic greats like Ike Barinholtz and Nick Kroll. 

        Now, much like any Mel Brooks comedy, this series isn't for everyone. It's really meant for Mel's fans, as it's a definite love letter to the legendary career that Mel has had. It's definitely a more fun experience than the movie History of the World, Part I, at least for me anyway. I'm giving Mel Brooks' History of the World, Part II a rating of 4.85/5. 

       Anyway guys, this is Chuck signing off, and I'll see you guys next time.