
Bill Hader’s darkly funny and thrilling show, Barry, is considered one of HBO’s greatest crime dramas. Hader plays Barry Berkman, a professional killer who unexpectedly finds a love for acting while on a job. The series began as a quirky comedy, but became increasingly intense and bleak, culminating in a truly horrifying final season.
Honestly, when I first heard about Barry – a hitman trying to become an actor? – I thought it sounded like a silly idea that wouldn’t last past a short comedy sketch. But wow, was I wrong. By the series finale, it had become one of the best shows on TV. Bill Hader and the writers completely transformed that initial, kind of ridiculous concept into something really deep and thought-provoking about what it means to be human.
Barry Is A Fresh Take On The Crime Genre
Barry is a truly original take on the crime drama. While it initially feels familiar, playing with classic crime story elements, it constantly surprises you. Similar to Breaking Bad, the show centers on a character leading a double life – balancing normalcy with a hidden criminal side – but unlike that series, this character is a cold and unfeeling sociopath from the start.
Similar to John Wick, Barry centers on a highly skilled hitman. However, it’s less over-the-top and even incorporates some comedic moments. The show follows Barry as he tries to become an actor while still working as an assassin, cleverly highlighting the similarities between the ruthless worlds of contract killing and show business.
You’ve probably never seen a crime show like Barry. While it might seem similar to Dexter – a killer trying to keep their dark side hidden – Barry doesn’t try to portray its main character as a hero. Right from the start, the show follows a genuinely bad person who doesn’t even recognize how bad he is.
How Bill Hader Reinvented Himself For Barry
Bill Hader transformed himself for his role in Barry. While he was famous for his impressions on SNL and comedic roles in films like Superbad, Tropic Thunder, and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Barry allowed him to demonstrate a talent for dramatic acting that audiences hadn’t seen before.
Bill Hader wasn’t just the star of Barry; he was a driving force behind the scenes as well. He spearheaded the writing team as the story became darker and also directed many of the episodes. His work on the show demonstrated he’s a truly talented action director.
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2026-02-21 02:29