Why Is Everyone Watching ‘Suits’? Plus, ‘Winning Time’ and ‘How to With John Wilson.’

Documentary Style

John Wilson's documentary series stands out for its unique storytelling approach, blending mundane observations with profound insights. Chris Ryan and Andy Greenwald discuss how Wilson's obsessive filming of New York City's minutiae creates episodes that are both humorous and deeply reflective 1. Each episode starts with a simple question but quickly veers into unexpected territories, such as a bodybuilding competition with a 9/11 theme, showcasing Wilson's ability to find humor in the bizarre 2.

It's a guy who asks a question at the beginning... and usually his words are paired with really funny and surprising images.

--- Andy Greenwald

This distinctive style, paired with Nathan Fielder's executive production, results in a series that is both a love letter to New York and a commentary on contemporary life.

   

Narrative Themes

The narrative themes in "How to With John Wilson" are as eclectic as they are engaging. Andy Greenwald and Chris Ryan reflect on how the show explores everyday topics with unexpected depth, often leading to poignant reflections on identity and society 3. The series' ability to transform ordinary subjects into profound narratives is highlighted by its exploration of themes like fame and happiness, often through seemingly trivial events.

It's always lupus. That show was again, I think that to look at shows like house through a 2023 lens, there's a lot of things that don't make sense, that don't really jive with how we watch things now.

--- Andy Greenwald

This approach not only entertains but also invites viewers to reconsider their perspectives on the mundane.