SiftPop

by Mike Hilty, Contributing Writer

When I was in high school, I was the go-to person for advice in my group of friends. I considered it a badge of honor that so many of my friends would think of me when they got into trouble. After some time, it started to take a toll on me in a few ways. Being available to my friends at any time always made me feel like I was on call constantly. I would sometimes run into situations where two friends would come to me with a situation involving one another, which caused drama if it ever came out that I talked to both of them about the situation. Perhaps the worst part about it was self-inflicted. I never took my own advice, even though I had no problem dishing it out to others. It’s a common problem with those who tend to give advice to others or constantly want to help others.

I got a lot of the same vibes when I watched Hulu’s latest show.

This Fool, created by Chris Estrada, Pat Bishop, Jake Weisman, and Matt Ingebretson, is about Julio (Estrada), who works at a place called Hugs Not Thugs. There, he helps rehabilitate former criminals with their recovery, post-jail. Hugs Not Thugs is founded by Minister Payne (Michael Imperioli), and together, they attempt to change the lives of these individuals. The program is turned upside down when Julio’s cousin Luis (Frankie Quinones) is released from prison and is assigned to the program. Julio’s personal life is also a mess as he navigates his love life, family issues, and self-sabotage. This Fool is 10 episodes and is currently streaming on Hulu.

I really like what Hulu is doing right now with some of their shows. They’re giving comedians and creators a chance to make a series they want to. This Fool, above anything, feels like a very personal story for Estrada to tell. There are a lot of culturally, socio-economic, and region specific stories and jokes that I found really great. Set in South Central Los Angeles, and following a working class, Hispanic family, I like how this touches on every aspect the show is showcasing.

I’ve never seen or heard Estrada’s comedy, but This Fool has made me curious about streaming it soon. This Fool is really funny and doesn’t shy away from making fun of or shining a spotlight on this family. Front and center, though, is Estrada himself, someone who is sometimes so incredibly stupid with his decisions due to codependency issues and constant need for reassurance. He really does mean well, and he’s amazing at his job as well. He means well when he’s trying to take care of everyone else around him, whether it’s his family, clients, or toxic on-and-off again girlfriend Maggie (Michelle Ortiz). We see his ridiculous decision-making process, as well as his logic when justifying his actions.

In addition to Estrada, Imperioli almost steals the show. The whole concept of the organization called Hugs Not Thugs is hysterical to me. Their mission means well, but their name creates an issue where nobody takes them seriously. Imperioli is at the helm of the organization is. He’s not in a lot of scenes, but when he is, he’s the straight man who is also ridiculous. I’ve always been a fan of Imperioli, but this isn’t like anything I’ve seen him in. I certainly hope this is the start of another chapter in his career.

I really like the cultural storylines with this Hispanic family. There are a lot of great aspects, specifically involving loving your family and supporting them no matter what, and religious aspects, that I found really funny. Everyone up and down this family is so great together. From the grandparents, to grandkids, and everyone in between, I really felt this was a close knit family. If this would have been a sitcom with just this family, I think it still would have worked. Instead though, they manage to celebrate Hispanic culture, while also showing some of the issues plaguing this group of individuals.

The socioeconomic messaging is staggering as well. The penultimate episode is really strong in that aspect involving donors to Hugs Not Thugs. It really shows how the rich view the poor, obviously in a satirical way, but in a way that might not be too far off. Another episode talks about spending more money on toilet paper and recycling cans. All of these are biting commentaries on what it means to be poor. There’s even an argument about what it means to be poor versus what it means to be homeless.

One aspect that is showcased, and which is a central theme of the show, is this idea of rehabilitation and personal growth. Julio works with a number of former criminals and gang members. A lot of them have varying degrees of sincerity with their recovery, but what they don’t like is the method in which they recover. Therapy is widely ridiculed, and the introductory method for job placement is a bakery. Luis’ storyline in particular shows the ups and downs, as he goes through life outside of prison. A lot of characters show some type of personal growth, except Julio. It showcases how people in positions where they assist people also need to help themselves too. Julio never takes care of himself, and his personal life is in shambles because of it.

I really like the comedy in this. The dialogue as well as the jokes, which are a great mix of pop culture references, cultural humor, and sharp wit, are all top notch. I woke up my daughters one night watching this because I was laughing so hard. Props to Estrada and the rest of the writing crew for their hilarity and humility. They blend jokes with some emotional moments. 

This Fool is a funny show that showcases Hispanic culture in southern Los Angeles. The performances are top notch, and I really like the story. It won’t be the best show of the summer, but it will be a highlight nonetheless. I found myself rooting for Julio, but also shaking my head in disgust. He’s a very interesting character, and he is unlike characters I’ve seen in other shows this year. This makes This Fool a unique show to watch. If you have Hulu and are looking for something different, check this one out.

Score: 7/10

You can follow Mike Hilty on Twitter and Letterboxd