I did like the opener, quite a bit. Listening to the rhythms of it, I thought it sounded more like poetry slam material than stand-up. The juxtaposition of linguistic absurdities is a trademark of Carlin’s, and while he dips into that well more frequently than is probably wise, this was a well-done example of it. My hopes were raised during the first few minutes, based on this bit.
Unfortunately, it was downhill from there.
I saw him do the opening bit(“Modern Man”) on Leno over a year ago. He looked fine then. I’m really interested in seeing this special(I missed it) to see how he’s changed.
Any screen-caps?
I’m watching this on HBO right now. I was much too far away to see his face, and it does look rounder than it used to. Chalk it up to being almost 70 and/or putting on some weight, I suppose. And I don’t know if this makes any difference to anyone, but the laughter in the theatre was much louder than it sounds on this thing.
I’m watching it now and am about 50 minutes in. I think he’ pretty funny, but it’s not his best ever.
Okay, he is hunched over nad his head looks rounder, but I think he’s just a little older. I honestly think George is doing quite well. I hope he doesn’t retire; most of the material was really quite good.
With the last 2-3 concerts, I think we can all agree George hates humankind in general.
Now, he can get back to what he does best: the ridiculous abuse of language.
I loved the word play that he does so well. But too much of the rest was lacking real wit. It was just mean.
Damn. George has been a standard bearer for so long.