Cult Corner: Hang Out With Your Besties, Garfunkel and Oates, In ‘Trying To Be Special’

When we talk about streaming culture, we’re usually enthusing about what’s new, but one of the best things about streaming is how it’s made old and obscure cult hits available to a new generation. Presenting Cult Corner: your weekly look into hidden gems and long-lost curiosities that you can find on streaming.

Everyone wants to be special, but it takes a special kind of person to get their very own special. That’s the premise Garfunkel and Oates’ hourlong performance follows, and it’s one that’s as delightful as it is meta. If you’re in the mood for a quirky hour, Garfunkel and Oates: Trying To Be Special is it.

If you saw the musical duo’s IFC show, the aptly titled Garfunkel and Oates, then you already know what to expect. Trying to be Special is packed with the duo’s beloved and often-raunchy comedy songs, and in between each performance, Riki Lindhome (Another Period) and Kate Micucci (Raising Hope, Don’t Think Twice) banter with each other about life, pregnant women, handjobs, and riding in helicopters. The pair has always had an easy relationship that gives viewers the illusion they’re hanging out with their two best friends, Riki and Kate. Adding to that sweet illusion is the meta element to the hourlong performance.

The conceit of Trying to be Special, which originally premiered on Vimeo, is that Lindhome and Micucci are performing a concert to raise money for a televised special. Between songs about smug pregnant ladies and feeling alone, they check in with the meter, cheering at their progress. But you’re watching them do all this on Netflix … so you know they’re already successful in their goal. They already have a special special. It’s a weird thing, watching two people try to accomplish they thing you know they’ve already accomplished, and in that way, it kind of watches like watching your best friend achieve something great. You know it’s all going to go well, because your best friend is perfect, and you’re going to love it, but there’s something comforting and intimate about all that nervous energy. Through all that stress, the duo’s brilliant and quirky lyrics shine.

Trying to be Special tries very, very hard to be special, and in its own way, it succeeds. It’s rare to see two performers who are so comfortable showing how uncomfortable they are with failure. It’s a charming special that will make you love these very talented and funny actresses and musicians even more.

[Stream Garfunkel and Oates: Trying to be Special on Netflix]