Kate Berlant on Her HBO Special ‘Parmesan,’ the Joke That Made a Man Flip Her Off and Her Next Project With John Early

Kate Berlant’s latest HBO special, "Parmesan," set to premiere on October 16, offers a comedic yet poignant exploration of modern life’s entanglement with digital technology and social isolation. Far from a conventional stand-up routine, Berlant uses her slapstick style and inventive character work to navigate the pervasive impact of smartphones and online culture, presenting a narrative that resonates with the contemporary audience’s experience.

Opening the special, Berlant candidly addresses her own dependence on her phone, framing it as an addiction emblematic of today’s hyper-connected yet disconnected society. Through a series of sharp, often absurd observations, she delves into behaviors that have become normalized in the digital age, such as the compulsive scrolling through social media and the awkwardness surrounding online communication cues. Her reflections reveal a longing for pre-digital communal interactions, contrasting the alienation of virtual engagement with the tangible, if imperfect, human connections of the past.

The special also touches on the challenges faced by performers in an era dominated by digital consumption. Berlant conveys a deep appreciation for live comedy, emphasizing its irreplaceable nature as a shared experience between artist and audience—something she views as increasingly threatened in the current cultural climate. Her reflections underscore the rarity and value of in-person interaction amidst a broader societal shift toward virtual engagement.

Berlant’s comedic material does not shy away from addressing existential anxieties that permeate modern life. While maintaining a tone that avoids descending into darkness, she acknowledges the undercurrents of fear and uncertainty prevalent in today's world, integrating these themes into her work without surrendering to pessimism. This balance informs the special's tone, which is both reflective and entertaining.

Beyond the themes of technology and societal change, "Parmesan" marks a notable evolution in Berlant’s comedic voice. Known for crafting characters and scenarios distinct from her own biography, this special represents a more personal approach. For the first time, she incorporates autobiographical elements and introspective questions into her performance, signaling a shift in her creative process that aligns with the transformations in her life and the world around her.

The special’s production took place in San Diego, where Berlant's interactions with the environment, including humorous critiques of her Airbnb accommodations, further illustrate her sharp observational style and ability to find comedy in everyday discomforts. This setting complements the themes of displacement and searching for connection central to the special.

Berlant’s reflections on audience interaction reveal her nuanced understanding of the live comedy experience. She challenges traditional expectations, particularly the climactic exit after a final laugh, opting instead for an innovative approach that underscores the ongoing relationship between performer and audience. This choice highlights her interest in the dynamics of performance and the psychological aspects of stage presence.

In addition to "Parmesan," Berlant is actively developing new projects, including a television show in collaboration with John Early. Though details about this venture remain limited, it is clear that both artists are exploring television as a medium that suits their creative vision. Their partnership signals an expansion of Berlant’s artistic endeavors beyond stand-up and into scripted formats.

The comedian also shares candid thoughts on the pressures and distractions of social media, revealing a cycle of engagement and withdrawal as she navigates the digital landscape. Her experience reflects a broader cultural struggle to balance connectivity with mental well-being and creative focus.

Overall, "Parmesan" stands as a timely commentary on the complexities of contemporary existence, blending humor with critical insight. Berlant’s work captures the paradoxes of our era: the simultaneous yearning for community and the isolating effects of technology, the enduring appeal of live performance amid digital transformation, and the personal search for authenticity in a mediated world.