Love You (2024) Netflix Special Review: Sandler’s Movie Magic Returns
Adam Sandler's latest Netflix special, Love You, delivers a comedic experience that feels more like a movie than a typical stand-up routine. Sandler, known for his blend of humor that oscillates between the outrageous and the heartwarming, seems to have found a sweet spot with this special, where his unique style of comedy shines through.
Cinematic Comedy: A Special That Feels Like a Movie
One of the most striking aspects of Love You is how it blurs the lines between stand-up and film. Director Josh Safdie sets up the special perfectly with the opening sequence by basically telling the audience, “Hey, this might look like chaos, but we have everything under control.” The film grain, handheld camera work, and muted color correction help make all the nonsense feel more real and grounded. While most stand-up specials feel so clean and overproduced, Love You (2024) feels like a low budget comedy show that you would go see with some friends on a random weekend. It was a delight.
Sophomoric Humor: Sandler at His Best
Sandler has always been a master of sophomoric humor, and Love You doesn’t disappoint in this regard. The jokes are juvenile, crude, and utterly hilarious. Sandler taps into that same well of humor that made movies like Billy Madison and Happy Gilmore cult classics. The difference here is that there's a certain maturity in how these jokes are delivered. They’re sharp, well-timed, and balanced with just enough self-awareness to keep them from feeling tired or overdone.
The special leans heavily on the kind of humor that Sandler’s fans love—think poop jokes, silly voices, and absurd scenarios—but there’s an undercurrent of nostalgia that gives these jokes a fresh coat of paint. It’s as if Sandler is saying, "I know this is ridiculous, and I’m having as much fun as you are." This is where the special truly excels: it’s not just funny, it’s fun.
Sandler's Comeback: A Gradual Climb
After a series of hits and misses over the years, Love You feels like a significant step in Sandler’s slow but steady climb back to comedic greatness. While he never really left the public eye, his career has seen its fair share of ups and downs, with some projects failing to capture the magic of his earlier work. However, with Love You, Sandler proves that he still has what it takes to be a leading figure in comedy.
This special showcases a Sandler who is more comfortable in his skin than ever before. He’s not trying to reinvent himself or chase trends; instead, he’s doubling down on what made him a star in the first place. The result is a special that feels both familiar and refreshing—a testament to Sandler's ability to evolve while staying true to his roots.
Final Thoughts
Love You is a triumphant return for Adam Sandler, blending his signature sophomoric humor with a cinematic flair that makes the special feel like more than just a stand-up routine. It’s a reminder of why Sandler became a household name in the first place, and proof that he’s still got plenty of gas left in the tank. Whether you're a long-time fan or just looking for a good laugh, this special is a must-watch. Listen to our full review of Love You (2024) above.
