Last Sunday, Barry finally reached its bloody (and inevitable) conclusion. For four stellar seasons, the series, which stars Bill Hader as the titular assassin, has followed Barry Berkman on his quest for purpose and redemption. Throughout its run, the series excelled at mixing drama with comedy, and its ending has finally cemented the show as an underrated gem in HBO’s impressive oeuvre.
Barry always excelled at its satirical take on Hollywood, which it managed to deftly tie into its critiques on society at large. The fact that it also managed to rope in some truly unexpected (and fantastic) cameos from some of Hollywood’s greatest working actors and directors feels like a sly nod to its authenticity — Barry may be critical of the many, many flaws of the film industry, but it has always been respectful of — if not deferential to — the creative heights of the genre.
And yet, Barry still managed to find its own voice. Though it was filled with homages to classic stories from film and television past, it never hesitated to tread its own path. The series was experimental while still poking fun at what’s come before.
With the finale of Succession having aired on the same day, HBO said goodbye to two unparalleled casts. If Sarah Goldberg wins no accolades for her performance as Sally Reed, she’ll truly have been robbed. Anthony Carrigan’s emotion-filled yet comedic performance as NoHo Hank is also one for the books — it’s rare that a side character, who was going to be killed off in their first appearance, has such an effect on the path a series will take.
Meanwhile, veterans like Henry Winkler and Stephen Root got their chance to shine, too. Winkler, in particular, gets a chance to showcase his comedic chops while also juggling an emotionally draining performance.
As for Hader? Barry showcased his talent more than ever before. Hader wasn’t just the central performer — he was involved at all levels of production, with direct involvement in developing, writing, and directing the show. Who would have thought that one of the cops from Superbad was capable of directing one of TV’s most exhilarating motorcycle chases?
That isn’t even to mention the recurring cast members. Robert Wisdom’s turn as Jim Moss was as quietly threatening as any that’s come before, and his scenes were always a delight to watch.
Barry’s final season was filled with homages and subversions, twists and turns, drama and comedy — the series was a perfect encapsulation of what television is truly capable of. Television can entertain while also imparting depth and beauty — it isn’t simply a distraction, nor is it mindless entertainment. Barry is genuinely a work of art, as any TV show or film is capable of being.
With Barry having taken its final bow, another show is certain to fill its slot over at HBO. Whether or not the show will be as good as Barry remains to be seen, but isn’t the fun part getting to find out?
