Mike Judge’s New Show “In the Know:” A Review

BuzzFebruary 10, 2024

Mike Judge’s foray into the world of puppetry with his new show “In the Know” on Peacock is refreshing, if not outright audacious. It steps into satire that skewers public radio culture with a precision that is both hilarious and unsettlingly accurate.

With a blend of stop-motion puppetry and real-life guest stars, the show is an ambitious and innovative endeavor that stands out in today’s saturated television landscape.

At the heart of “In the Know” is Lauren Caspian, NPR’s third-most popular host, portrayed as a well-meaning, albeit hypocritical, puppet who navigates the complexities of producing a radio show that aims to be both enlightening and entertaining.

IMBD / The first episode of “In the Know” called “I’m No Hero” is available for streaming on Peacock.

With a team comprising co-executive producer Barb, sound engineer Carl, fact checker and researcher Fabian, cultural critic Sandy, and college intern Chase, the show delves into the behind-the-scenes drama and hilarity that ensues in the making of “In the Know.”

A Unique Blend of Reality and Fiction

One of the most compelling aspects of “In the Know” is its unique format, which blends the animated world of its puppet characters with the real world through interviews with actual human guests. These include such as Jonathan Van Ness, Kaia Gerber, and Ken Burns, just to name a few.

This juxtaposition creates a surreal yet fascinating viewing experience that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, engaging the audience in a way that is both innovative and intriguing.

The Talks / Essentially, “In the Know” creates a unique blend of fiction and reality with puppet characters and real-life guests.

Characters and Dynamics

The dynamic between the characters is a central element of the show’s charm. Lauren’s earnest yet often misguided attempts to produce meaningful content are constantly challenged by his team, particularly Barb and Carl, who serve as the voice of reason amidst the chaos.

Meanwhile, the interactions between Sandy and Chase offer a comedic exploration of the generational and cultural divides that exist within the workplace. Each character brings a unique perspective to the table, making “In the Know” a rich tapestry of personalities and ideologies.

Satirical Edge

Mike Judge is no stranger to satire. “In the Know” serves as a prime example of his ability to critique and lampoon societal norms and institutions. The show takes a loving yet critical look at public radio, highlighting its quirks and idiosyncrasies while also pointing out the often performative nature of activism within media.

GTN / “In the Know” is the epitome of Mike Judge and Zach Woods’ stop-motion satire maestro.

So, through its exaggerated portrayal of the radio show’s production and the flawed characters behind it, “In the Know” offers insightful commentary on the media landscape and the challenges of creating content that is both meaningful and popular.

Real-Life Guests and Their Impact

The inclusion of real-life guests adds an extra layer of depth to the show, providing a stark contrast to the animated world of the puppet characters. These interviews, which range from insightful to outright bizarre, showcase Lauren’s unique interviewing style.

Despite its oddities, it manages to elicit genuine and surprising responses from the guests. This interaction between the fictional and the real adds a fascinating dimension to the show, making each episode unpredictable and engaging.

So, as “In the Know” continues to captivate audiences with its blend of humor, satire, and real-world relevance, it stands as a shining example of what is possible when creative minds dare to experiment with new formats and ideas.