'Boys of 'Wet Hot' deliver in 'Stella'

By Meg Walsh

Published Sept. 15, 2006

Dumb comedy dressed up in suits.

That's how "Stella" has marketed itself to comedy fans. You might know the boys of "Stella" — Michael Showalter, Michael Ian Black and David Wain — from the film "Wet Hot American Summer." After they discovered success on comedy tours, the boys took their show to Comedy Central.

Comedy Central released a DVD of the first and only season on Tuesday.

The humor of "Stella" relies on audiences to let go of maturity and enjoy a good ol' fart joke. The comedy is bizarre and immature, such as the boys wearing skunk tails to a board meeting and the constant little-boy bickering the trio displays in every episode. Every episode has one moment that will make you feel uncomfortable.

The show is a mix of stand-up, sketch and sitcom. Every episode has a story, but the jokes are not delivered in the traditional "Seinfeld" way.

The show also features cameos from comedy greats such as Janeane Garofalo, Sam Rockwell and Paul Rudd, as well as Alan Ruck, Edward Norton and Topher Grace.

The DVDs' bonus features are top-notch. The first disc contains a "History of 'Stella,'" which includes an interview with the boys and footage from their college days.

The second disc includes the traditional bloopers and deleted scenes, as well as the "Comedy Central Presents..." episode featuring "Stella." If you Move your DVD cursor to the men's faces, fake moustaches and hats appear.

The most important thing to remember while watching "Stella" is to never ask "Why?" or "How?" Never ask why the trio is purring and rolling on the floor. Never ask how the guys grow a farm in their New York apartment.

The comedy of "Stella" is not universal. Chances are if you haven't heard of the show, you won't love it. But if you are a big fan of the trio, this DVD is heaven-sent.

TV show: Stella
Featuring: Michael Ian Black, Michael Showalter, David Wain, Janeane Garofalo and Edward Norton
Most Watchworthy Episode: Pilot
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Ms